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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Central Harlem's best

American food and mac and cheese

Made for those who view mac and cheese as the definitive benchmark for American comfort food.

Based on 899 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
PB Brasserie steak house image 1
PB Brasserie steak house image 2
PB Brasserie steak house image 3
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Modern steak house offers a spacious, elegant design with classy decor and pristine uniforms. Atmosphere blends warmth and sophistication with lively music from a DJ playing afrobeats and R&B. Private event space adds versatility for celebrations.

Dry-Age New York Strip steak stands out with rich flavor. The steak and eggs dish features notably good eggs. The chefโ€™s special surf and turf offers a satisfying mix of flavors.

Creamy and rich, the Lobster Mac and Cheese features chunks of fresh lobster and packs a lot of flavor. It pairs well with dishes like rotisserie chicken and stands out as a highly recommended option.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and thoughtfully prepared."

"Marella's recommendations for American Food were a 10/10."

"The lobster mac and cheese was amazing and tasty."

Good to know

1

PB Brasserie is open on Sundays despite Google Maps indicating they are closed.

2

PB Brasserie offers a delightful menu of French cuisine.

3

PB Brasserie is suitable for a romantic dinner or special celebration.

02
Greedy Pot image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Small Southern restaurant offers authentic soul food with dishes like oxtails made from scratch and candied yams. The atmosphere feels homey and cozy, with pumping music creating lively energy. Seating is limited as the spot focuses on takeout, run by a family with a welcoming vibe.

Mac and cheese and candied yams stand out as exceptional sides. Fried chicken and chicken wings also deliver strong flavors, alongside dishes like curry goat, stew chicken, and oxtails.

Baked mac and cheese comes nicely browned with a flavorful taste. It pairs well with sides like yams and collard greens and is popular with kids.

People are saying

"The oxtail here is fall-off-the-bone tender and perfectly seasoned."

"The American Food sides like mac and cheese and yams were fire."

"The baked Mac and Cheese was perfection."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 7 PM.

2

You must call before coming to the restaurant.

3

Expect to wait at least 15-20 minutes for made-to-order chicken wings and fish.

03
Charles Pan-Fried Chicken image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with open kitchen and limited seating offers a family-like atmosphere energized by live music and interactive moments. Outdoor patio adds comfort for sunny days. Energy feels lively and welcoming despite compact setup.

Pan-fried chicken stands out with its rich, crispy texture and deep flavor. Sides like collard greens, mac and cheese, and sweet potatoes complement the meal with classic southern taste.

Mac and cheese comes as a hearty, well-prepared side that pairs beautifully with fried chicken and collard greens. It offers a comforting, delicious addition that complements the meal perfectly.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and fresh."

"I thought the American food here was delicious and homemade."

"The mac and cheese here is amazing and spicy."

Good to know

1

Chicken and waffles are only available on Sundays.

2

They serve catfish on Tuesday.

3

You canโ€™t dine in; the eatery is for take out only.

04
Red Rooster Harlem image 1

Restaurant offers live jazz performances with a colorful African American decor that creates a soulful atmosphere. The space includes a covered terrace and a bar area, though the bar can feel cramped. The vibe is engaging and lively, especially during music events.

Fried chicken stands out as exceptionally crispy and flavorful. Traditional sides like collards, black-eyed peas, and cornbread appear alongside classic desserts such as Banana Pudding and Lilโ€™ Apple Pie.

Creamy, cheesy pasta blends with well-seasoned greens like collards, adding an earthy touch. The dish offers a comforting, rich flavor that stands out.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the fried chicken, is crispy and delicious."

"The live music here is great, especially the jazz."

"The Mac and cheese with collard greens and lobster was a game changer."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation well in advance, especially for Sunday brunch.

2

Gospel brunch is held every Sunday and features live music.

3

Happy hour runs from noon to 10 p.m. with discounted appetizers and cocktails.

05
Kingston Bakery Harlem image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Caribbean bakery with authentic vibe and warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with gospel and reggae music. Space offers takeout only, creating a down-to-earth, home-like feel. Artwork and a fireplace add to the cozy environment.

Fried chicken stands out with its moist inside, crispy outside, and strong seasoning. Mac and cheese tastes rich and flavorful, complementing the stew chicken well.

Stand-up Mac and cheese pairs well with the beef patty, sometimes even stuffed inside it. This Mac and cheese stands out among West Indian options for its flavor and texture.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and hot."

"You have to try the mac and cheese; it's amazing."

"The American Food here, especially the fried chicken, is moist, crispy, and well-seasoned."

Good to know

1

This place is only for takeout; there is no space for dine-in.

2

The establishment is closed at 6:29 PM.

3

The menu states 'WEEKDAY Lunch Special', but Friday at 12PM is considered a weekend.

06
Jerk House Caribbean Restaurant image 1

Takeout-only Jamaican restaurant offers a lively atmosphere with great R&B music and a welcoming vibe that evokes island spirit. The space feels friendly and vibrant, making it a standout spot for authentic Caribbean energy.

Mac and cheese stands out with a layered baked style and solid flavor. The menu features jerk pork, jerk chicken, and fried chicken, all noted for their strong taste.

Baked Mac and Cheese offers layered flavors with a rich, creamy texture. It pairs well with jerk pork and fried chicken, making it a solid choice alongside spicy BBQ dishes.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"I loved the jerk wings and their mac and cheese."

"The American Food here, especially the mac and cheese, is really good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of authentic Caribbean dishes.

2

Prices for lunch are reasonable and affordable.

3

The establishment is extremely clean and well-maintained.

07
Empire Restaurant: Soul Food & Salad Bar image 1

Bright, clean space with warm, inviting atmosphere and slow-cooked aromas filling the air. Soul food dishes show care and attention to detail, featuring crispy fried chicken and rich, creamy mac and cheese. The place offers a relaxing spot to enjoy homemade flavors in a neat setting.

Mac and cheese stands out with its rich and creamy texture. Fried chicken features a crispy golden crust, paired with soft, sweet cornbread and flavorful collard greens.

Rich and creamy texture defines the mac and cheese here. It stands out as a consistently good and flavorful dish among traditional sides.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and flavorful."

"The Southern style American food, especially the mac and cheese, is delicious."

"I found the Mac and Cheese to be the best item they sold."

Good to know

1

Only paying customers can use the bathroom facilities.

2

The platter costs $20, so budget accordingly.

08
Row House image 1
American restaurant

Industrial decor with underground chic style sets a spacious yet lively scene. Live jazz and DJ music create a loud, energetic atmosphere that suits grown folks and party vibes. Seating ranges from comfortable booths to tight tables near the DJ, making conversation challenging during peak times.

Mac and cheese stands out with versions like lobster and short rib. The menu also features shrimp and grits, New York strip, ribs, fried chicken, crab cakes, and BBQ wings.

Short Rib and Lobster versions stand out with rich, creamy textures. The mac and cheese combo appetizer offers a satisfying mix of flavors and is a popular choice.

People are saying

"The Brunch vibe is energetic with a DJ playing old school songs."

"You have to try the ribs and fried chicken; they're so tasty."

"The mac and cheese here is amazing and can be shared."

Good to know

1

Brunch at Row House occurs on the second Saturday of each month.

2

Happy hour prices are unbeatable, running from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

Reservations are suggested in advance to secure a table.

09
Make My Fish image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood spot buzzes with lively energy and a friendly, community vibe. It fills quickly with people enjoying crispy, flavorful catfish and tunes that keep the mood upbeat. The space is compact with limited seating but offers strong air conditioning and a welcoming atmosphere.

Southern staples like fried whiting, buttermilk grits, and collard greens stand out with homemade flavors. Sides like mac and cheese and cornbread complement dishes such as catfish and shrimp, while peach cobbler finishes the meal.

Mac and cheese here has a rich, creamy texture and a homestyle flavor that reminds of grandma's cooking. It tends to be a bit salty, so some might find the seasoning strong.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the catfish, is savory and seasoned to perfection."

"The food here is so good and flavorful."

"I've never had American Food this savory and seasoned to perfection."

Good to know

1

This restaurant is cash only and take out only.

2

They only make cornbread on Fridays.

3

Chicken is only available on Fridays.

10
Sylvia's Restaurant image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant with a classic Harlem vibe and live gospel and jazz music creates a genuine, buzzing atmosphere. Photographs on the walls give it a museum-like feel alongside cozy seating. The place offers a homemade rum punch that complements the rich cultural experience.

Fried chicken stands out as a legendary dish here, paired well with waffles. The Mac and Cheese and cornbread also deliver strong, classic flavors.

Baked mac and cheese stands out with its rich flavor and creamy texture. It pairs well with chicken and greens for a classic meal.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"The complimentary cornbread was warm, soft, and perfect."

"The Mac And Cheese is creamy and comforting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential to avoid a long wait, especially on weekends.

2

The gospel brunch starts at 1 p.m. on Sundays with live music.

3

Expect a wait time of up to 2.5 hours during peak hours.

11
Jacob Soul Food Restaurant image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space hosts live soul and jazz music that sometimes gets loud, creating a vibrant but intense atmosphere. Casual setup includes outdoor seating and a pay-by-weight take-out bar. The vibe reflects a Harlem-inspired soul food experience with sociable energy.

Comfort food shines with fried chicken, mac and cheese, and barbecue ribs. Cornbread, collard greens, and candied yams add classic Southern touches.

Mac and cheese pairs well with jerk chicken and stands out as a favorite alongside collard greens and fried fish. It appears consistently as a solid, flavorful side in hearty, well-rounded meals.

People are saying

"The soul food here is amazing, with great variety."

"The jerk chicken and mac and cheese here are amazing."

"The mac and cheese here is great."

Good to know

1

You serve yourself like a buffet and pay by weight at the checkout.

2

The buffet offers the best quality/price in Manhattan, around $15 per person by weight.

3

Five people can eat very generously for less than $80.

12
Amy Ruth's image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant offers a family atmosphere with phenomenal murals and live R&B music at a low volume. Seating feels comfortable despite a small, somewhat cramped layout. The vibe suits celebrations and large groups, creating a welcoming, lively energy.

Honey fried chicken stands out with a crispy, flavorful crust. Sides like cornbread, banana pudding, and mac and cheese complement the meal well.

Rich and flavorful, the mac and cheese stands out with its warm, soft texture and distinct taste. It pairs well with dishes like chicken wings and pork chops, making it a comforting side.

People are saying

"The home-cooked food, like the meatloaf, was really good."

"This American food's fried chicken is the best I've ever had."

"The Mac And Cheese used to be amazing soulful comfort food."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on Sundays due to gospel mass attendance.

2

Wednesday is Grape Kool Aid day, a special event at the restaurant.

3

Get there early if you want to dine in, especially on weekends.

13
BLVD Bistro NY image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small, cramped space with tables close together creates an intimate setting. Lively music from a DJ and live band fills the air, driving a vibrant atmosphere where singing along is common. Strong, well-crafted cocktails and standout dishes like biscuits and catfish add to the energetic vibe.

Shrimp and grits come highly recommended and feature cheese grits praised as the best. Cornbread and frozee also stand out as on point sides.

Rich, creamy texture defines the mac and cheese here. It pairs well with chicken and collard greens for a hearty meal.

People are saying

"The brunch food here is excellent and very flavorful."

"The American Food, especially the shrimp and grits, was excellent."

"I thought the Mac and Cheese was just okay."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy hour is only available at the bar, not at tables.

3

Be prepared for a 2-hour wait for brunch on weekends.

14
Melba's Restaurant image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Lively space blends live music with a street party vibe and authentic Harlem energy. Crowded seating and narrow entrance contrast with family-like warmth and vibrant atmosphere. Walls showcase notable art, enhancing the unique dining experience.

Mac and cheese stands out as a consistently fantastic dish. The menu also features fried chicken, collard greens, and traditional sides like yams and black-eyed peas.

Offers a rich and creamy mac and cheese with a generous portion. Pairs well with collard greens and yams for a classic Southern combo.

People are saying

"You've got to try the American Food, especially the mac and cheese."

"Kenny's genuine care made the fried chicken experience feel special."

"I loved the mac and cheese, it had a pleasant texture."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary on weekends to ensure seating.

2

Every Sunday, Melba's has live music outside.

3

On Sundays during the summer, there is a block party from 4pm to 8pm.

15
Chocolat Restaurant & Bar image 1

Restaurant offers a homey, quaint vibe with amazing music from an in-house DJ that energizes the space. Seating varies from spacious indoors to a packed outdoor patio, creating lively social settings. Decor blends lovely and diner-like elements, giving a unique, approachable atmosphere.

Shrimp and grits stand out for their creamy texture and rich flavor. Lump crab cakes, cheese grits, and catfish seafood croquettes also feature prominently with strong, memorable tastes.

Offers lobster mac and cheese that stands out for its richness and flavor. The beef short ribs mac and cheese is also highly flavorful and pairs well with other hearty dishes.

People are saying

"The American Food, especially the fried chicken, is so crispy and delicious."

"I loved the bottomless mimosas, they kept my glass full."

"The Mac And Cheese was delicious and fried well."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour menu is available, but ask for it specifically.

2

Brunch menu is available all day, including weekdays.

3

Unlimited drinks for one hour are offered on select drinks.

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Central Harlem, New York

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