Best Upscale African Restaurants in Manhattan | Upscale African Food

29 restaurants in Best Upscale African Restaurants in Manhattan | Upscale African Food

• Cafe Massawa — Middle Eastern · rated 5/5: The air at Cafe Massawa is thick with the intoxicating scent of berbere and slow-simmered spices, drawing guests into a space where communal dining is celebrated as an art form. Vibrant mounds of savory stews and crisp vegetables rest atop clouds of tangy, house-made injera, inviting diners to tear, scoop, and share in a rhythmic dance of bold East African flavors. This soulful destination captures the essence of traditional hospitality, offering a sensory journey where every hand-shared bite feels like an invitation into a warm, cultural embrace.
• Sylla — African · rated 4.8/5: Sylla, located at 1664 Park Ave, New York, offers a delightful dining experience with its authentic Ivoirian cuisine in a modern, chic setting. With a stellar rating of 4.8 from 90 reviews, it’s clear why this spot is a favorite. Diners can enjoy flavorful dishes like Poisson Braise and Tchep Djeun, complemented by friendly service. The restaurant caters to families, accepts credit and debit cards, and provides both dine-in and delivery options. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 2:00 AM, Sylla is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. For reservations, call +1 646-344-1392.
• Ginjan Cafe — African · rated 4.8/5: Discover Ginjan Café, a welcoming spot in the heart of Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, known for its delightful blend of La Colombe coffee and savory pastries. Rated an impressive 4.8 with 44 reviews, it's the perfect place for family visits or a casual catch-up. Open daily with varied breakfast and lunch options, the café boasts convenience with takeaway and delivery services. Visit at 333 Nostrand Ave or call +1 929-248-9696.
• Teranga Cafe — Middle Eastern · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of East Harlem, Teranga Café offers a relaxed ambiance and a menu brimming with healthy West African comfort food. Among the highlights are vegan options, hearty bowls, and flavorful yassa grilled chicken. The restaurant is lauded for its vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff, and delightful music, making it an ideal spot for lunch or dinner with family. Explore bold African flavors with gluten-free, organic, and halal options, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Join the community of loyal patrons who rave about the delicious meals and welcoming environment.
• dùndú — African · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of New York at 140 E 41st St, dùndú offers a delightful taste of Nigerian cuisine with a focus on flavorful, gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options. Perfect for lunch or dinner, the restaurant boasts a cozy outdoor seating area and a convenient takeout service. dùndú is family-friendly and accepts various payment methods, making it easy for everyone to enjoy their beloved dishes.
• Harlem Hops — American · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of Harlem at 2268 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd, Harlem Hops is an exceptional craft beer bar owned by African American/HBCU grads. Known for its impressive selection of local and international brews, this cozy spot offers small bites and a great atmosphere for watching sports. With outdoor seating, family-friendly vibes, and live bartender interactions, Harlem Hops is a gem for any beer enthusiast.
• Safari — African · rated 4.6/5: Safari transports diners to a world of vibrant warmth, where the air hums with the intoxicating scent of berbere, ginger, and slow-simmered stews. Communal platters become a canvas of rich colors and textures, inviting guests to tear off pieces of tangy flatbread to scoop up tender, spice-rubbed meats and earthy lentils in a rhythmic celebration of shared connection.
• Teranga — African · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into Teranga feels like a warm embrace, where the air is thick with the fragrance of caramelized onions and the bold, rhythmic spices of West African soul food. Vibrant bowls of golden jollof and tender, slow-cooked meats celebrate the region’s rich agricultural heritage, offering a nourishing journey that honors the spirit of communal hospitality in every bite.
• Kaia Wine Bar — South African · rated 4.5/5: This intimate sanctuary transports diners to the rugged beauty of the Cape, where warm wood accents and flickering candlelight set the stage for a soulful exploration of South African flavors. The kitchen breathes life into traditional heritage with aromatic spices and savory small plates, pairing smoky biltong and fragrant bobotie with a deep, curated cellar of regional Chenin Blancs and Pinotages. It is a vibrant celebration of the Rainbow Nation’s hospitality, where every glass poured and plate shared feels like an invitation into a cozy, far-off home.
• B & B — American · rated 4.5/5: B & B is a relaxed eatery at 165 W 26th St, New York, renowned for its flavorsome Jamaican and West African cuisine. With a 4.5-star rating and over 390 reviews, it's a hit among both locals and visitors. The buffet-style setting allows diners to savor a variety of dishes, including delicious meats and salads. This spot is great for families and groups, offering lunch, dinner, takeout, and desserts. Payment options are convenient, accepting credit, debit, and NFC. Open daily from 10 AM to 4 AM.
• Renaissance Harlem — French · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in the heart of Harlem, Renaissance Harlem offers a delightful fusion of New American, French, and African flavors in a trendy, brick-and-wood setting. With its inviting ambiance, this upscale comfort food eatery and cocktail bar is perfect for special nights out or casual gatherings. Enjoy a broad menu selection, outdoor seating, free street parking, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
• Africa Kine — African · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in the heart of Central Harlem, Africa Kine delights with its authentic West African cuisine. Enjoy generous portions of beloved dishes like chicken yassa, grilled fish, and jollof rice, all served in a laid-back setting. The restaurant caters to families and is equipped for halal requests. Perfect for a casual lunch, dinner, or late-night bite, Africa Kine also features live music and sports viewing for a vibrant atmosphere.
• Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi — American · rated 4.3/5: Located at 10 Lincoln Center Plaza in New York, Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi offers a unique and flavorful dining experience with a 4.3-star rating from over 400 reviews. This upscale restaurant excels in serving innovative dishes like Short Rib Pastrami Suya and Curried Goat Patties, accompanied by fine wines and desserts. Perfect for groups and those looking for a culinary adventure, Tatiana ensures an unforgettable evening. (212) 875-5222.
• Chez Maty Et Sokhna (Keur Sokhna) — French · rated 4.2/5: Located in Central Harlem, **Chez Maty Et Sokhna** offers a cozy dining experience with a delightful menu featuring West African and American cuisine. Enjoy mouth-watering dishes like dibi lamb, yassa, and jollof rice, served from breakfast through late night. With halal and healthy options available, this family-friendly spot is perfect for everyone. Make a reservation or opt for takeout for a taste of comfort food. Ratings: 4.2/5.
• Accra — African · rated 4.2/5: Accra is a casual eatery serving up classic West African dishes such as jollof rice, fufu, and egusi soup. Located at 2065 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd in New York, this welcoming spot boasts a user rating of 4.2 from over 800 reviews. With a family-friendly atmosphere and convenient reservation options, Accra also offers takeout, delivery, and a variety of payment methods. Dine-in and enjoy their deliciously authentic Ghanaian cuisine. 🌟
• DF Nigerian Food Truck — African (Nigerian) · rated 4.1/5: Nestled at 828 2nd Ave in New York, DF Nigerian Food Truck offers a delightful journey into traditional West African cuisine with a menu that includes vegetarian and vegan options. Operating daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, except Sundays, this casual eatery is perfect for families and groups. With a customer rating of 4.1 based on 136 reviews, it's a must-visit for authentic flavors and generous portions. For more info, visit [their website](http://www.dfnigeriafoodtruck.com/) or call +1 718-451-6330.
• New Ivoire — French · rated 4.1/5: New Ivoire, nestled in East Harlem, offers a vibrant exploration of West African cuisine. Open 24/7, it's perfect for any meal, from breakfast to late-night dining. The cozy atmosphere welcomes children and solo diners alike. Enjoy delicious comfort food like jollof rice, grilled fish, and fried plantains. With a 4.1-star rating from 375 reviews, New Ivoire also provides catering services and is accessible via cash, credit, or NFC payments.
• Jaahlookova — West African · rated 4/5: Jaahlookova transports diners to the heart of West Africa, where the air is heavy with the intoxicating perfume of scotch bonnet peppers, ginger, and slow-simmered palm oil. Vibrant colors and rhythmic melodies set the stage for a communal feast, featuring golden mounds of fragrant grains and rich, velvety stews that pulse with bold, soulful heat. It is a sensory celebration where every bite captures the warmth of traditional hospitality, leaving a lingering trail of spice and smoke on the tongue.
• Teranga — African · rated 4/5: Teranga invites diners into a vibrant celebration of West African hospitality, where the air is perfumed with the comforting scents of slow-simmered yassa and aromatic spices. Colorful market plates overflow with nutrient-rich fonio, tender black-eyed peas, and soulful stews like efo riro, offering a nourishing journey through the diverse flavors of the Sahel. From the comforting pull of traditional fufu to the bright, citrusy notes of the Casamance salad, every dish reflects a deep respect for heritage and the communal joy of a shared meal.
• Little Street Lounge — American · rated 4/5: Little Street Lounge, located at 126 Hamilton Pl, New York, offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for enjoying an evening out. Open Wednesday to Sunday with extended happy hours, it’s an ideal spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner. With a user rating of 4 stars and over 69 reviews, this venue is known for its delightful service and flavorful menu. Enjoy a drink from their extensive wine and cocktail list while you savor the well-prepared, culturally rich African dishes. Free parking options add to the convenience. For reservations, call +1 646-476-5707.
• Keur Coumba — African · rated 4/5: Nestled in the heart of New York at 125 W 116th St, Keur Coumba specializes in Senegalese comfort food, offering hearty dishes like chicken, lamb, fish, and rice in a relaxed setting. Open daily from 8:30 AM to 3:00 AM, it’s a family-friendly spot that accepts various payment methods. With options for lunch, dinner, takeout, and delivery, it’s a go-to for satisfying meals and delicious desserts.
• Cross Culture Kitchen — Indian · rated 3.9/5: Located at 62 E 116th St in New York, Cross Culture Kitchen is a welcoming spot that's perfect for group gatherings and families alike. Specializing in both Jamaican and African dishes, this cozy restaurant offers generous portions and delicious food that guests love. Open daily from 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM, Cross Culture Kitchen accepts various payment methods including credit and debit cards, making it convenient for all diners. Their friendly staff and savory cuisine ensure you'll want to come back.
• Tropical Grill — American · rated 3.7/5: Nestled in Springfield Gardens, Tropical Grill is a vibrant spot offering an authentic taste of Nigerian comfort food. With its delightful menu featuring jollof rice, pounded yam, and fish pepper soup, this laid-back venue is ideal for lunch or dinner. Enjoy live music, a friendly atmosphere, and a variety of cocktails and wines. Perfect for group dining or catching a game on the big screen, reservations are recommended.
• The International Brunch Series — American · rated 3.5/5: Welcome to The International Brunch Series, located at 299 Vandervoort Ave, Brooklyn, NY. With a diverse menu that includes breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, this vibrant spot is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy delicious African cuisine, an energizing atmosphere, and a variety of drinks from coffee to cocktails. Ideal for groups and special celebrations, dine-in or takeout options are available. Come experience the fun vibes and flavors! For reservations, call +1 347-321-5425.
• Kaia Wine Bar — thought The restaurant "Kaia Wine: This intimate Upper East Side sanctuary wraps guests in the rustic warmth of exposed brick and flickering candlelight, creating a soulful backdrop for a journey through South African viticulture. Vibrant glasses of Chenin Blanc and Pinotage flow freely alongside artisanal small plates bursting with the bold spices of the Cape, inviting long evenings of spirited conversation and discovery.
• Dundu — African: Vibrant energy and the rhythmic pulse of contemporary culture converge at Dundu, where the air is perfumed with the intoxicating aroma of smoky grills and bold, aromatic spices. The kitchen elevates traditional West African staples into a sophisticated sensory journey, pairing golden, crisp yams with slow-simmered stews that burst with both heat and heritage. It is a spirited sanctuary that invites guests to linger over communal plates, celebrating a rich culinary legacy through a modern and artful lens.
• Tagine — Middle Eastern: Soft lantern light dances across intricate tilework and plush tapestries, creating an intimate sanctuary where the air is heavy with the intoxicating aroma of saffron, ginger, and slow-simmered spices. At the heart of the experience are the namesake clay vessels, brought to the table with a flourish to reveal tender, fall-off-the-bone meats and vibrant vegetables glistening in rich, aromatic reductions. Each bite offers a sensory journey through North African tradition, best enjoyed alongside fluffy mounds of couscous and the soulful warmth of communal dining.
• Lagos TSQ — African: Lagos TSQ pulses with the vibrant energy of West Africa, where the rhythmic beat of Afrobeats meets the neon glow of Times Square to create a high-octane dining destination. The air carries the intoxicating scent of smoky suya and fragrant jollof, drawing guests into a sleek, modern space where bold spices and soulful flavors take center stage. Every plate is a colorful celebration of heritage and innovation, offering a sophisticated escape that captures the spirited essence of Lagos in the heart of the city.
• Harissa Grill — Middle Eastern: Sun-drenched North African flavors come alive at Harissa Grill, where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of toasted cumin and the smoky sizzle of the open flame. Succulent meats and charred vegetables are transformed by the bold, signature heat of house-made chili paste, creating a vibrant dining experience that feels like a soulful journey through a bustling Mediterranean market.