Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Morningside Heights | Upscale Soul Food Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Morningside Heights | Upscale Soul Food Food

• Smoke Jazz & Supper Club — American · rated 5/5: Step into a world of velvet-draped intimacy where the soulful wail of a saxophone mingles with the clink of crystal and the aroma of elevated American comfort food. This legendary Upper West Side haunt invites guests to linger over candlelit tables, savoring rich flavors and world-class performances that transform a simple dinner into a timeless, multisensory celebration of jazz culture.
• Vegan Hood — American · rated 5/5: Vegan Hood pulses with the vibrant energy of Harlem, where the soulful aromas of plant-based comfort food drift through a space that feels like a spirited neighborhood gathering spot. The kitchen transforms traditional favorites into bold, plant-powered masterpieces, serving up crispy textures and rich, nostalgic flavors that bridge the gap between urban culture and conscious indulgence. Every plate offers a hearty, satisfying experience that proves plant-based dining can be as deeply rooted in tradition as it is innovative.
• Mom's Food Market — American · rated 5/5: Mom’s Food Market serves as a vibrant neighborhood cornerstone where the nostalgic aroma of slow-simmered stocks and freshly baked loaves draws guests into a space brimming with artisanal finds. This bustling culinary sanctuary invites visitors to wander through aisles of hand-picked ingredients before settling in for a soulful, home-style meal that feels like a heartfelt invitation to a family table.
• Island Grill Modern Caribbean Kitchen — Caribbean · rated 4.8/5: Located in the heart of Harlem, Island Grill Modern Caribbean Kitchen offers a delightful fusion of Jamaican and soul food specialties in a contemporary ambiance. Perfect for families, this charming spot boasts free street parking and a convenient take-out option. With a commendable 4.8 rating and over 389 reviews, guests appreciate the friendly service and a menu featuring everything from oxtail to Rasta pasta. Indulge in desserts, enjoy the convenience of curbside pickup, and pay easily with cash or credit. Visit us at 576 W 125th St, New York, NY or explore our offerings online.
• Zaad - Amsterdam Ave — Middle Eastern · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in Manhattan Valley, Zaad is your go-to spot for health-conscious Middle Eastern comfort food. With a rating of 4.7 and over 390 reviews, you'll find a diverse selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes alongside popular items like falafel and shawarma. The atmosphere is relaxed and the staff warmly welcomes you, adding to the charm. Whether you're dining solo or with family, Zaad promises a delightful culinary experience at an affordable price.
• Afternoon - Upper West Cafe — Korean · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in Bloomingdale, Afternoon - Upper West Cafe delights visitors with its Korean-inspired comfort food, cozy ambiance, and friendly service. Offering a diverse menu ranging from breakfast to dinner, guests can savor egg sandwiches, mochi donuts, and Korean-style corn dogs, with vegetarian options available. With both indoor and outdoor seating, this charming cafe is family-friendly and offers fast service at affordable prices.
• BIXI Harlem — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into this vibrant Harlem sanctuary feels like entering a lush, neon-lit dreamscape where the energy of the neighborhood meets the bold, aromatic allure of modern Chinese soul food. The air hums with conversation as guests share plates of spice-dusted small bites and inventive cocktails, each dish a playful marriage of traditional techniques and contemporary flair. Whether tucked into a velvet banquette or lounging in the hidden garden oasis, the experience is a sensory celebration of heritage reimagined for the modern city.
• Pancho's Antojitos Mexicano — Mexican · rated 4.6/5: Pancho's Antojitos Mexicano captures the vibrant energy of a bustling street market, where the air is thick with the savory scent of toasted masa and the sizzle of slow-simmered spices. This lively neighborhood gem brings together the bold textures and bright, zesty flavors of traditional Mexican street food, creating a soulful dining experience that feels like a festive celebration in the heart of Mexico.
• ELIS WINE BAR & RESTAURANT — French · rated 4.6/5: Located in Bloomingdale, Elis Wine Bar & Restaurant serves up Mediterranean comfort food in a cozy, romantic atmosphere. Enjoy tapas-style plates, classic and updated entrées, and an extensive wine and cocktail selection. Popular dishes include oysters, tuna tartare, and steak tartare. Praised for its exceptional service, it's an ideal spot for date nights and gatherings with friends. Visit us at 1012 Amsterdam Ave, New York.
• 314 - pizza,pasta&cocktailbar — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of the Upper West Side at 3143 Broadway, Bar314 offers a cozy escape with its delicious Italian comfort food and renowned wood-fired pizzas. With a full bar featuring an impressive wine selection, this spot is perfect for a casual meal or a date night. Open daily from noon, Bar314 provides a warm atmosphere and gluten-free options, making it a versatile choice for any gathering.
• Pisticci — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Bathed in the soft glow of candlelight and the soulful strains of live jazz, this neighborhood sanctuary wraps guests in a rustic embrace of exposed brick and local art. The kitchen breathes life into traditional Southern Italian flavors, where the aroma of slow-simmered ragu mingles with the brightness of farm-to-table produce to create plates of silky, hand-rolled pasta. Every meal feels like a spirited celebration of community and craft, offering a timeless escape that lingers long after the last drop of wine is poured.
• Minton's Playhouse — American · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into this legendary Harlem landmark feels like a journey back to the golden age of jazz, where the air hums with the soulful resonance of live bebop and the dim glow of stage lights reflects off polished wood. The kitchen honors this rich heritage with refined American comfort food, serving up plates of crispy fried chicken and succulent braised short ribs that are as rhythmic and layered as the melodies drifting from the bandstand. It is a place where history and flavor collide, inviting guests to linger over craft cocktails while the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance comes alive in every savory bite and syncopated beat.
• Vegan Hood — American · rated 4.5/5: Vegan Hood pulses with the soulful energy of Harlem, inviting guests into a vibrant space where the air is rich with the savory, spiced aroma of plant-based comfort food. The kitchen transforms American classics into indulgent masterpieces, serving up golden-fried textures and creamy, heart-warming flavors that prove compassionate dining can be both bold and deeply satisfying.
• The Expat — Thai · rated 4.5/5: Welcome to The Expat, a cozy bar nestled in the heart of New York at 64 Tiemann Pl. Specializing in Southeast Asian soul food, this inviting spot serves up delicious bites paired perfectly with cocktails, sake, beer, and wine. Rated 4.5 stars by 436 reviewers, The Expat is a great destination for watching sports or enjoying an extended happy hour. With outdoor seating and a family-friendly vibe, it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Roti Roll (Bombay Frankie) — Indian · rated 4.4/5: The air hums with the vibrant energy of a Mumbai street corner, thick with the intoxicating scent of toasted cumin and sizzling, spice-rubbed meats. Hand-rolled roti wraps cradle a kaleidoscope of savory fillings and zesty chutneys, offering a bold explosion of authentic flavor that captures the soul-satisfying spirit of Indian street food.
• Happy Mama's — American · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the vibrant heart of New York at 449 W 125th St, Happy Mama's is your go-to spot for soul-warming American cuisine. Boasting a commendable 4.4 rating from 34 happy patrons, the restaurant is well-loved for its generous portions and delectable offerings, including must-try desserts. Open daily from 10:00 AM, it’s a family-friendly haven perfect for lunch, dinner, or takeout. Experience comfort food at its finest! 📞 +1 917-409-0399
• Dinosaur Bar-B-Que — American · rated 4.4/5: Located at 604 Union St in Brooklyn, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que offers a casual dining experience featuring ribs, pulled pork, wings, and other barbecue favorites. Known for its delicious Southern-style meats and draft brews, this restaurant is family-friendly with options for children. Enjoy spacious indoor and outdoor seating. Highly rated with a 4.4-star average from over 6,000 reviews, it's a must-try spot for BBQ lovers!
• Lion's Head Tavern — American · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in Manhattan Valley, Lion's Head Tavern offers a cozy tavern atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a solo meal. Famous for its comfort food and ample beer selection, this spot is a favorite for sports enthusiasts and hosts engaging trivia nights. Patrons rave about the fast service and welcoming staff. With affordable prices ranging from $10-20, Lion's Head Tavern is a must-visit for a delightful dining experience.
• Silvana — Middle Eastern · rated 4.4/5: Silvana, located at 300 W 116th St, New York, is a Middle Eastern gem in Central Harlem. Known for its tasty falafel, shawarma, and shakshuka, this cozy spot offers a unique blend of comfort food and vibrant ambiance. Enjoy vegan and halal options, live music, and DJ sets at the downstairs speakeasy-style bar. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 AM, it's perfect for both a casual meal and evening entertainment.
• Greedy Pot — American · rated 4.4/5: Greedy Pot is a beloved Southern soul food spot in Central Harlem, offering a cozy atmosphere and warm hospitality. Known for its flavorful dishes like fried chicken, oxtails, and baked mac and cheese, it's a family-friendly eatery perfect for lunch, brunch, or dinner. With a rating of 4.4 and recommendations for its refreshing beverages, Greedy Pot is a must-visit for a taste of home-cooked goodness.
• Melba's — American · rated 4.3/5: Melba’s pulses with the vibrant energy of a neighborhood gathering, where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of golden-fried chicken and sweet, buttery waffles. This soulful sanctuary invites guests to linger over plates of elevated American comfort food, blending a warm, communal atmosphere with flavors that feel like a heartfelt embrace.
• Thai Market — Thai · rated 4.3/5: Stepping into Thai Market feels like a sensory journey to the heart of Southeast Asia, where the air is thick with the fragrance of toasted chilies, fresh galangal, and aromatic jasmine rice. The kitchen hums with the rhythmic clatter of woks, turning out vibrant plates that masterfully balance the bright zing of lime with the rich, velvety depth of coconut milk. It is a lively, sun-drenched space where every bite captures the bold, soul-warming spirit of traditional Thai street food.
• Taqueria Y Fonda La Mexicana — Mexican · rated 4.3/5: Located in the heart of the Upper West Side's Bloomingdale area, Taqueria Y Fonda La Mexicana offers a cozy and casual atmosphere perfect for enjoying classic Mexican comfort food. Their menu includes homemade enchiladas, tacos, and generously-sized burritos, with three kinds of fresh salsa to choose from. Known for its friendly service and quick bites, it’s a go-to spot for both dine-in and takeout. With over 476 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, this no-frills taqueria is popular for its flavorful dishes and free delivery service until 10 PM.
• Pepo’s Pizza — Italian · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in the heart of Hamilton Heights, Pepo's Pizza offers a cozy and informal atmosphere perfect for families and groups alike. Serving up delicious lunch, brunch, dinner, and late-night bites, the menu includes classic pizza, hearty comfort foods, vegetarian options, and halal selections. Popular dishes feature chicken tenders, garlic knots, and flavorful wings. With convenient takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup options, Pepo's Pizza ensures everyone can enjoy high-quality, affordable eats ($1-10) with ease. High chairs are available for little ones, making it a child-friendly destination. For more, visit us at 1522 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY.
• Melba's Restaurant — American · rated 4.3/5: Discover the soul food haven of Harlem at Melba's Restaurant. Nestled at 300 W 114th St, this popular eatery delights with Southern comfort classics like chicken and waffles, catfish, and mac and cheese. Known for its warm ambiance and friendly service, Melba's caters to both solo diners and families. With positive ratings from over 4000 users, it’s a must-visit spot. Reservations recommended!
• Tartina — Italian · rated 4.3/5: Located in the heart of Morningside Heights, Tartina is a delightful Italian restaurant known for its comforting cuisine and inviting outdoor seating. Offering a diverse menu including pasta, steak, pancakes, and arancini, Tartina pairs its delicious food with a variety of drinks such as beer, wine, and cocktails. The casual yet romantic atmosphere, complemented by live jazz, makes it a great spot for families and couples alike. Fast and attentive service ensures a pleasant dining experience every time. Reservations recommended.
• The Heights Bar & Grill — American · rated 4.2/5: Perched high above the bustling streets, The Heights Bar & Grill offers a vibrant escape where the clinking of artisanal cocktails mingles with the savory aroma of flame-grilled burgers and golden, hand-cut fries. Guests soak in sweeping views from the sun-drenched terrace, enjoying a spirited atmosphere that transforms from a breezy afternoon hangout into a sophisticated, starlit destination for elevated American comfort food.
• Row House — American · rated 4.2/5: Located in Central Harlem, Row House is a trendy American eatery known for its vibrant atmosphere and comfort food classics like chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and mac and cheese. Enjoy happy hours, brunch, and late-night bites with a selection of cider, craft beer, wine, and cocktails. With live music, DJs, and a welcoming staff, it's a lively spot for any occasion. Family-friendly and perfect for groups!
• BLVD Bistro NY — American · rated 4.2/5: BLVD Bistro NY, located at 2149 Frederick Douglass Blvd in New York, offers a relaxed, casual-chic vibe perfect for enjoying modernized soul food classics. With a user rating of 4.2 from 2,225 reviews, the restaurant also features outdoor seating and live music. It’s family-friendly, great for watching sports, serves coffee, wine, beer, and cocktails. Convenient options include free and paid street parking and curbside pickup. Open Monday through Friday from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM and weekends from 10:00 AM. Visit [BLVD Bistro NY](http://boulevardbistrony.com/) for more information.
• Empanadas Monumental — Spanish · rated 4.2/5: Located in Hamilton Heights, Empanadas Monumental is a delightful Dominican eatery offering comfort food and quick bites for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Popular dishes include empanadas, quipes, and yaroa papa y pollo. The restaurant is family-friendly, accepts reservations, and serves delicious coffee to start your day right. Visit Empanadas Monumental at 3477 Broadway, New York, NY 10031. For inquiries, call +1 917-475-1925.