Melba's
New York, NY 10026
Phone: (212) 864-7777
- Price:
- $$
- Cross Street:
- Frederick Douglass Boulevard
- Directions:
- B, C at 116th St; 1 at 116th St-Columbia Univ
- Hours:
- Tue-Sat 5pm-11pm, Sun 10am-3pm, 5pm-10:30pm
Editorial Review for Melba's – by Justin Hartung
In Short
With its black-and-white checkerboard seat covers, brick and painted wood walls, and plentiful windows, this soul food spot mixes homey elegance with sunshine-flooded family-friendliness. Southern comfort food like braised short ribs, BBQ turkey meat loaf and fried catfish comprise the menu, with a few nods to new-school cuisine, including shoestring zucchini, mini burgers, and spring rolls filled with black-eyed peas and collard greens. Desserts include a homemade green apple sorbet and Grandma's Sweet Potato Pie.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
The ExtrasMelba's books private parties. Call for details.
When to GoLive music entertains diners on Tuesday nights.
User Reviews for Melba's
05/21/2008 Posted by candysweet27
Took my family for dinner. Made reservations when we arrived our table was waiting, waiter took our order, when food arrived, not one complaint. My 5 year old spilled her drink, before I could turn around the manager was right there cleaning it up. Food was very good. Entertain was also a plus Would go back again.
Pros: Thumbs up
Cons: None
04/13/2008 Posted by fatties
Of all the amazing meals we had during our trip, this was the best! We started our meal with their delicious sangria, then moved on to the best fried catfish we've ever had. The seasoning was great and it was cooked perfectly! I wanted more of the chicken and waffles (although the chicken was a LITTLE bit dry) and the braised beef short ribs fell off the bone. GET THE MAC AND CHEESE, it's guaranteed to please (and clog your arteries). The onion rings practically melted in your mouth. Get the sweet potato pie, it's perfect, but the pound cake was dry. When we got there, there was a huge crowd, so it's best to make reservations. Even if you don't, it's worth the wait. A little tip would also be to dress well, everyone seemed pretty swanky, but there was a very relaxed vibe. Even though the restaurant was completely full, the waitress did a great job of getting everything to us quickly. The trip to Harlem is worth it, and it's only two blocks from the subway station. Hopefully we get back to NYC soon and make reservations this time!
Pros: Sangria, catfish, sides, and sweet potato pie
Cons: Long wait and a little crowded.
