We have been having this place on our list for a while and finally came and it did not disappoint. At ALLLL...The main highlight is always good service Meagan was pleasant, vibrant, energetic and was able to multitask with a full house, the bar and deliveries going on.... She really was amazing.... The food was absolutely delicious we ordered the turkey meatloaf, yams, collard green (wow) and amazing Mac and cheese. We also had the chicken and waffles which was good.... And my husband loved the chicken gravy which we got on the side! The pineapple coconut cake was also delish! We shall be back !!! read more

First time. Amazing. A night of music in Harlem then dinner. Wonderful staff., Cute, intimate space. 4 of us split 3 entrées. Chicken and waffles, Mac n cheese and turkey meatloaf. Everything was outstanding. Highly recommend. Coming back soon. read more

Melba's Restaurant - Comfort food. - Southern Near Me - New York, New York

1st time the food was cooked to perfection. 2nd time the salmon was over cooked. Each time the vegetables were on point. I will give them a 3rd try. read more

My first time here and I loved it! I had the catfish and eggnog waffles...pretty good! ! My boyfriend had the turkey meatloaf w/ collard greens and mac n cheese. The turkey meatloaf was good but the sides were amazing!! Coming from a family of comfort food cooks, I was blown away by the greens and mac and cheese. I'm the greedy girlfriend so I sampled everything no complaints. The service was amazing everyone was welcoming as soon as we walked in the door. The servers were extremely courteous. The size of the restaurant is small but it wasn't a tight uncomfortable space, nice and cozy. The heating,lighting and music was good. I do wish the music was a little bit more up to date, but overall it was a great experience and another go to hot spot. read more

Hadn't been here in a while and glad to see that the service and food was still great. I had the wine braised short ribs and they were DELICIOUS - this is from someone who doesn't usually eat beef. Also our server, Olleigh, was wonderful. She was friendly and attentive. I will gladly come back again. read more

My first experience at Melba's was fantastic. Not a complaint in sight but my latest trip there on Sunday left MUCH to be desired. Let me start off by saying that the wait staff is outstanding- courteous and attentive. Now on to the bad...Upon arriving I ordered a RED Sangria. When I got it I noticed that the orange slice looked a little old, almost like it had been sucked on but I figured the bartender just struggle to attach it to the glass. It wasn't until I finished my drink that I noticed huge RED lipstick prints on my glass. I was disgusted to say the least and then realized that the orange probably had already been enjoyed- good thing I just put it to the side. The waiter was apologetic and took the drink off of our bill. Now on to the food. I ordered sweet potato pancakes, fried chicken and grits. Pancakes: the one on the bottom was completely burnt, seemingly put on the bottom to hide its charred state. The strawberry butter that they put on top was still frozen and had a refrigerator-like taste. Chicken: the chicken was well seasoned but severely overcooked. Leaving little meat to enjoy. Grits: the grits had a filmy layer on top- like they had been sitting out for a while. We literally had to break through the film and mix the grits up to make them edible. Overall, Melba's disappointed me this time and I don't think third time will be the charm. : ( read more

Been here twice and not sure if I'll go back. Both times I went, I ordered the chicken with buttermilk waffles. The dish is ok, the one thing I clearly remember is the strawberry butter... but the service could be better. The wait times are long.. and the second time, the hostess was a mess, giving my friend an attitude for checking on the wait time. read more

Food was excellent and Brian's quality of service was superb. Not only will we recommend it, but we're coming back for a get together with friends in a few weeks. read more

Food was delicious! The service was incredible and on point! Will definitely be back many times to come. Definitely a NYC hidden treasures. I would highly recommend this place. Best chicken and waffles I have ever had! read more

Walked into Melba's on a Wednesday night, and it was pretty busy. Our host let us sit at the bar until a table was available. I ordered the salmon with collard greens and macaroni and cheese. They asked how Id like the salmon cooked...ummm so there's no salmonella? I never knew there was an option. The portion size was perfect. The salon flaky and light. I couldnt eaten a vat of the creamy, cheesy macaroni. The collard greens were interesting..never had them before..they were kind of bitter..but maybe thats how they should taste. The service was a tad slow, but helpful and friendly. Considering how well priced the menu items were, most of the drinks on the menu quite expensive...$11 for a glass of sangria?! read more

I ordered the friend chicken and waffles. It was delicious! So why only 3 stars? The portions are small and the price point is high considering the portion. I had read this feedback from other reviewers and was expecting it, but it was somehow smaller than what I was expecting. I wasn't looking for massive portions, but it felt more like "gourmet soul food", something of an oxymoron when I think of soul/comfort food. I'd encourage everyone to try it once. read more

The one star doesn't reflect their quality of food. Too bad for me I can't attest to it. But what I can speak for is the service of their group catering department. It is by far the worst I've come across, I requested a table for a birthday brunch 10 days ago and still haven't received confirmation. I've just been playing a game of phone and email tag with them. I don't want to play anymore!! I'll be taking my brunch someplace more professional. I think this is a prerequisite for a horrible time at Melba's. read more

I was wondering around Harlem 1 night for a late dinner, came upon this restaurant first when I saw Gail (Oprah's best friend) outside the restaurant taking pictures with fans. On that very night I said that must be a good sign Service was great, crowd was busy for a Friday night (maybe they thought OPRAH was there too), & the food was fantastic. The venue & decor was intimate, but could still be enjoyed in a group setting as well. I ordered the southern fried chicken (grilled with yams & mach & cheese). I have to say I was impressed with the preparation & the seasoning, expect a bit of wait.....nothing a few glasses of wine wont help conquer though. My lady had turkey meatloaf which said seemed to be cold & lacked consistency (she's a snob)....it was above average meatloaf with a BBQ glaze. Also had some appetizer the crab cakes, I've had better but they get a B-. Otherwise this place is a great dine, on the upper end of prices but if your looking for a great meal & ambiance, with some Harlem soul this is a good start. read more

Really nice, relaxed atmosphere, accommodating servers, and delicious food! They were very kind to our kids too. Now the food-Best fried chicken I've ever had! The egg nog waffles were crispy on the outside and soft in the middle. I wish I could come here weekly! Next time we come to New York we will be coming back! If you're in the area and haven't stopped in, you need to! read more

Cozy restaurant with good music and great food. Came with the boyfriend and we loved the atmosphere and food. I got the salmon with spinach and mac n cheese - all excellent. My bf ordered chicken and waffles which apparently won a (well deserved) award on bobby flays throw down. Service was okay. Can't wait to return and try out other options. read more

Melba's Restaurant - Salmon with sautéed spinach macaroni and cheese - Southern Near Me - New York, New York

That was solid fried chicken not overly salty Eggnog waffle was sweet and spiced Bacon fat back was smoked n fatty with crispness The bartender waiter was awfully slow and incompetent read more

This is my second time here... And I still love it. Service was amazing. The good was great and my party felt at home. There was a birthday in the house, so the waiter asked everyone to sing "Happy Birthday" by Stevie wonder. Everyone was clapping and singing.... And it was great. I had the chicken and egg nog waffles, very delicious. The service was great. We were checked on multiple times. It's a small space, so be sure to make reservations. read more

Went there early Friday evening. I had a friend visiting from Africa and wanted to show them a piece of Harlem at the start of a loooong night of partying. Food was OK. Had the fried chicken and he the salmon. We had 3 drinks each - all "double" glenlivet 12's. Shock was on me - $275.40 for the 6 drinks before tip and taxes (food including starters about $65). The whisky pour wouldn't pass as a "single" anywhere else in the city. In short the most expensive 12 year old Glenlivet I have ever imbibed. By all means try the food but be sure to review the drink menu carefully before indulging! read more

This was THE secure, never fail, Harlem go to for all my out of state friends to visit. I would always recommend Melba's . Haven't been there in a few years. Had brunch on Saturday, chicken and waffles (my staple, my ALL TIME FAVORITE) and it was such a disappointment. Waffles were blah, chicken was dry and the service was mediocre (waitress wouldn't bring us our drinks unless we asked and would ask us if we wanted anything...so weird). The quality of the food, not there anymore. read more

The service is amazing here but I wasn't too impressed with my food. I had the eggnog chicken and waffles. I thought the chicken was good but I wasn't really that fond of the circular tiny waffles that accompanied it. I prefer one large waffle like Soco in BK. Harlem is a bit out of the way, so I probably wouldn't return because I wasn't wow-ed. I would recommend it though to someone looking for a brunch place in Harlem. read more

I'll keep this short and simple...fried catfish and eggnog waffles amazing!!! And the wine braised ribs....amazing!!! But the catfish hands down the best piece of catfish I've ever had in my LIFE!! It was perfect!! read more

Melba's Restaurant - Fried catfish and eggnog waffles, wine braised ribs, with Mac and cheese and greens as sides!! Me and my cousin shared plates!! Delicious!! - Southern Near Me - New York, New York

First, let's start with Melba's hospitality. True Southern charm! Now let's get to the food: catfish is lightly-dusted, crispy fried, never greasy; the mac n cheese, or should i say the cheese with some mac? And the collard greens are cooked just right, slight touch of vinegar but not overpowering. But the test of the night was the red velvet cake and I may have a new favorite spot! read more

This place is amazing. The chicken, the fish OMG. Beautiful corner, nice jazz and exceptional service. Thank you so much. Will be back!

the fried chicen w/the eggnog waffles were really yummy. The strawberry butter, I personally thought that was inventive. Small cozy spot w/ some classy funkyness to it. I had the pleasure of meeting Melba, which made my 1st experience even more amazing. I told her that I saw her on food network w/ Bobby Flaye. Service was very nice oh and before I forget there sagria was pretty good! Go girl!!! #Melbas read more

I went for a late dinner on a Saturday night (9:30 pm) and got right in, which was nice because usually there is a lengthy wait here. I had a glass of wine and my date had a beer, mostly because the special drinks were pricey, although they looked delicious. I had the fried catfish with mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese (why not splurge?) and it was delicious. It was a big portion so I brought half home. My date had the chicken and waffles which were also very tasty. I really liked the strawberry butter with the waffles. Although the food was delicious, the service makes me rate this place a 3. Our waters went unfilled for over half the meal and we waited 15 minutes before the server would come so we could get our bill. Once he delivered the bill, we immediately out a credit card inside and placed it on the edge of the table. 10 minutes later, he came to get it. He was very kind, but very slow and inattentive considering the restaurant was not busy, or even full for that matter. I want to come back for the food, but will probably come when I have plenty of time and patience to spare. read more

Melba's Restaurant - Fried catfish+tres Mac and cheese+mashed potatoes - Southern Near Me - New York, New York

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So, I was very excited to try this place after word of mouth reviews as well as the Yelp reviews. Gotta say I'm a tad disappointed and expected better. I ordered the fried Jumbo shrimp which comes with a choice of two sides. I selected yams and mac and cheese. Now I must say, the portion size is odd. The shrimp are indeed jumbo, (got about 6 of those)...and I received tons of yams but a disproportionate small amount of mac and cheese. The shrimp are fried perfectly. Nice and crunchy but it lacked seasoning. Not even salt and pepper. That's so lazy. It tasted like eating fried nothingness. Yams were decent, not too sweet. Mac and cheese wasn't bad but could've used a pinch of salt and pepper. For dessert I had the pound cake a la mode. The vanilla ice cream tasted like a cheap watery imitation vanilla based ice cream that must have been cheap store brought. The pound cake is served warm, and glazed. But somehow it lacks moisture. It's dry and seemingly microwaved. While the glaze is nice, the actual cake is bland and lacks sugar. Gotta say this was pricey and missed important but easy points in flavoring. The food gets a 2 but the music is such good Black BBQ soul music that it gets a star for that alone. But, Melba..I'm disappointed. Please make sure your cooks aren't skipping steps because they didn't do it justice tonight. read more

The food is well seasoned but the oxtail was too mashed up ..more gravy than meat & it's a little salty for me.. I love the mac & cheese ..drinks were good read more

The food is always so delicious! The service is on the poor side. The hostess barely greets you, and there is no real area to wait for your table. The corridor is actually the door way, which is actually a few short steps from the bar. This gives you a very suffocated- jamed feeling as you enter. You can even almost be unnoticed. The tables could be cleaner. The wait staff is usaully professional and friendly and the food is super tasty. The food takes longer than you'd expect it to but once you have it, it's delectable! Waffles are delicious and the mac and cheese is the best in harlem! The pricing is perfect for the portioned served. I wish they offered takeout. read more

This was the second time I have ate at Melba and it will probably go again in the future. Everyone I was with got the chicken and egg nog waffles. The food is good but not great in my opinion... My wife would disagree because she loves the chicken. I got the dark meat and it was lightly breaded. It was not greasy and good meat but it lacked flavor in my opinion. The waffle and maple syrup were also pretty good. Gave it 4 stars because of where it is and the fun atmosphere. If you have not been I would say to go for the experience but don't over hype the food. read more

Melba's Restaurant - Chicken and eggnog waffle - Southern Near Me - New York, New York

This restaurant is a neighborhood GEM. I went there last night with my girlfriend and we fell in love with the food. For first timers, I strongly recommend getting the Chicken and Waffles, Tres Mac and Cheese, Catfish or the Atlantic Salmon. These dishes were enriched with soulful flavor and you truly get a bang for your buck. You will not be disappointed with the food and ambience of the restaurant. In addition, the staff was very friendly also. The only down side is that the restaurant is fairly a small space. A party of two was a wait of 10-15mins, but well worth the wait. It's a really popular place so if you decide to go with a large group of people i'd call in advance. read more

My only experience with "Southern Comfort Food" is through watching Chopped. So I was kind of intimidated by Melba's weeknight crowds and jazz music that pours out its doors every other night. But I eventually went for dinner on a Thursday night and was pleasantly surprised. I ordered fried catfish with collard greens... what else would I order. I wanted to order a beer but didn't, which I regret. The food was delicious! I don't know how they infuse so much salty flavor into it, really. It can't be healthy, but it's really tasty. The service was friendly and attentive. Even though my friend and I were the only white people there at the time, I didn't feel out of place. Great authentic Harlem feel, excellent food. Atmosphere is casual and diner like. read more

Great food, service, ambience. We ordered the fried catfish, potato salad, mac and cheese, crab cakes, garden salad. Everything was good, but mac and cheese was ok, no complaints but not raving about it. The potato salad was great, light and flavorful, and not overloaded with potato. Crab cakes were good but quite small, that should be worked on, 2 small balls. The main event--catfish-- was great. It was crisp, not overly breaded, well season, just delicious. Service was good, not exceptional, but good, nothing to complain about. read more

We came to Melba's traveling from Oakland, California and the food and service was outstanding! My mother, sister and myself were very pleased with the whole experience while visiting this staple in New York. Our server Brian was very great with the suggestions and hospitality towards us was great! We highly recommend the Oxtails meal, Catfish and Eggnog Waffle meal and the drinks are great as well! Thank you so much Melba's for the amazing experience! read more

My go to place to get chicken and waffles in NYC. Melba's always deliver. I love the food there. If you're ever in Harlem this is the place to eat. Harlem has changed a lot and there are many restaurants there but none of them come close to Melbas. The last time I went there, I got the mac and cheese with collard greens and their beef ribs. It literally fell off the bones. I'm obsessed with this place. Catch me there often. read more

First I want to say our waiter was on point! I'm big on customer service and hospitality and this restaurant did not let me down. So I ordered the Salmon dish with sautéed spinach and a side of potato salad. Sheesh ! It was seasoned to my liking. I will definitely be going back again. read more

Melba's Restaurant - Southern Near Me - New York, New York

Great food. Pleasant experience. Sunday morning brunch...this spot hit the mark. We chose to go at peak time so there was a little bit of a wait, but the food was worth it! read more

We came here for brunch on a Sunday. Called 30 minutes ahead of time to put our name on the list and we were able to sit as soon as we came. It was great service, the host and waiter were nice. My only complaint is that they barely serve any food! I ordered the sweet potato pancakes and it came with two small pancakes, basically super dollars. The food tasted great but you don't get enough bang for your buck. Too expensive for just one waffle and a chicken wing. We left hungry, it felt like we just ate appetizers yet it was whole meal and was the cost of a whole meal. read more

Food was good. Had the fried chx and waffle fries and mashed pots. Wife had the fried shrimp with greens and onion rings. The fried food were cooked very well to taste. Waffle fries and mashed pots were good. Greens were good. Onion rings were ok. Too much batter...way too much. The service was good. Our server, I forget his name, was very much on top of it. Busy for a Covid Saturday night. Only thing is, they need more menus. Either have everyone scan their phone on a barcode for the menu or have enough menus for ever customer. The female server who I asked for another menu basically made me seem like a crazy person for asking for another menu so my wife and I didn't have to break our necks looking at one practically sideways. Then making it known she went alllllllll the way outside in the cold to get me said menu. She needs better customer service skills. Overall good spot to try. A box checker...Just need more menus and not the attitude when asking for another one. Again, just have us all scan a barcode for the menu. Be better surrounding that. Oh one last thing...drinks are WAAAAAYYYY over priced. $21 for a Manhattan drink. Ummmmm no! read more

Melba's Restaurant - Southern Near Me - New York, New York

Food: Good food for a good price. Had wings and mini-burgers for appetizers. Mini-burgers were great. Wings were flavored great but were dry and very small. For an entree I had the salmon and it was delicious as were the onion rings and smashed potatoes. Ice Cream was okay...more icy than creamy and a very small portion. Service: Excellent! read more

I arrived at melba's at 10:45pm on Saturday and was greeted by the hostess. My first question to the hostess was if the kitchen was open which he replied yes to. So I was seated and the waitress quickly came over to take my order. I ordered the salmon mac and cheese and spinach and dusse on the rocks. Here's where the problem came in at 5min after ordering my food it showed up to my table. The food was cold but the plate was hot. The food showed up before water was served and before my drink came. I understand that I came 15mins before closing but that's no excuse to serve me food that was already sitting in the kitchen. The mac n cheese was terrible(I've had boxed mac n cheese that was much better)I politely asked for the spinach and salmon to be boxed up and requested the check. My drink arrived the same time as the check!!! Even though the food was terrible I still tipped my waitress finished my drink and left. I wont be back based on my experience. read more