Award-winning

Melba's

4.6

1610 Reviews

$50 and over

American

Make a reservation

2 people

Jan 20, 2025

7:00 PM

Booked 34 times today

Neighborhood gem
Good for groups
Good for special occasions

Enjoy Southern comfort food with a twist in a relaxing, casual setting at Melba's. Owner Melba Wilson opened its doors for locals and travelers alike to have a pleasant dining experience with great service. Fried catfish strips, barbecue short rib sliders and spring rolls filled with black-eyed peas and collard greens make delicious appetizers before feasting on the main course. Guests can choose from entrées like Melba's popular Southern fried chicken with eggnog waffles, which was a winner on Throwdown! with Bobby Flay, as well as pan-seared sea bass and the barbecue turkey meatloaf. This restaurant also serves hamburgers, lighter fare and sides such as candied yams.

Melba's offers catered business luncheons, receptions and more. Reservations are welcome, and takeout is available for guests.

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$50 and over
Cuisines
American, Comfort Food, Soul food
Hours of operation
Mon–Wed 11:00 am–10:00 pm Thu–Sun 11:00 am–11:00 pm
Phone number
(212) 864-7777
Website
http://www.melbasrestaurant.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Catering
For private events and catering, please contact our Special Events & Catering Director at: events@melbasrestaurant.com
Private party facilities
For private events and catering, please contact our Special Events & Catering Director at: events@melbasrestaurant.com

Location
300 W 114th St, New York, NY 10026
Award-winning
1. MICHELIN Plate 2022
Neighborhood
Harlem
Cross street
Frederick Douglas Blvd. (8th Avenue)
Parking details
Street Parking
Public transit
B & C train at 116th Street (2 blocks away)2 train at 116th street (4 blocks away)
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Delivery, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Featured in

Editor’s choice: 16 go-to NYC restaurants from our local expert

Popular dishes

Melba's Spring Rolls
Rice, Black Eyed Peas, Collard Greens and Cheddar Cheese in a Spring Roll Wrapper
Charleston Jumbo Shrimp
Buffalo Wings
Fried Catfish Strips
With Chipotle Mayo
Auntie D's Mini Burgers
Choice of Pepper Jack, Mozzarella or Cheddar Cheese
Pulled BBQ Short Rib Sliders
with Cheddar Cheese
Spinach & Cheese Empanadas
Fried Calamari
with Homemade Marinara Sauce
Lemon and Honey Chicken Tenders
Southern Crab Cakes
with Tarter Sauce

Healthy Comfort

Add to any Salad - Grilled Chicken, Grilled Salmon, Grilled Shrimp

Grilled Vegetable Napoleon
Grilled Portobello Mushroom, Winter & Summer Squash with Buffalo Mozzarella
Grilled Chicken Sandwich
On a Roll Served with Grilled Vegetables, Choice of Pepper Jack, Mozzarella or Cheddar Cheese Additional $1.50
Classic Caesar Salad
Baby Spinach Salad
Fresh Baby Spinach, Julienned Red Onion and Cucumbers
Summer Salad
Mesclun Greens, Carrots, Tomatoes and Cucumbers
Organic Mesclun Greens

Entrees

**meal includes 2 side orders

Southen Fried Chicken & Eggnog Waffles
With Strawberry Butter and Maple Syrup. Winner on "Throwdown! with Bobby Flay"
Southern Fried Chicken Wings & Eggnog Waffles
Fried Catfish & Eggnog Waffles
Wine Braised Short Ribs or Beef**
Grilled Wild Atlantic Salmon**
Pecan Crusted Tilapia**
BBQ Turkey Meatloaf**
Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass**
Southern Chicken**
Southern Fried, Smothered or Grilled Cutlet
Country Catfish**
Trés Macaroni & Cheese**
A Delicious Blend of Pepper Jack, Mozzarella and Cheddar Cheese
Charleston Jumbo Shrimp**
Fish & Chips
Deluxe Hamburger
French Fries, Lettuce, Tomato. Choice of Pepper Jack, Mozzarella or Cheddar Cheese Additional $1.50

Side Orders

Trés Mac & Cheese
Low Country Collard Greens
Seasoned with Smoked Turkey
Down Home Peas & Rice
Candied Yams
Sautéed Spinach
French Fries
Momma's Potato Salad
Roasted Garlic Yukon Mashed Potatoes
Chili Onion Rings
Eggnog Waffle with Strawberry Butter
Cannot be a substitute for a side order

What 1,610 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.6

4.6 based on recent ratings

4.5Food
4.7Service
4.6Ambience
4.5Value

Noise • Moderate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

Melba's in Harlem is a vibrant culinary gem offering "excellent food" and "warm, cozy" ambiance. Renowned for its "authentic soul food," highlights include the "divine eggnog waffles," "phenomenal sangria," and "tender oxtails." The staff is "gracious and accommodating," making every visit memorable. A must-visit for soul food enthusiasts!

1,610 Reviews

R
Ruth
VIP
New York City
4 reviews
1.0
4 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 1
2. Food 1
3. Service 3
4. Ambience 3
Unfortunately, we ended up leaving as we couldn’t fully enjoy the meal. The food presentation was an issue—everything was served together, with macaroni and cheese touching the greens and meatloaf placed on top. This caused the juice from the greens to soak into the mac and cheese, which made it less appetizing. Additionally, the catfish batter seemed old; it had a yellow tint inside and didn’t appear fresh. We truly hope the quality of the food improves, as Melba’s has always been a cherished Harlem staple for us, and we’d love to return to the great experience we once enjoyed.
Is this helpful?
J
Joel
New York City
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
GREAT FOOD AND GREAT SERVICE! Shout out to Kenny for his wonderful hospitality and recommendations!
Is this helpful?
P
Pilar
New York City
8 reviews
4.0
8 reviews
Dined 4 days ago
1. Overall 4
2. Food 4
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 4
The guest that I brought from out of town were pleased with the food. Only one complaint, although well seasoned the salmon was overcooked. The staff members were very welcoming and kept smiles on their faces. Also, it was a little chilly. The side we were on was warmer than the side that you walk in on.
Is this helpful?
P
Patricia
West Palm Beach
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 5 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Melba’s is an absolute gem! From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with warm, friendly service that sets the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. The food is exceptional—every dish is seasoned and cooked to perfection, bursting with flavor and soul. Whether it’s the crispy fried chicken, savory mac and cheese, or perfectly spiced collard greens, you can taste the love and care in every bite. If you’re looking for incredible food, impeccable service, and a vibe that makes you never want to leave, Melba’s is the place to be. A must-visit for locals and visitors alike!
Is this helpful?
M
Marc
New York City
13 reviews
5.0
13 reviews
Dined on January 12, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Melba’s is the best! The food is the best comfort, soul, food in New York. Staff is great and the atmosphere is always on point. Love it!!!!!
Is this helpful?
P
Pilar
VIP
New York City
1 review
1.0
1 review
Dined on January 12, 2025
1. Overall 1
2. Food 1
3. Service 1
4. Ambience 1
Felt like a cafeteria. We sat down the food came out within 20 seconds. Pre cooked and no love
Is this helpful?
K
Kimberly
New York City
3 reviews
4.0
3 reviews
Dined on January 12, 2025
1. Overall 4
2. Food 3
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The server was amazing. Miss the old cook the Mac and cheese didn’t hit the way it used to the cheese was not fully melted. The sweet potato’s wasn’t as soft as they should have been. The collard greens were great.
Is this helpful?
N
Nichole
New York City
12 reviews
5.0
12 reviews
Dined on January 10, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Excellent soul food. Can’t go wrong with a trip here. Fast service.
Is this helpful?
M
Maria Elena
VIP
New York City
28 reviews
5.0
28 reviews
Dined on January 5, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
This was my first time at "Melba's" and I cannot say enough about how pleased I was. The food was delicious (I had the baked salmon). Our server was efficient and extremely pleasant and the atmosphere was lively and upbeat. I will definitely be returning again and bringing friends with me.
Is this helpful?
D
Dan
New York City
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on January 4, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Excellent food, served promptly by professional, attentive staff in a warm, cozy environment
Is this helpful?

FAQs

Melba's offers delivery in partnership with Postmates and Uber Eats. Melba's also offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (212) 864-7777.

Melba's is rated 4.6 stars by 1610 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

Jan 20, 2025

7:00 PM

Booked 34 times today

Order delivery or takeout

300 W 114th St, New York, NY 10026

Additional information

Award-winning
1. MICHELIN Plate 2022
Cross street
Frederick Douglas Blvd. (8th Avenue)
Neighborhood
Harlem
Hours of operation
Mon–Wed 11:00 am–10:00 pm Thu–Sun 11:00 am–11:00 pm
Price
$50 and over
Cuisines
American, Comfort Food, Soul food
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
Street Parking
Public transit
B & C train at 116th Street (2 blocks away)2 train at 116th street (4 blocks away)
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Delivery, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.melbasrestaurant.com/
Phone number
(212) 864-7777
Catering
For private events and catering, please contact our Special Events & Catering Director at: events@melbasrestaurant.com
Private party facilities
For private events and catering, please contact our Special Events & Catering Director at: events@melbasrestaurant.com

Featured in

Editor’s choice: 16 go-to NYC restaurants from our local expert

Melba's

Make a reservation

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Editor’s choice: 16 go-to NYC restaurants from our local expert

Southern Chicken

Country Catfish

Trés Macaroni & Cheese

Comfortizers

Melba's Spring Rolls

Charleston Jumbo Shrimp

Buffalo Wings

Fried Catfish Strips

Auntie D's Mini Burgers

Pulled BBQ Short Rib Sliders

Spinach & Cheese Empanadas

Fried Calamari

Lemon and Honey Chicken Tenders

Southern Crab Cakes

Healthy Comfort

Grilled Vegetable Napoleon

Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Classic Caesar Salad

Baby Spinach Salad

Summer Salad

Organic Mesclun Greens

Entrees

Southen Fried Chicken & Eggnog Waffles

Southern Fried Chicken Wings & Eggnog Waffles

Fried Catfish & Eggnog Waffles

Wine Braised Short Ribs or Beef**

Grilled Wild Atlantic Salmon**

Pecan Crusted Tilapia**

BBQ Turkey Meatloaf**

Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass**

Southern Chicken**

Country Catfish**

Trés Macaroni & Cheese**

Charleston Jumbo Shrimp**

Fish & Chips

Deluxe Hamburger

Side Orders

Trés Mac & Cheese

Low Country Collard Greens

Down Home Peas & Rice

Candied Yams

Sautéed Spinach

French Fries

Momma's Potato Salad

Roasted Garlic Yukon Mashed Potatoes

Chili Onion Rings

Eggnog Waffle with Strawberry Butter

Overall ratings and reviews

Review summary

FAQs

Does Melba's offer delivery through OpenTable or takeout?

How is Melba's restaurant rated?

Is Melba's currently accepting reservations?

Make a reservation

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Featured in

Editor’s choice: 16 go-to NYC restaurants from our local expert