Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Native Harlem

    3.6 (113 reviews)
    Closed 12:00 pm - 12:00 am (Next day)

    Order Native Harlem Takeout or Delivery

    Native Harlem Photos

    Business Info

    NATIVE HARLEM ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Classy
    Upscale
    Good for groups

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Native Harlem

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Steve P.

    This is a hidden gem! I totally enjoyed the vibes on Sunday for brunch. The host was professional helped with seating. The bartender was serving up great drinks and the food was delicious. Would definitely go back when in town again

    Virginia P.

    Food and drinks were very good - compliments to the chef. The server was excellent and ambiance was calming and serene. The restaurant is family friendly. The prices were reasonable. I would recommend this restaurant.

    the bill
    Unique B.

    We came to hangout and check out the restaurant for the first time. Loved the decor, perfect for social media . The restaurant is very spacious and had a nice vibe. The restaurant wasn't crowded we had to hunt her down to order another drink. They had a dj playing good music as well . I was told it turns into a party type vibe after 7 or 8pm. We ordered a few dishes from the happy hour menu and had drinks . flavors of the food was on point and drinks were made perfectly. Why I can't give 5 stars: our reservation was made to celebrate my birthday and instead of the server letting someone know that they charge you $12 for the birthday slice in advance (which most places comp the birthday favor) they did not. My surprised appreciation of the gesture turned into to disappointment on the servers part. If we knew you were going to charge, then let us pick what we wanted . That left a greedy taste in my mouth. This established also is a auto gratuity business which means in my experience because you'retipping anyways the service is not always the best or they're just trying run the bill up.. Maybe on a different visit, I'll have a better experience

    Michael N.

    Excellent experience... the food was amazing, the ambience is pretty good and the drinks were ! The service could have been better at the beginning but my waitress was cool. I will definitely be back soon!

    Shrimp & Grits

    When my friend told me she was at brunch at Natives, i said why not. I'm from the area and wanted something local with bottomless drinks for my mother. The service isn't what it should be, and that's on young staff management. I had situation with our bottomless mimosa, within 90 mins i only was served 1 craft, diabolical. After a convo with the manager, he corrected the situation. Food was A-1, my mother is a big critic so i wanted to see hat she said. I had the shrimp and grits and she had the jollof rice with red snapper. We also stared with some wings that was too spicy for her, but was ok with me. The drinks was strong, but slow. The atmosphere was great, the decor, ambience , the live musicians, it was really a treat in Harlem. I would recommend this place place first sure, it has a good blend of urban Harlem African culture.

    Ogbono and Egusi Soup with Jollof Rice and Pounded Yam Sides
    Ally L.

    Quality: 9/10 food came out fresh, cooked well, and SO delicious. The Asun was our favorite. Variety: 8/10 there's a lot of choices of meat to vegetarian options and the dishes have a modern take to traditional African food which makes it easy to introduce to those who have never had African food before (me). Atmosphere/Cleanliness: 7/10 clean speakeasy aesthetic in the dining area, but the bathroom had no paper towels and 2/3 stalls had no toilet paper. Service: 7/10 not sure if we just came on a bad day, but the bartender showed up late and there was just one girl breaking a sweat taking orders, making drinks, and servicing tables. Price: $45/person including tax and tip (already included in the bill) They also have a little happy hour menu which is nice if you just want to grab a quick bite or drink at the bar.

    Oxtails with kale
    Pamela P.

    My reservation was for 6:00 pm. When I got there several people were waiting to be seated including me and my daughter. It's Mother's Day and Native Harlem is packed with good folks wanting to celebrate mom. My daughter went up to the hostess desk and told her the name on the reservation. The hostess said they are cleaning a table and we'll be seated shortly. 15 minutes later we're still waiting for our table. That's not a good start for me. We were seated at 6:30. I spoke to someone at the front desk about the lie they told. We came in they asked for the name on the reservation. They told us they were cleaning off the table Apparently it took them more than 20 minutes to clean off a table for two guests. Finally, we were seated. Grateful we didn't wait long for a server to come to our table. She introduced herself very politely but professionally too. As we acclimated ourselves to the lighting of the restaurant I looked around to see the decor. I like what I saw. The colors of the restaurant are black, grey and highlights of gold. Also it seemed like there were highlights of a beautiful purple, too. What distinguishes this restaurant from others is definitely the decor: golden African masks were on the walls along with pictures of African motifs. The display of the motifs were generated by a computer so the colors of the masks were distinctly beautiful. It seemed to me like I was in a modern African museum that serves food and drinks. I ordered a glass of Tintana rose and my daughter ordered a Native Punch which is beautiful to look at and is tasty. Tiffany, my daughter let me have a little taste. While we were waiting to order appetizers and our dinner we were entertained by live music. There is a large stage and a saxophonist playing beautifully. He moved around the stage to different tables that are strategically placed around the stage. He serenaded some people at their tables but when he came to my table I missed him playing to us. I was too busy checking out the decor. It is that beautiful and exceptional. The saxophonist played tunes Kenny G style and other songs that made you feel good. He is a good musician with knowledge of different romantic songs and smooth jazz type songs too. It was great. Finally our food arrived, appetizers first then about 10 minutes later dinner was served. I ordered oxtails and Tiff ordered lamb chops. Well, for the next 15 minutes all was quiet at my table because Tiff and I were totally enjoying our meal. The food was delicious. All together we ordered salmon tacos, BBq wings(appetizers), oxtails and lamb chops. And I can we were both completely satisfied with our food and drinks. It was an excellent dining experience. The server, the food, music and decor made our dining experience a wonderful Mother's Day celebration. It was so great I dismissed the less than professional manner of the hostess. Another great idea is a wall located across from the front desk that is beautiful decorated with flowers the color of the restaurant that is use to take pictures. Native Harlem located in the Magic Johnson complex, 2nd floor is a five star restaurant.

    David T.

    Dope ass vibe!!!! Stumbled in on a Wednesday night & walked into Karaoke night!!! Issa vibe here frfr!! The hostess Alycia was nice, warm & welcoming!!! Beautiful staff in this African establishment in the 125th street area!!! This is definitely a grown & sexy spot! The bartenders Mia & Sedahri Issa vibe!!! I will be back soon!!! Being a Harlem native this is dope for the neighborhood!!! Thanks again for the hospitality Mia!!!! Check her Wednesday nights and tell her King David sent ya!!!! Good vibes up in here!! The food menu looks gd too!! Will definitely come back to try! Ohhhh and they have hookah!!!

    Cocktail
    Savarra J.

    Wings weren't my fave. Jollof with fish was delicious. It just happened to be a comedy show starting when we arrived.

    Menu
    Nia B.

    This was my first time at Native. The ambience was nice. They had live entertainment. I gave 2 stars because the food was just ok. I had a pina colada, it wasn't the best. The wings were good, but the pasta was very spicy. The restaurant entrance was difficult to find. You have to go through the movie theatre entrance and upstairs. It was a lot , I ended up following other people, since I figured they wouldn't have on heels to go to the movies. It was cold inside. And the bathrooms were nasty.

    Escovitch fish
    Joannie B.

    The decor and entertainment was on point. Dj was good as well. Fully stocked bar. Ample space to dine and have an event. Street parking a little rough to find. On the second floor of the Magic Johnson Theater. Ample IG worthy pics with with beautiful installations and backdrops. Food was ok. Drinks were ok. Staff was good.

    Maronda H.

    One of my favorite food places we ate in New York, Harlem. We were looking for a nice enjoyable place to come eat and drink while in Harlem. We stumbled upon this place called "Native Harlem." An African restaurant/lounge located upstairs by the movie theater. We had to wait for a minute while the lady at the front desk was taking a call. We were seated and the heat was heating up in here. We were about to hit the Exit and leave. But a kind young gentleman and the hostess came and escorted us quickly to a cooler side of the restaurant. Our hostess Rose was AMAZING. She laid out the V.I.P treatment for us Chi Town Natives. Her personality, Attentiveness and Conversation was everything. It was Happy Hour Time in the N.Y and we were ready to place our order. I ordered the 8-piece chicken wing, and my brother ordered the Salmon Fish Tacos. Everything was a 10/10. The atmosphere, the food and drinks were the BOMB. The interior decor had a beautiful bold and vibrant feeling that showcased its Africa Heritage. The music playlist was perfect and kept me jamming. I wish I could give this place more stars on my review. Sound out to Rose for the wonderful hospitality and showing us Love on our visit. Wish Native Harlem could bring some of their culture to Chicago. Hint Chicago Native

    Shanta H.

    If you're looking for the perfect addition to Harlem's vibrant cultural and culinary scene, look no further than Native Harlem. From the moment I walked through the door, I knew this place was something special. Let's start with the ambiance--because WOW. Before I could even process what the hostess was saying (yes, she was doing her job just fine), I was completely swept away by the decor. Native Harlem is an interior design dream--every detail felt intentional and elevated, setting the tone for what would be an unforgettable night. Once I snapped out of my decor daze, I realized how incredible the staff was. Warm, attentive, and genuinely passionate about the experience they're helping create. They weren't just doing their jobs--they were hosting a vibe. Now for the food--listen, it was delicious. I dove into the appetizers so fast I forgot to take pictures (that should tell you everything). Every bite, from the starters to the entrees, hit the mark. The flavors were bold, comforting, and left me wanting more--but also satisfied. As if the food and atmosphere weren't enough, hookah was available, adding another layer to the loungey, laid-back energy. Then... boom--the entertainment started, and my jaw dropped again. There's a stage in the middle of the space, surrounded by seating, and on this night, the show kicked off with a talented acrobat whose energy lit up the room. And just when you think you've seen it all, in glides a stunning woman on stilts, dancing gracefully through the crowd like something out of a dream. Top. Tier. Vibes. It's been days since my visit and I'm still in awe. Native Harlem is more than just a restaurant--it's a full experience. Whether you're a local or visiting the area, this is one place you have to try. JUST GO. GO NOW. You will NOT be disappointed.

    See all

    Photo of Nissa M.
    28
    174
    695

    2 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 3
    Love this 0
    Oh no 5

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 2
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    17 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 4
    Photo of David T.
    18
    43
    187

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Matt L.

    Matt L.

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Maronda H.
    111
    1146
    14032

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Matt L.

    Matt L.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Matt L.

    Matt L.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Matt L.

    Matt L.

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    11 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Matt L.

    Matt L.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 2
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of L. V.
    143
    355
    1222

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 2
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Matt L.

    Matt L.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of M R.
    0
    2
    0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Kia M.
    23
    180
    88

    7 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Toné S.
    4
    188
    423

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Matt L.

    Matt L.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Matt L.

    Matt L.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 2
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Pata L.
    0
    35
    121

    6 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Matt L.

    Matt L.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - Native Harlem

    You might also consider

    Corner Social

    Corner Social

    3.4
    (1.4k reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $$

    The ambiance and music were great for Sunday brunch. My girlfriend got chicken and waffles and I…read moreordered shrimp and grits and both were good. We also had mimosas. The service was quick.

    I was walking by Corner Social on a rain chilled Saturday afternoon and this provided the rare…read moreopportunity to get in here without the usual crowds. Corner Social is always busy and forget it from Friday afternoon onwards through the weekend typically. Seeing my opening, I took it today. I walked into the well appointed space and had my choice of seating. I ordered the shrimp and grits and my order came within ten minutes. Given what this kitchen normally handles, the pace of orders today was a cakewalk. The shrimp and grits are served on a bowl of a plate with a wide rim to exaggerate the amount of the serving. It's all very tasty, but they could afford to place the shrimp and sliced andouille on a more substantial mound of grits. Grits are very inexpensive and it seemed they could afford to have more of these creamy grits as part of a more substantial presentation, especially at this price point in the mid twenties. There are about six medium to large sized shrimp with a few slices of andouille to spice things up. To the credit of the chef, the dish managed good flavor without overly salting it or have it swimming in butter. Read that last sentence again. There seem to be cooked onions and peppers in the sauce, rounding out the flavors. Service was good at Corner Social and the bathroom is clean. There are far more things on the menu, but the shrimp and grits leave the palate satisfied, but the stomach wanting more for the value. It's a lively atmosphere with several flatscreens behind the bar to catch the game. 3.8 stars!

    Photos
    Corner Social
    Corner Social
    Corner Social

    See all

    Shrine World Music Venue

    Shrine World Music Venue

    4.0
    (300 reviews)
    0.5 mi
    $$

    I came to the Shrine World Music Venue with a few friends after a Friday evening at a cigar lounge…read more I had no expectations and had walked by the Shrine several times not knowing what was there along Adam Clayton Powell Boulevard. Unless you know about it, you can easily walk by, given it blends into the general Harlem cityscape, especially during the day. Then at night, especially during the afterhours when I was there, the scene flips and this place becomes turnt up! People were lined up trying to get inside at 0130. The bouncers were searching and patting people down, nothing absurd or overly intrusive. There is a cover charge and they take credit cards for the cover. As you walk inside, the bar in on your right. Keep going and the dancefloor awaits you. It's not that large, but people are generally very courteous. There are a few places to sit, especially in the back in the left corner. That is also where the steps lead you downstairs, presumably to the restroom, which I did not have to use. The vibe is poppin' inside and it is fed by the DJ on a stage in the back, playing Worldbeats, Afropop, Afrobeats, Reggae, Dance Hall, and Soca. They are setup for live bands here. The volume is high, but not uncomfortably or earsplittingly high. The people here are drawn to this vibe and energy. You can dance here all night and the air conditioning and ventilation are of the capacity to keep you and everyone else comfortable. Stick around until closing time at 0400 when everyone starts walking out and the AC nearly turns the Shrine into a refrigerator. For an unassuming place on the outside, it is clear this is a place you can come to with friends or a date if this is your vibe and it's hard to imagine anyone not enjoying this. Prices are reasonable too at the bar. They have a good selection of draught and bottled beer. Guinness on tap was $9 for a pint. They serve up the cocktails too. Four fun and returnworthy stars!

    This is a neighborhood spot. It's for music lovers. It doesn't have any ambience to speak of. I did…read morenot eat here so I can't talk about the food. We did have two drinks and the service was OK. You're here for the music. My understanding is after the bands leave at midnight you can dance until 4 AM. This is a good chill, relaxed spot. You don't need to get dressed up. It's very casual and you will have a good time.

    Photos
    Shrine World Music Venue
    9-10pm: Spiros Soukis - Rockin' Greek Soul
    9-10pm: Spiros Soukis - Rockin' Greek Soul
    9-10pm: Spiros Soukis - Rockin' Greek Soul

    See all

    9-10pm: Spiros Soukis - Rockin' Greek Soul
    Red Rooster Harlem

    Red Rooster Harlem

    3.6
    (4.2k reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $$
    Outdoor seating
    Takes reservations

    The service was great - everyone from the door to the table were attentive, friendly and…read moreprofessional. The ambiance was nice - the chairs were hard on the body but the chandeliers and lighting along with the digital photo frames with pictures from past times really make the vibe. There was a live band, so it was loud, making it a little hard to conversate but we intentionally choose our meal time around the entertainment experience. The food was just short of great! To drink, I had a Pom in Paradise which was delish. For dinner, I had the Sweet Potato Coconut soup, the Cornbread with tomato butter, and Empanadas - all of which was quite tasty. I was able to try some of the Black Eye Pea Stew... again really good, I brought my Mac & Greens home and had them as next day left overs and thought they were a bit too salty. If ever in the area again, I would definitely look to go back.

    My first visit to Red Rooster, and it absolutely lived up to the hype! I had just gotten off a…read moreplane and wanted something different, and this was the perfect choice. If you're looking for incredible food, handcrafted drinks, and live jazz on a Sunday, this is the place to be. From the moment you walk in, it has a warm, energetic vibe with a touch of speakeasy charm that makes the whole experience feel special. I couldn't decide what to order, so my sweetie took over and ordered a variety of dishes he knew I'd love. He has been here several times and always says the food is consistently excellent--and now I understand why. Every bite was flavorful, beautifully prepared, and worth every calorie. Between the amazing food, outstanding cocktails, incredible live music, and welcoming atmosphere, this was more than just dinner--it was an experience. I can't wait to come back the next time I'm in New York!

    Photos
    Delicious Deviled Eggs
    Delicious Deviled Eggs
    Red Rooster Harlem - Best Wings
    Red Rooster Harlem - Best Wings
    The Parlor at Red Rooster Harlem.  The trendiest restaurant in New York to host you next private party or event.

    See all

    The Parlor at Red Rooster Harlem. The trendiest restaurant in New York to host you next private party or event.

    Native Harlem - african - Updated June 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...