Amy Ruth's

Situated in the vibrant heart of Harlem, Amy Ruth's is more than just a restaurant—it's a cherished institution that invites you to savor the soulful flavors of Southern comfort food right in New York City. Specializing in soul food, American classics, and brunch delights, this welcoming spot at 113 W 116th St serves up generous portions steeped in tradition and bursting with rich, heartfelt flavors.

The menu at Amy Ruth’s reads like a love letter to Southern cuisine, featuring iconic dishes that will satisfy your deepest comfort food cravings. Imagine biting into their famously crispy yet tender fried chicken, the golden crust giving way to juicy, flavorful meat that tastes like it’s been slow-cooked with love. Their Chicken and Waffles are a perennial favorite, pairing fluffy, buttery waffles with perfectly seasoned, crispy chicken pieces—not just tenders, but real cuts that deliver on authenticity and texture.

Other standout dishes include the Smothered Chicken, where tender poultry is blanketed in savory gravy, and the Fried Okra, which offers a crunchy, addictive bite that complements the heartier mains beautifully. Seafood lovers can indulge in the Shrimp and Grits or the Fried Shrimp, both showcasing a delightful blend of Southern spices and fresh ingredients. For those craving variety, the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich and Shrimp Po'Boy from the sandwich board are flavorful, bold choices that don’t disappoint.

No soul food feast is complete without traditional sides, and Amy Ruth’s delivers with highlights like creamy peas and rice, tangy potato salad, and of course, their excellent homemade cornbread that customers rave about. Sweet endings are abundant and iconic here—Peach Cobbler, Banana Pudding, Red Velvet Cake, and Sweet Potato Pie are all crafted with care, each bite offering a nostalgic trip into Southern dessert heaven. The drinks menu is equally inviting, from classic Sweet Iced Tea and Kool-Aid served daily, to the refreshing Half & Half lemonade and sweet tea blend, perfect alongside any dish.

The dining atmosphere enriches the experience further. Inside, walls adorned with portraits of influential Black icons create a warm, cultural backdrop that honors heritage and community. Though some have noted the lighting is on the dimmer side, the cozy ambiance perfectly complements the homestyle cooking and fosters a relaxed, intimate environment where you can truly savor every bite.

Patrons consistently share glowing reviews filled with heartfelt praise. Deso Marciano fondly recalls the incredible combo plates and the unforgettably amazing cornbread, while Sofia C was so taken by the food and service that her cravings lingered well after her visit. Rudy de los Reyes lauded the balance of crispy exteriors and tender interiors in their fried chicken, and David M Monastra appreciated the authenticity of the Chicken and Waffles, already planning his next visit to try the Smothered Pork Chops. Ericka B calls Amy Ruth’s a "Harlem staple," highlighting the comforting meatloaf and mashed potatoes as some of the best she’s ever had—perfect for chilly days when you want food that feels like a warm hug.

Amy Ruth’s offers not just a meal, but an immersion into Southern culinary tradition with every forkful. It’s a place where soulful cooking meets genuine hospitality, making it an essential stop for anyone looking to experience authentic American soul food served with pride and passion right in the heart of Harlem.