ExploreHarlemNYC

Discover Harlem

The key to Harlem is found by exploring one of New York City’s most iconic and culturally bustling communities. Each neighborhood within Harlem is distinct and maintains unique characteristics. The world-renown culture and history of many intellectuals, writers, artists and entrepreneurs continues to live and thrive today.

The northern section of Manhattan Island is a vast area which spans multiple neighborhoods – West, Central and East Harlem – extending from 96th Street to 155th Street (North – South) and the Hudson River to the East River (East – West).

I was in love with Harlem long before I got there.

Langston Hughes

West Harlem with its bucolic green spaces and tree-lined streets, historic structures and architecture is primarily residential. Central Harlem, the center of Harlem’s current economic revitalization and gentrification which has brought to the neighborhood new restaurants and retail stores, high rise residential housing and an upsurge in property values. East Harlem “el Barrio,” is changing but still has some of its old-world charm reflective of its predominantly Latino culture and cuisine is characterized by wall murals, community gardens and casitas.

Harlem’s dynamic areas and flavors of African American culture are pretty much hard to come across any place else. Home to high-end cuisines and comfort food alike, there are a plethora of locations for any foodie to explore. Old mainstays like Sylvia’s on Lenox/Malcolm X Boulevard remain a popular eatery for soul/comfort food along with Amy Ruth’s, Spoonbread, and Melba’s. In addition newcomers like Red Rooster Ginny’s and Minton’s bring a touch of Harlem’s Jazz and Swing era to the already vibrant and diverse area.