Billie’s Black
271 West 119th St.
(between St. Nicholas & Frederick Douglass)
I’ve been meaning to write a proper review about this darling little place but this write up will have to do for now. Billie’s Black is quickly becoming a neighborhood favorite. Hands down, they are the warmest, coziest restaurant I have been to in Harlem. Only opened since June, they have already obtained the Zagat stamp of approval and developed a loyal customer base.
Billie’s Black has a wonderful custom bar, monogrammed tables and exposed brick walls. But enough about the decor, let’s talk about the food and drinks. Speciality drinks with interesting names and a new twist on some of my favorite dishes.
How about Grand Marnier Ribs and four cheese mac and cheese that is super cheesy with a garlicky, Parmesan flavor? What about garlic string beans that are freshly snapped and not poured out of a can? You can’t get candied yams but you can get a baked sweet potato! And, where else in Harlem can you get vegetarian collard greens that are so tender that they actually melt in your mouth? Other favorites include the crispy fried catfish with a spicy dipping sauce on the side and the delectable Harlem Shrimp Creole. There is so much more so be sure to check the menu for their many dining choices.
Don’t fill up on the generous portions of tasty food because the desserts are not to missed! How about a black cheesecake that isn’t chocolate? When is the last time you had a generous bowl of peach cobbler with a light, flaky crust??? Yes, ladies and gentleman, you must make it point to drop into Billie’s Black and give them a try. Be sure to mention that UPTOWN flavor sent you!
Billie's Patron
November 21, 2006
How about stopping by the restaurant and checking the sticker on the door and the plaque in front? Did you make a call down to Zagat’s as well? I’m sure they don’t just toss their wares at places or sell them bootleg on 125th Street. Give me a break!
Lovelyday
November 21, 2006
I’m “a real” customer and I was not aware of this Zagat’s rating snafu. The next time I’m there, I’ll inquire of the owner. She’s usually around and as I mentioned earlier, seems very approachable and talkative with all the customers.
I have to say that yep, the menu is “soul food”, but IMHO, there’s nothing really wrong with having a nother soul food establishment in Harlem – especially a really good one, since most of the ones we have there now can’t get it right.
Anonymous
November 18, 2006
“…they have already obtained Zagat’s stamp of approval”? I can’t find any review on Zagat’s website of this place and I wonder why that is?
I’m highly suspect of language like this that can’t be authenticated from the source (Zagat).
Menupages.com has some comments, one from what seems to be real customers, 3 that sound like someone part of the restaurant wrote the review(s).
Melba’s is tough to beat in terms of cozy/warm supper club. But I’m rather tired of Melba’s menu. When I heard of this new place (Billie’s) to be honest I thought, “another Southern soul food spot….?zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz). More of the same if you ask me (and not very healthy).
However their “So Damn Happy” hour on Thursday nights looks like it has potential, $5 drinks? is that true? Wow, haven’t seen that in NYC since the 80′s.
Anyone got the real scoop on this alleged “Zagat” review? Fact or fiction? What’s the review? The grading?
Lovelyday
November 18, 2006
And the owner is wonderful too! On the two occasions I’ve been there, she made considerable effort to visit my table and inquire about my satisfaction with my meal.