In the comments section of a recent thread there was a discussion about the lack of “beer and burger” spots in Harlem. While I’m not a beer and burgers type of gal myself, I will acknowledge that there is a lack of variety in the Harlem social scene.
A number of new residents want more casual places to hang out, but there seems to be a sophisticated set in Harlem that wants to fill the gap that once existed in Harlem’s recent past. In the past, if you didn’t go to a place like the Lenox Lounge then you could find a little hole in wall/juke joint type of spot and order a $4.00 cocktail that would hold you over nicely all night.
Added to the mix are the upscale spots where you are charged a cover (usually based on who you know and how you are dressed). Some of these places have been able to stick around for more than 2 years while others have gone the way of the mom and pop businesses in Harlem.
At one time 135th Street was pretty much a wasteland when it came to finding a nice lounge spot to chill. Those days are quickly coming to an end. Although Harlem Grill has shut down there is now Shrine and coming soon Body Bar and Grill.
What are your favorite spots to chill out “Up in Harlem?” Here are some previous threads on the topic:
Harlem Bar Trotting[UF Archives] :: Good Places to get a Drink [UF Archives]
Photo credit: mtkr on Flickr
Clark Pena
July 23, 2008
Under New Ownership !
The peeling sticker slapped across the tap says it all: “Raggs: We Ain’t Got No Taps.” If you’re looking for a frothy draft or the thump and bump of the typical barrio bar, you’ll have to look elsewhere. But if you just want a dark, timeless place to swill a $2 Pabst, chat up a gregarious bartender, and watch the game on multiple TV sets, you’ve arrived and then some. Pressed-tin ceilings and black-and-white photos of the Harlem Globetrotters evoke the neighborhood’s past; the Internet jukebox makes the one single, reluctant nod to the 21st century. An L-shaped interior fosters intimacy on slow nights, but enough room for a decent crowd. When ladies drink free on Saturday nights from 10 p.m. to midnight, the place gets lively. But mind your p’s and q’s. Your fellow revelers are likely to be packing heat, having strolled over after work from the 25th Precinct across the street.
L. Rogers
March 26, 2008
All of the lounges at trendy spots with good food and drinks are fine but there is no mention of the friendly neighborhood corner bar. No one misses a place with no pretense? Where you make friends not just inhabit the same space. Welcome to Raggs of Harlem, 119 and Park, a nice quiet place to have an inexpensive drink with locals and regulars who all know each other. There are TVs, a good juke box, friendly bartenders, and it’s always fun.
Sally
March 25, 2008
Raggs of Harlem has been my local hangout since I moved to the neighborhood back in 05. The knowledgeable and funny bartenders always cater to the needs of their patrons, plus the drinks are cheap!! Its got a dive bar ambience about it, and an updated jukebox. I totally recommend it if your on the east side.
illoquentgent
February 28, 2008
Melba’s Po’boy sandwich with seasoned fries are heavenly! Great mojitos too! That took me by surprise when I first visited Melba’s. A good mojito is hard to come by these days.
Karen Levy
February 27, 2008
I love Melbas on 114th St and Frederick Douglass Blvd.They have great burgers and the ambience is both chic and casual.
D. Bell
February 26, 2008
Not sure if ZipCode (formerly Uptown Jimmy’s) is even open to the public. I’ve seen some private events held there though. It was cool when it still operated as Jimmy’s. I think the best burgers in Harlem can be found at The Den though. I would also probably go to MoBay. Uptown Renaissance might be a contender but since they are Muslim they don’t serve beer. Billie’s Black is another option. A couple of “downtown-ish” locations are Toast and that little network of pop in spots.
illoquentgent
February 26, 2008
i was tempted to go upstairs at covo. has anyone been to zipcode on ACP Blvd? i’ve walked by it many times and it looks cool. just never had the opportunity or time. it seems everyone’s keepin hush on giving any comments or reviews about it.
anonymous
February 26, 2008
Check out the upstairs lounge at Covo. Great space with assorted antique chairs, chandeliers, etc. Very warm and welcoming space.
illoquentgent
February 26, 2008
Harlem River Cafe: For me this place is the one place that although is pricier, is much classier than 80% of everything else in all of NYC. The service never fails! Everything on the menu is gold. In warmer temperatures its open space is amazing. It’s my first choice anytime I want to show my friends a great time. (I should’ve gone here instead of Covo that night)
Cafe Largo: Another favorite. Classy spot right down the block. My only qualm is the dark lighting that seems more for fit for dinner than drinking. This is isn’t a bad thing. It’s just that when I think of somewhere cool to catch a drink it’s not the first spot that comes to mind. i’m a bit too loud for the dinner crowd. However, the good food and service are consistent.
Picante: With their remodeling the place may look chic but it as casual as casual gets. It’s my spanish “burger n beer” joint. Rock bottom prices on the food. Great place for drinks. TV’s to watch the fights and “futbol” matches. The place has a perfect balance of bar/lounge n restaurant.
Shrine: The music here just rocks. This place made me give up the Village Underground. I haven’t tasted any food there yet.
Suite 308: For me it’s cool for the wrong reasons. I like it when no one is there and I want to get a drink with my date and just talk…really mellow. The fact that it’s empty though may not be so good for business.
Runner ups: Mocha, Amsterdam Cafe, Londel’s