Harlem, a vibrant hub of culture and history, is experiencing a culinary renaissance. Beyond its legendary soul food, a wave of organic restaurants is offering delicious and healthy alternatives. This guide highlights ten of the best places to enjoy organic restaurant food in Harlem, showcasing the diverse and exciting options available. Finding organic options in this exciting neighborhood is easier than ever before, offering fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and innovative menus.
Top Organic Eats: A Harlem Culinary Journey
This list isn't ranked – each restaurant offers a unique experience! The emphasis here is on restaurants prioritizing organic ingredients, though the level of commitment may vary. Always check directly with the restaurant to confirm their sourcing practices.
1. Red Rooster Harlem
Red Rooster, helmed by chef Marcus Samuelsson, is a Harlem institution. While not exclusively organic, they prioritize locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, often incorporating organic produce when available. Their menu showcases a blend of Southern comfort food and global flavors, making it a must-visit for a sophisticated organic-leaning experience. Expect creative dishes that celebrate both heritage and innovation.
- Signature Dish: The fried chicken is legendary, but look for seasonal vegetable sides to enjoy the freshest produce.
- Organic Focus: High commitment to local and seasonal produce.
2. Harlem Hops
This gastropub is a great option for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere and a selection of craft beers alongside their food. While not entirely organic, they offer vegetarian and vegan options using many organic and locally sourced ingredients in season. Their commitment is evident in their partnerships with local farms and suppliers.
- Signature Dish: The selection of gourmet burgers utilizes high-quality, sustainable ingredients.
- Organic Focus: Moderate commitment to organic and locally sourced produce in their vegetarian and vegan dishes.
3. Amy Ruth's Restaurant
A Harlem soul food icon, Amy Ruth’s isn't strictly organic but does use fresh, high-quality ingredients when possible. Their commitment to traditional recipes and generous portions has made them a landmark.
- Signature Dish: The famous chicken and waffles are a must-try.
- Organic Focus: Low organic focus, emphasizing fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible.
4. Sylvana Restaurant
Sylvana provides a taste of authentic Italian cuisine with a focus on freshness. While not explicitly advertising organic ingredients, they frequently use high-quality produce, and their commitment to Italian culinary traditions often means using fresh, local options.
- Signature Dish: Their pasta dishes, made with house-made pasta, are popular choices.
- Organic Focus: Moderate commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients which often include local, seasonal produce.
5. The Cecil
This stylish restaurant, located in a historic building, emphasizes comfort food with a modern twist. While not exclusively organic, their menu changes seasonally, reflecting their commitment to using fresh, often locally sourced ingredients. Check their menu for current offerings to gauge their organic ingredient usage.
- Signature Dish: Their burgers and creative small plates are crowd favorites.
- Organic Focus: Moderate commitment to fresh, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
6. Minton's Playhouse
This legendary jazz club also serves food. While not primarily focused on organic dishes, they often source ingredients locally and strive for quality and freshness in their offerings. Check the menu for any specific organic items they may highlight.
- Signature Dish: Their menu reflects comfort food items, perfect for pairing with live jazz performances.
- Organic Focus: Low organic focus. Freshness and quality are prioritized.
7. Lolo
This Caribbean eatery shines with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. Many dishes highlight fruits and vegetables, and while not explicitly organic, they likely employ fresh, locally-sourced options when available.
- Signature Dish: Their jerk chicken and other Caribbean specialties are popular picks.
- Organic Focus: Moderate commitment, emphasizing fresh, high-quality ingredients, likely including locally sourced options.
8. Ginnett's
Ginnett's has a reputation for its delicious comfort food. While not specializing in organic ingredients, they source locally and provide high-quality fare. Look for seasonal specials showcasing fresh produce.
- Signature Dish: Their soul food classics are a highlight for many visitors.
- Organic Focus: Low organic focus; commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients.
9. Corner Social
Corner Social offers a contemporary dining experience in a hip and modern setting. While not purely organic, they place a high value on using fresh, quality ingredients, and their menu often features seasonal specials.
- Signature Dish: Their creative small plates and innovative cocktails are popular.
- Organic Focus: Moderate commitment, focusing on high-quality and fresh, seasonally inspired dishes.
10. Jacob's Pickles
While this Southern comfort food restaurant is not strictly organic, they frequently use high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. You can expect fresh, delicious food in a lively atmosphere. Check their menu for seasonally inspired dishes.
- Signature Dish: Their fried chicken is a customer favorite.
- Organic Focus: Low organic focus, highlighting fresh and high-quality ingredients.
Finding Your Perfect Organic Meal in Harlem
Harlem’s culinary scene is dynamic, with restaurants constantly evolving and adding new items. Don’t hesitate to contact the restaurants directly to inquire about their sourcing practices and the availability of specific organic dishes before your visit. Enjoy your culinary adventure in this exciting neighborhood!
