Harlem

 

 

Harlem is a neighborhood in Upper Manhattan that is widely known for its diverse crowd of visitors and residents, amazing jazz clubs, and delectable soul food restaurants. Plus, the city is buzzing all day and night with its trendy clubs and hip bars. As a result, those who come to this neighborhood to visit or set down roots will be met with a hip, bustling, and cultured city, ready to be explored and enjoyed.

Harlem is considered a great place to live, offering residents a dense urban feel and plenty of bars, restaurants, and unique boutiques to choose from. Yet, while this area is often filled with young professionals, it is also loved by families for its central location, access to great schools, and charm.

No matter your style or preferences, you will likely find it in Harlem. The neighborhood often feels like its own mini borough because of its many unique areas to live in. For instance, Hamilton Heights is known for its gorgeous Hudson River views and subway system access, while Sugar Hill is a historical area filled with stunning Victorian-style homes. If you want to be immersed in the borough’s culture and lively activities, then East Harlem will be a great place to check out. Meanwhile, Astor Row provides residents with homes featuring large front porches built away from the street.

 

Harlem is known for its vast dining and entertainment options. That is why it may be hard to narrow down the choices when you want to explore the area and check out the best attractions in the city. However, you can and should visit Red Rooster, a popular comfort food eatery with cuisine created by celeb Chef Marcus Samuelsson. Another highly-popular restaurant is Lido Harlem Restaurant. This Italian eatery serves bottomless-mimosa brunch, perfect for laidback Sunday mornings or midday dates.

If you want to indulge in Spanish cuisine, Vinateria is a fantastic spot. The black-owned and women-led restaurant is about community and inclusivity. Focused on artisan-made goods, wholesome ingredients, and Italian and Spanish cuisine, this restaurant will become a favorite dining destination that will have you returning time and time again. 

For a more relaxed spot that offers modern soul food classics paired with wine and delicious cocktails, book a reservation at BLVD Bistro NY. However, for those wanting pub grub and appetizing alcoholic beverages in an open-air eatery on the side of a Vietnam-era warship, look no further than The Baylander.

 

Outside of its fabulous restaurants, the area is known for its fun activities, venues, and parks. Morningside Park is a beautiful 30-acre public park located in Upper Manhattan, ideal for those wanting to explore the city’s natural green spaces. Take a walk down winding paths set amongst flowers and trees that lead to a cascading waterfall. The park has baseball fields, multiple playgrounds, and a unique view that highlights the park.

For those wanting an exceptional shopping experience, Atmos is a hip sneaker shop that offers funky socks and accessories, men's streetwear, and countless styles of watches and hats, while Harlem Haberdashery is a top-rated boutique selling trendy clothing, accessories, and shoes with a unique Harlem Renaissance vibe.