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Amy Ruth's
Categories: Restaurants Southern Restaurants Soul Food Southern, Soul Food [Edit]
113 W 116th St(between Lenox Ave & Adam C Powell Blvd)
New York, NY 10026
Neighborhood: Harlem
(212) 280-8779
Announcement
We now deliver catering party platters ($500 minimum order). Contact our Catering Department at 212 280-4300 to place your order.
- Nearest Transit:
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116 St (2, 3)
Central Park North (110 St) (2, 3)
116 St (A, B, C)
- Hours:
Mon 11:30 am - 11 pm
Tue-Thu 8:30 am - 11 pm
Fri 8:30 am - 5:30 am
Sat 7:30 am - 5:30 am
Sun 7:30 am - 11 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
561 reviews for Amy Ruth's
Review Highlights
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"And your chicken and waffles are damn good too." In 175 reviews -
"the Jennifer Holliday, the Reverand Al Sharpton." In 63 reviews -
"Mac 'n cheese = perfect ratio of macaroni to cheese." In 49 reviews
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560 reviews in English
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Review from Monica J.
5/13/2012
Omg. I've finally found the best fried chicken. My dad came to visit the same weekend as the Harlem Jazz Shrines so I got us tickets to a show at the historic Apollo Theater and jumped on the chance to try out a new restaurant in the neighborhood before the show. After a quick search I found myself unable to decide between an ethiopian restaurant and this place. I consulted with a buddy of mine who is from NY and he said he knew a place that had the best fried chicken that I had to try out... what do you know, it was Amy Ruth's. Kudos from yelp AND a native new yorker? Done deal.
Despite reviews that strongly recommended I get dark meat (I think it goes without saying that I was going to order the chicken and waffles), I decided to go for the white meat. It's what I was raised on and I was fully aware that I was risking getting a dried up piece of chicken... but IMO that's the real test!
Dude, the chicken was moist, the outside was crispy with just enough spice - although I did add tabasco, it was more out of habit than anything. While I do like my fried chicken (and all other food for that matter) extra spicy, I would have thoroughly enjoyed this chicken without. This is a place that's not afraid to use its spices and to that I say- THANK GOD!
Oh, and the waffle.... seriously. Light, fluffy, and absolutely delicious. The entire dish was awesome, not too rich and overwhelming like a lot of places I have tried just the perfect amount of crunch and soft gooeyiness and so delightfully airy.
I also tried Sugar Hill - the local Harlem brewed beer. When it first came out and I saw the light golden color I immediately lowered my expectations bc I'm not a fan of light ales. However, this beer was super refreshing and actually had legit flavor in it. There was a hint of a spicy kick at the end that I just loved. Still too light for my taste overall but perfect for a warm summery night.
Not 30 minutes after we left the restaurant, I started having cravings for it! And so did my dad. He got the chicken wings and waffles and devoured his entire plate! When I asked him the following night what he wanted for dinner he asked if we could come back here - unfortunately, I was too lazy to make that trek again but next time I'm in the area, this place is a must.Listed in: Best Fried Chicken
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Review from Jennifer S.
Brooklyn, NY
5/19/2012
Wish the food had been better...
service:
We went on a Saturday afternoon and only had to wait 5 min. Everyone who worked there was really nice. The service was good- attentive and on top of things like refilling water, clearing plates and bringing the check when we asked for it.
Food letdowns:
Jerk chicken was really dry - but the spice was good
Cole slaw was full of salt- I could not eat it
Lemonade was really-really sweet. It totally overpowered the tart lemon flavor
food that was good:
Steamed Okra was the best thing I ordered - had a bit of a spicy kick to it
Collard Greens were tasty!
just OK:
Salmon with Peach Butter: ok - but a bit on the bland side.
Seems like the yelp reviewers that rave about the food order the chicken and waffles- I guess that is what we should have gotten. -
Review from Philip N.
5/16/2012 1 Check-in Here
Solid soul food joint.
Got the famous Rev. Al Sharpton (fried chicken and waffles) and it should be noted that you can get the gravy on the side should you choose the smothered version. Do it.
If you've had chicken and waffles before, you'll be pleased but unlikely to be blown away. The chicken was tasty, but a few parts were a bit overcooked and slightly dry. But no one can deny the awesomeness that is hot sauce covered fried chicken though over a syrup-soaked waffle. -
Review from Janeen B.
Manhattan, NY
5/13/2012
I came here one night for takeout...the "Al Sharpton"...my fave! I walked into the restaurant, unaware that a hobo came in behind me. The Maitre d ask "Table for Two?" I looked at him, confused...then I turned around to see the homeless dude behind me. "Um...no...he's not with me". The Maitre d realized he was homeless and we both had a chuckle. "I'm SO sorry!" he exclaimed, then I went to the counter to place my order. That particular moment in my life took the title for "Best Homeless person encounter", which was previously held by the time a homeless guy came up to me with his bag of cans and ask for my number, and the childhood memory of another homeless man washing his feet in the water fountain of a playground I frequently visited.
Aside from being mistaken for a woman who dates hobos, Amy Ruth's Is a lovely and delicious alternative to Crowns friend chicken, or the Popeye's across the street. The Fried Chicken and Waffles alone are amazing. Couple that with the fact that they have a "Kool Aid of the day", and this place is winning. Don't let the front part of this restaurant fool you...it's actually quite large. There's an upstairs area and some room in the back as well.Oh, and did I neglect to mention how delicious the desserts are?! Both the Peach Cobbler and the Banana Pudding are really good here. Word of advise; don't come here on Sunday afternoons. As soon as Church lets out, this place gets packed. Also, make sure you look behind you when you come inside...or you too might be mistaken for a Hobo-Humper.Listed in: May Challenge!
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Review from Mike W.
Brooklyn, NY
5/23/2012
The food here was good. Very filling, good soul food, although I've had better. What I didn't like was the extreme wait. 45 minute wait once I was already sitting at my table wasn't cool.
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Review from Mickey K.
Fresh Meadows, NY
5/4/2012
Before we even placed our orders, we received a basket of complimentary corn bread, which was absolutely heaven at the moment since we were completely famished. It was warm, perfectly sweet with the right amount of cornmeal and we slathered it with butter and some maple syrup. Yum!
We ordered the President Barack Obama entree. You have the option of choosing your chicken fried, smothered, baked, or BBQ, with two delicious sides of your choice. I stuck with the classic fried chicken since it's essential and vital to Southern cooking. The chicken was juicy, well seasoned, with just the right amount of crisp without being too greasy, and mmmm-mmm finger-lickin' good. I merrily gobbled the tasty chicken, and washed it down with some good ol' Kool-aid.
Our side dishes were really good as well. The potato salad was good, with a nice touch of dill. The fried okra did not have that gooey slimy texture, and it tasted awesome in a deep fried batter. The leafy collard greens were excellent with just enough salt and flavor. Macaroni and cheese? Nummy in my tummy! I can't wait to try all the other sides next time.
We barely had room for dessert, but we managed to squeeze in a warm peach cobbler at the end. The atmosphere here was comfortable, with good hip hop music playing in the background. Despite the service being a little bit slow, the staff was friendly and accommodating.
Amy Ruth's was one of the most satisfying and hearty meals I ever had. Although my thighs felt guilty for enjoying soul food this good, it definitely satiated my hunger and my belly could not be happier. Going to Amy Ruth's is an experience. One that I recommend to all, for good quality southern comfort food where you eat with your soul, by keepin' it simple and real.
For review and pictures here - http://www.peanutbutte... -
Review from bianca b.
New York, NY
5/21/2012
Cant say much about my Ruths except its the best soul food in Harlem... Fluffy waffles, crispy chicken yummm... Stay away from the kool aid its wayyyyyyy toooo sweet... This place is not overpriced like some places and its open now 24 hours you cant go wrong...
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Review from Miss B.
Manhattan, NY
5/3/2012
I LOVE THIS PLACE!!!!
My friends and I come here whenever we want good soul food. I usually order the same thing....fried fish, mac n cheese, and collard greens. I have had pretty much everything on the menu though. The crabcakes on the fishermans platter are only mediocre and the fried okra could be better. Otherwise, everything is tasty. If you do happen to order the "Koolaid of the Day", get another glass with just ice and some water. You will definitely need to dilute it. Its like saccharine.
The atmosphere is pretty basic. Table and chairs with a tv. Its also BYOB and there are no refills on the drinks they have. They desserts are pretty average too. The staff is really nice. The cornbread starter is really good.
Dont go here if you are looking for some fancy-schmancy restaurant. Do go here if you are looking for great soul food from nice people. -
Review from Emiko T.
I think I'm very satisfied that even though it took me over 20 years to finally the infamous combo of chicken and waffles, I'm glad my first time was at Amy Ruth's. I don't think I'll soon forget the crispy layer of perfectly seasoned skin and the tender dark (always go dark!) meat inside. The waffles are cooked to perfection and if you douse that puppy in lots of syrup and butter, the mix of textures will blow you away.
If you're hungry, get one plate just for yourself--sharing this will leave you wanting more. We also ordered the mac and cheese which was just standard; nothing that you can't make at home. The cornbread was also okay but I wish they served it up warm so that at least the butter could melt over the bread. But it seems like the one thing you can get here without regret are any of the chicken dishes.
The one major downside that I hope is just a one-time mishap that doesn't indicate the service every other day of the week is that they were incredibly slow in all facets of the service but mostly with getting the check. She also forgot to bring my brother's sweet tea from the get-go. Perhaps it was a particularly relaxed lunch day and they weren't fully staffed but it really made the whole meal drag.
I'd definitely be back to try more of the comfort soul food favorites! Nothing like delicious fried goodness and liquid maple candy. -
Review from Amy A.
4/23/2012
I'm not so sure how I lived in NYC without trying soul food sooner, but Amy Ruth's is the real deal! There isn't much too add to the already glowing reviews, so here are my basic pointers / observations:
1. Every meal starts with cornbread. It's good stuff. Eat it.
2. Order the Chicken and Waffles. Smothered or not (aka. with gravy) -- that one is up to you. Note that the "smothered" can come on the side. I suggest The Rev. Al Sharpton for all newbies.
3. Although portions are large, you must try the sides. Corn - good; Mac 'n Cheese - good; Potato Salad - good... we're learning that the sides are all good. Share one with the person sitting next to you. Gluttony is acceptable.
4. You must be patient. Really, really patient. The service was decent when I visited considering how crowded it was, but slow. The staff can be friendly, but I also witnessed a few mild instances of attitude... I'll consider that part of the southern charm experience. Our group had no issues with the staff.
5. Drink refills are not free. We learned this when the bill came.
6. This space is great for large parties, as there are several dining areas.
7. Amy Ruth's is open 24-hrs on Fridays and Saturdays. Yay for weekend chow time!
... Y'all make a visit now, ya hear! Bring your appetite and enjoy!Listed in: Recommendations without…
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Review from Mika A.
White Plains, NY
5/25/2012
The food was filling and what I couldn't finish came home with me and made a great late night snack. It was good, but I've certainly had better. The wait time to get in was long, the wait for food was even longer and I had to find my waitress to ask for the check. Just a little over 2 hours from the time I arrived to when I left. Luckily, the tea/lemonade drink I ordered had 1/2 cup of sugar, so I was hyper and alter while waiting so long for everything.
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Review from C T.
Newark, NJ
4/23/2012
Haven't met Amy but her food is Damn good. Smothered chicken is mmmmm good . Yup go there
Ask for Tasha -
Review from Kate T.
4/10/2012
Order the chicken in any form, a waffle if you like (I recommend the Al Sharpton special), and the "sunrise". Thank me later.
If you're getting take out, do NOT come early. The kitchen gets backed up and you will be sitting around staring at other people doing the same thing, especially late nights.
Subtracting a star for the mediocre sides (don't bother) and painfully slow (but cheery) service. If you're looking for any kind of ambiance, this is not your place; Amy Ruth's is bare bones -- tiled floor, wood tables and chairs, mirrored walls -- you get the picture. -
Review from Aretha W.
Washington, DC
5/14/2012
I am a native NYer, and I tell you what, this place is the truth! I had The Ludacris, which is fried chicken wings which were damn good. For my sides I had the mac and cheese and string beans....felt like I was in my grandma's house....the food was delicious. The rest of my party has the chicken n shrimp and chicken n waffles, which they loved. Service was on point as well. Anyone visiting NY must put this on their to do list.
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Review from John S.
5/8/2012
It's like reliving the past. You just finished playing a session and all the cats are hitting up the West Harlem scene. After a long night of making your guitar sing, you don't quite want breakfast but still crave it. You tell yourself that it's too late for dinner so what do you do? Amy Ruth's does a faithful re-creation of the classic chicken and waffles that came from the culinary geniuses during the Harlem Renaissance. And who does it better than Amy Ruth's? With it's friendly and ecstatic staff, nothing can touch this place when it comes down to soul food. Not a waffle lover you say? Well, the first bite of Amy Ruth's waffles will change your mind when it starts to melt in your mouth. What's better than a sweet, warm, crispy waffle as it gradually breaks down and start fireworks on your taste buds? Certainly, you will become a waffle lover once you visit Amy Ruth's. As for the fine vegetarians who are not feeling up to the chicken, do not fret for these guys have the white fish that complements the waffles just as well as the chicken.
It truly is made with love and you won't find the typical tourists looking for some soul food action. The locals love this place and New Yorkers are always thankful for Amy Ruth's culinary contributions to this great city. -
Review from Alee G.
Boston, MA
3/27/2012
Amy Ruth's gives me LIFE!! I soooo love this place. Soul food at its best!
I get the chicken and waffles every time I come here, and they are hands down THE BEST here. I've tried Roscoe's and Gladys in ATL, and I'm still going on record to say that Amy Ruth's BEASTS all of these places put together with her chicken and waffles.
This is a place you definitely go to for the food. It can get a bit crowded and noisy at time, and you WILL have to wait a while if you come on a Friday night or Saturday, but in my humble opinion, it's well worth is.
Oh, and they have a Kool-Aid flavor of the day, which I happen to find quite hilarious. I mean, would it be anything other than RED?!?
5 stars! -
Review from Helena H.
3/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
I don't think I need to review much about this place.
JUST ORDER THE CHICKEN AND WAFFLES!
I was weirded out eating Sweet Waffles with Salty Fried Chicken, But after I ate it together, I WAS WRONG!. It made me eat them Together at the same time to have a GREAT Taste.
The Service was Exceptionally Great!. Every staff was SUPER friendly. Food came out pretty quick and fresh. Plenty of space for a large party (or private parties). Definitely will come back and try their menus.
Randomly small world that my Twin Elle P. Arrived when I was about to leave (I said she was stalking me.).
PS...They are open 24 hrs on Fridays and Saturdays.Listed in: Can you Say... Chicken?, UPPER SIDE OF NYC
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Review from Ari B.
3/4/2012
The second I walked into Amy Ruth's last night, I knew I was about to have an amazing dining experience. The decor was nothing special, but I could just tell that the reviews I read led me to the right place.
As soon as I walked in, the manager told me there was a short wait, and asked for my name. I told him my name was Ari. He said, "Ari...that's Hebrew for Lion, right?" And I was like "Yes, that's exactly right!" I knew from that moment that I picked the right place!
Me and my friend both ordered the chicken and waffles, and for sides I ordered the cheesy grits and the mac and cheese. Boy, was I in maple syrupy waffly heaven! The chicken was moist and the fried skin was crispy. The syrup was REAL, which, thank god for that, because I cannot stand for any more of that fake stuff!
The sides were fantastic as well. The grits was so cheesy and delicious and the mac and cheese had a kick to it! Just awesome!
I wish I had room for dessert, but I could barely move after finishing this meal of epic proportions!
Will I be back? You bet your bottom dollar I will!
And before I forget, the service and staff were friendly as well! -
Review from Kristie F.
Sacramento, CA
3/31/2012 1 Check-in Here
Not too far of a walk from Columbia University, but me and my group of friends came here for Saturday dinner, and guess what! NO WAIT. =D
Complimentary corn bread (+1 bc I love corn bread!) and super friendly and attentive waiters/waitresses (our table got checked up on at least three times!)
Now.. onto the important part. Ordered fried chicken and waffles and it was delicious (and pretty affordable ~$10)!! Me and a friend shared one order and ordered a side of collared greens. Best collared greens I've ever had! My friend ordered cheese grits! It was interesting... My first time having grits! Wouldn't order it again, but definitely I would take the collared greens again!
Waffles were buttery and my friends speculated that maybe even the syrup was baked into them o__0 Chicken was NOT greasy at all, and together, they made my first "Chicken & Waffles" a good one =) -
Review from Sunshine D.
Manhattan, NY
5/10/2012
Great down home southern food. I absolutely LOVE their fried chicken & waffles as well as their mac and cheese... And their candied yams....And their sweet corn...but not their corn bread. Amy Ruth's has the worst cornbread I've ever tasted. I've been here a thousand times but they can never seem to get their corn bread recipe right.
Aside from the cornbread, everything else tastes great. I also really enjoy their sunrise drink. It's non alcoholic yet very tasty and refreshing. The spacing is a bit tight but I guess it makes for a more cozy/intimate type seating arrangement? It's doable.
All in all, 5 stars on the entree dishes, sides, and the sunrise beverage but minus 1 for the cornbread and making people wait outside of the restaurant to request a table when it's not even crowded on the inside.
Good for dates, friendly gatherings, or dining solo. -
Review from Jason G.
Overall very good chicken and waffle place and lots of other good choices on the menu. Seeing all the famous folks that have eaten here seems to draw people in and all the coverage they get like Food Network, etc. In addition to the 42nd and 43rd presidents, Rosa Parks ate here - cool. The waffle was airy and fluffy, Belgium style, though not as crispy and sweet as others that I've had (depends what your preference is). The chicken was hot and skin very crispy, flavor was there just not smack your face enough.
Listed in: Best NYC Dining, Best Fried Chicken (waffle not…
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Review from Dennis J.
3/2/2012
Tourist review.
I don't get the hype. I tried a bit of all the different orders we got and none of them were anything to rave about, much less wait in line for (thankfully we came when it wasn't busy).
If you want amazing chicken and waffle. Go to Emeril's in New Orleans. One of the best meals of my life! -
Review from NYC A.
New York, NY
4/26/2012 1 photo
I tried the chicken and waffles and it was okay. Not because the items weren't tasty...I just didn't love that combination as much as I thought I would. The cornbread was good, as were the mashed potatoes and Mac n' cheese. The kool aid was really sweet. The space feels a bit cramped--the tables feel a little too close for comfort...I was right next to the cash register!
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Review from Russell B.
Manhattan, NY
Updated - 2/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
Though this place is one of my favorites, oh boy our last service was disastrous...
So here we go.
We walk into the restaurant and for about 3 minutes, Carol and I are standing against the wall and nobody came to seat us. Eventually I went to the guy and said "Are you guys taking guests." and he says "oh... yes come on in."
Following, the host places at a table for four, and 10 minutes later they come over and ask us to move because a bigger party is coming in... no problem no problem at all. So we move, and then as we are ordering the waiter tells me "We are all out of Smothered Turkey Wings" seriously? It's like 8ish and you guys don't have a main menu meal? Okay... that just sucks.
So Carol and I are grubbing on the Corn Bread, and then we are having conversation, and then we are looking around, and then I am finishing my lemonade that I ordered, and then I finish my water, and then I ask Carol how long has it been and she says "about 25 minutes."
5 minutes later the guy comes over and says "5 minutes longer." So we are waiting 30 minutes for a 1 course meal. Hmmmmm...
So the food comes out, and everything was way too salty. Also since I'm full off lemonade I'm not really that hungry. I decided to just toss the smothered pork chops I ended up settling for in the garbage, as well as the mac and cheese and the potato salad after a few bites.
I probably wont visit Amy Ruths for a few as I'll be trying to lower my high blood pressure all that salt has given me...
Eek! Methinks not ... for a while at least1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/28/2011
This place GOOD!!!
I really have no complaints. They finally got a credit card too, so we don't have… Read more »
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Review from B Y.
New York, NY
3/25/2012
Warning: food coma WILL be the result of a meal here. Plan accordingly.
Thumbs up for the fried chicken here, which I ordered dipped in honey. The skin is light and crackly, not over-coated with batter. The flesh is juicy and flavorful, and the overall effect is not too greasy. My dining companion ordered waffles, which were light and fluffy in the middle, a good base to soak up the real maple syrup.
Complimentary cornbread arrives at the table when you first arrive, and it is also very tasty. The weak point of the meal were the side dishes. We tried the buttered corn, which was overcooked and not very buttery. The mac and cheese was also subpar; the noodles were soft to the point of being mushy, while the cheese tasted grainy.
Not sure if I would call this destination food, but worth a try if you're in the neighborhood. -
Review from Shameek R.
Manhattan, NY
Updated - 4/8/2012
The 5 stars is for the best CHICKEN AND WAFFLES in New York City. The service is mostly good - watch out if you get seated in the second room of the first floor - you tend to get forgotten in there.
Listed in: Chicken and Waffles
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/3/2012
I can't believe I haven't written a review for this place as many times as I've been over the years.… Read more »
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Review from Yanoh J.
JAMAICA, NY
3/26/2012
Amy Ruth's is good soul food.
That's about it, nothing spectacular about this place, but it is affordable and I would go again.
I got the fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni and cheese and banana pudding for dessert. It was tasty, but not mesmerizing.
Its BYOB, for me I'm not too much a fan of that.
The place gets noisy and the wait can be long, we came on a Thursday night and waited at least 15 minutes, I could not imagine the weekend.
Overall, decent place to get a decent meal :) -
Review from Samantha S.
Elmhurst, NY
1/25/2012
After looking at the info I'm about to be the 500th review of this place!
So let's start with the obvious..my blackness clearly makes me an expert on all things fried chicken? (it really doesn't)
I ordered the Al Sharpton (chicken and waffle) and I had the dark meat version (leg/thigh). I got it to go and the place was pretty crowded at 4 in the afternoon which is not normal by dine-in standards. The wait wasn't too bad and the cashier let us have corn bread (which doesn't normally come with chicken and waffles). I also ordered their chocolate cake because I heard a friend was upset the last time she went because there was no more left.
(apparently there is also a kool-aid of the day but....I just couldn't bring myself to get it)
Someone asked me when I posted that I was here about to have my first chicken and waffle experience why I didn't sit there and eat and honestly....some things are best enjoyed in the privacy of your own home. I mean, if I really fall in love with my food....I don't want to feel embarrassed about sucking the marrow out of the bone or in crunching on all the parts others would leave behind. (I have been known to eat others left over attached meat in the past but I digress)
By the time we got home (Harlem to Elmhurst), the waffles were a little soggy and everything had to go in the oven for a moment. Once I sat down with it I drizzled some syrup on top and dug in. After poisoning my palette with popeyes for the last couple of years,. it had been a long time since I've had some non fast-foody chicken and it was heavenly. The combination of chicken with waffle (My first time ever!) was fantastic and the chicken was tasty, not overly salty, and the ratio of breading to meat was just right.
The chocolate cake was moist and didn't taste "fake" if you get what I mean. It was worth it. My only qualm was that I didn't order TWO orders of the chicken and waffles because even though I wasn't hungry I just immediately missed eating it after I was done.
This is fried chicken done right....now somebody stamp my black cardListed in: Top Restaurants
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Review from Adrian B.
Glenmoore, PA
I had the smothered deep fried pork chops.
I can't describe how this is exactly what I wanted. I could have actually dispensed with all the sides etc and just had more of the chops.
Everyone else is eating chicken and waffles but I just don't get that - it's just not a right combo. Whereas falling apart fried pork chops smothered in awesome gravy is just so right a combo. I guess I do need the fries to help clean up the gravy actually. I think the fries could have been less chunky - little bit too much potato for my taste.
And it's only $12.50! -
Review from Charles S.
Manhattan, NY
2/22/2012
If what you want is delicious chicken and waffles, this is your place. I get the Rev Al Sharpton every time (2 pieces of fried chicken and waffles, dark meat of course). The Mac and cheese is also delicious and they bring you cornbread to start the meal.
I like that they have a Kool-Aid flavor of the day too. It's open late and the waiters are friendly.
The big downside is that you feel really guilty after eating here. Also, it's cash only which is annoying. -
Review from Jamaal H.
Jamaica, NY
4/9/2012 2 Check-ins Here
The best Soul food in new York City, and I have been to some of the better ones like Ceealos in the Bronx, RCL in Queens etc. Everything that I've tried has been excellent. Their ribs- excellent, their fried chicken- off the chain, yams, mac n cheese, collard greens (a bit salty)- bangin. You cant go wrong here. Oh, and the corn bread, heart attack buttery moist. You will leave here feeling guilty, and very satisfied. I wouldn't suggest eating here often though, unless you are trying to expedite the formation of clogged arteries. The restaurant is clean, the staff friendly, the seating spacious, the food excellent, and the four and five star reviews deserving, and certainly not over hyped. I RARELY give five star reviews, this place is very deserving of one.
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Review from Chris C.
Syracuse, NY
3/13/2012
Chicken and waffles. Unlike some other people, the thought of chicken and waffles just seemed like a natural fit to me. Savory and sweet together is always a win. I'd never had the opportunity to try the combo, so when I found myself uptown this week, I just had to go.
I think Amy Ruth's might now currently hold the title for best waffle I've ever had. It was so light and delicious. You definitely need to eat these right away or else I can see them losing their structural integrity quickly.
Dark chicken meat already has a little natural sweetness to it, so when you put some delicious fried chicken with all of it's sweetness, crunch, and saltiness on a delicious waffle with some sweet syrup over all of it, I barely left myself enough time to breathe while gluttonously pushing food into my mouth.
I'll definitely be back. -
Review from Sabrina M.
IL
1/16/2012 1 Check-in Here
In a whirlwind NYC weekend full of highlight after highlight, leave it to my own peeps up in Harlem to try to bring me down.
Decided to bypass Sylvia's this trip. Good food there, but slooooow service and figured I'd branch out and try others. I should have stuck to what I knew, or either stayed out of Harlem altogether because Amy Ruth's was terrible.
At least at Sylvia's it's busy enough to justify a slow wait for food.
Amy Ruth's is not even that busy. It's just trifling.
I made my way up to 116th Street from Midtown around 11 a.m. Sunday. Not busy at all, no wait. I was seated upstairs, where there were only a handful of patrons.
I smiled and I waited. I waited and smiled. I went to the ladies. room. I came back and kept smiling at the waitress as she whizzed by. I kept getting ignored. After almost 15 minutes, the bus boy finally tells the waitress to come take my order. Then I witnessed a protracted battle between two waitresses about who was actually responsible for my table.
They "settled" it (I guess) by having one server take my order, and then another actually bring me the food.
Now. The food itself was not bad. I ordered salmon croquettes, which came with grits and eggs. The 2nd waitress (Deja, whose table it was) brought my food. And promptly vanished. Never to be seen or heard from again until the bus boy (the only star in this show) physically went and got her and brought her back to my table.
As for the food -- I've had better. That little plate of salmon croquettes, grits and cold eggs was just ok. Certainly not worth a train ride in 16 degree weather to Harlem, and the crappy service definitely wasn't.
I had to watch the other attitudnal waitress check on every table except mine--utterly willful in ignoring me, as if to teach my waitress a lesson. Meanwhile I'm the one caught in this passive-aggressive clash of waitress wills, with no coffee refill, no extra napkins that I needed, no nothing. I did bring my displeasure to the waitress, as calmly as I could: I'm from out-of-town, I made a special trip here, I've been a patient and pretty low-maintenance customer, you have to be aware that you have all but ignored me.
She actually agreed and claimed she was new and busy learning things downstairs and...everything except "I'm sorry for your inconvenience." I asked for the check. She said ok, and promptly went and started working on somebody else's table. The bus boy had to make her stop and bring my check.
My bill was $11.43. And that's exactly how much I left.
Lackluster service? Hey, it happens. I still tip average for that. Abysmal, inexcusable, willfully trifling service? No ma'am.
I made my displeasure known to the "senior manager" on the way out, who apologized and offered a free dessert to go -- and then promptly abandoned me to take an order over the phone. After almost another 5 minutes of waiting, I walked out.
Trife.
Mediocre food, bad staff, bad management -- no more Amy Ruth's for me, ever.
I literally steered about a half-dozen people away from the restaurant who were about to queue up to eat there. Spend your money where it will be appreciated, folks, and where the quality of the food and service will match. I know that Harlem can do better, I'll just have to try harder to find an establishment that does next time, and Amy Ruth's isn't the one. -
Review from Carol B.
Updated - 2/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
I feel like we caught them on a bad night recently.
EVERYTHING was insanely salty...from the mac and cheese, to the collard greens...there was an extra tablespoon or ten too many of salt.
Also, the service was slower than usual.
It'll probably be longer until our next visit...until I can get the taste of the sea out of my mouth, anyway.Listed in: Mom and Pop stops
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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7/18/2011
Although Amy Ruth's will always be one of my favorite dinner spots, I recently got the salmon there… Read more »
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Review from precious p.
Brooklyn, NY
5/6/2012
Been craving Authentic Bread Pudding for 2 days now. So I took a chance and went to Amy Ruth's bc bread pudding isn't listed on their menu but they make southern food so I'm thinking maybe I can get lucky. Thank the skies I did stop by! A nice lady asked me immediately how coud she help me, I simply replied BREAD PUDDING!lol. Have any?, she smiled and said I'm pretty sure we do have some. I was soooo happy like the kool-aid man. She disappeared for about 30 sec and came out w/ the Best Bread Pudding in NY. I knew it was gonna be good because you could smell the sweetness thru the plastic container. Reasonably priced @ $3 and like 60 cents. I wanted to order food, but I knew my eyes were bigger than my belly so I said to myself next time. I grabbed my dessert and jumped in my car. I'm greedy so I took a mans spooonful.lol. My tongue,my teeth, my throat, and belly were very pleased.Next time I go I'll definitely do an entire meal only thing is you get so much food(pork chops,fried chicken) I probably won't have room for bread pudding. Guess I'll be taking it to go! 2 Slices Please:)
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Review from Heather S.
Brooklyn, NY
1/17/2012 1 Check-in Here
Dark meat for the chicken is certainly the way to go if you're concerned you may end up with a dry piece of chicken on top of your waffle. My chicken breast was extremely moist and perfectly fried. The waffle was pretty standard and I smothered it in butter & maple syrup. I ordered a side of mac and cheese which was only OK. Nothing to rave about.
Service was great for 7pm on a Friday night. We were seated immediately and our order was served up in a short amount of time.
Decor is not magical, but you're not going there for the ambiance, you're going there for the food.
I definitely enjoyed my first chicken and waffles experience. Thanks Amy Ruth's! -
Review from Mike H.
Manhattan, NY
1/11/2012
Amy Ruth's is ok, and I would actually like to give it 2.5 stars. I'm kind of a picky when it comes to food billed as soul food because of where my family is from. I've been here a few times and I think that the price is right and the food is adequate but whenever I leave I leave saying, "meh, I've experienced better."
First, the meh to bad. I don't think it's really worth standing in line with the tourist for half an hour to sit down in the dining room. If you're local I would definitely recommend getting a plate to go. I also tend to have problems with cash only establishments, and while the website and yelp listings say that major CC's are accepted everytime I've been it's been cash only.
Now the food. I've had the smothered pork chops, smothered chicken, catfish and waffles, waffles and wings and fried chicken. On all of the main dishes I felt they lacked the rich taste that I expected. On the fried dishes, in my opinion the batter isn't really seasoned all that well. The chicken is inconsistent, sometimes it's juicy sometimes it's not. The catfish was fine, but not stand out. The waffles I didn't like at all. It's a large portion but there's no vanilla or sugary thing added to the batter to make it really tasty...or really Southern for that matter. Each time I've had waffles they have been blah.
Now the good. The service has never been rude or pushy and they are always pretty quick. All of the sides I've had are stand out from the greens to the macaroni and cheese, cheesy grits and potato salad. ALL two thumbs up! I also love the fact they have daily Kool Aid which really is tasty. The corn bread also fits the bill. The portions usually are pretty big as well. They definitely get the spirit of soul food right in terms of that. I was slightly disappointed to see the meager portions at another local "soulfood spot" when I got the takeout.
All things considered, for the price it's a decent but not religious experience eating here. Another benefit is that they are open really late on the weekends! -
Review from Erin M.
New York, NY
4/18/2012
Dark Meat Chicken and Waffles.... And then drenched in Syrup..... It is a total heart attack waiting to happen ..... But totally worth it! 4 stars instead of 5 because the ambience is a little lacking BUT i guess you don't really notice when you are licking your plate clean!!
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Review from John N.
Manhattan, NY
1/6/2012 1 Check-in Here
***************** 3.5***********************
I can't give tjem a 4 yet because i didn't try enough items on the menu so I am planning to come back.
I got here the other day to meet one of my co-worker up and then we both order the Fried Chicken Wings and waffle. While we were waiting, we got to try their delicious cornbread and add some butter on it. It was pretty tasty
I was going order more food but I knew i was going across the street to a African restaurant so I had to hold back a little.
The Fried Chicken wings & waffle came and it look very crispy and delicious. One taste it was pretty good chicken. The waffle itself wasn't anything speciai but eating all 3 items help made it a great lunch.
The waiter/waitress were very nice and friendly.
Why the only 3.5 star?? Because the chicken was good but not the best that I ever had. Maybe in NYC but I shall return and make my final judgement but they are putting a good impression on me.Listed in: BEST things about NYC…
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Review from Aneleen D.
Manhattan, NY
2/23/2012
I came here for dinner one night last week to get my fried chicken fix. This place definitely hit the spot. I was happy to see that there wasn't a line. I've heard that this place usually has a wait. Maybe it wasn't as busy because we came on a weeknight.
I ordered the fried chicken (dark meat) with mac and cheese and coleslaw. Everything was delicious. I love their fried chicken. It was tasty without being overly greasy. I was so sad when I finished my chicken because I wanted more. I actually had to steal some of my boyfriend's chicken... which he willingly handed over. The service is fast and attentive. This was my first time at Amy Ruths and I would definitely come back.
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