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Rack & Soul
Categories: Restaurants Southern Restaurants Soul Food Southern, Soul Food [Edit]
258 W 109th St(between Amsterdam Ave & Broadway)
New York, NY 10025
Neighborhood: Manhattan Valley
(212) 222-4800
- Nearest Transit:
-
Cathedral Pkwy (1)
103 St (1)
116 St - Columbia University (1)
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- Yes
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
125 reviews for Rack & Soul
Review Highlights
"Not the perfect fried chicken, but done perfectly."
(in 66 reviews)
"Greatfriend chicken and yummy ribs."
(in 63 reviews)
"The fried chicken was delicious as was the pulled pork."
(in 36 reviews)
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125 reviews in English
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Review from Melissa S.
New York, NY
12/2/2011
Delicious little gem tucked away just beyond Broadway. I've lived in the neighborhood for almost three years and never stopped by--or even really thought of this place for comfort food. Somehow I always end up going to Dinosaur BBQ or Texas BBQ (on 96th). Both are a bit out of the way, and many times disappointing to the point where I'd given up on a good half-rack in Morningside.
Rack & Soul delivers on the things that the other places don't. Since it's in a weird place, I've never had to wait for a table, and the service is great. On a cold day, it's warm, cozy, and adorably decorated. If you come in for lunch in the late afternoon on a weekday, you can get your food in under 20 minutes, and it's delicious. I've had the ribs and the fried chicken, both of which are the best I've found in this neighborhood. The sides are also great (sweet potatoes! Steamed broccoli!), and for the price, it's not the worst you can do. I agree that it's a bit overpriced (especially the drinks; over $4 for a soda, seriously?), even with the great service and ambience, hence the four stars. But beyond that, it's an enjoyable spot and a good alternative to Dinosaur BBQ's ridiculous lines and barroom noise. -
Review from Andy B.
Manhattan, NY
1/22/2012
Good ribs. Smokey but dry, and expensive.
Awesome freid chicken, but way overpriced. (Charles pan fried chicken is so much cheaper at his home restaurant on Fredrich Douglass)
Good oxtails, huge portion.
Awesome sauteed chicken livers, highly recommended!
So-so side. Best french fries in the area. Good Lima beans. Good okra. Greens need meat and love.
All in all, good, never crowded, good service, but very expensive for what it is. I feel That my bill is making up for all the empty tables, because soul food should not cost so much... -
Review from Evan M.
12/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
You can find this place in the used-to-be-called-Harlem section called Morningside Heights. If it's one thing you know about Columbia U students, it's that they love their soul food. Sarcasm aside, having eaten here once before all I can really say is that it's just ok.
I remember coming in here once before and not being too impressed. I thought I would give it another shot after watching Man Vs Food Nation. They featured a challenge that involved a variation of their Pork po'boy sandwich called "The Squealer". Apparently it's so spicy it would leave you in tears. I'm not one for challenges so I opted for the regular Pork po'boy. It looked so good on TV.
The sandwich was pretty decent and filling. It came with two little pieces of corn bread so that wasn't a bad deal. I'm also glad that they haven't tried to change the name of a Po' Boy sandwich by trying to make it more politically correct like some places. I like my food uncensored.
I just wish the other food here was as good so I could give it a better review. Trying to be an authentic southern cuisine restaurant in NYC is no easy task. Points for the effort. -
Review from Scott J.
New York, NY
2/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
I got the pulled pork sandwich and collard greens. My partner got the shrimp po-boy and fries. Both were good, especially the collard greens. Nice to find a cheaper alternative to Southern BBQ than Dinosaur BBQ. They also carry Abita beer (bottled) The space is small, but the staff was very attentive. Will definitely return.
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Review from Dimitrios D.
New York, NY
Updated - 10/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
I used to like this place, but I won't be back. Keep in mind, I've lived in Marietta, GA and know good southern/soul food.
The service on my last visit was nearly non-existent. The guy took like 15 minutes to even come to our table upon sitting down, and he only came to serve our food and then ask for and collect our money.
The food was mediocre to bad. My fried catfish was tasteless and had a gross, crumbly consistency. The accompanying sauce for dipping was generic. The okra stew was mushy and the red sauce it was in seemed canned. The mac 'n' cheese just tasted old.
My girlfriend's meal was apparently even worse, as she got very sick and threw up twice not long after our meal here.
The guys working here were (seemingly) all Dominican and were just kind of hanging out, speaking to themselves in Spanish behind the bar. I found myself just praying that I was on an episode of Kitchen Nightmares and that Gordon Ramsay would pop in any second to save the night... but alas...1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/30/2010
Good down south cookin'.
Hilarious murals on the wall of the two proprietors.
Awesome sweet iced tea.… Read more »
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Review from Ariana C.
Bronx, NY
11/4/2011
Cute lil spot with some solid southern food.
I had the fried chicken, mac and chese and coleslaw...hubby had the BBQ half chicken, mash, and waffle (though I ate half of the waffle..lol).
The service is very nice, place is super cozy...totally helped that ESPN was on TV...:))
Only negative I would say is that it's a tad overpriced...like $18.95 for 3 pc. fried chicken and two sides, I guess $14.95 would make more sense...but overall I enjoyed. -
Review from R L.
Queens, NY
1/14/2012
Excellent food and service! Biscuits that are just right with brush of butter and honey. Had the short ribs with Mac n cheese and beans and BBQ chicken with broccoli and asparagus. Started with fried oysters with Brie and spinach that were so succulent and tasty. Everything was amazing! We've eaten our way through the south an this was way better! This is a must. Go now!!!
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Review from Kelsey E.
New York, NY
7/10/2011
What a great find! I've been wanting to go here- walk by it all the time. So glad I finally did.
Our waiter was super nice and knowledgeable about the menu. They start you off with some of the best corn bread I've ever eaten.
You have to get the Mac and Cheese side dish- amazing. The fried chicken was delicious as was the pulled pork. The ribs weren't my favorite ever, but I ate them all, so they were obviously good.
We had the Coconut pineapple cake for dessert. It was delicious. Light, but flavorful.
Overall I really liked this place. You can tell they put a lot of time and effort into making a great menu and atmosphere. The service was great and the food delicious. Definitely a place to check out! -
Review from Laura B.
5/24/2011
Great bbq in NYC!
Some items on the menu are stronger dishes than others as with any restaurant. Overall, very well done southern cuisine.
Po' boys are okay...pulled pork is okay...crawfish tails are okay....fried chicken is good but not spectacular.
The Texas beef brisket however is to die for. Absolutely the best brisket that I have ever had. In addition to having lived in the south, I'm also Jewish, so I feel like my judgment is particularly well-schooled in this area. Whether you leave it dry or add extra sauce, it is amazing.
Lastly, the black eyed peas are also quite noteworthy.
While the food may deserve 4 stars overall, the 6 star brisket bumps it up to 5 overall for me. -
Review from Tommy K.
5/21/2011
The baby back ribs are delicious -- smokey, meat is juicy. I prefer the original BBQ sauce that's on the table, nice kick to it. Wish they a vinegar option. Sides were good -- baked beans, cole slaw, mashed potatoes came without gravy (weird) and mac n cheese was decent, felt like it sat out for a while.
Best part were the biscuits (free) before we ordered. Very good service.
Would return and an option over Brother Jimmy's (where when it's busy, it's a long wait and sometimes the food is consistent, at least the one in the UWS). -
Review from Michelle S.
Brookline, MA
I kid you not, I had this place bookmarked for TWO YEARS! My regret is not trying this place TWO YEARS ago.
Lemme tell you something about kids from Oakland...the things we love most are taco trucks, pho, BBQ, dim sum, and chicken and waffles. And no neighborhood is too sketchy or trek is too great for such food. And when my buddies in New York were a little put off by this place's location (which, by the way, is not sketchy...calm down), I finally went by myself. And my friends should know me better to underestimate me with this act.
The fried chicken really is as good as the Food Network says it is. And so are the waffles, the lemonade, and the frozen lemon pie. The chicken is the right amount of crispy and juicy. The waffle also comes with melted butter--why don't more places do that? It's so easy...spreading butter on waffles is difficult and never happens evenly. The lemonade and lemon pie are the right amonut of sweet and tangy. The macaroni and cheese was "eh." I was sad that I didn't have enough room to try the BBQ and even sadder that they were out of the pecan pie.
I felt really guilty about how much I ate...and how unhealthy it was. Therefore, I walked all the way back to my friend's place in Murray Hill/Midtown in order to feel OK with how much I ate.Listed in: Taking a bite out of the Big…
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Review from Ashley T.
Manhattan, NY
5/29/2011
I recently visited this spot for an easy going, early lunch with relatives. The staff was extremely friendly, the food service was speedy and the restaurant was quite cozy. Its exudes a southern feel transported to the bustling city.
Though a relatively small setting in size, this place packs a BIG flavorful punch! I had the pleasure of dining on the 5-pc barbecue chicken wings lunch special and they were simply divine (massive portion w/ a seriously delicious, sweet barbecue sauce). In addition to the wings, I had two sides which consisted of macaroni and yams! One word, yum.
To round out this seriously wonderful meal, I had freshly brewed sweet ice tea to wash it all down (free refills people, yowser :)!).
All in all this place was great! I recommend it and I will definitely be checking it out again. -
Review from Lee W.
New York, NY
5/17/2011
I LOVE this place. Usually get the combo platter --$19 at lunch $23 at dinner -- a heaping amount of your choice of 2 meats and 2 sides. I can never finish and end up taking the rest home for another meal.
I have attended the big apple bbq block party for many years because of work and I can tell you the ribs here stand up to ribs from some of the (other) top pitmasters attending that. The chicken is good too. Not too crazy about collard greens --bit too sweet for my taste. Free biscuits are yum!
As for the person who complained about spending $60 on dinner for two people on southern food --this is Manhattan -- where people pay Manhattan rent. I think the prices are quite fair considering they have not cut back on quality or quantity in the 5 years of so i have been eating there. -
Review from Dennis S.
Oakland, CA
5/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
We were served sweet biscuits after we ordered two of the Fried Shrimp Po' Boys and sipped on our Red Stripes.
The Po' Boys were served a big roll with tasty fries on the side (Good sized portions). I enjoyed both the sweet and peppery BBQ sauces on each of the tables.
I liked my experience at Rack & Soul, my only complaints are it's a bit pricey and it took over a week for my transaction to clear on my debit card... I don't know what was up with that. -
Review from Debbi R.
Brooklyn, NY
10/15/2011
Recently, my sister picked up a dinner order for us. She bought a combo platter which consisted of ribs, pulled pork, yams, collard greens and mac n cheese. This is how I rated the food:
Ribs - were just okay. Nothing special. Most people could follow a recipe and get the same result. They were tender though.
Pulled Pork - was dry! The part that was supposed to be crunchy (the outer part) was so hard, we couldn't chew it! Seems like it was in the cooker way too long. Was salty too! We couldn't even give it to the dog. Had to throw it out.
Collard Greens - were tasty...mushy though, and tasted like they were canned greens... not fresh at all.
Mac n cheese - subpar... tasted like the kind that comes out of the box... with powdered, fake cheese. We didn't see any cheese at all! The elbow pasta were just yellow-coated.... no taste. In my book, this does not qualify as mac n cheese. Definitely, not traditional mac n cheese I'm accustomed to eating.
Yams - these were the absolute worst yams I had ever tasted!!! They came straight out the can. They didn't add any butter, brown sugar, lemon or vanilla extract to make them palatable. This business should be buying and cooking 'real' yams, not selling canned. Yams are available year round.
Action taken - The next day, I called to speak to the 'manager' about the order. I explained what happened to the woman who answered the phone without going into great detail. She put me on hold, then came back on the phone and stated that the 'manager' would be there after 3:00 pm. I called back at that time and she said that he had left...hmmm (but she told me to call at that time). I asked her for the name of the 'manager.' She said his name is Michael. She took my number and said she would have him call me. I kinda felt she gave me the run around so I called a THIRD time and spoke to a guy who said he was the head cashier...Spanish guy. He told me that there's no 'manager.' He said Michael is the 'owner' and that he was there earlier that day. He left at 3:00 p.m.!!!!!! But, I called earlier when he was there... hence, the run around! The male employee offered us a free meal, but we declined because most of the meal was bad. And, I didn't want a repeat of bad food. At this point, I wanted to speak to the owner and explain our experience with his food and tell him that he and his kitchen staff are not producing Soul Food. By the way, he never called.
For the little bit of food we got, the order cost approximately $30.00.
I have Southern roots and there are some great cooks in my family. I also cook and know Soul Food! Had any of my relatives eaten this mess, they would have gone in the kitchen to show the employees how to cook 'REAL' Soul Food. This is not it! Soul Food is not canned this and box that... The owner is definitely cutting corners and his kitchen staff does not know how to prepare and cook Soul Food and it is obvious! We ate here years ago and the food was much better.
Just a side note - Recently, Rack & Soul was on the TV show 'Man v Food.' The food that Michael was cooking looked much better than that mess we got. The show's host raved over it. I wish I could say the same.
At best, Rack & Soul is lazy Soul Food with all the canned and boxed foods. I have not tasted their fried chicken nor did I eat anything else they serve, but this place does not know Soul Food! And, fried chicken is not unique to Soul Food. Many places sell it.... even the fast food franchises. I do NOT recommend Rack & Soul. Go somewhere else for real Soul Food. -
Review from Amanda D.
New York, NY
3/20/2011
Went here for Sunday lunch. Roomy and no fuss decor.
My two girlfriends and I shared 2 meals and still had a little leftover.
Combo platter: pulled pork (very tender), baby back ribs (just enough crisp on the edges), mac and cheese (decent) and candied yams (sweet, buttery and delicious).
Kids' entree: fried catfish strips, asparagus and collared greens. The vegetables were good. Unfortunately the flavor of catfish was lost because it was over-fried. It was small, not even a strip. I was looking for the piece of actual catfish under all the fried mess. But it was just a piece of fried something. Next time, I'll just try something else.
But would certainly return for the pulled pork and baby back ribs! My mouth waters just thinking about it. -
Review from Peter C.
6/15/2011
So there was a booth with at this past weekend's Big Apple BBQ Event and it was Rack & Soul's. It was hidden behind the massive line that was for Salt Lick (I don't know what the wait was for because it wasn't that good). Rack & Soul - now there's some ribs that were worth it. There wasn't much of a line and we were able to get a tasting of their ribs really easily. Out of all the rib places that we tried this past weekend, I'd have to say Rack & Soul came out the winner for us. It definitely makes me want to try out the actual restaurant itself if I'm ever around the area.
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Review from Kenny C.
New York, NY
11/21/2010 2 photos
Want good down home southern cuisine? Check. You want gravy? They got it. You want fall off the bones ribs? Yep, they have'em! Strong cocktail? 'nuff said Room for dessert? I doubt it!
Non pretentious staff, minimalist soul food restaurant decor in every sense of the word, large portion, moderate price and a great location equal a must try!
You must try the smoother pork chops! -
Review from Augusto L.
Emeryville, CA
11/29/2010 1 Check-in Here
WHOA! Best pulled pork sandwich ever!!!!
The meat fell apart with every bite. The ambrosial (word of the day) mac and cheese is unforgettable and the fried chicken is mouth-watering! The biscuits they serve before the feast are UNBELIEVABLE! Smack some butter on them buns and munch away!
The waitress we had the first time was a bit of a downer. She never cracked a smile! Nonetheless, the delicious food quickly made me forget about whatshername!
The ambiance is cool and chill. The restaurant was setup to give off a nice western sort of rustic feel, if that makes any sense; basically it's a clean and pleasant environment.
Once I am back in NYC, this will definitely be a place I visit again!
They lose a star for the service but everything else about this place is fantastic!Listed in: My New York
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Review from Rohit J.
12/19/2010 5 photos
Came here for lunch with a buddy of mine on Friday at around 2 and it wasn't too busy we had our choice of seats. Once seated you get your water as well as two biscuits on the house.
My friend and I shared an order of the fried chicken and the BBQ wings, both came with two sides each so we got two orders of the mac, a waffle and baked beans. The fried chicken although the skin was a bit soggy (which probably comes from them turning the chicken in the fryer) was excellent. The chicken was seasoned perfectly, juicy and tender. The wings were just as delicious although I think Dinosaur BBQ is still better but its a tough call. I LOVED their BBQ sauce though, it had good flavor and a nice kick to it.
The waffle was good, well made. I loved the baked beans it was absolutely delicious. My friend liked the mac and cheese but I didn't care for it at all, I don't know why.
I don't know when I'll be back but I would definitely come back for the fried chicken as well as to try some of the other items on the menu -
Review from Iliana P.
Emeryville, CA
Pulled pork sandwich and mac and cheese are delicious, pork melts in your mouth!
This place by far, has some of the best southern food I've eaten. Yes, I am aware that NY is not know for its southern cooking, but this place is kind of close to Harlem, does that count?
Anyways, after walking around Central Park on a lazy Sunday afternoon my bf and I decided to stop by Rack and Soul for some comfort food. My bf ordered the friend chicken with mashed potatoes and mac and cheese, which were all delicious! The portions were great and the chicken was nice and crunchy with good flavor. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich, which was delectable!! The pork was super tender and juicy and the sandwich was huge!! I also love the buttery biscuits they give for free as starters.
Definitely recommend this place for some delicious comfort food, big portions and good price. -
Review from Michelle C.
Manhattan, NY
11/8/2011
This is my "go to" spot for succulent ribs and solid southern soul food. I prefer to sit in the booths in the back though they can only hold a group of four or five at most. My favorite dish is the half rack of ribs with mac and cheese and colored greens. The okra, corn and tomato is always excellent as well. The sweet tea free refills is great if you like sweet tea but the glass is so huge, one is more than enough. I've tried the fried catfish which is lightly battered and a little too flaky for me. My husband has tried the fried and smothered chicken and always loves the fried though he found the smothered just okay. They also have awesome desserts which I end up taking home because I am more than full from the generous portions in the entrees. Rack and Soul is a must try if you love southern cuisine.
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Review from Aaron L.
2/16/2010 1 Check-in Here
Time Out New York loved them! Zagat praised them! The people of Yelp have spoken!
I'm sorry, this is Harlem, bitches: Rack & Soul lacks on Rack, fails on Soul.
Oh, I like a good rack as much as the next guy. I know the difference between the tourist's Dallas BBQ and the local's Dinosaur.
I too crave the soul. Miss Mammie's Spoonbread is one of my top choices for Sunday eats.
Rack & Soul may have, at one time, been great, but I've eaten there at least 8 times in the last year and they have disappointed me more and more with each visit.
THE GOOD:
The pulled pork is decent and the ribs are pretty good. I'll give them that.
THE BAD:
The fried chicken lacks any decernable character; the mashed potatoes are bland and tasteless; the waffles are soggy; the mac 'n' cheese is more of a cheese casserole than a pasta.
THE UGLY:
The smothered chicken looks like a moonrock in motor oil and tastes just as good. Yes, I've eaten moonrocks. The potato salad is deceptively delicious-looking, but carries a stingingly sweet taste of dressing and vinegar that has scarred my taste buds permanently.
I don't care what these reviews say -- they're just a bunch of crackers that don't know soul, and have no rack. Go to Miss Mammie's Spoonbread Too on Columbus and 110th instead of this place. -
Review from David L.
9/24/2009
Perhaps I should've been slightly offended when my friend said "Because you're a Spaniard laborer you get Champagne and all you can eat at the restaurant of your choice, whereas if you were Mexican laborer all you'd get is rice and beans," but I'm never one to look a gift horse in the mouth -- especially not when I'm making off like a bandit: for approximately 15 hours of helping (over 3 non-consecutive days) with stereo equipment setup and painting I've made off with 3 bottles of Veuve Clicquot & 3 meals at Rack and Soul.
To be frank, the food here is just okay... To me the cooking is about as "Southern" as Delaware, that is to say it's a little bit too salty and a little bit too sweet and a little bit too saucy and a little bit too greasy, it doesn't seem very authentic, it's going in the right direction but to me it doesn't ever actually seem to reach its intended destination -- at least not in my experience, and all three times I've been me and my friend had an absolute feast, worthy of a King -- that is to say, if a King were to somehow find himself on Broadway & 109th Street. Although, apparently Denzel Washington loves it here, and he has an Oscar, which is the modern American equivalent of a crown, right?
Meal #1: Brunch: I got the Oxtails (slightly over-seasoned) and the Fried Oyster Po' Boy Sandwich (sub-par bread, oysters had too much breading). We split four sides: Macaroni & Cheese (good but not great), Collard Greens (decent), Candied-Yams (too sweet, but I guess that's traditional), and Stewed Okra (just slimy enough, nice and tender). My friend got the Fried & Smothered Chicken (he complained about excess salt in the gravy) with a Belgian Waffle and Black-Eyed Peas (he complained about it lacking any sort of depth or spice).... It was a very hearty meal, it gave me a decent view of what they're capable of, I left satisfied and anxious to return.
Meal #2: Dinner: I got the Sauteed Chicken Livers (ordered medium-rare but they came out well-done, but, regardless, they just weren't at all to my taste) and the Fried Chicken with Lima Beans & Potato Salad and the Red Velvet Cake (which was great). We split the BBQ Pulled Pork (way too much sauce, too sweet, but enjoyable) with Mashed Potatoes & String Beans. My friend got the BBQ Beef Short Ribs (good but not great) with Broccoli (fine) & Asparagus (bland) and Pecan Pie (good).
Meal #3: Dinner: I got the Shrimp & Okra Gumbo and the Royale Spinach Salad with Fried Crawfish Tails (really really liked this, highly recommended) and the Fried Catfish (moist and tender, nice and peppery) with Macaroni & Cheese and Black-Eyed Peas (good enough, nice and vinegary). We split a 1/2 Rack of Baby Back Ribs with Broccoli & Lima Beans. My friend got Cornmeal Fried Oysters with Sauteed Spinach & Melted Brie Cheese and the Cobb Salad (highly indulgent and delicious) and the BBQ Chicken Wings with Macaroni & Cheese and Black-Eyed Peas (he said they were much better this time than last time he ordered them).
So, my overall judgement: I'm not a fan of their biscuits or cornbread, they're okay but not worth getting full on if you're trying to save room for the main courses. Nothing was extraordinary. Nothing was worth writing home about. The decor and service are nothing special, neither excellent nor charming nor lacking. But no matter how nit-picky one can be, it's almost impossible to not be comforted and be sent into a food-coma by this sort of cuisine. It hits the spot, though it's anything but memorable -- sorry to say.
Ugh, I need to go on a diet. -
Review from Monica J.
8/20/2010
Well, as a Texan, it is my duty to love all things deep fried, especially fried chicken. Just because I have moved to NY doesn't mean my quest for the best fried chicken has ended.
A friend from Texas came up to visit and was adamant about coming here at some point during the weekend. Clearly, he had done his fried chicken research, and I always welcome anybody who wants to do the leg work for me.
Unfortunately, we ended up here on a saturday afternoon after a particularly severe all night bender. Needless to say I was in an equally severe amount of pain at the time. I ordered my fried chicken but got it packed up to go because I knew I was in no shape to take in any solid foods.
However, my friends ate at the restaurant and I can say that the service while I was there was nice. They were quick to bring out the water and these little delicious corn bread cakes or whatever they were.
After a 3 hour nap I was ready to dig into my fried chicken and fries and waffle (Even in my half drunk/half hungover state I remembered to get hot sauce and maple syrup before I left). The flavor was great but I prefer my fried chicken to be a bit crispier. Now, I know you're thinking that the quality was sacrificed because I took it to go, but I had the forethought to examine the food when they first brought it to the table at the restaurant. Trust me, it wasn't as crispy as I prefer even fresh out of the kitchen.
But anyway, the fries were delicious as was the waffle. If it wasn't all the way up in nowhere 109th street I would probably go more often, even despite the high prices ($16.00 for fried chicken? It's things like this that continue to remind me just how far away from Texas I am). -
Review from Ji C.
Cambridge, MA
6/26/2008
Rack & Soul was just alright for me, dawg. I had a craving for some comfort food to fill both my stomach and the empty hole in my working man's ennui suffering soul. The fried chicken with a side of mac & cheese and side of collard greens filled my stomach alright, but it wasn't very satisfying.
The first clue that dinner would be disappointing is when our order (my special lady friend ordered the pulled pork po boy) came out nearly immediately after we placed it. Sure, I appreciate fast service but I also expect my food to be cooked after I order it instead of being taken off a hot or, more accurately, lukewarm plate in the back. And as I feared, everything sort of tasted like it was last night's leftovers.
While I wasn't physically hungry when I left, my craving hadn't been anywhere near fulfilled. -
Review from Nils V.
New York, NY
7/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
The best baby back ribs. Worth the trip to Harlem. Wings are huge and crispy. Tasty.
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Review from Ben C.
Boston, MA
3/29/2008
Note: This is a takeout/delivery review only.
Frankly, I just didn't feel the love. The food was fine. Good, even. But that's it. Fried chicken was fried chicken. Ribs were tasty and tender, but at the same time, it didn't seem like the flavor was "cooked into them". Sides were decent with preference for the mac 'n cheese over the mashed potatoes. Again, not complaining, but much like this review, I felt like the food lacked that special zing, oomph and hoo-hah! -
Review from KC K.
New York, NY
7/26/2008
The food here is absolutely unbelievable. When I am feeling really decadent I even go for the red velvet cake which is other-worldly. Really. The only advice I have for potential customers is that the atmosphere is not great. I wish they could move into Dinosaur BBQ's space and push out the mediocre BBQ served in this great space.
Or they should dim the lights a bit in Rack & Soul. I recommend taking the food to Riverside Park or home -- if you are lucky enough to live close by.
It's also a bit pricey, but you get quite a bit of food.Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from Alexa H.
Chicago, IL
11/24/2010
Basically the moment you sit down, you are given water and two delicious, sweet biscuits. That nearly sold me on the place. As did the immediate seating, and the fact that our food came out less than 20 minutes after we ordered. On a Saturday night. Awesome.
One of the reasons we selected Rack & Soul was for the Belgian waffle offered as a side. Want your chicken on an extremely fluffy waffle--one that could be dinner by itself? Head to Rack & Soul. The fried chicken was crispy and delicious. My pulled pork po' boy could have used a little more coleslaw but the pork was fabulous, and the barbecue sauce on the table was an extremely yummy addition. Actually, the least favorite item of the night was the ribs. Not bad, but not a standout.
I have heard many Columbia students dismiss this place out of hand for not being Dinosaur BBQ. It isn't, the menu is far more classically Southern. No fried green tomato BLTs or anything. But the food is good, really good. And the wait for us was nonexistent, which is a bonus (especially compared to the hours spent waiting at Dinosaur).
Oh, and the chairs! They have arms and cushy leather. My boyfriend said he has never been so comfortable at a restaurant. The comfort and service send this review to 4 stars, but it wouldn't have gotten any if the food wasn't ever so tasty. -
Review from Frank W.
New York, NY
Updated - 7/7/2008
Tried the fried chicken for the first time and it was the disappointment...and the cole slaw...it wasn't so great.
I guess it's a bad idea to try new things.
On the upside, the BBQ wings were still good, but back on the downside, not as good as usual.
*SIGH*
You remind me of better days.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/13/2008
BBQ chicken is the hardly the barbecue glamourpuss. It's usually an afterthought compared to ribs,… Read more »
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Review from Heather H.
New York, NY
Updated - 12/12/2008
Oh. My. God. Sooooo much food. If you've always wanted to try Rack & Soul but were waiting for the right time, now is that time.
The Recession Special is running till Inauguration Day. The price is $15 for lunch and $20 for dinner and it gets you this: 1 entree (excluding the half rack and the short ribs), 2 sides, 1 drink, dessert. I went for lunch and couldn't even come close to finishing the massive amount of pulled pork (juicy succulent pulled pork) that was placed in front of me. Yummmm.....and food coma.Listed in: 'Cue Up
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/24/2008
Okay, so I prefer the ribs at Dinosaur, and the mac at Dinosuar, and the fried chicken at New… Read more »
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Review from Queenie W.
Manhattan, NY
12/28/2008 4 photos
It was Brunch time. Community had a long line as usual, so I decided to give Rack&Soul a try today.
1 Biscuits (Free)
OK. Not as good as Sylvia's.
2 Eggs Pontchartrain- two poached eggs on crabcakes topped with hollandaise sauce. served with home fries ($16.95)
At such a high price, the "Eggs Pontchartrain" was good.
3 Banana Pudding- Dessert ($6)
Too dry. Not recommended.
About the service, I just think they need to hire one more waiter/waitress. When I was there, the waiter and waitress were just too busy going all around the restaurant, so I had to raise my hand for a long time in order to catch their notice.
In all, I agreed with Ben's previous review that this restaurant just could not make me happy or satisfied, therefore I won't come back again.Listed in: Eggs Mania
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Review from Michael L.
New York, NY
3/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
Pretty decent but way too expensive for what it is. Southern food shouldnt cost 60 bux for a party of 2. Born and raised in texas I know a thing or two about bbq. The ribs had decent flavor, but werent fall off the bone tender. The fried chicken was pretty good as well, with no real complaints. The collard greens were decent. The mac and cheese i wish was served a little more hot instead of slightly warmer than room temperature. The sauces they had as accompaniments on every table were average, didnt make or break the place. Not a bad option I guess if you are absolutely craving some bbq, but be willing to pay for it.
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Review from Norah K.
Portland, OR
1/25/2007
I would like to preface this review by saying that I am not a "rack and soul" kind of girl. In fact I generally don't eat anything that formerly had a rack so I'm probably not the best judge of this place.
That being said, I popped in to Rack and Soul for a late dinner/snack last night. It opened this past summer to very good reviews and I am sure that all of the applewood smoked BBQ stuff is very good. Upon sitting, they immediately brought over a sample of warm cornbread which was excellent- a nice combination of sweet and savory. I ordered the three side platter ($10) and picked mac & cheese, mashed potatoes and collard greens. Given that excess butter and salt are supposed to be the main ingredients in these dishes (that's what makes them taste good!) I still think they were all a little too salty. The collard greens came with bits of BBQ pork in it which I wasn't crazy about but it added a lot of flavor. The mashed potatoes and mac and cheese were good but not great. In terms of side dishes, Mamie's Spoonbread a few blocks away probably has them beat.
Overall, I think the atmosphere of this place is really cute. It has a warm, diner feel with a long counter and cushy red booths. It also does a nice job meshing the spirit of Harlem with the gentrification of the Upper West Side. I think it is a welcome addition to the neighborhood. -
Review from Kimberli M.
New York, NY
9/10/2006
Decided to try this place over Labor Day Weekend. Yum! The staff was nice and the place was clean.
We both got mixed plates so we could try as many items as possible. In order of my favorite: Ribs, pulled pork, fried chicken and chicken wings. I was only dissapointed with the mac-n-cheese... It looked like it had been around for a while and yet the flavors weren't melded together.
Good fresh unsweetened ice tea too!
We'll go back! -
Review from Kristian Q.
New York, NY
9/3/2009
Fried Chicken and Waffles, my coworker said to me and I had to repeat it several times in my head fried chicken and waffles...fried chicken and waffles..fried chicken and waffles..fried chicken and waffles... WHO EATS FRIED CHICKEN WITH WAFFLES?? With curiosity I went with my buddy to Rack and Soul still unsure what adventure my taste buds were about to experience.
I put some butter on my waffles, poured some syrup over it, liberally poured syrup over it, took a bite of the oh so crispy chicken and mixed in the waffles... ohhhhh so gooooood :). I could not stop eating, I was so full and my stomach was yelling STOP!!! but my mouth was not listening to any of it, I kept on eating and eating, fireworks of deliciousness in my mouth.
I would definitely come back to this place and bring friends, they have a lot of other foods on their menu but you should really go for the fried chicken and waffles. -
Review from Marlene G.
New York, NY
7/23/2010
Thumbs up to Rack and Soul.
The chicken is so delicious. It certainly is made with alot of good seasoning. The flavor is too much for me to handle. The fries and mashed potatoes are also very tasty. Rack and Soul is a threat in this competition of Soul Food restaurants.
KEEP ON MAKING EXCELLENT FOOD! -
Review from Holly v.
Atlanta, GA
7/19/2010
I ordered takeout...short ribs and sides of mac 'n cheese and mashed potatoes. I loved the short ribs and the BBQ sauce...yummy! If they bottle this stuff up and sell it, I'd totally buy it.
The mac 'n cheese was a little greasy, however, and nothing too special. Same with the mashed potatoes, although I did like that they were very smooth and not chunky.
A pretty good place and next time I have a ribs craving, I will be back. -
Review from Joanna G.
New York, NY
2/1/2010
I've never been to the South, but this is the best BBQ i've ever had. that's low and slow, not hot and fast (that's grilling)
I got the combo platter of pulled pork and ribs. The pork was gently broken up, not pulverized. I got to taste the different parts separately. After I tasted the pulled pork, I immediately wanted nothing to do with the ribs. "why'd i get these dumb ribs?!" but when I tasted the ribs, I turned on the pulled pork. this changing of allegiances continued throughout the meal each time i tasted the other. THAT GOOD.
The collard greens had some smokey spice running through them that was delish! the other sides were solid: mac n cheese, stewed okra, potato salad.
the smothered fried chicken was good too. fried chicken with gravy galore.
after we were stuffed and force-feeding ourselves on taste alone, there was enough left for almost 2 more meals to take home. All for around $40 altogether. NICE! go here!
