13 Best Desserts In Harlem New York City

2 min read 23-12-2024

13 Best Desserts In Harlem New York City

Harlem, a vibrant neighborhood in Upper Manhattan, boasts a rich culinary scene that extends beyond its renowned soul food. Sweet tooths will find themselves in dessert heaven with the diverse and delicious offerings available. From classic American treats to global inspirations, Harlem's dessert landscape is a delightful exploration. This list highlights thirteen of the best places to satisfy your cravings.

Classic American Delights

1. Sylvia's Restaurant: No Harlem dessert experience is complete without a visit to Sylvia's. While known for its soul food, their sweet potato pie is legendary, a perfectly spiced and creamy masterpiece. It's a must-try for any visitor.

2. Melba's Restaurant: This Harlem institution offers an upscale take on Southern comfort food. Their decadent peach cobbler, warm and bubbling with juicy peaches, provides a sweet ending to a savory meal.

Global Sweet Treats

3. La Casa Del Habano: For a sophisticated indulgence, head to La Casa Del Habano. While known for cigars, their selection of Cuban pastries and flan are exceptionally rich and creamy, a perfect complement to a strong coffee.

4. M&M's World (Times Square): Okay, this one is a bit of a detour from strictly Harlem, but its proximity and legendary status merit inclusion. The sheer variety of M&Ms, including seasonal flavors, makes it a fun stop for any dessert enthusiast, particularly if traveling with children.

Bakeries & Cafés

5. Red Rooster Harlem: Marcus Samuelsson's acclaimed restaurant offers a creative dessert menu that changes seasonally. Expect inventive combinations and elegant presentations.

6. Harlem Shake: This popular spot is known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious milkshakes. Their creative flavor combinations and generous portions make it a great option for a sweet treat on the go.

7. The Smith: This upscale American restaurant offers elevated versions of classic desserts, such as their bread pudding, which is often a highlight of the menu.

Unique & Unexpected Desserts

8. Amy Ruth's Restaurant: Another soul food institution, Amy Ruth's offers a unique take on Southern desserts. Their sweet potato pie, slightly different from Sylvia's, is worth a comparison tasting.

9. Chocolate Bar: While not exclusively a dessert shop, this establishment offers an extensive menu of chocolate-based creations, providing a wide range of options to satisfy any chocolate craving.

Ice Cream & Frozen Treats

10. Morgenstern's Finest Ice Cream: A little further afield, but worth the trip, Morgenstern's offers incredibly unique and artisanal ice cream flavors. Their creative combinations and high-quality ingredients set them apart.

11. Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream: Known for its innovative flavors and dedication to quality ingredients, Van Leeuwen offers a refreshing escape from the heat with their creative ice cream options. This location may require a short journey outside of Harlem proper.

Cake Shops & More

12. Crumbs Bake Shop (Various Locations): A well-known cupcake shop with various locations, Crumbs provides a satisfying indulgence for cupcake lovers. Their large and decadent cupcakes are famous for their rich frosting and soft cake.

13. Magnolia Bakery (Various Locations): Another popular option known for its classic banana pudding and cupcakes, Magnolia Bakery offers a reliable and delicious choice for a sweet treat. Again, this may necessitate a journey outside the immediate Harlem area.

This list offers a diverse range of options to explore the sweet side of Harlem. Remember to check operating hours and availability before your visit, and be prepared for potential lines at popular establishments. Enjoy your dessert journey through Harlem!