I had the opportunity to eat a lot of great food in NYC, mostly on the go, but on occasion I did dine in. I narrowed my most memorable dine in experiences to three. Here is the first.

Amy Ruth’s – Harlem

I had been driving my friends crazy about chicken and waffles. I had never had this combination before, and I was eager to have this gastronomic experience.  I did a lot of research on the best soul food restaurants in Harlem. It was very difficult to narrow it down since Harlem has several famous establishments that are known for great soul food, but after much contemplation, I decided to try Amy Ruth’s. I am so glad I did. Wow!

I was already jumping out of my seat out of pure excitement over the meal I was about to have, then they brought us this! Not your usual bread and butter! It was steaming hot too! I could get used to this.

The Rev. Al Sharpton Chicken & Waffles, $9.75.

You could choose your chicken to be fried or smothered (in gravy). I chose to get the gravy on the side. I did think the portion was on the small side. But I was starving, so I naturally wanted a whole chicken. But several bites into the meal, I realized that it was the perfect size. So much so, that I took about a quarter of it home with me.

The only disappointment in this meal was the gravy. I felt that it had too much flour. I am glad I decided to get it on the side rather than on the chicken.

Crispy skin and moist on the inside.

This is officially the best waffle I have ever had in my life! It was moist, with a crispy crust. My guess is that they used buttermilk and a lot of butter. Often waffles taste floury, but this waffle was smooth and creamy. Amazing!

My friend got the Fried Chicken Breast Fillet with macaroni and cheese, $10.95.

The macaroni and cheese did not look appealing to me because it seemed cold. Boy are looks deceiving! It tasted amazing. Sure the cheese was crispy in some parts, but overall it was warm, creamy, but not to the point of being too heavy. In fact, I found the crispy parts of the cheddar cheese to be a great contrast to the creamy parts. Divine!

Antoinette Burrows Chocolate Layer Cake, $4.50. What can I say? It was moist, creamy, and massive! Perfect ending to an amazing meal.

I highly recommend that you visit Amy Ruth’s if you are ever in NYC. The food is not only delicious, but the great service we received has made this restaurant a “must-visit-every-time-I-come-to-NYC.”