Eat

If you want to try traditional soul food, Sylvia’s on 328 Malcom X Boulevard, is a perfect spot. The popular restaurant has managed to stay afloat during rising rent prices due to its tourist attraction.

If you’re not into creamy mac n cheese and chicken waffles you can opt for something lighter. Uptown Vegetarian on 14 East 125th Street is the perfect place to get lite vegetarian soul food. There is even a juice bar in the front.

If you’re just in the mood for a pastry and a coffee check out the upscale French bakery, Levain Bakery located at 2167 Frederick Douglas Boulevard. It is best known for its chewy chocolate chip cookie.