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There
is a part of Harlem that is not known for its landmarks or familiar
visual pillars. Far away from the Apollo, Magic Johnson Theater,
and former President Bill Clinton's office, the tip of Central Park
East is the host to a buried treasure; Emily's Restaurant.
Emily's
is a mixture of a neighborhood pub, a family restaurant and a tourist
spot. There is no spot in Harlem capable of pulling this off. As
I sit at the bar enjoying a beer watching the game, there are people
coming to eat Sunday dinner still in their church clothes. There
is a large group of French tourists with cameras around their necks,
trying to figure out the menu. There is also a group of teenagers
pointing to the pictures of celebrity guests on the wall. The one
thing all of us have in common; we didn't eat yet.
Finally, I ordered. The starters are
just the right portion. I was so hungry, I tried to savor the buffalo
wings (excellent sauce), but they didn't have a chance. I had the
privilege of picking fried shrimp off of my date's plate, and I
hope she continues to diet. The shrimp were great. She opted for
the house salad and assured me that she would not share. Her clean
dish indicated that the salad was righteous (this is a picky "salad
eatin" woman).
Dinner is served! I hadn't eaten pork
in a while (no, really!), so I elected to go with the Barbecued
Ribs. A wise choice indeed, with sticky, spicy sauce. The side orders
of collard greens (well seasoned) and macaroni and cheese (so-so)
complimented the meal perfectly. The corn bread was also very good.
The "salad eater" opted for a seafood dish, and house
specialty, Fried Whiting. Well seasoned, and really crispy, and
with a "Friday" fresh taste, this was a winner. The candied
yams and black eyed peas were a good compliment to the fish.
There are so many options on the diverse
menu. There is unquestionably something for everyone here. The service
was a little slow but the staff is mild and friendly. Everyone helps
here, including the owner Leon Ellis. I have been going here for
years, and this spot is in the same category with the more popular
Harlem digs. Longevity and constant renovation will thrust this
eatery into the elite.
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