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Update your feeds, links and bookmarks to: www.uptownflavor.com for our official relaunch, coming May 2007
If you thought it was hot during the recent heat wave then try following the steamy hot Harlem real estate market. New post on what’s happening in Harlem over here. Be sure to change your bookmarks and pardon the dust as we settle into the new digs.
Sending a heartfelt thanks to all the readers who took the time to vote in our recent poll. It is great to know that there are so many Harlemites using our site as the premier source for up-to-date information about the uptown community.
As we noted before we want to provide our readers with a better online experience. This will our second move in 6 months and although our new location still isn’t ideal we are moving closer to the type of site that we envision. You can help us out by either purchasing a tee shirt from our online store or making a donation using our secure paypal account. All donations and proceeds will be used to build our own unique domain. You can also help by clicking the links to our advertisers every time you log on. Every little bit helps.
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UPCOMING EVENTS IN HARLEM
MACBETH IN MARCUS GARVEY PARK
Dates: August 1, 4 and 5
Presented by the Classical Theatre of Harlem
Visit the official website for details.
_______________________________________________________
RAY GOODMAN AND BROWN, GQ AND MORE
TRIBUTE TO HAL JACKSON
HARLEM SUMMERSTAGE
Date: August 3
Location:State Building
For details visit Harlem One Stop
________________________________________________________
EMANCIPATION
by Ty Jones
directed by Christopher McElroen
July 12 - August 13, 2006
On the night of August 21, 1831, Nat Turner led a slave rebellion that became a watershed event in America’s long and troubled history of slavery and racial conflict. With a small band of rebels, Nat Turner wreaked fear and violence in Southhampton County, Virginia in an attempt to strike a crushing blow against the institution of slavery. Weeks following the bloody rebellion, Turner was captured and gave his confessions to attorney Thomas R. Gray. Written by and starring CTH company member and OBIE Award winner Ty Jones, EMANCIPATION is a thoughtful, powerful and visceral telling of this pivotal moment in American history. EMANCIPATION is a new play and is being developed and directed by Christopher McElroen in CTH’s Future Classics Program.
___________________________________________________
HARLEM HISTORIC FILM FESTIVAL
Location: Harlem Meer
Dates: August 2 and 3
For more information visit Harlem One Stop
___________________________________________________
ARTS IN THE PARKS AT JACKIE ROBINSON PARK
Date: August 5
Visit Jackie Robinson Park Website for details
For the full schedule of events visit City Parks Foundation
___________________________________________________
HARLEM RENAISSANCE JAZZ, FILM AND ART IN THE PARK
Visit the official website
___________________________________________________
SLICK RICK AND KOOL DJ RED ALERT
Location: Marcus Garvey Park
Date: August 10
For more information visit: City Parks Foundation
__________________________________________________
RIVERSIDE PARK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Featuring Brasilan Music
Visit the official website for details.
_____________________________________________
ROMEO AND JULIET AT RIVERBANK STATE PARK
August 3
Riverbank State Park website
Pulse Ensemble Theatre Website
Broadway World website
We haven’t lost our flavor but we are improving on the recipe. Look for more hot and spicy UPTOWN flavor this fall. Sign up for email updates to be notified about posts on the hottest trends in Harlem.
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Or the guide that wasn’t. Wow, the end of the week and the beginning of a new month. For those staying in the city over this extended weekend there should be plenty of events to enjoy. Whatever you decide to get into enjoy yourself and we’ll see you in July.
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Harlem Meer Performance Festival Presents: SWEET GEORGIA BROWNThe Charles A. Dana Discovery Center
Inside the Park at 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues
The Harlem legend billed as "The Last of the Red Hot Mamas" specializes in down-home blues, jazz, and R&B. The power and energy of her voice are guaranteed to have any audience on its feet, stomping, clapping, and dancing to this soulful song stylist.
For a list of events happening around Harlem visit Harlem One Stop
It seems that another Harlem restauranteer possibly couldn’t stand the heat and (may have) hauled it up out of the kitchen. Bayou, the inconspicious second floor establishment specializing in Louisiana Creole cuisine seems to be in questionable status is closed. Each time I pass that way it seemed to be closed. I tried logging onto their website earlier today and it was down but as of a few minutes ago it was active again. Their phone is definitely disconnected with no forwarding number. I emailed the owner to see if they are open or closed, so if any knowledgeable tipsters have the inside scoop email us at uptownflavor[at]gmail.com.
Update: It seems that the kitchen was too hot for Bayou as evidenced by the commentary in this thread on Curbed.com.
After the play "The Winter View," a friend and I decided to have a bite to eat and a cocktail before calling it a night. We knew that we were a little underdressed for the Harlem Grill so we headed over to The Den. After seeing the gathering of people waiting for tables outside The Den we continued walking down Fifth Avenue to 125th Street. We would try either MoBay or Bayou (more about Bayou in the next post) as a last chance effort to cop a cocktail and appetizer.
As it turned out, the wait wasn’t too long at MoBay so we waited until seats at the bar became available and ordered our cocktails. My friend and I decided to have appetizers instead of entrees so we stayed at the bar which was lively and energetic. The band played a long R&B set and people seemed to be enjoying themselves on the warm pre-summer night.
I ordered their special rum punch and my friend ordered a "Change of Attitude" cocktail. Both of us enjoyed our selections. The bar has seating on both sides so it made it easy for us to converse with other patrons. We compared food items and everyone around us enjoyed what they had ordered.
A young lady sitting across from us ordered jerk chicken wings that were a bit too spicy for her palate, but she said they were very good and ate them all in spite of her scorched taste buds. Another young lady ordered cod fish cakes and her friend the catfish strips. My friend and I ordered crab cakes. The wait was reasonable and the crab cakes were quite good. The outside crust was perfectly browned and crunchy while the inside was full of tasty, well-seasoned crab meat.
Sitting next to us was an Aussie turned Harlemite jazz musician who was listening in on the set of a fellow musician. The vibe was loose, light and less pretentious than expected. I still felt a little underdressed but soon forgot about it amid the conversation and good libations.
Would I go back? The answer is a resounding yes! I found MoBay to be a nice hang out spot great for listening to live music and enjoying well mixed (though pricey) cocktails before or after another event. How would I rate my first visit to MoBay? I give them three stars out of four for their service, food and ambiance. How was your experience at MoBay?
Related: Bar Buzz :: Menu :: JC and the Jazz Hoppers
If the local press is any indication it would stand to reason that the rest of the world has just discovered what uptowners already knew. Harlem has more to offer than Sylvia’s and Amy Ruth’s when it comes to dining choices. The New York Post offers an abbreviated dining guide of a few culinary choices available to savvy uptown diners.
More architectural porn to ogle.Today’s Daily News reports that the South Bronx (or SoBro as the real estate agents like to call it) is getting its "first elevator condo building." Architect Magnus Magnusson,
This is a breakthrough. It will show that the South Bronx is no longer the backwater of New York City.
The apartments will be available through a lottery process. "Seven units are for low-income purchasers - who earn $58,320 or less per year for a family of four. A total of 39 apartments are for middle-income buyers - who earn up to $80,190 annually for a family of four - or moderate-income buyers, who top out at $94,770 for a family of four. Fourteen flats are "market-rate" - with no income restrictions.
Prices are expected to range from around $145,000 for one-bedrooms for low-income buyers to about $325,000 for market-rate three-bedrooms."
Related: Mixed Income Development :: Architectural Porn ::
Summer is the perfect time of year to grab a snack on the go from local street vendors. Fresh fruits like juicy, peeled mangoes, oranges and melons help to beat the oppressive summer heat and keep your body in shape for those sexy summer fashions. The Village Voice features the best snacks available on the streets of East Harlem.
First sniffed out by the lovable Harlem Fur, Posh Paws has caught the attention of the downtown hipsters. This week’s Village Voice mistakenly reported that the luxury pet store opened last week. That’s funny, I could have sworn that the furmeister reported they had opened weeks ago….
Remember when Curbed mentioned this building the other week. Well, here is another post-modern doozy soon to grace the skyline of Harlem. What do you think? Yea or Nay? (click the links to view.)
First spotted last month the new Harlem Quiznos has quietly opened at 2530 Frederick Douglass Blvd (8th Ave, between 134th & 135th. Interestingly enough, as the franchise seems to grow the company has changed their tag line from "MMMM…Toasty!" to "Eat Up!"
Here is a portion of a note sent by the Harlem franchise owner Rob Stevens:
"First, I want to thank everyone for their well wishes, prayers and support this past week.I opened quietly last week to get my team and store up to speed. We have worked out most of the kinks, and it has been very trying but [what] in life worth having isn’t.And of course we cater. Delivery forthcoming"Rob Stevens
CEO- Power Company Inc.
Moca Bar & Lounge
2210 Frederick Douglass Blvd.
(on the northeast corner of 119th Street ), Harlem, New York, NY
Afterwork attire/ Casual Chic
Presented by Rob Stevens’Power Company & Bigga of NiteLife Inc.
Hosted by Simone of JB Inc.
Music by DJ Lee
Every Wednesday uptown people can continue to hang out on a weeknight without the traffic, the commute and WITHOUT WATCHIN’ THE CLOCK!
Drink specials (2 for 1 Martinis/ Well Drinks until 8PM) as well as a free buffet while it lasts! Delicious food served all night! The event, like the people must be mature. Guys 25+ Ladies 23+ & I.D. is a must.
Take the A train to 125th Str or C/2/3 trains to 116th Street station, and walk over to Frederick Douglass Blvd. or Metro North to 125th St (cab recommended from there).
To some people it just doesn’t seem to add up. Rapper Juelz Santana and H3 Enterprises plan to open up a second HipHop SodaShop in Union Square this fall. We started following the launch of this chain of hip hop themed restaurants back in February and have seen the addition of celebrity investors and partners grow each month. Presently Santana and NBA star Ben Gordon are named as the top two investors.
Originally, H3 Enterprises was slated to start the franchise with a flagship location on 125th Street near the Apollo Theater. However, last week’s Crain’s reported that they will first launch a 3500 square foot location in Union Square, a full 1000 square feet larger than the location in Harlem. According to a company spokesman, the Union Square location will need less renovation. The projected date of the grand opening is in two months, although the Crain’s article stated that neither location had finalized their leases yet. H3 Enterprises has already invested more than a million dollars into this project and has their sights set on a location in Florida next.
This wonderful series presented by Community Works continues with an exhibition and symposium on June 29 at the Museum of the City of New York. The exhibition begins at 6:30 p.m and examines jazz, blues, R&B, hip hop, rap, gospel, classical, Latin-Caribbean and fusion. There will be musician honorees, noted journalists and special guests appearances. The symposium will be moderated by WHCR FM’s Flo Wiley of Black Beat New York. Admission is complimentary but you must RSVP at 212-459-1854.
The Museum of the City of New York
1220 5th Avenue at 103rd Street
June 29
6:30 PM Exhibition viewing
7:00 PM Symposium
Also taking place at the Museum of the City of New York is WHITE, BLACK & BLUES presented by the Roger Furman Reading Series and Voza Rivers/New Heritage Theatre Group. This work in progress musical presentation will be performed by Harlemwood recording artists Lainie Cooke and Paulette McWilliams, freaturing Nat Adderley, Jr., Vincent Herring, Matt Clohesy and Joris Dudli. Complimentary admission. RSVP 212-926-2550 or visit the official website of the New Heritage Theatre.
The Museum of the City of New York
1220 5th Avenue at 103rd Street
June 30
7:00 PM
Better late than never. We’re keeping it short and sweet this week. Lots of outdoor activities happening this weekend. Check here and as always Harlem One-Stop stays on top of what’s happening in Harlem. Monday starts the annual Jazzmobile season. There certainly seems to be no shortage of Jazz around Harlem these days. Looking for something to do in Spanish Harlem? Check the Mosaicos website for a list of upcoming events. As always, enjoy your weekend. Weekend subway advisory.
We welcome our Curbed, Eater and Greasy Guide readers this week! Harlem Fur always on the prowl has followed up on a couple of spots mentioned earlier.
Don’t forget to sign up for email notification.
I was working on putting together a post about the many specialty boutiques and retail shoppes that Harlem has to offer, but this writer beat me to the punch. I have already posted about N Boutique on 116th Street and I also mentioned Montgomery in a past post.
My piece was going to talk about shops mentioned in the article like Denim Library and B. Oyama both located along 7th Avenue. Pieces neatly tucked away on 135th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues mostly offered an array of fashionable tees when I visited the store shortly before Memorial Day weekend. Harlemade is easily overlooked due to scaffolding outside of building but they offer a unique selection of branded gear and accessory gifts. They have recently been joined on the block by Purple Reign, a children’s shoe boutique.
Three stores that were not mentioned in the article that are worth knowing about are Purple Reign, located on Lenox Avenue; Xukuma which is also on Lenox Avenue; and Progressive Unlimited located on 125th Street for years. Features on these boutiques will be forthcoming.
If you have a favorite store that wasn’t mentioned please let us know in the comments section or via email uptownflavor[at]gmail.com.
Related: Style Profiles :: Sistahs :: Harlem Underground :: Luring Fashionistas :: Budget Fashionista
Photo: Model featured is Jade from "ANTM"
Kicking off this week is the Urbanworld Vibe Film Festival. Locations around the city, including the Magic Johnson Theater, will be showcasing the works of independent filmmakers, as well as hosting workshops, panels and parties. The festival will run from June 21 through June 25. Check the website for further details.
Urbanworld [website]
Quick list of last minute activities for what is left of this weekend and some events taking place next weekend as well:
Last week we promised good news that our readers could use. We just saved a bundle on our…wait, that’s not the news. But we do have tips for how you can save a bundle.
Some of your favorite places in Harlem including restaurants, salons and stores are offering discounts to customers who come in with gift certificates from Experience Harlem. Experience Harlem is a "premium direct program and a soon-to-launch website. [The] Experience Harlem gift certificate booklet will soon arrive in the mailboxes of Harlem’s growing well-heeled consumer base." Angie Hancock of Experience Harlem tells us:
"The gift certificates are free to consumers. They are mailed to 10,000 households once a quarter as well as available via the internet."
So, how can UPTOWN flavor readers take advantage of the deals? Click the link and start spending!
As was previously mentioned, the Original Soupman has opened up a shop farther uptown and is offering 10% discounts to readers of local papers like the Harlem News. You can pick up a free copy of the Harlem News in stores all around Harlem. The Soupman has taken out a full page ad that reads, "You came to my store on 55th Street off Eighth Avenue, and now I am coming to Harlem." The offer expires 8/21/06 so hurry or there will be "no [cheap] soup for you!"
Related: Experience Harlem :: The Original Soupman ::
Summer is on and popping! Although the official first day of summer isn’t until the 21st we are already sizzling with lots of fun activities jumping off all over the city. Summerstage starts this weekend, Celebrate Brooklyn, Bryant Park’s film festival and concert series and more have already set the bar high for a summer that promises to be muy caliente. We hope everyone gets a chance to go out and enjoy themselves this weekend whether you are spending time with your Father or simply hanging out alone. Here are a few end of the week links to hold you over until Monday (ummmm, links! Anyone know of a backyard cook out I can crash?)
THIS FRIDAY @ THE STUDIO MUSEUM IN HARLEM
June 16th 7-11 pm
Hoofers’ House
7-9 pm
Featuring Rashida Bumbray, Omar Edwards, Dormeshia Sumbry Edwards & Tamango
In honor of the important place of tap dancing in Harlem’s history,
SMH now serves as a new home for hoofers. Normally Tap dancers- elders
and young people alike are invited to take the floor at these
quarterly jam sessions. This June we will showcase the fine footwork
of a selected few dancers that are slated to burn up the floor with
none other than the very accomplished jazz drummer Ali Jackson and his
trio!
Uptown Fridays! Music, Cocktails, Culture
Featuring DJ Lynnee Bonner
7-11 pm
The weather is beautiful and the Museums courtyard is finally open
for the highly anticipated Uptown Fridays! This season is bound to get
you moving! Dance to the sound of some of the hottest DJs spinning
NYC, connect with others during guided tours, or shop til you drop in
the Museums newly stocked store. Bring a friend and have a cocktail
and conversation. But whatever you do dont miss these fun and festive
evenings of culture in Harlem!
The Studio Museum in Harlem is located at:
144 West 125th Street (between Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. and Malcolm X
Blvds.) New York, NY 10027
Subway: A, B, C, D, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 to 125th Street.
Bus: M-2, M-7, M-10, M-100, M-101, M-102, or BX-15.
Call 212 864 4500 ext 264 for more information
Schedule for the Studio Museum in Harlem [website]
Editor’s Note: A reader says that Chocolat previously mentioned in this post is moving to a larger space. Information is supposed to be on their website. If you can find it on there you will receive 2 free passes to see "The Winter View" this weekend.
Need a last minute gift for dear old Dad this Sunday? Visit one of the shops mentioned here. Your best bets are Nubian Heritage or Carol’s Daughter which both sell products geared towards men in earthy scents like sandalwood and patchouli.
If you are looking for something to do with Dad this weekend check the June Events Vol. 2 and Vol. 3.
Best bet? Take Dad to see the final weekend of The Winter View which is the perfect Father’s Day play. The story is about a father and daughter trying to cope after the loss of the family matriarch. Surprisingly funny and perfect for all ages it has received the praises of the Harlem community press. The New York Beacon says "The Winter View is a must see!" The Amsterdam News admonishes "Don’t Miss It!"
After the show you can stroll across the street to The Harlem Grill for dinner or dine alfresco.
For more information about the show go here.
THE WINTER VIEW
H.A.D.L.E.Y. Players Theater
Saint Philips Community Center
207 West 133 Street/Seventh Avenue
Runs through June 18th
Sun Jul 9 2006 1:00
In 1920 there were 200,000 Jews living in Harlem, making it the one of the largest Jewish Diasporas in the world. Come and see some of the most beautiful synagogue buildings in the city, view formerly Jewish institutions, and learn about Harlem’s rich Jewish heritage. Meeting point: JCC. Rain date: Sun, Jul 16.
Contact Information: 646-505-5708, www.jccmanhattan.org
Brought to you by: JCC in Manhattan
The JCC in Manhattan
344 Amsterdam Ave. @ W. 76th St.
Cost: $10 Members, $15 Nonmembers
Related: Columbia Journalist
Black Honey Soul ft. Miles Long
When: Friday, June 30th, 2006
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Place: Aaron Davis Hall West 135th & Convent Ave @ City College Harlem NY 10031 USA
Phone: 212.650.6900
Price: $40
What: A night of poetry and music
Website: Aaron Davis Hall
Black honey image courtesy of Marlon Saunders
One day a year, for the past 27 years, nine of the country’s finest museums, all ones that call Fifth Avenue home, collectively open their doors for free to New Yorkers and visitors for a mile-long block party and visual art celebration. This traffic-free, music- and art-filled celebration fills the street and sidewalks of Fifth Avenue from 82nd to 105th street, the mile now officially designated as Museum Mile. Over 50,000 visitors attend the festival annually.
This year’s 28th annual festival kicks off at The Metropolitan Museum of Art with an opening ceremony, at 5:45pm, on the steps of its landmark building on Fifth Avenue @82nd street.
Neighbors of the Museum Mile will have displays at certain points along the mile:Plus, follow the mile with street muralist De La Vega – grab a piece of chalk and make your mark!
Magic Johnson’s 9 screen theater has been the only functioning movie house in Harlem since 2000. That will change with the arrival of Imagenation’s Soul Cinema which plans to be operational by the end of 2007. Imagenation plans to open an independent 3 screen art house cinema with a cafe in the new Kalahari development on 116th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues. Although the theater will not be in the prime foot traffic heavy 125th Street corridor, the Kalahari will offer a custom designed, state-of-the-art facility with the added bonus of eliminating the headache of bidding for space in the historic Loews Victoria 5 Theatre.
Established in 1997 by Moikgantsi Kgama and Gregory Gates, Imagenation has actively promoted independent black films through screenings, film festivals and most recently the Revolution Awards. This year’s awards were part of an effort help raise $1 million towards the new cinema tentatively called the Micheaux Film Center. Oscar Micheaux, for whom the center is named, is known in film circles as the founding father of independent black cinema.
Business and marriage partners, Kgama and Gates have envisioned this project since they started Imagenation almost 10 years ago. They promoted their vision through community events and poety readings, hosted by Gates, throughout New York. Within the last few years they have been responsible for organizing a successful film festival that is now an integral part of Harlem Week.
Unlike the Magic Johnson Theaters, Imagenation will not focus on blockbuster hits like the recent Mission Impossible 3 premiere. Instead their mission is to "counteract negative images and stereotypes that are propagated about people of color, through mass media; and, to establish a chain of independent art-house cinemas dedicated to cinema of the African Diaspora." With the support of grassroots artists including Erykah Badu, Chuck D, India.Arie, Dead Prez, Roger Guenveur Smith, Talib Kweli, Malik Yoba and Dream Hampton, their mission is definitely possible.
Related: Allhiphop.com :: Imagenation :: Hollywood Reporter :: NY1 ::
Pronunciation: al-’fres-(")kO
Function: adjective or adverb
Etymology: Italian
: taking place or located in the open air : OUTDOOR, OUTDOORS <an alfresco lunch> <an alfresco restaurant>
-Merriam-Webster Dictionary
As we quickly move from spring into summer the thought of being stuck inside is suffocating even when the ambiance of the restaurant is lovely. Until the new ViVa restaurant row is completed, here is a list of places in Harlem to dine alfresco. Mangiare bene!
Where do you go to dine alfresco in Central Harlem? Links to restaurants are located on the right sidebar.
Related: A chowhound asks about the bar and grill at 105th and Riverside.
Hudson Beach Café
Riverside Park at 105th Street
New York, NY
(917) 370-3448
http://pdohurleys.com/page/rknf/Hudson_Beach_Cafe.html
State of Politics and Activism in the Black LGBT/SGL CommunityTuesday, June 13, 2006 Langston Hughes Auditorium, Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, 515 Malcolm X Boulevard, (Enter at 103 West 135th Street), New York, NY 10037-1801 (directions) | |
For more information about this event visit the website. For more events at the Schomburg click here.
Our favorite foodie website Eater is notorious for their surprisingly accurate deathwatches of New York restaurants. Although we don’t want to step on anyone’s toes the recent closings we have reported lead us to present our own exclusively uptown predictions. A tipster is anticipating the next closing to be Native. As a matter of fact, their website is already down. Due to the fact that I haven’t heard a lot of good reports about this restaurant he could be onto something. What would be even more interesting is the fact that they were recently mentioned in the New York Times article "Where to Eat" back in April. Has this 4 year old restaurant succumb to the tough audiences in Harlem or is it a false alarm? As usual, readers are welcome to chime in on their dining experiences at Native.
*Edit: An intrepid tipster simply known as Flip has informed us that indeed, Native is the next uptown restaurant on the deathwatch. He found a real estate listing that includes the following information, "Currently operating as the French Moroccan bistro Harlem Native, this restaurant sits at the corner of 116th and Lenox Avenue in the Heart of Harlem…an art gallery is reportedly opening on the block, as is a bakery. Sorry, no nightclubs or bars." Thanks for the great detective work Flip! (see comments section for the rest of Flip’s tip.)
**Edit: In a strange twist of fate, Harlem Fur reports that a tipster informed him the new owner of Native happens to be none other than Melba Wilson of Melba’s! As if that connection isn’t close enough Melba also happens to be the niece of Sylvia Woods of Sylvia’s.
A newcomer that soon may be added to the deathwatch is Baton Rouge on 145th Street. It is co-owned by the same people who own Mo Bay and is located in the brownstone formerly known as the Sugar Hill Bistro. Nothing good has been said about this restaurant on sites like Chowhound and today I noticed that they placed fliers under the windshield wipers of cars in the neighborhood - to drum up business??? Even if the food isn’t any good the drinks sound lovely (see their website). Anyone who has tried Baton Rouge please add your thoughts. Do you think that it can survive the unforgiving palates of Harlemites?
Back in April Harlem Fur wrote a lovely review of a little known restaurant called Elle & Lui near 119th Street. A tipster on his site recently delivered the sad news that Elle & Lui are no more. June 22nd is the scheduled opening of a new "gourmet soul food restaurant." Oh boy! Just what we need in Harlem! As a lover of soul food and one who grew up with the savory goodness of homecooked greens and spicy red beans, I am not a huge fan of "gourmet" soul food cuisine. As a writer and a general optimist, here’s hoping for the best. No name has been given to the new restaurant as of yet. Naturally, we at UPTOWN flavor will keep you posted.
*update: the new owners kept the old phone number and have a message stating that the new name of the restaurant is Billie’s Black. Their website is: Billie’s Black.com [website]
Also in April we wrote about a new restaurant called Butterfly Blue but it has pretty much under the rader since then. If any readers have been to B.B. please let us know about your experience. We found the following from February:
"A cute little cozy restaurant just opened called " Butterfly Blue,"
Located at 1813 Amsterdam Avenue (Near 150th Street) on
Thursday’s, Live Jazz …real Jazz …Great Food! Great Drinks! GREAT
MUSIC! Friendly Atmosphere! You never know who you will see in this spot! 7:00pm - 10:00pm on Thursday’s"
Butterfly Blue Caribbean Style Restaurant
1813 Amsterdam Ave. (Corner 150th Street)
(212) 234 - 5334
No Cover Charge!
Looking for something fun and interesting to do this weekend? Well, with the plethora of events already posted on the site, Harlemites and Uptown Hounds alike should have no problem finding something to get into this weekend. Be sure to check back on Monday for more UPTOWN flavor or sign up for email notification .
Welcome readers from Eater and A Guy in New York!
Enjoy!
As noted previously, June is going to be a hot month for events in Harlem. It is only the 6th of the month and we are on our third volume of events.
HARLEM SPEAKS: OLU DARA
Ernest Barteldes (nypress.com excerpt)
June 8. The Jazz Museum in Harlem (Harlem Speaks Series), 6:30 p.m. FREE
104 East 126th Street between Park & Lexington Avenues
212-348-8300
Mississippi-born trumpeter and singer Olu Dara (born Charles Jones III) boasts a long, fruitful career as sideman and studio musician since arriving in New York in the early ’70s. But it wasn’t until ’98 (encouraged by his son, the rapper Nas) that he finally earned acclaim with a solo album, In the World: From Natchez to New York. This week, Dara is the featured speaker at The Jazz Museum in Harlem’s “Harlem Speaks series,” sharing his explorations in Southern blues, Caribbean fusion, jazz and other genres.
__________________
17th ANNUAL MT. MORRIS PARK HISTORIC HOUSE TOUR
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Tours start at Pelham Fritz Recreation Center
Marcus Garvey Park
W. 122nd Street & Mt. Morris Park West
(one block east of Lenox Avenue)
11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. - Self-Guided House Tours
Tour approximately 12 distinctive homes
11:00 a.m. - Guided Tour of Marcus Garvey Park
(including Landmark Fire Watch Tower)
12:00 Noon and 2:00 PM - Guided Walking Tours
Highlighting the fascinating architecture and cultural history of the neighborhood led by Harlem Historian, John Reddick.
3:00 PM - 6:00 PM - Jazz in Harlem
Music and Refreshments in local business venues along Lenox Avenue
Tickets: $25.00 in Advance; $30.00 Day of Tour
To order tickets - Please send e-mail to mtmorrispa@aol.com or purchase online.
Official website: http://www.harlemmtmorris.org/events.htm
___________________
THE 8TH ANNUAL FAMILY ARTS FESTIVAL
A series of events taking place throughout the month of June at the Riverside Theatre. Visit their website for details. Official Website [Riverside Church]
__________________
The Harlem Branch of the New York Public Library will be hosting a series of events throughout the summer. The Harlem Branch is located at 9 West 124th Street between 5th Avenue and Malcolm X Boulevard.
RANGEL RECEPTION AT BATON ROUGE
With a special private performance by Jive Records Recording Artist RAHEEM
(http://www.theloveexperience.com/index_main.html) DEVAUGHN singing Hits
from His New Album "Guess Who Loves You More" including "You".
In 2006 MAKE HISTORY with CONGRESSMAN CHARLES B. RANGEL
Congressman Rangel is raising funds to help win the 15 seats necessary for
the Democrats to regain control of the House of Representatives. In a
Democratic Majority, Congressman Rangel will make history as the first
African-American and the first New Yorker since 1881 to Chair the Ways and Means
Committee.
Ways and Means is regarded by many as the most powerful of the twenty
standing Congressional Committees, with broad jurisdiction over taxes, trade,
healthcare, and Social Security.
A Democratic majority will mean that members of the Congressional Black
Caucus will chair an unprecedented four of the twenty standing committees in
Congress and fourteen sub-committees, dramatically reshaping the position of
African-Americans in national leadership.
Join this great effort now to make history together.
RSVP to Joe Barnes at Batonrougeny1@aol.com or call (917)496-4111 Sign up
online via http://www.charlierangel.org (http://www.charlierangel.org/) by
clicking on contribute and including “Baton Rouge” in the note field.
________
EVENT DETAILS:
Friday, June 16, 2006
5:30 pm – Chairman’s Reception (Open Bar & Appetizers)
6:00 pm – Live Music Reception (Open Bar & Appetizers)
At the hottest new place in Harlem,
Baton Rouge Restaurant & Lounge
458 west 145th Street
(Between Convent & Amsterdam)
Village of Harlem
_________________
ELEGBA BAR B-Q PICNIC
June 25th from 11 A.M. to 7 P.M. in Marcus Garvey Park (124th and Madison)
Bring your own food, grills, cakes, pies, watermelons and games. Bring your drums and shekeres to make music. For more information contact Baba Oba 212-283-4035 or Iya Pat 212-926-9627 or you can email: egbejagunjagun@yahoo.com
__________________
HARLEM BRIDAL SHOW
Event: Harlem Weddings, the Bridal Show
Date: June 25th, 2006
Time: 1-6 PM
Venue: Tribal Spears Gallery
Location: 2167 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York 10026
Event will feature:
FREE Gifts Bags
Free Bridal Magazines
Live Performance
DJ Showcase
Food Sampling
Fashion Show: Traditional and African American wedding gowns, Tuxedos
Website: www.theharlemexpo.com/BridalShow.hmt
No, not the dance craze but the real estate game here in Harlem. Many readers already know about the displaced residents who lived in Mitchell-Lama housing and now the whole controversy surrounding Pinnacle. Those are just the stories that we hear about in the news.
My next door neighbor is moving today. As it turns out she and several other neighbors were moved into our renovated building temporarily three years ago while their building at 126th Street and Saint Nicholas was being renovated. She is now moving back downtown into her old building. She was one of the few who put up with the shuffle game but think about how many more have just thrown in the towel. A few months ago the New York Times and Amsterdam News wrote articles about the number of African Americans leaving New York. Part of the reason is the fear of being displaced or outpriced after years of tolerating less than adequate services and accommodations. I’m sure there will be more stories of this sort emerging as Harlem continues to gentrify.
If today’s New York Daily News article is any indication, things will not be improving for long time Harlem renters any time soon and buyers aren’t in a better position according to this article.
Related: Amsterdam News :: Protest in Garvey Park ::
In one of yesterday’s posts we tried to get the low down on the South Beach Cafe on the corner of 124th Street and Lenox Avenue. An in the know reader was kind enough to give us the back story:
"I live right around the corner from South Beach and we chatted with them a few times. They have been waiting for inspection clearance from the state of NYC so that they can open up. It’s been difficult to keep a spot open on the corner. The name and management has changed 3
times sinces I’ve been in NYC. It was DME’s, then Stono’s, so now
it’s South Beach but who knows when they will ever open."
In a previous post we unearthed a treasure trove of hidden cultural gems in Harlem. On a sunny afternoon I happened to stop into what might be considered a cultural gold mine. If you think that the only culture left in Harlem is safely enclosed behind the walls of the Schomburg or within the halls of the Studio Museum you haven’t been to the Genesis II Museum of International Black Culturel.
Tucked into a narrow doorway off of Seventh Avenue, Genesis II is a labor of love curated by Andi Owens. Although I wasn’t able to tour the museum the day I dropped in, I did chat briefly with Mr. Owens. He informed me that he had just closed an exhibit called "Black Goddesses: Achievements Against the Odds." The exhibit focused on women like Ida B. Wells, Zora Neale Hurston and Josephine Baker.
The museum houses multiple galleries and exhibits including the African Sculpture Court, The Artists Gallery, The Archives Collection Store Room and the Museum Store.The museum also offers traveling exhibitions for loan to libraries and schools.
Genesis II is located at 2376 Adam Clayton Powerll Boulevard at 139th Street. Phone (212)690-3800. Public viewing hours are Thursday-Sunday 11 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Admission is $5.50 and $1.50 for children. Use Hop Stop for public transportation directions.
Someone recently entered a search query for the "Best Bakery in Harlem." Of course the "best" is totally subjective and up for debate. It also depends on what type of baked goods you are looking for.
The editor’s choice for the best Red Velvet Cake in Harlem hands down is Make my Cake on Seventh Avenue. Others, (like Oprah’s best friend Gayle King), prefer the Coconut Caramel cake at Wimp’s and now there is a new contender T&J’s offering their own selection of specialties.
There has also been quite a bit of discussion about the virtues of Settepani on sites like Bagel in Harlem, and Curbed. Since this Harlemite has not tried their baked goods I will have to defer and ask the readers to chime in on this topic.
It was bound to happen. As if in response to the question posed by the New York Times back in April, "Where to Eat?" the plans for a meat packing district style restaurant row are underway for a five block area along the Hudson River in Harlem. Those familar with the area know that Dinosaur Bar-B-Que has already made a home in the area and the rumored arrival of the Hudson River Cafe seems to finally be coming to light this summer. Read more about the forthcoming restaurant row here.
It seems that Harlem has joined the flux of the typical Manhattan restaurant business game of now you see it, now you don’t. First the news about Earl Monroe pulling out of his restaurant deal and now the news that Chocolat has shuttered it’s windows and bolted the doors for good after only a year. I’d just read a Gawker piece from February ‘05 about Toccara from America’s Next Top Model being spotted in the formerly trendy lounge for their opening festivities. Then today, Mike Street of the Greasy Guide informed me that they had closed. The phone number has been disconnected with no referring number but the website is still live. If there are any readers who happen to know the back story send an email to uptownflavor[at]gmail.com.
I dropped by Nubian Heritage this afternoon and was surprised to see the many changes they have made to the store’s layout. Most of the merchandise has been cleared out and Boma cafe had taken over half of the store. Boma has expanded their menu items to include a selection of South African wines. A couple of months back Reef had mentioned a wine tasting but I thought it was just a one time event. Apparently not. In addition they have a small selection of beers, as well as their African inspired blends of coffees and teas. Boma will also be the headquarters for the upcoming Harlem Public Art Fest later this summer.
Boma is located at 2037 Fifth Avenue. Call (212)427-8668
A few blocks over on West 124th Street and Lenox Avenue I finally got the chance to investigate the mysterious South Beach Cafe. Regular readers know that the brightly colored, island exterior caught the eye of our editor back in April. As it turns out they are presently closed but plan to open sometime later this month. They didn’t have a menu yet but did have an attractive menu of smoothies and juices. Fresh squeezed juices will come in two sizes, small for $2.75 and a large for $3.25 in flavors like AM Lift, Detox, Green Goodness and Purple Passion. They will also offer organic coffees and teas at reasonable prices and a selection of smoothies ranging from from $3.00 to $4.00.
South Beach Cafe is located at 100 West 124th Street and Lenox Avenue (212)222-1995/222-7290. The hours will be from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily and they will offer delivery with an $8 minimum.
There is no waffling about it, Harlem Wing & Waffle is quickly becoming a favorite neighborhood take out spot. Since April when we first spotted this independently owned restaurant, we have stopped in to taste their offerings twice. The first time I ordered the snack pack. You get 2 wings and 2 waffles for $2.99. The chicken was well seasoned and fried to perfection. The waffles were small and nothing to write home about but then again it was called the snack pack. The portions were just enough to curb my hunger without leaving me stuffed. They also offer a larger version called the "meal" for $5.99. The meal has 4 wings and waffles.
The next time I stopped into Harlem Wing & Waffle I wasn’t in the mood for waffles so I ordered the 6 piece wingette for $3.99. Although the plain wingettes I ordered were not as well seasoned as the wings I had with the wings and waffles, they were again fried crispy and quite good. There were a few baby carrots and celery sticks to accompany the chicken. The wingettes come in 6, 12, 24 and 50 piece options and can be ordered with a choice of sauces.
Other menu items were chicken fingers in a large and small size and waffle fries. They also have their own brand of bottled sodas that come in cream, black cherry, root beer, and uptown orange. I happened to notice on my second visit that they mix their waffles fresh on the premises. In my opinion, this business is ripe for growth as a chain of franchises over time. They already have the branding and they offer products that are unique to their company.
Harlem Wing & Waffle is located on Seventh Avenue and 140th Street. They close at 10 pm during the week and earlier on Sundays. 212-281-1477.
Editor’s Note:
Website: Harlem Wing & Waffle
UPTOWN flavor is always interested in the places readers love to frequent in Harlem. As a change of pace we decided to have an editor’s choice. Ever so often the editors will be posting their personal favorites in Harlem.
Coffee/Tea: Sugarhill Java and Tea Lounge
Believe it or not they don’t pay me to keep singing their praises. This is a lovely little cafe with a cheerful, friendly staff and great food and beverages. Engaging conversation and a nice atmosphere make this my favorite "3rd place," to borrow the term from S’bucks.
Beauty products: Carol’s Daughter and MAC
I first become a fan of Carol’s Daughter products while living in Brooklyn. The refreshing scents and blends of shea butter and other natural oils make them a favorite from head to toe. MAC, also on 125th Street is my first stop for make up. I used to go downtown to replenish my supply but the opening of the location on 125th was a smart decision on the part of the company for serving their uptown clientele.
Beauty Services: Praba Salon*
Praba is a hidden treasure tucked in the middle of the block between 99th and 100th Streets along Third Ave. The shop specializes in threading, sugar waxing, henna tatoo, massages, facials, treatments and more. They also sell interesting Indian jewelry and accessories. Prices are reasonable, service is efficient and regular customers receive a free service after their 9th visit. Praba Salon accepts cash only so be sure to stop at the ATM before you go. (212)996-1740 Visit Official website.
Find a unique gift: Nubian Heritage, The Scarf Lady, Jolinda by Montgomery
Nubian Heritage is chock full of interesting books, decorations and gifts. Another favorite carry over from Brooklyn, Nubian Heritage’s Harlem flagship store is my first stop when looking for the perfect gift. They also feature a cafe and spa.
The Scarf Lady offers wonderful accessories like pins, scarves and handmade items beautifully displayed in her regal purple haven at 408 Lenox Ave. 212-862-7369
A recent discovery is Jolinda by Montgomery. Although they have been in their present location for over 3 years and I have past their store innumerable times, it was just recently that I took the time to stop in to have a quick chat with the owners. Their designs are unique and one of a kind. Get a feel for their style by visiting the website or dropping in to take a look around. They are launching a new website that is currently in development at www.jolindany.com
On the way home Sunday afternoon I popped into Make My Cake to picked up a slice of their always perfectly moist and tasty red velvet cake. While waiting, I noticed the collection of postcards advertising local events. Here are a few worth checking out:
URB ALT Festival
Dionne Farris also featuring other artists
June 10 7:00 p.m. Opening night
Schomburg Center
515 Malcolm X Blvd. (Lenox)
$20 in advance and $25 at the door
Festival continues with events on July 1, August 5, September 9. Visit the website for details.
www.urbalt.net
Sunday, June 18th is Father’s Day.There will be a number of events taking place around Harlem:
Miss Black American Princess, Inc. in association with Power 105.1 & Harlem PAL will host
The 35th Annual Father’s Day Basketball Classic
11:00am-6:00pm
118th Street & Morningside Ave.
Also taking place farther uptown:
REAL MEN COOK NY
This annual event is always a favorite. In addition to the "sampling" there will be events and information available. Hal Jackson of WBLS will be broadcasting live from noon to 4 p.m. and the "sampling" will be from 3-6 p.m. Tickets in advance are $20 for adults and $10 for children. At the door $25 for adults and $10 for children.
NYC Mission Society Minisink Townhouse
648 Malcolm X Blvd. (Lenox) and 142nd Street
For more information visit the official website www.realmencook.com or call 212-234-9302
This one was found on the Frank Silvera Writer’s Workshop Website:
THE JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL’S GALA CELEBRATION & SALUTE CEREMONY
The JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL shall have its Gala Celebration and Salute Ceremony, on Monday, June 19th, with a 6:30pm reception and 8:00pm presentation to honor the Workshop’s founders:
Morgan Freeman, actor/director - Billie Allen, actress/director - Clayton Riley, journalist - Garland Lee Thompson, Exec. Director, FSWW
A Special Tribute to Theatre Legends:
Micki Grant, playwright/actress - Gertrude Jeannette, Exec. Director, H.A.D.L.E.Y. Players - Crystal Field, Exec. Director, Theater For The New City - Lloyd Richards, Director/producer - Natsu Ifill, Arts administrator/NY Dept. of Cultural Affairs (Retiree)
and the alumni membership since the opening of the FSWW in FY1973.
The Gala Ceremony location: Alfred Lerner Hall, Columbia University, 2920 Broadway, New York, NY 10027 (Bet. 115th & 116th Street). For ticket reservation & information call the FSWW office at (212) 281-8832.
For a complete schedule/calendar of production events email: playrite@earthlink.net, or view the FSWW Website: www.fsww.org.