Melba Wilson has certainly been on a roll as of late. After 20-plus years of feeding Harlemities her soulful cuisine at her eponymous restaurant, Melba's, she decided to extend her dinner table, opening two fast-casual offshoots: one at Newark’s Prudential Center and the other at Grand Central Station. But it's clear Wilson still has a soft spot for her home of Harlem, as she is taking to the streets this summer for a communal dinner.
In partnership with NYC's Summer Streets program, Melba's is reviving Melba's Table. Taking over the street in front of her restaurant, Melba's table invites all for an outdoor celebration of food and fun. The communal dinner starts with a welcome reception of passed bites of catfish strips, spring rolls and short rib sliders, plus a complimentary drink. Transitioning to the sit-down portion of the evening, the family-style dinner will include Southern Caesar Salad, Melba’s signature Southern Fried Chicken and pan-seared salmon. Don't worry, sides are included too with mac and cheese, collard greens and rice and peas. The meal ends with Melba's famous desserts, as everyone gets a slice of Red Velvet Cake or Grandma’s Sweet Potato Pie. But once the meal is over, the real party begins as a live band will be performing well into the evening. So bring your dancing shoes!
The communal dinner series will be held on select Saturdays during the summer, kicking off this week on Saturday, July 26th. The following dates include August 9th and September 6th. Tickets are $75 per person. Reserve your spot at the table here.