Black History Month: Taste x Culture | New York City
For our final Taste x Culture spotlight, we’re taking a deep dive into the Black cultural heartbeat of New York City. From soul food in Harlem to Black beachside history in the Hamptons, get ready for a journey that’s rich in flavor and legacy.
Throughout the month of February, TV One is celebrating with highlights of Black History and Experience in some significant cities across the country.
This series of features includes locations on Chef Jernard’s culinary tour that you’ll see in the all-new series Savor the City premiering this spring soon on TV One.
Cuisine
Listen, if comfort food had a capital, it would be Harlem’s own Melba’s Restaurant! The restaurant is a Black woman-owned legacy. Melba Wilson started as a hostess at Sylvia’s before launching her own thriving restaurant in 2005.
Source: Rob Kim / Getty
Melba took her passion for soul food and built a spot where everyone—from Oprah to Jay-Z—comes for that crispy chicken and fluffy waffles. One bite, and you’ll know why this place is legendary!
Source: Archive Photos / Getty
Beachfront Haven
When you head out east to Sag Harbor, you’ll find a historic beach community where Black families have vacationed for nearly a century… dating back to the 1930s!
Back in the day, stars like Lena Horne and Harry Belafonte spent summers here, and today, folks are fighting to keep this a Black generational wealth stronghold. It’s history, it’s luxury, and it’s Black excellence!”
Fashion
Now, if you love unique fashion, “Hidden Gem Boutique” in Brooklyn is calling your name! It’s Black-owned, packed with designs from local Black creatives, and trust me—you won’t leave empty-handed.”
This iconic boutique features brands from local and international Black artisans and is a must-visit for fashion lovers seeking statement pieces that celebrate Black identity.
Source: ERIC SCHWAB / Getty
Looking for a flavor mix of Senegal and Paris? “Café Rue Dix” is where Afro-French fusion comes to life! Whether you’re craving Yassa Chicken or a fresh-baked croissant, this is where culture and cuisine meet.”
But NYC’s Black cultural history doesn’t stop there.
The Arts
Harry Belafonte, the ‘Calypso King,’ used his music to fund the Civil Rights Movement. Lena Horne, Brooklyn’s own, broke barriers as Hollywood’s first Black leading lady. And let’s not forget Duke Ellington, the sound of the Harlem Renaissance itself!”
Source: JP Jazz Archive / Getty
And when we speak of NYC icons, you can’t forget Brooklyn’s own Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter —a kid from Marcy Projects who turned his hustle into a billion-dollar empire. From hip-hop to business mogul, Hov is proof that NYC breeds greatness.”
So, whether you’re here for the food, the history, or just the vibe… New York City is the ultimate Black cultural experience.
Be sure to tap in to Savor the City with Chef Jernard as he explores the beauty, taste, and culture across Oakland and San Francisco.
The all-new series premieres Thursday, April 3 at 8p/7c only on TV One!
