Harlem Nights Bar Review – A Treehouse Bar in New York

By Julianne Clancy

Building a log cabin in the middle of Harlem is outlandish, but that’s exactly what Claud Fatu, owner of the new Harlem Nights Bar on 138^th Street and Adam C. Powell Boulevard, has done. The former contractor and bartender puts his experience and talent center stage with his new hotspot, creating a relaxed, cozy atmosphere that, in Claud’s own words, is “bringing downtown uptown” and representing the renewal and “revitalization” of a vibrant community that has historically been known as New York City’s playground for fun and excitement.

Walking into Harlem Nights Bar is like stepping into a funky version of the past. From the exposed brick walls, to the DJ stand designed to look like a tree house, to the bathroom doors made from recovered wood, the décor has a renovated rustic style. Old instruments hang from the ceilings, antique church kneelers serve as shelves, and brass water pipes taken out of the walls are transformed into handrails. A stage set with an upright piano for nightly live music, different styles every day of the week, ranging from Jazz to Top 40 Hits to a DJ for Saturday night dance parties, brings the classic Harlem vibe vividly to life.

The carefully created drink menu stays true to the electricity of the neighborhood with cocktails like the Harlem Sizzle, a spicy sweet concoction of tequila, pomegranate liquor, and candied jalapeños; the Harlem Splash, a refreshing mix of vodka and Bacardi Melon; and the Morning Tea, a citrusy, floral, and dangerously drinkable blend of Hennessey Black and iced tea. Those looking to kick back with a brew are treated to a variety of selected craft beers, including one seasonally rotating option. Mason jar glasses, mugs, and shot glasses fit perfectly with the urban-country charm of the bar.

Harlem Nights bar takes traditional pub food and elevates it to a new, delectable level, with snacks such as gooey, cheddar-filled fried mac and cheese bites; smoky wings, served with an addictively fiery-hot sauce made with ghost pepper and vinegar; and popcorn made in a vintage machine behind the bar.

The irresistible hand pies from Chef Wendy Toribio spark with originality and flare and definitely steal the culinary show. A rotating menu, changing to accommodate market fresh ingredients and customer demand, features “meat-lover” treats like “Getting Piggy With It“, a flavorful combination of seasoned sausage, bacon, collard greens, and a touch of sage drizzled with a tangy, smoky sauce.

Vegetarian options such as “Eat Your Veggies,” a clever and earthy fusion of crimini mushrooms, corn, huitlacoche, goat cheese, string beans, and almonds; and spicy, international treats, including a wildly aromatic and complex jerk chicken. All food is accompanied by crisp chips with a lightly-salted kick on paper plates, adding to the homey and comfortable feel of the evening.

Fatu has created a true gem in Harlem Nights Bar, an instant classic that is both nostalgic and new, trendy and comfortable. The music and quirky atmosphere alone would be worth repeat visits, but the imaginative libations and to-die-for food guarantees that both uptown locals and downtown tourists, (these two writers included), will definitely keep coming back for more.

Click here for another great place to eat and drink in Manhattan.