This establishment is a soul food restaurant located at 373 Malcolm X Boulevard in Harlem, New York. The venue operates as a buffet-style restaurant offering Southern, Caribbean, and Continental cuisine, with guests paying by weight for their selections.
The restaurant opens daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, seven days a week. Founded in 2009 by Rachid Niang, an entrepreneur from Senegal educated in France, the establishment was named in honor of his late father. For over a decade, the restaurant has maintained a tradition of serving free Thanksgiving meals to the Harlem community, with volunteers preparing hundreds of complimentary holiday dinners featuring classic Southern dishes alongside Caribbean favorites.
Customer reviews consistently highlight the quality and variety of dishes available at Jacob Soul Food Restaurant, with particular praise for the oxtails, short ribs, candied yams, and macaroni and cheese. The buffet format allows diners to sample multiple items, with payment calculated by weight, making it an affordable option for those seeking generous portions.
The community notes that while the food quality is exceptional and made with evident care, the dining experience is best suited for takeout rather than eating in. Visitors from out of state have specifically traveled to try the restaurant based on its reputation, and many appreciate the live music performances featuring guitar, drums, and bass that create a lively atmosphere during dining hours. The staff receives consistent recognition for being welcoming and kind to guests.
The team at Jacob Soul Food Restaurant emphasizes that every dish is prepared with love and authentic flavor, reflecting both Southern soul food traditions and Caribbean culinary heritage. Representatives focus on maintaining the restaurant as a true community hub where food serves as a bridge between cultures and generations.
The establishment\'s commitment to giving back began just months after opening, driven by a desire to show gratitude to the neighborhood that supported an immigrant entrepreneur\'s dream, and this spirit of service continues to define the restaurant\'s identity today.
A Decade of Editorial Insights
10+ Years of Expert Curation
Compare this listing with other Kosher Restaurants in Manhattan. For over 11 years, Simcha Center has specialized in identifying top-rated providers with a proven community reputation.
May, 2026
Wednesday
August 26,2019
Awesome Job!
We have received your appointment and will send you a confirmation to your provided email upon approval.
Own or work here?