Clay Harlem

Blending modern elegance with Harlem’s rich cultural vibe, dining at Clay feels both refined and deeply rooted in New York City

Making my way from The Jazz Club at Aman New York to uptown to Harlem was a joy. I’d never been to Harlem – only read about it in history books and in conversation with my friend Matt. In fact, it was Matt who, during our dinner at Chelsea in Santa Monica, raved about his dinner at Clay in Harlem, New York.

Eager to follow a good recommendation from Matt, I made my way uptown. I watched Harlem unfold around me, with each passing street number. I felt wrapped in its rich history, each corner telling a story of its own.

As I settled into my table, the warm, inviting ambiance of Clay’s decor wrapped around me. The restaurant’s decor reflected a blend of sophistication and soul filled charm, with soft lighting and rich textures that felt both stylish and comforting.

Browsing the menu, I felt a thrill at the thought of indulging in elevated soul food dishes.

It felt like coming home to my grandmother’s table.

My first choice was the PORK BELLY (apple, fermented cabbage, mustard seed). The dish arrived simply arranged, with the pork belly perfectly charred. Each bite was a delightful mix of savory and tangy. I would have enjoyed a bit more of the fermented cabbage. But, the amount of pork given was substantial enough.

For my main course, I went with the CONFIT DUCK LEG (carrot, smoked farro, collard greens, sumac). The duck was expertly prepared. The skin was perfectly crisp while the meat inside remained juicy and flavorful. The smoky farro and earthy greens complemented the richness of the duck.

It truly felt like an elevated Black heritage classic.

Overall, my dinner at Clay was a satisfying exploration of Southern classics that left me both fulfilled and eager to return.

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