Just wanted to shout out a new restaurant on the island Shaw-Nae’s House on Van Duzer for the first time. Went to eat there tonight and oh my goodness was it incredible. Everything that came out looked incredible and tasted incredible. My BFF and I had the fried shrimp and shrimp Mac and Cheese which was beyond scrumptious. Her boyfriend had the fried chicken which was a large plate and he gobbled that down. The atmosphere was warm,friendly and cozy. Portions are definitely filling. It gives off restaurant next store vibes with amazing smelling candles and a nook where you can sit warm by the fireplace. The food is clearly made with love which you can taste in every single bite. My BFF, her boyfriend and I loved the meal to say the least. Her boyfriend even hugged Shaw-Nae thanking her as it was so good. I will definitely be back.

Absolute best dining experience in my 58 years... The vibe as soon as you walk in is welcoming, peace, relaxation.. And Loving❤️ we started with the sugar daddy chix wings... Can't describe except to say juicy, candied but not sweet.. Best ever❤️ fried catfish & shrimp...out of this world . The catfish, which I never had before, was light, airy and not the least bit greasy. Mac and cheese over the top... Best ever❤️ then we had the ribs and fries... Off the hook... Fall of the bone Delicious... Full of comforting flavor... I want to thank Shaw-nae and her amazing staff for giving us a beautiful dining experience❤️ ps... Make reservations ahead of time, word is out🙂

Great service and friendly owner! Catfish tenders and shrimp Mac and cheese were my favorites. Also cornbread on the house 🔥

+3

Still smiling after a night at Shaw-nae’s House and feeling the love. Everything about this place is amazing—the food, the drinks, the people, the place. Seriously the best chicken wings I’ve ever had—meaty, crispy, moist and delicious. Incredible ribs and oxtail that is not to be missed… even the coffee was special! This place is warm and unbelievably welcoming. Shaw-nae makes you feel at home and immediately part of her family. So much more than just a meal; it’s a whole vibe. I miss it already. Be back soon ❤️

Home away from home literally!! The ambiance is nostalgic. Shawnae is an incredible human being who exudes strength, perseverance, love, empathy, and strives for perfection. The food is truly a bonus 😁

+1

Hands down the best soul food I’ve ever had. I did take it to go which by the way, was still amazing but I bet I would’ve enjoyed it fresh from the kitchen. That’s besides the point, the food is spectacular. Fresh, seasoned, and full of rich flavors. I had the Ribs and fries, mac &cheese, vanilla pound cornbread & sautéed shrimp. My Goodnees…. I was left stunned. The portions are perfect, even for takeout. I highly recommend this cute and cozy environment. The vibes were amazing, the waitresses were super kind and everyone just made the experience worth while. Please go check it out! You won’t be disappointed. PS- This picture accurately depicts how phenomenal it was…. I was too into my food to take pics. I took what I could.

everything was good but the wings, cornbread, oxtail, and ribs were next level bussin

We made reservations for our party of 4 to get together with friends and wanting to come here for awhile. Omg, from the moment we entered Shaw nae’s house and was greeted and seated we felt like we were at home. The warmth of everyone and attention we received from all was amazing! Then we ordered the Bait Ice Tea, Delicious! As well as the associated cornbread basket which they give us. As well looked over the menu we decided on ordering the auger daddy wing. Again no disappointment here fingers licking good! lol yes I felt right at home to dig in with my hands. They give you hand wet towels to clean up after you licked a few fingers lol. The atmosphere is very comfortable as the aroma and music was wonderful! Then we decided to share a few dishes like the ribs & fries and collard greens and Mac and cheese and the fried ships wow they were big and awesome 😋 Shaw nae was there and came over and greeted us with her smile and hugs. We even took photos with her. I was so full we had to pack a to go bag. One of the girls had to make a separate order for her husband of the sugar daddy wings except she had them make them spicy! Shaw nae gave us a special gift of coffees n teas with cookies n cakes. This was extraordinary treat, the coffee was made at the table n we each got a separate tray of sweet treats n each mug had a nice phrase. Thank you Shaw nae till we meet again ❤️ I recommend if you haven’t gone yet make your reservations now the place is small but it’s a wonderful experience not your typical restaurant. We got together with friends to enjoy each other n trade Kris Kringle gifts to one another n enjoy a meal. Well let me say what a wonderful fun night we had. We felt as if we were home with friends and family laughing enjoying each others company and good food. What a wonderful feeling n night. A must if you want a new experience.

Went here to celebrate my 11th anniversary with my husband. The food was delicious and the rum punch was flavorful. But I must highlight the friendly staff and owner. I felt like “family” as this small intimate setting was met with friendly vibes. Will def come back for food, fun, and family.

I’ve been wanting to try this place for the longest time and it did not disappoint. The ambience was very cozy and the food was delicious. My favorite was the daddy wings.

We did take out for my family on Saturday evening food was amazing . The two young men at register was very informative and polite . Explained certain items to me. I overstuffed myself Well worth it . Oxtails, sweet potatoes, jerk chicken rice and Mac and cheese, sweet potato corn bread amazing can’t find anything to complain about .

If I could give more stars, I WOULD!! Shaw-nae’s House provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It feels like you’re enjoying dinner with family AND THE FOOD!! OMG IT’S SIMPLY AMAZING!! Even the vegan options were amazing!! All I can say is, just don’t take my word for it! Go experience it yourself! You won’t be disappointed!!

Amazing food and amazing hospitality. Jennifer took amazing care of us and we were lucky to enough to meet Shaw-naw as well. Everyone was sweet and so was the food

Here’s a NED-style review for Shaw-nae’s House: --- ✅ What Works Well - Cozy spot serving hearty Southern and soul food classics. - Favorites include fried chicken, collard greens, and homemade sides. - Warm, welcoming atmosphere with friendly, family-style service. - Generous portions and reasonable prices. - Great for comfort food cravings and casual dining. --- 👎 What to Watch Out For - Small dining area that can fill up quickly during peak hours. - Menu focuses mainly on traditional Southern dishes—limited variety for other tastes. - Some dishes can be greasy or heavy. - Limited drink options and simple decor. --- 🎯 Verdict Shaw-nae’s House is a reliable go-to for authentic, comforting Southern soul food in a friendly, homey setting. Rating: 4.2 / 5 --- Want recommendations on must-try dishes?

If I could give Shaw-nae’s House a 10, I definitely would! The vibe is so inviting. It feels like you’re visiting a friend for dinner. And the food is amazing! I was afraid to try this place, only because my daughter has a shellfish allergy, and Shaw-nae was so sweet in reassuring me not to worry. I’m so glad I went. My daughter and I both had the amazing cornbread (sweet potato one is my fave), but they were all delicious, and we both had Mac and cheese. My daughter had the mango wings, and I had the vegan burger. Let me tell you, if it wasn’t for the texture, you would not know you were eating a vegan burger! The flavors were absolutely delicious! I will definitely be going back for more! I highly recommend this sweet, cozy place.

+6

What a nice place this was. I really enjoyed my vist there. Shawanae was so welcoming, it truly felt like home. The staff was very professional, friendly and efficient. The food........ My faves were the catfish, Mac and cheese, sugar daddy and Thai chili wings, jerk chicken rice, collards and cabbage. The complimentary cornbread was good as well. I will be back cuzzin to try some other things. Thanks for a great experience!

The best soul food you’ll have. It is truly special. You must go. I’ve been twice and I will be back. Please get the wing and try the whole snapper. I can’t give enough credit to Shaw-naé and her family for making the environment so homey and welcoming. It feel like I’m in my living room at home with my own family each time, I never want to leave. 💚

+2

This is a difficult review to write because I want to say something special/profound, but all of the words that come to mind already appear in other reviews. Welcoming. Warm. Homey. Friendly. Delicious. Beautiful. Amazing. Awesome. Positive. Energy. Vibes. Excellent. Quality. Sweet. Love. Unforgettable. Gem. They apply to the place, the food, and the person behind both. Shaw-nae is a star 🌟 and her "House" deserves one too.

+6

PSA! 📢 This place is everything & more. The food is so freaking scrumptious 😋. There is nothing like a fresh home cooked meal. The atmosphere felt like i was invited into someones 🏠. My server Jenny/Jennifer/Jen connected with me in a way you'd thought we've known each other for years. Shaw-nae herself came out and acknowledged every single tabel. Which meant a lot to me because it created this welcoming family environment. Make sure to book ahead of time on the Resy app if you want a dine-in experience! Shaw-nae is booked & busy. Thank you cousin for the experience 🤎. I will definitely be back!

+4

This was one of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had. The atmosphere, the food and the company were unbelievable. I went for my birthday and Shawnae was so welcoming and amazing and made me feel so special. The food was better than I could’ve imagined and we all left in perfect food comas. If you’re on the fence about coming here, make the reservation before you can’t get in anymore!!!

Phenomenal food and such a beautiful Cozy space. The sweet potato candied yams were unbelievable. We made the trip from Manhattan on the ferry and it’s so worth it. Highly recommend.

+1

This place has so many great things going for it. Let’s start with the feel when you walk in. It feels like you are walking into someone’s house for dinner. Small and cozy. Then it’s the service, great to say the least. Shaw-nae herself came out to great us with a hug and some recommendations from the menu. The food oh the food. We ate the ShawCuterie Board and Soul Fries to start with a pitcher of Rum Punch. Then off to the entree with the Fried Snapper, Smothered Turkey Wings, and Oxtails. So so good. You can definitely tell the team takes pride in the food, the culture, and being from Staten Island. Love this place and would recommend it to anyone!

My friends & I have been trying to get a reservation here for months and it was well worth the wait. I truly don’t understand the 1 star reviews but I will share mine. While the place is as small as a studio apartment, I think it goes with the vibe of feeling AT HOME! It is definitely a warm && exciting atmosphere (I didn’t smell any marijuana, if you did it was probably another paetron, GET OVER IT) the music was old school, Shawnae was sweet and really interacted with everyone which I thought was really nice. We got the Thai & fried chicken wings as an appetizer, BBQ Ribs, Turkey wings, Oxtail, Collard greens, Yams with Mac && cheese , also got some friend shrimp to go. All the food was freaking delicious and large portions, it was enough to eat , share && take home. The rum punch was ehhh at first but after the second pitcher it definitely snuck tf up on me!! That sweet potato corn bread tho … SLAPSSSS ! I don’t eat either or but the way Shawnae put them mfs together , boiii 🤤 I can’t wait to go back!! PS: they do offer infused meals if asked (for anything on the menu)

+6

Absolutely special place and totally worth the journey. Fantastic home cooking with the most welcome atmosphere imaginable. Shaw-Nae and the rest of the team treat and feed you like family. Best oxtails I’ve ever had. Mac n cheese, chix wings, jerk chicken, peach cobbler are all truly fantastic. Will be back

Let me just say, Shaw-nae’s House is absolutely amazing!! Well, my wife and I were in the neighborhood looking for a place to have dinner before going to an event. We didn’t know what to expect because the windows were covered and we thought it was closed. Thank God we were wrong. The moment we got in there the ambiance was amazing. Walls covered with pictures and decor that made the experience memorable. We were seated by the waitress Jennifer, who my wife and I felt she was the most welcoming waitress we ever had. She made our experience so great and explained the menu so well. We got started with complimentary corn bread made three ways. Next we ordered the loaded fries and my God, I didn’t know what to expect. It was topped with their homemade Mac n Cheese, collard greens, and fried Catfish. It was so delicious, and I recommend asking for side of their hot sauce. I got the boneless jerk chicken and it was awesome!! It had a right amount of spice and yes I used more hot sauce so I was hot mess!! Lol My wife got the 9 pc Chicken, half with their signature Sugar Daddy sauce and half Honey Butter sauce, and OMG I think these were the best wings I’ve ever had!! The whole meal was amazing and we ended it off with a Peach Cobbler a la mode, and it was just as delicious!! Overall it was a great experience, the Owner and Chef Ms. Shawnae came to greet us after we finished and really was so down to earth.. I highly recommend coming here and we’ll back here too!!

+2

If you are looking for an amazing food, atmosphere, good energy, dining experience run do not walk to get here. I have been back three times already and plan on going again soon. The atmosphere is filled with loving, good vibes and energy. The food leaves me speechless every time. The sugar, daddy wings aren’t experience like I’ve never had before the ribs, the sweet potatoes, mac & cheese, the iced tea, and the cat fish…OMG :) even the french fries…. a culinary delight and experience that you will never get anywhere else. Shawnae always greets everybody with a hug and a positive feeling. I absolutely love this place!!!!!

I have been waiting for MONTHS to try this place, and it did not disappoint. I made my first trip ever to Staten Island with a couple of sisterfriends to enjoy the food & vibes at ShawNae's house. It was not only a delicious di ing experience, but it was also a much needed cozy, warm hug around the dinner table that I needed after a few long hard weeks. Dinner was delicious from beginning to end (and yes, we added our names to the wall) Will definitely make the trip back.

Omg! Get over there NOW! The food was amazing! We had the ribs, fried whiting, fried snapper & jersey chicken! I added sweet potatoes & collards greens to my meal. BEAT DECISION EVER! *SWOON* The cornbread is delectable. I need a tray of the blueberry cornbread to bring home. The white sangria was on point, not sugary but still sweet. Excellent music and you watch Shaw-Naes you tube channel! Love it! The staff was sweet and so kind. Love them. Let's keep this gem running. Go here often, please!

What an amazing experience from start to finish. From the second we walked in Shawnae was so welcoming and our waitress, Jennifer, was one of the sweetest people I have ever met. The atmosphere is inviting and cozy as if your in your own living room. We started off with two rum punches and complimentary cornbread. The food was 10/10, absolutely delicious. Hands down the best wings I’ve ever had. We got the sugar daddy and honey butter. We also got the jerk chicken, crawfish tenders, Mac and cheese, and collard greens. Everything was unbelievable. Not only did we enjoy great food but we enjoyed great conversation with Shawnae as well. I’m so glad I went and I can’t wait to go back.

What I want I to say cannot be put into words. You will have to just experience it for yourself. The best greens and cornbread I ever had from a restaurant. All the food was great!! Shawnae is a gem and her service is unmatched. Thank you for making our experience the highlight of our trip while in Staten Island. Go see her!!

+2

Everything you’ve heard about this place is absolutely true. Shaw-nae’s House is not just good food, it’s a whole adventure. This was without a doubt some of the best food I have ever had in my life, but even more important to me is how Shaw-nae and her family treat you like their own, that really elevated the experience and I left there feeling like I had just made a bunch of new friends. As for the food, the Sugar Daddy wings (the only thing we got a picture of because we were so hungry) were incredible. They were perfectly crispy and the sugar daddy sauce had me sitting there in silence. Matter of fact, everything had me sitting there in silence. The cornbread, oxtails, jerk chicken, and Mac and cheese were all amazing and tasted heavenly. I’m basically just repeating myself, but the food was so good it quite literally left me speechless and only able to say “it was incredible” Make your way here ASAP; this is an experience everybody should have at least one time.

There are no words to express how amazing the food was! I literally felt like I was in someone’s home being served by family. The atmosphere was so warm and inviting.. the vibe was out of this world. Shaw-nae makes you feel so at home with a welcoming hug and kiss. Everything about this place was just stupid good. If you don’t make time to experience it, you’re not too smart.

As a vegetarian, I was able to get more than a loving spoonful of down-home quality goodness. I did a deep dive (spoon first) into several savory side dishes, for example, the cabbage was graceful yet spunky. The signature side dish, a baked beauty, aptly called Mac-n-Cheese reveled in a wholesomeness that cradles your palette. It was so "ooey-gooey" good that it has earned a spot in the cheese lover's Hall of Fame. Next up, the candied yams, so good that they will qualify for a heapin', second helping upon my next visit. Cornbread-3 distinct flavor varieties: strawberry, blueberry, and vanilla. DELICIOUS check! FLAVORFUL check! MELTS IN YOUR MOUTH, check! Shaw-nae made this southern staple item a true flavor house. It bears repeating, Shaw-nae is the "hostess with the mostess" her energy is heartwarming and engaging. Shaw-nae's team of greats is a family affair. They make you feel welcomed with open arms, creating an ultra-inviting atmosphere. I concluded my evening by writing on the famous "wall" look out for the immortalized words, Kevin The Lion!!!! **There's one thing I would change. I typically dine SOLO, but I had to reserve and pre-pay to hold spots for two people. I acknowledged this upon arriving and checking in for dinner. *Solo diners would love to enjoy this experience as well....

+6

This restaurant is a true gem nestled within Staten Island. The proprietor exudes warmth and kindness, creating an inviting atmosphere from the moment you step through the door. The attentive staff immediately make you feel at home. Please note that due to high demand, reservations are highly recommended. The food is simply exquisite. Each dish is bursting with flavor, perfectly seasoned, and beautifully presented. I was so impressed that I cleaned my plate and even saved some for later. I wholeheartedly recommend this restaurant and look forward to returning to support this local business.

+3

What an amazing experience at this establishment!! The moment you walk inside you are greeted by extremely friendly and beautiful souls! Hubby and I celebrated our 19th wedding anniversary at Shawnae’s House and it exceeded my expectations. Every bite of food was better than the one before. Everyone gets a variety of delicious cornbread to start off. We ordered the Sugar Daddy wings (which we noticed that every other table ordered as well) 😋 We also ordered oxtails, jerk chicken, fried whole snapper, collard greens and jerk chicken rice! The sugar daddy wings are on a whole ‘nother level!! 🤩 🪐 🚀

+2

This restaurant was honestly probably one of the best I’ve been. From the moment we walked in, we were treated like family. Jennifer was our waitress and she was the sweetest! Exceptional service. The decor was so cozy, it really feels like you’re in a friend’s home. The food was large portions (we had to take most of it to go) and DELICIOUS. We had the sugar babies boneless wings, the fried whiting, jerk chicken, collard greens. Mac and cheese, and yams. Everything was seasoned perfectly to the point my husband and I were fighting about who would get the leftovers! Shaw-nae, the owner, was actually at the restaurant and walked around, greeting and hugging every patron. 10/10 experience!!!!

Let me tell you, Shawnae’s House is the real deal. As someone who's lived in NYC my whole life, I’ve had my share of soul food, but this place? Different. Everything we ordered hit the spot. Flavor, comfort, love, and it’s all in the food. And those sweet potatoes? Man, that’s not just food. That is a whole experience. Like your grandma put her foot in it. The vibe is warm and welcoming. Our waitress, Jennifer, was incredible, attentive, and friendly, just made us feel right at home. Then Shawnae herself came over to thank us for coming. That right there tells you this place isn’t just a business. It’s personal. Highly recommend this spot. I’m already thinking about what I’m getting next time. This one’s a gem.

+6

A home that will fill your stomach and soul. Greeted immediately with warm and friendly smiles, my party and I were escorted to the living room to wait for our table. Library was filled with self help and growth books, one recognizes the “home” vibe as the peppermint and lavender aroma starts to hit our noses. Once seated, our table had a small basket filled with variety of cakes. We ate the tasty cakes as we read the menu. Ordered Soul Fries and the Sugar Daddy chicken wings for appetizers, enjoyed every bite. Loaded fries with mac and cheese with collard greens and fried chicken, this appetizer had everything and each bite was a different combo. Sugar Daddy wings are a must try. A delicious recipe that is different and surely a signature. Think of every bite with a chicken and waffle influence. The wings come with a great crunch that testifies to the frying technique the restaurant perfected. Ox tail with white rice was the main dish accompanied by more collard greens. The greens were that good on the Soul Fries that I wanted more. Absolutely delicious plate! While the food is the center attention and the reason to come and eat at this “home” establishment it is not the only reason. Shaw-Nae, herself, will be found assisting with operations. Her genuine presence will make you feel seen and loved. Isn’t that what a home is? A place where you feel seen and loved? Most customers coming in the restaurant came with their arms wide open and Shaw-Nae was on the other side with her arms wide open to receive. A safe space that advocates love. Shaw-Nae transforms her love into food and has built a business around that. That type of energy cannot be duplicated.

+3

vibes and food definitely come with quality. it was a pretty busy night for a birthday event, but we got seated in 15 minutes, and the food is definitely home cooked and freshly made. made. you can see in the pictures all the things ordered and our favorites included the cornbread, the oxtail, the fried chicken wings, and the shrimp. and flavors are very intense, and the staff is very finally and homey and great vibes overall for you. would definitely recommend

+4

What can I say about Shaw-nae’s house that hasn’t already been said by the hundreds of 5 star reviews, people on instagram & even by food critic Pete Wells? Everything everyone is saying is true. The owner, Shaw-nae, has a truly significant place of business and history in Staten Island. From the layout of the restaurant, the atmosphere, her presence alone felt much more like a curated dining experience meant to invoke feelings of comfort and acceptance rather than just another place to grab a bite to eat. Especially if you’re traveling from Brooklyn to get here. As soon as I walked in, we immediately sat in her “living room area” which was located at the very front of this six table restaurant. About a hundred books were available to read while I waited to be sat. I saw the owner making her rounds to each table, she handed out hugs and back rubs. Making the guests genuinely feel like her cousins, which was she referred to the patrons who ate at her house. Once we actually sat down our server Jennifer, who was incredible, gave us some recommendations but I was here for two things. Sugar daddy wings and the mac and cheese. We placed our orders and Shaw-nae eventually made her way to our table. She greeted me with a hug and we started to talk about her placement on the New York Times top 100 restaurants in NYC. #50. The only soul food restaurant on that list. After experiencing her cuisine, I see why it was well deserved. The complimentary cornbreads were delicious, she then gave us this sweet potato cornbread concoction. She dubbed that “ignorant.” 10/10. No words. I jokingly challenged for her to show me why she was on the top 100. She accepted my playful challenge and swung even harder as each dish came to our table. She definitely showed up and showed out. Everytime a plate of food came out, she made sure to ask if we were good and if I enjoyed it. Of course, I bowed to her everytime. The mac and cheese was so good, I got another serving. Yes, the hype around it was real. You cannot leave here without trying it. Everything was delicious, but the star of the show for me was the Mac and the oxtail. Oh the catfish.. the best catfish I’ve had yet. Hands down. The oxtail had a very seasoned but also a sweet undertone element to it. Not overpowering but a nice balance to the traditional savory and spicy Jamaican oxtails you might be use to having. They were a fall off the bone type of tender. No pull. Each dish I tried I was overjoyed by how every bite had was a unique experience of soul food rooted in Staten Island history. You can taste the love. Not only that, she made you feel the love. Her presence in the restaurant was felt, sincere and reassuring. She said now that we made it, we’re cousins now. And truthfully, after leaving I felt like a cousin to her. The hospitality, and love was unmatched. Shaw-nae’s kitchen was the best dining experience I’ve had all year. Well worth the wait. Thank you for a memorable experience Shaw-nae. Until next time cousin! TL:DR: It’s worth the wait. I know reservations may be hard to get, but once you’re finally in Shaw-naes House you will understand why. Get the Mac and cheese. It’s better than your mommas, unfortunately. 😅

+5

From the moment you walk in, you can feel that this place is more than just a restaurant — it’s a labor of love. The food is true, authentic soul food made the way it should be made: seasoned perfectly, cooked with care, and rich with the kind of flavor that feels like home. Every bite tells a story, from the tender meats to the sides that clearly took time, patience, and tradition to perfect. What truly sets this restaurant apart, though, is the owner. Their presence is warm, genuine, and deeply personal. They take the time to greet guests, share the story behind the food, and make sure every person feels welcomed, not rushed. You don’t feel like just another customer — you feel like family. That personal touch adds something special you can’t replicate, and it shows in the pride they take in every dish that comes out of the kitchen. This is the kind of place you come back to not just for the incredible food, but for the experience, the connection, and the soul behind it all. If you’re looking for real soul food made with heart and served by someone who truly cares, this is it.

Okay where do I start! This was one of the best dine in experiences I’ve had in my life! The food is absolutely amazing! When I tell you everything came out fresh! The corn bread melts In your mouth, I also ordered the oxtails with white rice 10/10, ordered the wings when I tell you it taste like my grandma fried that chicken 20/10,also a ordered a side of macoroni and cheese collard greens the catfish nuggets the shrimp and fries and everything was immaculate! Shaw-nae makes you feel like family and you knew her forever. She has a new customer for life!

+2

I am absolutely blown away by the hospitality!! We are from Adelanto, CA (small town 2 hours away from LA) and the nearest recognizable city is Victorville, still a town people pass through without stopping. We shared this when we made our reservation and said how grateful we’d be to get a table. It’s our first time in NYC and we had seen the good reviews all over social media. Shaw-nae went out of her way to tell us that she received our message. The whole staff blessed us and treated us like family. And the food was so delicious!! They even insisted on sending us out with cake and made sure we had a safe uber back to our hotel. We literally called home as soon as we left to tell our family. We 10/10 would recommend this restaurant to any and everyone visiting NYC.

I honestly don't know where to start. I walked in and instantly received the warmest welcome ever. I hadn't made a reservation; I had planned to take it to go, but between the warm greeting and the enchanting ambience, I felt an irresistible urge to stay. Shawnee graciously made space for us on the couch with a table for my son and me, allowing us to savor one of the best soul food meals we've ever experienced. She radiated the essence of a family matriarch, making me feel as if I were in my grandmother's home. Her food was AMAZING. It was so full of love and flavor that I had goosebumps while enjoying each bite. There was so much that I could relish my leftovers for two days. I highly recommend them.

The food was amazing and the owner and house vibes were outstanding, the owner makes you feel like you’re home, the service was great, food came out fast and fresh, overall experience 10 of 10 you won’t be disappointed.

A home away from home. This place is cozy and the positive vibe emmitted from that staff is infectious. Now lets get to the food WOW....the portions are huge and tasty The SOUL FRIES are out of this world with such a cornacopia of flavors...is it mac&cheese? Is it the Collard Greens? Or maybe its the CATFISH nuggets? The fries are generously seasoned and are crispy and flavorful...Catfish nuggets are light crispy and full of flavor each piece is a flavor BOMB. Now the SUGAR DADDY wings are amazing full of flavors and a hint of sweetness that envokes your mind to think of candied jams. The Cornbread flavors are amazing even the delicious cornbread dessert they give you as you wait topped off with candied yams and Sugar Daddy sauce is amazing .My wife had OX tails and this amazing Jerk rice...the Oxtail was so flavorful and tender Now lets get back to that Jerk rice with pieces of jerk chicken and let me tell it brings the HEAT and flavors of the carribean mac and cheese and cabbage brinds down some of that Heat but makes you feel like your in Jamaica in Grandmas Kitchen. Truly a Blessing to have this here on SHAOLIN AKA STATEN ISLAND....Will be returning for that RED SNAPPER NEXT.....

+6

This place is truly a gem. Shaw-nae was SO friendly and kind, the atmosphere took my right back to small hole in the wall restaurants in New Orleans, and lemme tell you This food was delicious, the chicken was SO CRISPY, The sauces were perfectly balanced, the corn bread was 10/10, the tea was fantastic and the service was stellar The sugar daddy wings were legit surprising, as it was like a wing crossed with a churro with the best of both worlds The hot honey was delicious and SO JUICY The jerk chicken was perfect. A TON of flavor with a great kick at the end Shawnae brought out some phenomenal and unexpected desert at the beginning of the meal which really set the stage for the dinner Thank you so much for a great and delicious date night

There were smothered turkey wings in gravy that tasted like Thanksgiving dinner and a red snapper that had been cooked in the deep-fryer — the whole thing, tail and all. The fish was inside a golden shell like the crust on fried chicken, golden and so crisp that the crunch rings in your ears. Later, Ms. Dixon said she got it that way by frying it twice. It had cooked in a curved stance, so it stood up on the plate, rising above a colorful pile of crisply sautéed vegetables.

+2

I came here for my birthday, and this meal moved me to tears in the best way. The food was so full of flavor and love that it made me miss my dad, because I know he would have adored it just as much as I did. Our group of six shared a feast: soul fries with catfish, sugar baby wings, oxtails, ribs, smothered turkey wings, fried shrimp, collard greens, string beans, mac & cheese, and finished it all off with banana pudding. Every single dish was seasoned perfectly, tender, and unforgettable. The oxtails fell off the bone, the mac & cheese was rich and creamy, the wings were packed with flavor. Honestly, there was not a single miss on the table. Beyond the food, the service, led by Jennifer, was warm, inviting, and genuinely personable. It felt like we were being welcomed into someone’s home rather than just a restaurant. If you’re looking for soul food that feeds your spirit as much as your stomach, this is the place. Shaw-nae’s House made my birthday unforgettable, and I can’t wait to come back

Truly a wonderful experience. My daughter is definitely a "foodie" always searching out new culinary experiences and hearing rave reviews couldn't wait to visit. From the moment you walk in you are treated as family. Everyone takes the time to truly SEE you. Smiling faces, complimentary exchanges, even a warm embrace from Shaw-nae herself! I consider myself blessed to have had a short conversation with her. What a remarkable woman. After telling her I had never tried wings before she was honored that I had chosen her restaurant for my initiation. Kissing me on the forehead she said " I baptize you in the name of Soul Food!" She even praised the thoughtfulness of my daughter for making it happen. It didn't take long for newbies to feel like we were sitting next to our cousins in our beloved matriarchs' living room. Everything we indulged in- And I use that word appropriately- full flavor, cooked to perfection, a delight for ALL your senses- was nothing short of amazing. Rum punch, chicken wings- we tried the sugar daddy AND honey butter sauces, macaroni and cheese, catfish bites, collard greens, ribs, cornbread with candied sweet potatoes on top and banana pudding for dessert. Our bellies full and chakras aligned we were asked to sign the back wall to symbolize that we are forever a part of this special family. Making our way to the front door Shaw-nae knew already as we hugged our cousin goodbye- "You'll be back soon" and we replied "Yes ma'am, yes ma'am we will."

Heavenly spot to relax and indulge on all great soul foods that can ever be offered! The food is absolutely perfect! Juicy, flavorful, hot, tender, and all things fantabulous! You will not be disappointed! The space is so cozy and it makes you really feel like you’re home. My friend and I were ready to bring our drinks to sit at the couch to wait for our food. Everyone was so welcoming and loving! Definitely coming back! ❤️

+1

The staff and food are AMAZING. The food was worth the wait. Jennifer was amazing and so was Ms. Shawnae. It was a pleasure to dine there and I will be back! I recommend you go on their website and make a reservation because they are usually fully booked. The sugar daddy wings are just as good as everyone says are so is the oxtail, collard greens, cornbread and peach sangria. The chicken sandwich with honey butter added was also so good!

What a gem! First time there, and wont be the last! Food was made with love, and the place is cozy and staff is welcoming! Make a reservation! Place is small. We opened with the Fried Shrimp and the Sugar daddy wings, then I had the ribs and we had the sautéed shrimp and the jerk chicken. Baked mac and cheese and sweet potatoes! Everything was delicious, we had the peach cobbler for dessert. We met and spoke to Shaw-nae and what a sweetheart! She gave us some oxtail to try and I told her it reminded me of Osso Bucco. It was melt in your mouth delicious! Loved it. Cant wait to go back!!

+5

My wife and I visited NYC from Indiana this past weekend. Friday we took the 1 train from Times Square to South Ferry hoping to see the Statue of Liberty. We took the free ferry right pass The Statue of Liberty and ended up in Staten Island lol🤷🏾‍♂️… We had no idea where to go so we took the train into town and googled top restaurants near us and this Wu Tang Soul food inspired restaurant popped up! So we instantly get to walking in the 90 degree heat while a storm was brewing heading to the restaurant. We get there and we notice it’s an intimate space with diverse customers, which is amazing to see!! We were told that the restaurant was booked for the night and as we started walking out of the door, Shawnae the owner stopped what she was doing to talk to us… we told her we’re just visiting NYC and then told us please give me a minute and we will do what we can to serve you tonight… We were instantly shocked!!! Shawnae sat us on the couch in her living room waiting area, they brought out two fold out tv dinner style trays, sweet tea, water, and samples of Strawberry, Sweat potato and regular cornbread and said “there’s room for you two, if this area is alright with you.” NOW THATS CUSTOMER SERVICE!!!!!!!!!! We came 712 miles away by plane, car, train and boat… Shawnae had no idea about any of that and she treated us like family, to the point where this strange city is starting to feel like home with this single experience alone!! The food was AMAZING 🤤🤤 The fried catfish was perfectly fried, the sweet potatoes was to die for, Mac and cheese was ooeeyyy and gooeyyyy!!! My wife and I just want to say thank you for your hospitality and love that you gave to two complete strangers… WE ABSOLUTELY WILL BE BACK!!! With a reservation of course 🤣🤞🏾🙌🏾

+3

I'm so happyy i got to come here, had my first solo dinner reservation bc my other person couldnt make it. My favorite was the half lemonade and half ice tea, and the sugar daddy chicken wings. I was surprise I said this bc i didnt think it'll be this good. Everyone was so nice and I enjoyed my time dining and i felt so welcomed and interactions came easy and natural<3 my heart is full. I also ordered their pork ribs, which was super good, but mann the chicken wings skin? Bro how its so yummy idk ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

+6

Had been wanting to eat here for a long time because of all the reviews. Let me say it did not disappoint! Food was amazing!! Our server Jennifer was wonderful and very attentive. Atmosphere was fantastic!! Really felt it was in someone's home. Shaw-nae came by with hugs and kind words. So happy I finally went and definitely going again very soon!!

Shaw-nae's House exceeded our expectations and then some! We had booked reservations about 2.5 months in advance and let me tell you it was worth the wait; the food was phenomenal, the vibe immaculate, and the service was top notch. Our waiter was attentive and friendly, allowing you to feel like you had been welcomed into the home of a friend you've known forever. The establishment itself is small, but there is plenty of room around each table where you don't feel like you're on top of the table next to you or struggling to hear your own conversation. We cannot wait to come back or order take out!

100% warmth and love, heartfelt experience from the service, to Shaw-nae's checking in with all guests, to the wonderful food. Everything we wanted for our evening and more. A do-not miss special evening.

Shaw-nae’s is amazing. From the punctuality, to the servers, the atmosphere, and even her coming around to thank everyone for coming and enjoying the food. Truly an incredible experience. Literally the best shrimp I’ve ever had. God bless this business for its an example of how you should be treated at every restaurant. Thank you Shaw-nae and Jennifer for an incredible experience.

You know that saying "when you're here, you're family", they don't play around at Shaw-nae's. From the moment you walk in, till you pay your check, you're family. Our waitress Jennifer was amazing, explained the menu very well and was extremely attentive. We ordered the catfish tenders and the sugar daddy wings for appetizers. Amazing. How she was able to capture the waffle in a wing is beyond me. For dinner, we got the ribs and jerk chicken with rice. Amazing. Everything was delicious. We even met Shaw-nae herself! We were too full for dessert. We will definitely be back. You need to come here!

We trekked from Brooklyn to SI on the coldest night of the year so far and omg it was worth it! The restaurant was chilly on the inside but I ended up taking my jacket off after having a bite of the food because I just felt my soul warming up. I guess that’s what good soul food is supposed to do! We got the jerk chicken with rice, ribs & fries, and a side of collard greens and Mac n cheese. The pork ribs and Mac n cheese were MEMORABLE. If you like a sticky sweet sauce with ribs that fall off the bone, order this. I included a photo so you can see the chiaroscuro happening with the glaze. The Mac n cheese was gooey and crispy in the right places. If you enjoy macaroni pie vs the Kraft Mac n cheese, you’ll enjoy this. The complimentary corn bread was a really nice touch. I almost wish we got savory cornbread as an appetizer and sweet corn bread as a dessert chaser (we had strawberry cornbread, sweet potato cornbread, and strawberry cornbread). Jerk chicken was just ok. It was tender and well cooked, but I wanted more of that smoke/spice. Collard greens are a must order, just to have a little greenery on the plate. Staff was warm and polite Ms. Shaw-nae made an appearance and hugged me and my husband! I was star struck Overall, worth a hop, skip, and a jump!

Impeccable service delivered by the folks at this lovely establishment. I would HIGHLY recommend coming here if you like good service, good music, amazing food. From the minute my wife and I walked through the door, we were embraced with hugs from the owner and seated very quickly (we had a 5:15pm resy). If I could kidnap Shaw-nae for a day, I just know I’ll be well fed. She really put her foot in this food. Amazing cuisine!!!!!

Yuelin Li

Tried Shaw-naé’s House after a long wait and the food lived up to the hype. The fried chicken wings were the highlight. The batter is very thin, and even after being coated in sauce, the skin stayed crispy instead of turning soggy. It’s not crunchy because of a thick crust, but because it’s fried really well. The sauce leans sweet, with notes that reminded me of maple syrup and cinnamon, which may be a bit sweet for some, but the texture and technique were excellent. The oxtail rice was also very well done. The meat was tender and flavorful, with just a slight black pepper kick that balanced it nicely. The BBQ pork ribs were soft and cooked properly, though the sauce again leaned sweet. Service was friendly, and everything felt carefully made. Definitely a place worth trying if you appreciate well-executed soul food.

+2

Elaina Jimenez

We had the BEST night out here in Staten Island!! Shaw-nae’s House not only had mouth watering food just but also the cozy atmosphere with VIBEY music made the whole experience a 10/10. The Sweet Potato Cheesecake is by far the best cheesecake I’ve ever had and it had such a perfect balance that just absolutely melted in your mouth. The oxtail fell off the bone and the flavors were just absolutely incredible. If you need a comfy, delicious night out COME TO SHAW-NAE’S!!!! A special shoutout to Jennifer for taking such wonderful care of us. The staff were so friendly, and gave incredible recommendations. We also had the opportunity to meet Shaw-nae in the flesh!!! Thank you to everyone working tonight and THANK YOU SHAW-NAE.

+3

Sunshine DaButterfly

Very cozy intimate atmosphere. Our server Jennifer was amazing. She made recommendations & checked on us often to make sure we/everything was ok. Definitely worth the visit. And Shaw-nae comes out and greet all her customers. Totally love this place.

Ashley S

I mean, I truly do not know where to start as I have no words to describe this experience. From the moment we walked in, we felt like we were right at home. And!! one of the young gentleman had called us earlier to let us know our table was ready, very nice! Jennifer was our amazing host and off the bat she came through with some amazing complimentary cornbread that was out of this world!!! We were so excited about trying the food that it took us a while to settle on something but thankfully Jennifer explained the whole menu and had some great recommendations. We had the sugar daddy wings and on my goodness, I will be dreaming about those! For entrees, we had the oxtail and the chicken sandwich, both were incredibly fresh and had amazing flavors. We were then blessed with Shawnae’s presence as she checked in on us. What an amazing woman, it was beautiful to see how connected she is to her roots of staten island and how much she pours back into the community. She also prayed over us and it brought me to tears but I had to hold it in. I mean when I say we felt like family and i’ve known them for years is an understatement. This place makes you realize we are all here on earth together, why not pass time with beautiful people?! Shawnae, you are doing something incredible and I can see God’s work moving through you, God bless you all at the restaurant. Truly a one of a kind experience

Angela Henry

Date night a couple of days before the new year was needed and worth the drive @shawnaeshouse from the beginning to end nothing but good vibes at Shaw-nae’s House; staff was amazing; food and drinks were delicious; music was on point; meeting and talking with the owner was a blessing with our names written all over it; Shaw-nae is a gift from God and she spoke life into both of us, she was on assignment as God used her to bless us in prayer; being in her restaurant felt like home with a big sis/auntie I mean we didn’t want to leave; I’m so grateful I was able to snag us a reservation last minute and knock this off hubby list of places to visit; it was meant for us to go and we will be back 🙌🏾🖤🙏🏾🥰🥹

+1

Basilia Ruiz

Shared an experience with a special friend at Shaw-nae’s House and even my friend said you feel like you’re eating at her home from beginning to end. Greeted at the door, seated in a small intimate setting, corn bread flavors out of this world to begin, all of the food you feel her heart and soul poured with love. To end the night you’re not leaving without saying goodnight to the host herself. A hidden gem and will return again and again even if takeout.

Lissette Dilworth

Let me start by saying the food is delicious. The service is phenomenonal. It is like a Sunday meal after church, lets go to grandmas house. If that's how you want to feel, go to this place with an empty stomach and the rum punch is STRONG AND GOOD! 😂

Tiffany Ari

Found this spot on TikTok and Google while searching for good soul food in NYC, and it did not disappoint. My friend and I came for dinner and were greeted right away—staff was attentive, warm, and welcoming. Our waitress Jenn was amazing, walked us through the menu, gave great recommendations, and went above and beyond. The restaurant feels cozy and homey, like your aunt or grandma’s house. We ordered rum punch, soul fries with catfish, smothered turkey wings, collard greens, a crispy chicken sandwich, and banana pudding—everything was 10/10. The complimentary cornbread sampler was a great touch. Loved the intimate, uncrowded vibe and even getting to write on the walls. This is officially our new dinner spot—definitely coming back next time we’re in the city.

Y Y

Jennifer was great. We ordered everything to try as we from Singapore. She packed balance food for us to bring back as we over ordered. Great sauce for the OXTAIL. Took 2 hrs to travel to and fro fr NYC. Worth it.

Tonia McDonald

It was my husband’s birthday and we stayed local to celebrate. I’m so happy we did. Shaw-Nae’s House came through in making our dinner date delightful!!! Service, Food, Music, ALL ON POINT!!! Thank you to our server Jennifer, pleasant and attentive from the time we sat down. And especially Shaw- Nae for her hospitality and personal touch in greeting us, taking pics, and birthday wishes with a delicious Red Velvet slice to celebrate hubby!! We’ll definitely be back!!

Nokuthula Newcombe

We visited Shaw-nae’s house as part of our trip to NYC earlier this year (July) and it was one of the highlights of our trip!! Shaw nae immediately welcomed us at the door and all of the team made our anniversary meal so special. The food was some of the best we’ve ever had - true soul food in a cosy, homely restaurant - everything we had was 10/10 no notes! The staff took such incredible care of us and were so kind and attentive throughout. A must visit place if you’re visiting NYC and super easy to get to from Manhattan via the Staten Island Ferry. Thank you so much Shaw-Nae and the team - see you next time! Xx

+1

Gail M. Rodney

The restaurant doesn’t look particularly warm and inviting from the outside, but once you pass through that threshold, you immediately feel like you’re stepping into a family member’s living room, decorated with floor-to-ceiling drapes, pictures, books, and news clippings celebrating past and present achievements. Warm greetings from the staff follow next. Good vibes all around. I almost took my shoes off because we don’t wear shoes in the house, but then I remembered I was at a restaurant. The waiting area, affectionately called the living room, features deep, squishy couches, stacked books, and warm white pendant lighting overhead. It also doubles as seating for large parties. It reminded me of your favorite auntie’s house because only the favorite auntie would allow you to sit in the living room and make an exception to eat there, too. Once seated, we were poured some high-quality NYC tap water—seriously, NYC has amazing tap water, IYKYK—and served six perfectly squared pieces of cornbread: plain, blueberry, and one with strawberry jam sandwiched in between. Just as I was debating whether to choose the blueberry or strawberry cornbread, a server brought out sweet potato cornbread. Pure brilliance! Warm, gooey, chewy, chunky, sweet, and downright delicious. It felt like a crime to be eating something so decadent. If that was the opening act, I knew the headliner would bring the house down, and thankfully, we had front row seats. Jennifer, our server, had main character energy. Her big, bubbly personality was perfectly balanced with professionalism. We now refer to her as Cousin Jen, though she doesn’t know we’re play cousins yet. Every dish was cooked to perfection—nothing over or underdone, no rubbery or dry textures. For appetizers, we had fried catfish and fried chicken. The catfish was well-seasoned with a flaky, tender texture. The fried chicken was the perfect color brown, crunchy, and crispy. We had mango habanero sauce on half and plain on the other. The plain was my favorite because the chicken truly doesn’t need anything else. For the mains, we ordered fried whiting and smothered turkey wings. The sides were mac and cheese, collard greens, and string beans. Sadly, no potato salad. It’s listed on the menu as “Potato Salad (Sometimes).” If you prefer a looser, runnier cheese sauce, this mac and cheese might not be for you. I love a more solid, macaroni pie-style mac. This mac and cheese had an extra sharp cheddar, rich umami flavor. I was fortunate enough to get a corner piece with those crispy cheese edges. The string beans were peppery, garlicky, and sauteed with onions. They were a little softer than I like, but I’ve been told my string beans taste like a pile of sticks because I cook them lightly. The whiting was seasoned well and fried perfectly. You can tell the oil is changed frequently because the food isn’t greasy or rancid smelling. As for the turkey wings, I’ve tried smothered turkey wings three times in my life now. While they were cooked well and fell right off the bone, they didn’t quite do it for me. Part of the issue is that I don’t love the look or texture of turkey wings, so I start from a negative. I think I’d enjoy them more if they were fried hard and then smothered. Overall, the presentation, portions, flavor, and price point earn a solid 10 out of 10. Taste is subjective, of course. The food was a bit salty for me, but that’s a personal preference. I grew up in a house where salt was used lightly, so take my comments with a grain of salt. We met the owner and chef, a warm and passionate woman who walks the floor engaging with customers and staff alike, sharing stories, taking pictures, and handing out hugs and kisses. She’s the reason this place feels so familiar. While you might not be able to bring your “spinnanight bag,” you can certainly make a plate to enjoy later. We definitely plan to return.

+3

Grace S

Shaw-nae’s house is heaven on earth. My home in Staten Island. This place should have a Michelin Star, it is the best food and service I have ever experienced. This is my favorite dining experience ever and I want to spend every day at Shaw-nae’s house. Also please get the wings and fries with catfish.

Karen Z

Let me first start by saying one word….AMAZING!!! Amazing food, amazing staff and amazing chef/owner! We felt welcome from the moment we walked in. Jennifer was our waitress and she was nothing but kind. The food was out of this world. We loved the soul fries and sugar daddy wings as our starters. We also got the peach sangria pitcher. For our entrees we got the jerk chicken and oxtail. Shaw Naé came out and greeted all her guests. It was worth the hour drive to get there. Thank you Shaw Naé and staff for a wonderful dining experience.

A charter

The service was impeccable. the food was fabulous. the chef and owner Shawnee came out to greet all of her guests gave us a kiss spoke to us in detail it felt so good. I would definitely go back. me and my family had a wonderful time. The wait staff worked so well together. Our waitress was Jennifer. The chicken wings were the bomb. Sweet Thai chili, Buffalo and sugar daddy!!

+2

Kai

My boyfriend and I visited last night and had an incredible experience! I’m from Australia and my boyfriend is from Staten Island and we’ve both never had real soul food before so we were so excited. The food blew us away, From the complimentary corn bread (strawberry being our favourite) and the complimentary sweet potato corn bread dessert (MUST TRY) every single thing was incredible. We ordered the soul fries with catfish bites to start which was perfect. My boyfriend ordered the ribs which he loved & I ordered the wings with mac & cheese and sweet potatoes. The sugar daddy sauce blew me away, Our server Jennifer described it was chicken and waffles but in wing form and she was SPOT on! The sides were my absolute favourite part of the dinner. Perfect mac and perfect sweet potato! Drinks were just as good and I took a slice of carrot cake home which was delicious as well. Can’t fault anything from our whole experience, The only thing we were disappointed by was the fact we didn’t get to speak to Shaw-nae herself but I could feel her love and passion through the food! Can’t wait to come back as soon as we can!

Natassia C.

Went here for my Birthday dinner and it was hands-down the BEST restaurant experience I've had in NYC. (And I'm from here, so I've been to plenty of restaurants) Not only was the food DELICIOUS (Southern style, home cooking), but it was also reasonably priced. The biggest strength of Shaw-nae's House, however, is their service and hospitality. The waiting staff was always on-beat, attentive, and friendly. Shaw-nae even came out and spoke to us personally! She treated everyone like family (and even gave us kisses on the cheek 💋) *with consent ofc Will definitely come back again!

Garrick Yu

Great food and even better people. We felt incredibly welcomed by the team and by Chef Dixon who we had a chance to have a meaningful and heartfelt conversation with. Despite some unforeseen challenges they had with the early prep that day, almost all the food we ordered was delicious. The highlight were the chicken wings and catfish tenders. Oh, and the complementary array of corn bread. A wonderful way to cap off a day in Staten Island - happy, satiated, and plenty of additional takeout for the days ahead. In a way, I'm almost glad that the oxtail and smothered turkey weren't available - we're already planning our next visit. Devious!

Valerie W.

I traveled with a friend from Boston to visit Shaw-nae’s house. It was a welcoming and intimate environment with lots of smiling faces. The restaurant radiated home feel, and it appeared visitors were at home. A wonderful experience plus the food! From the wings to the sweet potato cornbread, it was so filling! As an added bonus Shaw-nae was sweet and shining nature meet. Thank you!

Tatiana M.

From the moment you step into Shawnae’s House you feel at home, literally. I felt as if I were having dinner in my grandmother’s living room. The staff was attentive and welcoming, Jennifer our server was amazing. We even met the owner Shawnae who greeted us, gave us a warm welcome/hug and chatted with us for a few minutes. The food was delicious, seasoned well and full of flavor. The sugar daddy wings are a must try and the many cornbread flavors were all so good. My family and I had a great time here and would definitely recommend Shawnae’s House for some real good soul food!

+1

My parents told me about this soul food place. The reason for the 4 stars because it took an hour for someone to actually pick up the phone and take my order, my review is also based on take out (dine in option is fully booked till summer). The food is very tasty and the portions are generous!! IYKYK there’s a handful of GOOD eats on the Island and this place is one of them 😋 me personally I would eat once, twice a month as the food here is very southern lol. The place is cozy, small and intimate, the owner was also very kind and friendly from when I arrived till when I left. If I can suggest one thing will be to brighten the lights over the register area, the place is already very dimmed and it was kind of hard to see where I was going.

This restaurant was a true gem. We didn’t have reservations and luckily they were able to accommodate us. I came from the BX and plan on going again. The restaurant itself was smaller than I expected but it stay on theme. You feel like you’re in a living room having a meal. I ordered the whiting with mac and cheese and the sweet potatoes. They give you 3 flavors of cornbread and I can’t choose which one is my favorite because they were so good. I gave the food a 4 because my whiting was fried to perfection but could use a little more seasoning. There was one guy waiter and I have nothing negative to say about him. He kept checking on us and accommodated us. I would suggest moving some tables not so close to the register because as I was sitting there it’s like people kept being on my back. I understand the place is small but that was a little annoying. I also had the rum punch which was delicious. I will be back to try something else. I recommend everyone goes and experience this delicious food and beautiful space.

I would definitely come back for take out. I got the ribs, fries, cornbread, mac n cheese, and catfish bites. The ribs are fine, it was 3 ribs and fries for $22 which I believe could include more ribs. Some parts of the ribs are too tough, but the sweet savory bbq sauce, which I think is Rays honey bbq, reminds me of home. The cornbread is easily the best I've ever had. I ate it as soon as i got it and took pictures later of the aftermath. It's moist and very flavorful. The strawberry and sweet potato are so delicious. However, one of the cornbreads, which had what I believe to be raisins, that flavor was not to my taste at all and I couldn't eat that one. The cornbread cost $10 for takeout for me, I think this could be skipped in favor of other sides. The mac n cheese is excellent, I don't usually like that style, it tends to be a bit dry and bland, but this was the complete opposite. Lastly, the catfish bites are very nicely seasoned, well cooked, and nicely tender and juicy. The food overall is solid and very reasonably priced. There were some issues with the service unfortunately. Everyone is super kind, however the reservation app linked directly to the restaurant on Google maps is not an accurate way to schedule a reservation. I came in on time and no tables were available. I got no call or alert that this would be the case with the restaurant being live first come, first serve sitting. The staff was very kind and offered a 10% discount and I ordered to go. The food took about 45 minutes which is understandable considering how packed it was. I asked for tartar sauce when I ordered and unfortunately didn't receive it (although the catfish doesn't typically come with it, I specifically asked), and also no utensils were put in the to go bag.

My expectation level was thru the roof. It was met at a 3 tho. First,I really enjoyed the decor. It is quaint and very homey. The food ce out in a reasonable amount of time. The gentleman that took our order, although a nice dude, didn't give me assurance that my experience would be good. The food...yams had a strange after taste. They were missing several side dishes that I would have ordered. Macaroni and cheese was really good. Cheesy and soft. No cakey. Whiting fish wasn't seasoned. Cornbread was interesting. Didn't expect oreo cookies in cornbread. Wasn't sure if it was desert or a pastry. My fork was dirty. They swapped it out quickly for a new set of utentsils. The staff...didn't seem as cordial as I would have expected for a small family style restaurant. They seemed new and fearful to engage with the customers. A gentleman who didn't give his title...I assumed was a manager, asked us how our food was. Overall, I'd go back to try something different, but I probably won't rush.

I recently dined here and was blown away by the food! The Sugar Daddy Wings were a standout — perfectly crispy with a delicious maple syrup glaze that struck the right balance of sweet and savory. The portions were generous, which I really appreciated, and the overall quality of the dishes was top-notch. However, I was disappointed with the handling of my Resy prepaid reservation. It’s standard practice for prepaid reservations to be deducted from the final bill, and this wasn’t the case here (due to their policy). Unfortunately, this wasn’t stated when I booked, which left a sour note at the end of an otherwise fantastic meal. I recommend this place for the food, but I’d advise confirming reservation details ahead of time to avoid surprises.

I order the Sugar daddy wing s and the other half with Thai sauce it was so good 👍 I also ordered the Truffle fries they where just okay they need to be more crisper for my taste , I also got the strawberry cornbread and the sweet potato the strawberry it was a bit overpowering for my taste and the sweet potato cornbread I wasn't crazy about the Red velvet cake was just okay . Very cute restaurant cozy and nice music and decor .

Ordered out here tonight. Trekked from the Bronx. The customer service was exceptional, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Put simply, the food isn’t worth the price, but the overall experience may be. The collard greens were excellent, some of the best I’ve ever had. Everything else — mac n cheese, jerk rice, catfish tenders, jerk chicken, blueberry cornbread, strawberry cornbread, and sweet potato cornbread — were unremarkable (if not bad) and way overpriced. Go for the experience, not the food, and make sure your bills are paid first. Still glad I went. I won’t be back.

The people were extremely helpful and nice that worked inside i took my food to go my food and 2 small rum punches came out to 76 dollars . The rum punch was horrible it taste like bottom shelf vodka (not rum) with mad orange juice and grenadine !!! The yams taste from the can packed in syrup the greens taste over mushy and beyond salty the wings were extremely sweet taste like icing syrup and cinnamon 76 dollars in the garbage literally. Im extremely dissapointed !!!! I had a future reservation they are correct they canceled and refunded the 21 dollar reservation fee ….

+5