New York City , United States of America

Harlem Cultural Food Brunch Tour

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About this experience

Experience Harlem like never before with our Harlem African Diaspora Brunch Tour—a unique blend of culinary delights, rich history, and vibrant culture.

What Sets Our Tour Apart:

Authentic Culinary Journey: Savor a curated brunch featuring traditional dishes that trace the flavors of the African Diaspora, from West African specialties to Southern soul food.

Immersive Cultural Experience: Engage with local historians and community members who share personal stories and insights, offering a deeper understanding of Harlem's heritage.

Historic Landmarks: Explore iconic sites like the Apollo Theater and Little Senegal.

Community Engagement: Support local businesses and artisans, ensuring your visit contributes positively to the community's economy and cultural preservation.

Interactive Discussions: Participate in thought-provoking conversations about the African American experience, migration, and the evolution of Harlem's diverse neighborhoods.

Available options

Harlem Cultural Food Brunch Tour

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Guide

Savor Harlem's rich African Diaspora heritage through a brunch blending soulful flavors and cultural stories. Experience the neighborhood's vibrant history with every bite.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our guide would meet you at the world-renowned Apollo Theater, which tells an ever-shifting history of black culture within Harlem. Famous performers Michael Jackson, Little Richard, and Lauryn Hill graced the stage.

However, many people do not know that the Apollo did not allow black people to perform there until the 1930s. We discuss food, history, and culture.

Little Senegal is a dynamic cultural hub in Central Harlem, centered around 116th Street, where you'll find the largest Senegalese and West African immigrant community in NYC—and one of the largest outside of Senegal.

From the aroma of grilled meats and jollof rice wafting from local restaurants to shop windows lined with traditional fabrics, books, and Islamic art, the area offers a deeply immersive experience of West African culture.

Explore traditional African crafts, textiles, and urban wear. Browse carved wooden art, handmade clothes, and visit hair-braiding boutiques. Saturdays sometimes feature special giveaways!

What's not included

Additional Food & Alcohol

Available languages

Guide guide

Written guide

EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.8

5 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

We'll meet at 10:30 AM in front of Island Juice at 51 E 125th St, New York, NY 10035, USA. Look for your guide holding a sign: " Diaspora Food Tour"

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information