Submitted by Joshua Ng on 05/27/2018
Was very interested following the NYT review. This restaurant apparently takes reservations only, but I managed to get in without one.
For a 15-25 seat restaurant, they only had 2 staff. The service was friendly, but it ends there. The food service was slow, and for such a restaurant, the execution was not great. It felt like the chef was very distracted, as he was managing the front and the back of the house. The other server was also frequently going out to buy stuff for the kitchen.
For drinks, they have a BYOB concept. That really means go get your drinks from the deli next door because we ain't serving any.
The food was also not great. Had fried chicken with Mac and cheese. The chicken came well brined and was juicy, but the chicken was very soft on the crust. You could taste the flavor in the batter, but the execution was not there. Not impressed especially when I'm going to consume that many calories.
Dining at Spaha is not a typical restaurant, Artist (the owner) only allows advance reservations and takes 1-2 tables per seating. But that's what makes it so special. Not only is the food incredible, but Artist creates one of the best (and most reasonably priced) private dining experiences in NYC. He'll tell you stories of his career, give you the history behind each dish, and often bring out complimentary food/drinks depending on what he's got in the back.
Some tips:
--plan for 3-4 hours, if you're rushing out it's not the full experience
--bring alcohol, it's byob (with corking fee) though sometimes you'll get complimentary drinks
--tell Artist your orders the day before so he can buy the ingredients
--get the ribs and cornbread, both are some of the best I've ever had
Submitted by Adam Roberts on 08/25/2022
Food was good...room for improvement overall ...needs more man/woman power
Submitted by Roc Belizaire on 08/20/2022
My first time today And I will forever chase this first time experience. I loved the food and the owner is a class act . The restaurant was clean, the owner constantly in a good way checking that our needs we're attended to in an acceptable manner. The price reasonable. Customers, though strangers to me, imitated the owners' tone, friendly and easy to talk with. I loved every aspect of my time at Spaha soul and bone broth can’t wait to go back .
Submitted by Amy Mbengue on 05/26/2022
The food and atmosphere was awesome. The meal was delicious and my friend has such a great time she did don't even realize she was drinking the sauce from her Skrimps meal after all the food on the plate was gone ???? Will definitely return
Submitted by Mo Bell on 03/01/2022
Lovely small restaurant that makes you feel like you are in someone's living room. The owner/chef, Artist, was gracious and presented a delicious variety of dishes which he prepares himself for all his guests. I had fried chicken, mac 'n cheese and collard greens and the best cornbread I have had in ages. You can tell it was prepared with skill and love. True Soul Food. With music in the background and lively conversation it was a real experience that I am so happy to have had. I want to return for the Pork chops. It is BYOB establishment, so bring your favorite beverage. Make a reservation and pay Spaha Soul a visit.
Submitted by Pam Brasey on 06/27/2021
Completely excited to find a southern food spot that is so welcoming and the food is delicious! The owner was soooooo understanding of my allergies and made the food with understanding. He was honest on him trying to keep his business open on his own throughout these harsh times serving and cooking in his own so a bit of a wait but completely worth it! The music and space outside is so calming and relaxing for a night out in a soul food mood. Thank you again!
Submitted by Demi Lee on 08/14/2020
One of the nicest experiences I've ever had at a restaurant. It was so beautiful inside. From the music, the decor and the personal service. The food is made on the spot and you need a reservation but trust me, it's so worth it
Submitted by Carl Closson on 01/23/2020
This was one of the greatest restaurant experiences I have ever had. Artist and Kevin made us feel at home from the minute we walked in the door. The setting is very relaxed and intimate- you feel welcome at home.
The food is familiar, yet original, but all exceptional and unpretentious. Everything is made with love and it shines through in every bite.
Submitted by Richard Devitt on 05/12/2019
My boyfriend and I LOVE this restaurant and always felt so welcome walking in! I have some diet restrictions and the owner/chef was so understanding and made us an amazing meals. Definitely one of a kind place with terrific food. Recommend making a reservation or calling before as menu items sell out quickly. Catfish was unbelievable and I don't like it at all normally! Cornbread pancakes so so good too!
Submitted by Cassandra Simmons on 12/24/2016