Sylvia Woods

Sylvia Woods

Sylvia Woods was a renowned American restaurateur who was popularly known as the "Queen of Soul Food". She was the founder of the famous Sylvia's Restaurant of Harlem, New York, which she opened in 1962. The restaurant is a popular destination for locals, tourists, and celebrities alike, serving traditional southern comfort food.

Early Life

Sylvia Woods was born on February 2, 1926, in Hemingway, South Carolina. She moved to New York City in 1944, where she initially worked as a waitress in a small diner. This experience sparked her interest in the food industry, and she decided to open her own restaurant.

Sylvia's Restaurant

Sylvia's Restaurant is a landmark in Harlem, known for its soul food. The restaurant was initially a small luncheonette, but it grew over the years to accommodate more customers. The menu at Sylvia's includes traditional southern dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread. The restaurant is also known for its Sunday gospel brunch.

Legacy

Sylvia Woods passed away in 2012, but her legacy lives on through her restaurant and her family. Her children and grandchildren continue to run Sylvia's Restaurant, keeping her spirit alive. In addition to the restaurant, Sylvia's legacy includes a line of food products and a charitable foundation.

See Also

• Soul Food
• Harlem
• American Restaurateurs

References

• Sylvia Woods Obituary - The New York Times
• Sylvia's Restaurant Official Website
• Sylvia Woods - National Women's History Museum

External Links

• Sylvia's Restaurant Official Website
• Sylvia Woods - National Women's History Museum