Yatenga French Bistro And Bar

Went here for the first time on a Tuesday night and everything was fantastic. Two dishes I'll mention: An abundance of perfectly cooked shrimp on a bed of parmesan-crusted baked macaroni and cheese (and mushrooms) and a very large salad Nicoise topped with a tremendous amount of rare tuna. Happy hour until 8 pm brought $5 glasses of quite good wine, with serious pours, and NYC craft beers. And the service was top notch. I can't recommend this restaurant enough.

I have been eating at Yatenga since 2011. I so appreciate its presence in Harlem. I declare that it’s my “go to” place to dine in NYC & Harlem in particular! For many years I’d have my “after-theater” repast on Restaurant Row. But no longer. I head straight uptown to Harlem and Yatenga. When friends & relatives are visiting and ask for restaurant suggestions it’s always Yatenga The staff is efficient, professional, attentive & personable. Ousman the proprietor has done a marvelous job and is the quintessential restaurateur! And I must confess that I have a keen admiration for Tom the Barman. The staff here seems to know me and my preferences and I like that! I once met Ousman on the bus and declared: I ONLY EAT YOUR FOOD IN HARLEM!

We came here on a Friday evening. Initially, there were 4 of us but we were expecting some additional family members to join us. The waiter was nice enough to allow us to sit at a larger table that would accommodate our total party. He was very nice and personable. He gave us some good menu suggestions and checked on us often. The food and drinks were spot on. Everything was great except for people walking past asking for money, asking to taste our food etc. Unfortunately, the restaurant can't manage people walking past but it makes for an uncomfortable dining experience. Next time we go, we'll avoid the outdoor seating closer to the street or just dine indoors.

The best restaurant in Harlem! Authentic French country and rustic food made by a star chef, served by genuinely welcoming and nice wait staff. Simple and rustic decor complements the unpretentious food and makes for a leisurely and luxurious dining experience unlike anywhere else. Truly a rare place that is a destination for people who know food, celebrate diversity and love Harlem. One of the only places like it and the best of any around.

Ok, it’s been two, approaching three years since I came here, not because of the food, but because I live several hours away. If I lived any closer, you bet I’d come far more often. Though you may be quick to write off a review of a restaurant that the reviewer hasn’t been to in years, and honestly perhaps rightfully so, I can tell you right now that after nearly three years I still remember the sandwich pictured as being the best I’ve ever had, or at very least, top 3, not that I have a written list. Steak, peppers, egg, and a spicy sauce all between incredible bread. Hot damn did I love that sandwich, and to this day do I love its memory. Give it a shot if you’re in the area. PS the interior is very nice.