There was a time when Gospel Brunch was at the top of every New York visitor’s to-do list, but in recent years, it seems to have slipped off the radar. I started wondering if gospel brunches were still a thing, and if they were still worth experiencing. There was only one way to find out, so Steve and I headed up to Harlem and Red Rooster, which is said to be one of the best places in the city to experience a true Gospel Brunch.
Red Rooster is celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson’s restaurant in Harlem. The place has a strong local following, and weekends are especially lively. Samuelsson, who was adopted from Ethiopia and raised in Sweden, is one of the few Scandinavian chefs to have achieved true celebrity chef status in the US. He’s known for his creative dishes that often blend Scandinavian and African influences, but at Red Rooster, the focus is mainly on classic American comfort food with a Harlem twist.
Gospel Brunch takes place downstairs at Ginny’s Supper Club, which is Red Rooster’s cozy lounge with red walls, small tables, and a little stage. The food is served buffet-style, and before you roll your eyes and swipe left, let me just say that this is one of the best buffets I’ve ever had.
I tried a little bit of everything and ended up finishing it all. Everything on my plate ranged from really good to downright amazing. My favorites were the fried catfish, biscuits and gravy, but honestly, there wasn’t a single thing that didn’t taste great.
You serve yourself from the buffet before the show starts, and you can go back for seconds if you want. Coffee and tea are included in the ticket price, which also covers the buffet, the show, and service charges so aside from cocktails or other drinks, there’s nothing else to worry about once you’re seated.
The gospel choir performing at Ginny’s is Sing Harlem!, an award-winning artist collective and one of the most respected and influential groups on New York’s gospel scene. Sing Harlem! is both a social impact initiative for young people who have graduated from Mama Foundation’s music and artist development programs and a professional choir that performs across the United States. All proceeds from their shows go toward the Mama Foundation’s tuition-free music education programs in Harlem, which aim to preserve and promote the traditions of gospel, jazz, and R&B for future generations.
When the choir took the stage, the music filled the room completely. Their energy was incredible as they moved effortlessly between classic gospel songs and surprising gospel versions of popular hits. Everything was delivered with contagious joy, and it was impossible not to tap your foot, clap along, or even sing a little.
Even though most of the audience were tourists, the experience didn’t feel touristy at all. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and it felt like being part of something truly special, a glimpse into Harlem’s soul and musical heritage.
So let’s make this clear: Yes, gospel brunch is still a thing, and yes, if you’re in New York City on a Sunday, gospel brunch at Red Rooster should be on the top of your list. It’s an unforgettable experience with great food, incredible music, and a vibrant atmosphere and a feeling of joy that stays with you long after you’ve left.
Red Rooster, 310 Lenox Ave, New York, NY 10027
