How Melba Wilson Built A Culinary Empire In Harlem

from Hospitality & Politics with Andrew Rigie · host NYC Hospitality Alliance

Melba Wilson is a chef, restaurateur, entrepreneur, and the owner of Melba’s Restaurant, a beloved Harlem comfort food and soul food institution. In this conversation, she shares her journey from humble beginnings in Harlem to becoming one of New York City’s most celebrated restaurant owners. We discuss lessons learned at iconic restaurants like Sylvia’s, Rosa Mexicano, and Windows on the World, navigating the hospitality industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, and her role as president of the NYC Hospitality Alliance. Melba also talks leadership, community impact, and expanding the Melba brand through television projects and food product lines.https://www.thenycalliance.org/https://www.instagram.com/thenycalliance/ TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - Welcome Melba To Hospitality & Politics2:43 - Melba’s Journey to Opening Her Restaurant5:57 - Sylvia’s Restaurant12:25 - Opening Melba’s in Harlem16:27 - Challenges Of Operating A Restaurant24:27 - Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere27:12 - Hiring the Right People28:04 - Outdoor Dining During the Pandemic32:31 - Challenges During The Pandemic39:25 - Empowering the Team46:41 - Advocating for the Industry50:50 - Future Projects in TV & Food Products53:00 - Thanks Melba For Joining!#newyorkcity #restaurant #politics #hospital #business #smallbusiness

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This episode was published on January 27, 2026.

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