Issue #3
Aug. 31st 2001
Harlem's Best Kept Secret
...by Benny Blanco from the Bronx.
Gishen Cafe.
2150 Fifth Ave.
New York, NY
212.283.7699
The start of the week, disturbs me to no end. To face another five or six days of painful banality, is at times too much for me to bear. After struggling with this for some time, I have finally found a means of salvation - Live jazz at Gishen Cafe on Monday night.
Gishen Cafe in the heart of Harlem (132nd Street and 5th Avenue) stands as a monument to the black renaissance. It was originally opened in 1928 just around the corner from Marcus Garvey's home. Now they feature live music five nights a week (Sunday thru Thursday). Wednesday nights, in particular, have become a mecca for some of New York City's hottest jazz musicians and special guests help to transform this small, up and coming haven into a throwback to the classic jam sessions of Byrd.
If your'e looking for a comfortable, realxing vibe to ease into the week properly, check out Gishen. This site was the first post-prohibition bar with a black owner licensee in Harlem. The decaying remains have been renovated into an exposed brick and wood deco. Featuring not only live jazz but a variety of other entertaining forums every night of the week, Gishen Cafe is truly Harlem's best kept secret. The bar is generally well stocked and features Addis, an Ethiopian lager that's hard to find any where else in
NYC and Saba, a sweet, but strong Ethiopian honey wine. With a sumptuous array of traditionally spicy Ethiopian dishes served in a revolutionary atmosphere reminiscent of the days of the Harlem Renassaince, Gishen Cafe is the heart of Ethiopia in New York City. Enjoy.Benny Blanco
-from the Bronx
Here are just a few patron's comments about Gishen Cafe...
"The spot is eclectic, the food is awesome, once you enter, you really feel as if you have entered another world"
"I will definitely be returning to Gishen, after my first visit, I have fallen in love with the place, there is a real sense of family and community there, everyone there is there to have a good time. Plus they have a wonderful coco mango martini that puts the apple martini to shame"
So, please start you labor day weekend off right and join us this Friday, August 31, 2001 at 8:00 PM at Gishen Cafe. There will be live music and entertainment during dinner. If you are interested in coming please e-mail us at summer_series@yahoo.com
Gishen Cafe 2150 5th Ave.(@ 132nd St.)
Time: 8:00 PM Date : Friday 8/31/01 Price Range : $20 (includes dinner, dessert, and coffee)
NUBIAN ARTS Vol.1
