The Rise

Marcus Samuelsson · The Rise

A native New Yorker with strong ties to South Carolina, Melba likes to say she was "born, bred, and buttered" in Harlem. Her aunt is Sylvia Woods of Harlem's Sylvia's. Chicken and waffles originated in Harlem when jazz musicians wanted something delicious after playing all night. It's a dish that perfectly reflects Melba and her Harlem roots. Note: This recipe may seem intimidating, but if you make the glaze first, then boil the sweet potato for the waffles while frying the chicken, you can keep the chicken warm in the oven while making the waffles.