New Apple TV+ Comedy Series Featuring Harlem Restaurant Melba’s in Production

Harlem’s iconic soul food spot, Melba’s, is making its way to your screens in a new Apple TV+ comedy series called American Comfort. The show, inspired by restaurateur Melba Wilson’s life, will be brought to life by some serious talent. Kenya Barris, the genius behind black-ish, is set to write and executive produce the series, alongside executive producers Oprah Winfrey and Aaron Kaplan’s Kapital Entertainment. And starring as Melba herself is the talented Danielle Brooks, known for her roles in The Color Purple and Orange Is the New Black.

American Comfort will delve into the heart and humor of how Melba’s transformed from a local gem into a global culinary icon over the past 20 years. Before starting her own empire, Melba Wilson honed her skills at Sylvia’s, another legendary Harlem establishment owned by her aunt. Armed with family recipes and industry experience, Melba opened her restaurant nearly two decades ago. From Southern staples like fried catfish to her famous chicken and waffles, Melba’s dishes have earned national acclaim, even beating Bobby Flay on Food Network’s Throwdown! with Bobby Flay.

Today, Melba’s has expanded to notable locations like Grand Central Terminal and Newark’s Prudential Center, but the heart of the brand remains in Harlem. The original location has even been recognized with James Beard Award nominations for Outstanding Hospitality. With American Comfort, viewers worldwide will get a taste of the love and hustle that built this culinary empire. So get ready to dine in with Melba’s and experience the flavors that made it a household name!