Harlem Shake brought community pride, fierce competition, and mouthwatering flavor to the forefront as it launched the 12th season of its beloved Mr./Miss Harlem Shake Contest. This annual event invites Harlem locals to vote for the next face of Harlem Shake, a community ambassador crowned not just for their personality, but for their passion for Harlem. Since expanding to include both men and women in 2016, the contest has become a celebration of the neighborhood’s diversity and talent.
This year’s kickoff event allowed the enthusiastic crowd to meet the contestants up close. Each hopeful had a chance to share their personal story, showcase their unique talents, and spotlight a Harlem-based charity they’ve chosen to support. From spoken word performances and musical numbers to heartfelt speeches, the event radiated hometown pride. The prize? Bragging rights as the next Mr./Miss Harlem Shake, their photo featured prominently on the eatery’s Wall of Fame, a coveted spot on Harlem Shake’s African American Day Parade float, a generous cash prize (split with their chosen charity), and, of course, free burgers for a year.
After meeting all the contestants, I cast my vote for Tanasia, a 28-year-old entrepreneur whose passion for preserving Harlem’s vibrant culture truly stood out. Through storytelling, personal style, and photography, she’s on a mission to celebrate the soul of the neighborhood and keep its legacy alive. Her chosen charity, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, perfectly reflects her commitment to honoring and uplifting Black history and creativity.
The atmosphere was further energized by the soulful sounds of weekly house performers C. Kelly Wright and the Soul Power Band, delivering a mix of smooth R&B and jazz that had the crowd grooving between contestant intros.
Food lovers had even more reason to attend: Harlem Shake debuted new dishes from its Spring Menu. Highlights included the indulgent Uptown Surf and Turf Burger, a decadent combination of beef and fried shrimp layered with tangy sauce; the Loaded Lennox Curls, crispy curly fries topped with cheese and house-made chili; and the crowd-pleasing Strawberry Cheesecake Shake, made with real chunks of New York-style cheesecake and Blue Marble Ice Cream (you may remember we highlighted it back in March).
For those unfamiliar, Harlem Shake has long been a neighborhood staple, famous for its throwback vibe and elevated takes on classic American comfort food. Known for its custom Pat LaFrieda beef patties, all-beef NY-style hot dogs, hearty chicken sandwiches, and creamy hand-spun shakes, the restaurant continues to evolve while honoring the spirit of Harlem.
With an exciting lineup of contestants, a community-first mission, and delicious new dishes to try, this season’s Mr./Miss Harlem Shake contest is shaping up to be one of the most memorable yet. Whether you’re there to vote, vibe, or indulge, Harlem Shake is once again proving that it’s more than just a burger joint; it’s a celebration of Harlem itself.
