Renowned Restauranteur & Chef Melba Wilson to Open Melba’s at Wollman Rink in Central Park

New York, NY (June 29, 2022) — Harlem's beloved Melba Wilson is bringing her famed Melba's Restaurant concept to Wollman Rink with the opening of Melba's at Wollman Rink on Sunday, June 19. Whether you are visiting Central Park or going skating at Wollman Rink, Melba's new location will be open for locals and visitors alike to enjoy her famous comfort food at one of NYC's most famous locations. Located at The Overlook above the rink, the cafe will feature a s

mogasburg of flavorful menu items, ranging from signature dishes such as southern fried chicken & waffles and cafe exclusives such as Melba's DiscOasis fries. The opening of Melba's kick-off an electric and distinctly New York summer, which included the anticipated arrival of The DiscOasis on June 16.

Inspired by her Harlem roots, Chef Melba brings comfortable dining to New York City. Over the past two decades, Melba's has become a New York City foodie destination for those looking for impeccable service and premier comfort food. Upon entering Melba's, guests will be greeted with warm Harlem hospitality service in an outdoor setting overlooking the iconic Wollman Rink. As the rink's official community partner, Melba's culinary program offers affordable, delectable dishes that allow all New Yorkers the ability to enjoy a warm and comforting meal in the park. Melba's overlook concept will join Great Performances' clubhouse concession as part of the rink's premier food & beverage experience.

"Wollman Rink has become one of New York City's most recognized locations and it only seemed fitting for our team to put together a culinary program designed to reflect the diversity and resiliency of New Yorkers," shared Melba Wilson, Founder of Melba's Restaurant. "I am thrilled to open Melba's on The Overlook and to be a partner at Wollman Rink."

"As an official community partner of Wollman Rink NYC, Chef Melba has constantly worked to establish Wollman Rink as a classic New York City experience," said Stefanie Tomlin, General Manager of Wollman Rink NYC. "Melba's at Wollman Rink brings a unique and soulful taste of NYC to Central Park, aiding in our mission to curate a diverse, inclusive space for New Yorkers."

The menu will feature Melba's DiscOasis fries, topped with Vermont cheddar cheese and gravy; Chicken N' Waffle cone; Brown Butter Ice Cream & Eggnog Waffle Sandwich; Crispy Fish Strips with a chipotle dipping sauce; and creamy Trés Macaroni & Cheese, complete with Vermont cheddar, mozzarella and pepper jack cheeses. To drink, classic beverages such as Harlem Sweet Tea and Low Country Lemonade will be available for purchase, along with Melba's Palmer, a concoction of the Harlem Sweet Tea, Low Country Lemonade and Maker's Mark.

Opened in 1950 and reopened last year under new operators Wollman Rink Partners (WPP), Wollman Rink (830 5th Avenue) has been a favorite New York destination for decades. The rink's mission is to promote an inclusive, welcoming and healthy environment for all visitors in partnership with its community partners that include Great Performances, Celebrity Chef Melba Wilson, YMCA of Greater New York, Ice Hockey in Harlem, Figure Skating in Harlem, The Boys' Club of New York and Green City Force. The iconic rink is less than a five-minute walk from the Park's south entrance at W. 59th Street and 6th Avenue.

Melba's will be open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 3:00pm to 9:00pm. For more information, please visit wollmanrinknyc.com