Meghan and Harry Donate $25,000 to Melba’s Black-Owned Restaurant After Tasting Chicken and Waffles
by Charlene Rhinehart

September 25, 2021

Meghan and Harry Donate $25,000 to Melba’s Black-Owned Restaurant After Tasting Chicken and Waffles

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stopped in Harlem to try Melba’s chicken and waffles on Friday (September 24), according to Page Six. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex also left a generous tip. Before leaving, they pledged to donate $25,000 towards the company’s COVID-19 Employee Relief Fund.

Melba’s Restaurant, named after founder Melba Wilson, is a premier soul food destination in New York City. This black-owned restaurant was opened in 2005. The restaurant serves an array of comfort foods such as Melba’s Spring Rolls, Southern Crab Cakes, and Fried Catfish Strips. You can also order creative entrees, including Southern Fried Chicken Wings & Eggnog Waffles and BBQ Turkey Meatloaf.

Page Six reports that this was the first time Prince Harry had a taste of chicken and waffles. Diners at the restaurant were shocked to spot Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. One person noted that Prince Harry was served Southern fried chicken and eggnog waffles, catfish, spring rolls, and yams. The couple also added in a family favorite, collard greens, which Meghan’s mother often prepares for the couple.

Melba was excited to give The Duke and Duchess of Sussex a taste of her restaurant’s famous foods. She shared the news about her special guests on Instagram.

“It was such an honor to officially welcome Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to Melba’s! I am so thankful for their commitment to donate $25k and hope to welcome them back soon. Thank you for dining with us! 

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Support Melba’s Restaurant

The 114th Street Harlem restaurant is giving the community more than food. Melba’s is providing job opportunities to people who may have been impacted by COVID-19.

Melba’s COVID-19 Employee Relief Fund was founded to provide financial support to hourly workers at the restaurant. Since many families have struggled during the pandemic, the fund is designed to give a helping hand. This fund was created through a partnership with Team Unity Incorporated — a nonprofit organization that supports diversity, equality, and inclusion initiatives.

The fund’s goal is to raise a minimum of $250,000. Thanks to the generosity of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the organization will obtain 10% of its base fundraising goal.

The royal couple has been full of surprises during the pandemic. While in Harlem, Meghan Markle visited PS 123 Mahalia Jackson School. She read her first children’s book, The Bench, to second-grade students, People reported.

The elementary school students aren’t the only ones excited to be in the presence of royalty. Melba’s conversation with The Duke and Duchess was a moment to remember. Melba shared her excitement on her page earlier today.

“This was truly a dream come true for this girl who was Born, Bred and Buttered in Harlem!,” Melba posted. “I am forever grateful!”


×