Sylvia Woods’ life stands as a strong rejoinder to those who doubt that the American Dream is achievable for all.
Woods, who died Thursday at the age of 86, rose from being a waitress at the then-Johnson’s Luncheonette — to buying and renaming it after herself on Aug. 1, 1962.
Over five decades, the trailblazing entrepreneur would become Harlem’s unofficial hostess and “Queen of Soul Food.”
Sylvia’s became a world-famous destination — the go-to establishment for Harlem’s elite and visiting black celebrities.
Eventually, politicians of every background would be sure to make their way uptown to pay respects to the charismatic “Miss Sylvia” — including once-and-future presidents, governors and mayors.
It didn’t hurt that the food itself was darn good: Sylvia and her late husband Herbert offered a menu true to their native South Carolina cuisine — fried chicken, cornbread, ribs, collard greens, etc.
Woods extended the Sylvia brand into bestselling cookbooks, catering and a line of seasonings and canned goods.
Sylvia Woods leaves behind a great New York legacy — good food and a landmark of African-American culture and achievement at Lenox Avenue and 127th Street.
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R.I.P.