If you’re into live Jazz, homestyle cooking, and sports, you’ll have a great time at The Sound Bite, in Hell’s Kitchen NYC. Founded by Julian Phillips, former PIX11 News Anchor and his wife, Jazz singer, Barbara King. The Sound Bite opened in early 2018 and their blackened chicken wings have been quite a hit. It’s a clever name for a restaurant created by a News anchor. There are also autographed portraits filling the walls of all the colleagues Mr. Phillips has worked with throughout his career. Though they’re menu is a bit sparse, they do offer a really interesting fusion of cuisine, Cajun-Italian.
The Sound Bite’s prices are on the higher end, which at first, made me and my partner skeptical about eating here. We had read about the blackened chicken wings, and decided we’d give them a shot.
We ordered the 8 piece for $12, and a bowl of their mac and cheese ($11.50). The wings came out before the mac n cheese and we dug in. We were pleasantly surprised that the wings lived up to the hype. Tender with the right amount of seasoning, and a unique flavor that is unlike any other chicken wing we have ever had. We added a 3 piece ($3.50) to our mac n cheese. The wings come with your choice of one of their unique dipping sauces. I tried the Cajun Remoulade and the Garlic sauces. Both paired deliciously with the wings.
“It’s a place for news, great food and great jazz and blues!” – Julian Phillips.
It certainly is just that. With large tvs behind the bar, and Jazz music filling up the restaurant, there’s plenty of stimuli to keep you entertained throughout your meal.
I particularly loved the energy of the place. It felt like being at a family gathering, with live music, good food, and tv. Something very familial about having the tv on in the background with news and sports while eating dinner. The Jazz was great too! We went on a night where Barbara performed and she was great!
I’ll definitely go back the next time I want to watch a basketball game, but also get that vibrant city energy that is so unique to NYC.




