Harlem is known for its southern-style eateries. Some are touristy, some not. Charles' is a "not". Head to 150th street and you'll find a no-frills soul food buffet that won't disappoint-or leave you hungry. If authentic southern fried chicken is what you want, you can do no better in New York City--the chicken has a thick, tasty batter and is pan-fried to tender perfection. The black-eyed peas are particularly delicious, redolent of pork fat, and the greens are not overcooked as you so often find them. The cornbread is on the sweet side--I have yet to find a New York restaurant that serves the salty, buttery cornbread my grandmother made--but some prefer it that way. Other items on the buffet the day I was there included ribs, yams, oxtail stew and an okra-tomato item that was pretty tasty. No fried okra, alas. Note: call to make sure they're open. Charles keeps erratic hours.