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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in the LES

Intimate seafood spots

You want to enjoy your seafood in a space that allows for a conversation you don't have to shout over.

Based on 702 Opinions
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01
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Small sushi restaurant offers an intimate setting with sharp, stylish design and comfortable bar seating. Loud pop and rap music create a high-energy atmosphere that can make conversation difficult. Guests enjoy an interactive omakase experience featuring a lively fire show and complimentary sake.

Intimate setting creates a warm vibe with the chef's interaction adding personal touch. Attentive service complements the atmosphere for a memorable dining experience.

Fish arrives very fresh and silky, showing clear skill from the sushi chef. Innovative dishes like king salmon appetizers and Indian-style corn fritters with chopped fish add unique flavors alongside excellent small theatrics.

People are saying

"The fish here is always super fresh and tasty."

"I experienced the most creative seafood omakase in the city."

"The intimate setting and attentive service made for an outstanding experience."

Good to know

1

Kaki is running an August special of $55 for 13 courses.

2

You need to bring your own beverage (BYOB) to Kaki.

3

The team made the birthday celebration special with a complimentary matcha dessert.

02
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Counter seats hold only six people, creating an intimate atmosphere with close interaction between chef and diners. A hidden speakeasy bar behind the restaurant offers a relaxed space for drinks after the meal. The vibe is serene and sophisticated, suited for quiet, focused dining experiences.

Only six seats create a very intimate setting with sophisticated ambiance. Service focuses on attention to detail and high-quality fish.

Fish selection stands out with high-quality fish that tastes fresh and well-prepared. Salmon offers a buttery swell of fat without oily flavor, paired with careful preparation and well-calibrated rice.

People are saying

"The seafood here is top-notch, with fish that's fresh and carefully prepared."

"It felt so personal, like chatting with friends."

"The fish is fresh and beautifully prepared."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating for six guests.

2

The omakase experience costs $85 per person for 13 courses.

3

An optional sake/wine pairing is available for an additional $55.

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Minimalist space with counter seating creates an intimate yet lively atmosphere. Fast-paced omakase experience offers exceptional sushi at an unbeatable price. An impressive sake selection complements the vibrant, welcoming vibe.

Casual yet intimate atmosphere creates a cozy vibe without feeling pretentious. The space feels relaxed and personal.

Fish arrives fresh and high-quality, with each piece carefully prepared and beautifully plated. The chef explains the fish origins, highlighting key fresh ingredients that stand out in every course.

People are saying

"The seafood here is unbelievably fresh and outstanding."

"The fish is fresh and tastes amazing for the price."

"The fish is always fresh and worth the price."

Good to know

1

The omakase set costs $55 with no tipping required.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid cancellation fees.

3

The omakase experience includes 13 courses of sushi.

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Korean restaurant offers intimate, lively vibe with tapa style dishes meant for sharing. Space feels tiny and cramped, with tables packed closely together, creating a noisy atmosphere. Bartender runs an impressive cocktail program featuring unique drinks like jasmine-infused soju and matcha yuzu.

Small setting with tapa style dishes encourages sharing. Serves amazing Korean cuisine that suits close gatherings.

Seafood shines with meaty clams in a tangy broth and delicate shrimp tartar topped with Uni. Dishes like the seared scallops with barley and umami-rich chawanmushi add variety and depth.

People are saying

"The miso cod and grilled octopus were phenomenal."

"The intimate flavors here are amazing and hit so many notes."

"The clams and scallops had amazing flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended as walk-ins are almost impossible.

2

Expect a wait time of up to 3 hours without a reservation.

3

Dining time is limited to one hour per meal.

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Small, intimate space with warm lighting and a charming interior creates a cozy atmosphere. Guests enjoy diverse Filipino tapas paired with unique cocktails like shochu espresso martinis. The vibe suits casual dinners with friends rather than romantic dates.

Small size and cozy seating create an intimate atmosphere. Staff support celebrations, making occasions feel personal and special.

Oyster sisig offers a unique twist by blending oysters with the classic sisig dish. Chorizo Shrimp Al Ajillo stands out as a must-try seafood option.

People are saying

"The oyster sisig is a must-try seafood twist."

"The chorizo shrimp was sweet but tasty."

"It's an intimate place that helped us celebrate."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Happy Hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

3

The menu features Filipino/Spanish fusion dishes.

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Traditional Japanese interior features tatami mat seating and intimate bar two-seaters, creating a cozy and authentic atmosphere. Dim lighting and unique decorations enhance the intimate, homey vibe. A carefully curated sake menu complements the setting, appealing to sake lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

Traditional tatami mat seating and dim lighting create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Bar seats designed as longer two-seaters add to the close, personal vibe.

Fresh fish stands out with high quality and generous servings. Sushi features firm rice and unique touches like wasabi between fish and rice, while seafood donburi comes packed with fresh sashimi and tasty rice. The fish hot pot also makes a strong impression.

People are saying

"It's an intimate spot perfect for cozy conversations."

"The seafood donburi is packed with fresh, tasty fish."

"The fish tastes the freshest and best I've had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.

2

Expect to spend around $50 to $75 per person.

3

The restaurant offers upscale izakaya fare in an intimate setting.

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Sushi restaurant with chic interior design and freshly prepared handrolls creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Loud afro-house music adds a nightclub vibe, making it lively and energetic. Space feels intimate but can be tight at tables, suited well for casual dates or social dining.

Gorgeous setting creates a cool and intimate atmosphere. The environment feels close and personal.

Fish comes incredibly fresh and flavorful with high-quality cuts. Handrolls offer a good size and you can customize your order to get the fish you want.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and thoughtfully made."

"The fish is fresh and tastes amazing."

"It's an intimate spot with warm lighting and a cozy vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner service, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant has a $10 minimum for credit card payments.

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Tiny indoor space with about 20 seats creates an intimate atmosphere that feels cozy and romantic. The vibe stays chill and unpretentious, supported by thoughtful design and a quiet setting. Creative natural wines complement standout Mediterranean dishes in a setting suited for close conversation.

Indoor space stays very tiny and cute, creating a romantic vibe. Small size makes it ideal for a first date or date night with a reservation.

Clams start the meal with a fresh, briny punch. Shrimp boureka and branzino stand out for their delicate flavors. Lobster and shrimp burek offers a rich, savory twist that leaves a strong impression.

People are saying

"The intimate food here is so tasty and memorable."

"The seafood here is honestly life-changing; I can't wait to go back."

"The shrimp boureka and lobster dishes really stood out."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating with only twelve indoor tables.

2

The happy hour special runs from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

The Tuesday night Pita Party features unique menu items and live music.

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New American restaurant offers an intimate, elegant space with a calm, romantic atmosphere that suits both casual nights and special occasions. The vibe balances stylish and welcoming with a warm glow that sets a cozy mood. Cocktails stand out as creative and perfectly balanced, complementing the overall inviting energy.

Space feels intimate and stylish with a lively yet cozy atmosphere. Dishes are playful and packed with flavor, fitting both casual and special occasions.

Bacon and shrimp come crispy outside and fluffy inside, paired with cheese grits full of flavor. Shrimp bisque also stands out with rich, savory notes.

People are saying

"I love the cozy, stylish vibe for dates or small groups."

"The bacon & shrimp with cheese grits is a must-order."

"It's intimate and stylish, with a warm glow."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Gluten-free options are available and clearly labeled on the menu.

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Tiny six-person sushi counter creates an intimate setting with modern, elegant decor. Lively and energetic atmosphere contrasts typical omakase calm, featuring friendly interaction between chef and diners. BYOB policy and complimentary sake add to the welcoming experience.

A tiny six-person chef's counter creates an intimate experience with close interaction. Seating at the bar allows for personalized interaction with the sushi chef, enhancing the romantic vibe.

Fish comes from Japan and other countries, always fresh and tasty. The selection is amazing, with creative appetizers and nigiri showcasing quality and flavor.

People are saying

"The fish is fresh and tastes amazing."

"The endless seafood omakase is worth every penny."

"The chef's counter seating made for a really intimate experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the 5pm seating on Saturdays.

2

The restaurant is BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle).

3

The price for the 15-course omakase is $85, which is reasonable for NYC.

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Entrance through a pawn shop leads to a hidden speakeasy with gorgeous chandeliers and a grand staircase. The interior divides into smaller rooms, each with its own dimly lit ambiance and stylish decor. Music stays at a comfortable volume, creating a sleek, social vibe suited for evening gatherings.

Low lighting and candlelit tables create a calm, romantic vibe. A speakeasy entrance leads to a dim, intimate dining area perfect for quiet dinners.

Dishes like lobster rolls and fish tacos come cooked to perfection with rich flavor. Seafood pairs well with other items like broccolini and mushroom-stuffed ravioli, all prepared with care.

People are saying

"The Thai chili shrimp was flavorful and addicting."

"The seafood dishes, especially fish tacos, were delicious."

"It's got this intimate speakeasy vibe with dim lighting and candles."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table.

2

Parking costs $90, which is quite high.

3

The entrance to the restaurant is through a pawn shop.

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Small space with large garage doors opens to the street, blending indoors and outdoors with plenty of natural light. Dim lighting and intimate tables create a cozy atmosphere ideal for quiet dinners or date nights. A carefully curated playlist adds to the warm, relaxed vibe.

Dim lighting and real candles create a warm, intimate vibe. Small tables and big window doors opening to the outside add to the cozy, Italian atmosphere.

Octopus and fish dishes stand out, alongside focaccias, olives, bucatini, and rigatoni. The white fish cooked on a plancha has a smoky touch but lacks strong flavor.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh food and relaxed vibe here."

"It's got such a warm, intimate atmosphere, perfect for a date night."

"The seafood starters were delicious and very unique."

Good to know

1

Reservations can be made easily for brunch on Sundays.

2

There is a 3.99% discount if you pay by cash.

3

The restaurant allows last minute Saturday night reservations.

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Small space with brick walls and high top tables creates an intimate, chill vibe. Natural and orange wines stand out alongside creative dishes like beef tartare and savory eclairs. Atmosphere turns lively and crowded, reflecting a trendy downtown energy without pretension.

Intimate setting with chill vibes and a short, tapas-style menu. Extensive wine list complements the unpretentious, really good food.

Clams stand out with their blanched preparation and pairing with almond milk, creating a unique and phenomenal flavor. Raw top neck clams also feature prominently alongside oysters and jerk prawns.

People are saying

"I can't get enough of the clams with almond milk."

"The seafood, especially the clams, were fantastic and fresh."

"The oysters were fresh but a bit fishy for me."

Good to know

1

The Saturday specialty donuts are served from 12-2:30.

2

This restaurant does not take reservations.

3

The menu consists mainly of small plates and appetizers.

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Small, dark space channels a 1920s Shanghai-inspired speakeasy with intimate, cozy atmosphere and eclectic, loud vibe. Unique Chinese-inspired cocktails complement the carefully curated design and lively music. Hidden entrance and tight seating create an exclusive, immersive experience.

Dim lighting creates a cozy, intimate vibe that suits romantic dates or hanging out with friends. The atmosphere stays quiet and comfortable, making it easy to enjoy conversation.

Chili Filet O Fish stands out with bold flavor and tender texture. Dishes like soft shell crab, shrimp, and calamari offer a variety of seafood options with fresh, satisfying taste.

People are saying

"The chili filet O' fish here explodes with flavor."

"It's a cozy, intimate spot, perfect for date night."

"I love the yuzu shrimp and truffle mushroom salad here."

Good to know

1

There is a 90-minute seating limit that may affect your experience.

2

Making a reservation at Ye’s Apothecary is highly recommended due to lengthy wait times.

3

A reservation is recommended for bigger groups (3+).

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Open kitchen counter offers a direct view of food preparation with no gas cooking involved. Atmosphere feels cozy and classy with stylish design and well-spaced tables allowing easy conversation. Staff create a welcoming and friendly vibe, making interactions feel personal and warm.

Warm, cozy seating right in front of the chefs creates a special intimate atmosphere. The setting feels relaxing and close, making the space inviting from the moment you walk in.

Shrimp and grits with langoustine stands out as a memorable dish. The shrimp toast offers a surprising twist, and the seafood pasta delivers solid flavors.

People are saying

"The seafood here is amazing; the staff are so friendly."

"The place feels warm and intimate."

"The caviar hand roll is an optional add-on, but it's a must-buy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least four weeks in advance to secure a good time slot.

2

The restaurant offers a seven-course tasting menu priced at $112, which is a good value.

3

Guests must show proof of vaccination before entering the restaurant.

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Narrow space with discreet entrance and humid, hot interior hosts a crowd drawn to great music and delicious cocktails. Upstairs seating offers some relief from the cozy, sometimes crowded downstairs. Atmosphere blends gentrifier culture with lively energy and strong beats.

Small and cozy seating creates an intimate vibe ideal for close conversations. The venue suits both intimate dinners and casual drinks with a cute atmosphere.

Jerk shrimp stands out with sliders served on coco bread and a filling jerk shrimp salad. Oxtails also appear alongside the seafood options, adding variety.

People are saying

"The vibe is intimate with great music and decor."

"The jerk shrimp sliders were very good and filling."

"The jerk chicken egg rolls are the star, with great seasoning."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table or space at the bar.

2

The venue charges a $20 cover to enter on weekends.

3

Dress code prohibits wearing shorts; check for specific requirements.

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Lower East Side, New York

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