Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Lively seafood spots in the LES

A lively atmosphere paired with a seafood dinner is the energy needed for the night.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
User
User
User
Updated June 2026
01
Toriya image 1
Toriya image 2
Toriya image 3
View all
Japanese restaurant

Interior combines neon-soaked decor with wooden booths and paper lanterns, creating a warm, authentic izakaya vibe. Music varies from lively to loud, shaping a bustling atmosphere that suits groups more than quiet dates. Space feels roomy yet retains an underground Osaka bar charm.

Neon signs and upbeat music create a vibrant nightlife vibe. The interior glows with neon soaked lighting and paper lanterns, attracting a lively young scene.

Freshness stands out with the Temaki Set featuring pristine fish and a divine scallop. The seafood okonomiyaki offers a wonderful mix, while the Steamed Clams come juicy and garnished with scallions and sliced chili.

People are saying

"The yakitori here is tender and grilled to perfection."

"The lunch special here is a great value at only $10."

"The seafood here is fresh, with the scallop being divine."

Good to know

1

Don't miss their happy hour from 5-7 PM, where you can enjoy $1 (for 3 pieces) of okonomiyaki.

2

The restaurant charges a mandatory 20% gratuity and a 20% service charge on the bill.

3

The restaurant can accommodate big groups.

02
8282 image 1
Korean restaurant

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.

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 cocktails here are unique, refreshing, and perfectly balanced."

"The miso cod and grilled octopus were phenomenal."

"The Korean food here is amazing, with every dish on point."

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.

03
Kalye image 1
Filipino restaurant

Four-sided cube with QR code menus and traditional capiz shutters create a unique Filipino ambiance. Live jazz and karaoke performances energize the space, especially after 9pm. Cocktails like Manila Martinis and Pale Pilsen beer complement a cozy atmosphere suited for large parties.

Brings a personal and exciting vibe to gatherings. Offers a chance to share new and exciting experiences with friends. Reflects the energy of more Filipino spots emerging in the city.

A boodle platter dominates the table with grilled meats, seafood, rice, and veggies. The Boodle Fight 95 dish features skewers, lumpia, beef, seafood, and rice all mixed together.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and delicious."

"The food here is so Lively, especially the crispy sisig and addictive lumpia."

"The boodle platter is a feast of seafood, meats, and rice."

Good to know

1

They host a live band night on Thursdays.

2

They host a DJ night on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

The venue is suitable for a birthday event.

04
Ivan Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small ramen restaurant offers cozy vintage atmosphere with close tables and a loud, chaotic vibe inside. Outdoor seating includes a heated, dog-friendly patio that provides a more private and comfortable experience. The space feels lively and crowded, making conversation difficult indoors but more relaxed outside.

A stylish and lively atmosphere fills the space with great music setting the tone. Staff stay attentive and energetic, creating a chill yet upbeat vibe throughout.

Seafood flavors shine in the Shoyu Shrimp Wontonmen and ebi fried shrimp. Small bites like the shrimp appetizer and ebi shrimp stand out alongside seafood-based ramens.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen here was the best I ever had."

"The ramen here is so flavorful and rich."

"I found the seafood ramen to be delicious and well-balanced."

Good to know

1

Make sure to reserve ahead of time to secure your table.

2

You must respond within five minutes if you receive an SMS about your table.

3

You need all members of your party to be present to get seated.

05
Wabi Nori Hand Roll Bar image 1
Sushi restaurant

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.

A lively yet laid-back atmosphere fills the space with upbeat EDM music that stays at a comfortable volume. The vibe blends sophistication and coziness in a sleek, modern setting.

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 Japanese food service here is so friendly and accommodating."

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

"The sushi here is so lively, with rolls crafted artfully."

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.

06
Beauty & Essex image 1
Restaurant

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.

A chic, lively dining experience fills the space with energy. Many tables share a lively camaraderie, keeping the atmosphere buzzing even late at night.

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 food here was amazing and delicious."

"The Thai chili shrimp was flavorful and addicting."

"The food and cocktails here are amazing and lively."

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.

07
Empanada Mama LES image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American restaurant offers 24-hour empanadas with self-service kiosks and a full-service bar area. Atmosphere shifts from lively with great music to chaotic and loud late at night. Decor is modern and authentic, with a small dining area and a long bar table.

Bright decor and upbeat music create an energetic vibe. The atmosphere feels lively and exciting, making the space come alive.

Seafood shines in the Viagra empanada, packed with Tiger shrimp, scallops, crab stick, and chiles. Shrimp and seafood fill every bite, especially in the spinach and shrimp empanadas.

People are saying

"These empanadas are fresh, flavorful, and perfectly crisp."

"It's a great late night spot for something satisfying after hours."

"The empanadas here are perfectly crispy with bold, full flavors."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 Modelos, but get there early to avoid a wait.

2

Expect a wait of over 45 minutes for dine-in and delivery.

3

The restaurant is open 24/7, making it a late-night option.

08
Dhamaka image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant inside a market with lively atmosphere and fun Bollywood music that keeps energy high. Decor blends modern Indian style with a casual, cafeteria-like setting. Cocktails are cleverly smoked and add to the engaging vibe.

Vibrant and energetic atmosphere fills the space with Bollywood hits playing and personable service staff engaging guests. Plenty of options for a post-dinner drink keep the energy going.

Fish fry stands out with its perfectly flaky texture and a fusion of Indian spices and southern USA cooking. Seafood rice dishes like the fragrant seafood pulao and shrimp rice with fresh coconut add unique flavors.

People are saying

"The goat biryani is huge and a must-try."

"The food here is bold, flavorful, and truly unique."

"The seafood here is incredible, like a richer shrimp scampi."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required in advance via Resy to secure a spot.

2

The restaurant has a policy that main courses cannot be ordered twice.

3

Expect queues for the bathroom as there is only one available.

09
LECIEL image 1
New American restaurant

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.

Intimate yet lively atmosphere fits both casual nights and special occasions. The spot adds a fresh, exciting energy to the dining scene.

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 found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

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

"The food here is inventive, delicious, and beautifully presented."

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.

10
Essex image 1
Steak house

Massive space with roomy seating and lively atmosphere suits large groups and animated brunches. Outdoor seating offers a luxury dining experience with pleasant ambiance. Music adds a fun, cool vibe throughout the venue.

Staff bring energetic and upbeat vibes to the space. Waitresses like Helena and Katie keep the mood lively and positive throughout brunch.

Shrimp and grits stand out with a perfect rating and strong praise. Fresh oysters and popular shrimp wantons and calamari also feature on the menu.

People are saying

"Our server Helena made our brunch amazing and full of libations."

"The mimosas flowed continuously and were strong."

"The seafood here, especially the shrimp and grits, is perfectly cooked and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended at Helena Brunch on weekends due to its popularity.

2

The bottomless brunch is available from 11am to 4pm on weekends.

3

Happy Hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

11
Essex Market image 1
Produce market

Spanning over three floors with a vibrant upstairs and a quieter lower level, the market offers a beautiful space filled with diverse food stalls and seating areas. The atmosphere blends authentic NYC energy with a lively bar scene and quality sound, creating a dynamic place to eat and explore.

A lively atmosphere fills the space with energetic workers and kind vendors. The market offers a diverse and exciting environment with many food options and a clean setting.

Fresh fish and seafood come from a variety of vendors including a Nordic fish stand and a Japanese store. Affordable options include oysters and wings, with choices spanning from raw fish counters to cooked dishes.

People are saying

"This market has so many delicious food options to explore."

"I picked up fresh seafood and other groceries to cook."

"This place is lively with a huge variety of global foods."

Good to know

1

Restaurants close at 7 PM on Saturday night.

2

The market gets crowded during the lunchtime rush.

3

Management frequently closes the seating area for events, disrupting diners.

12
Congee Village image 1
Chinese restaurant

Large multi-level space features spacious seating and elaborate Chinese art creating a lively, casual atmosphere. Groups gather around lazy Susan tables designed for sharing, with private rooms offering karaoke for events. The environment buzzes with energy, often loud and crowded, suited for social dining experiences.

Casual and lively atmosphere fills the space, especially during celebrations like Lunar New Year. The menu offers exciting seafood options including unique frog dishes, adding to the energetic vibe.

Freshness stands out with generous portions of various seafood varieties. Dishes like one fish three ways and mustard fish seafood highlight the diverse and tasty options available.

People are saying

"The congee here is super flavorful and a great value."

"The Cantonese seafood here tastes like home."

"The food here is packed with delicious Asian spices and flavors."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash payments.

2

Expect to wait over 40 minutes for a table even with a reservation.

3

You should arrive by 6PM to avoid long wait times.

13
Eel Bar image 1
Basque restaurant

Sleek space blends retro vibe with modern touches and features textured windows that create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. The setting feels stylish and lively without being too loud, making it suitable for dates or groups. A hidden-in-plain-sight location adds to the sultry, curated mood.

A dimly lit space with a curated atmosphere that feels both intimate and lively. Soft background music and a bumping 80s/90s dance soundtrack keep the energy up.

Baked oysters and raw shrimp stand out for freshness and flavor. Tapas-style seafood includes fatty fish skewers with horseradish and shrimp stuffed with pork, offering diverse tastes.

People are saying

"The fried fish and shrimp were so fresh and delicious."

"The service here is outstanding and incredibly friendly."

"The atmosphere here is cool, intimate, and lively with soft background music."

Good to know

1

There is space for walk-ins at the bar.

2

The food menu is a mix of small and large plates.

3

Expect great food and drinks.

14
Double Chicken Please image 1

Small, Japan-inspired bar splits into two distinct rooms: dark, refined backroom with craft cocktails and lively front room offering draft drinks and casual bites. Atmosphere feels chic and sexy, with innovative cocktails and standout chicken dishes drawing a dedicated crowd despite long waits.

Oysters stand out with their freshness and rich flavor. Shrimp ceviche offers a zesty bite, while mango sticky rice provides a sweet finish.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are inventive and unlike anything I've tried."

"The drinks here are creative, well-balanced, and truly incredible."

"I thought the oysters were the best part of the experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are definitely needed, as they sell out quickly.

2

Be prepared to wait outside for at least an hour on weekends.

3

The wait time for the coop side can be 3-4 hours.

Discover more

Lower East Side, New York

Area guide
Loading Map...