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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to the LES

Seafood sandwich spots

Made for those who want their seafood served in the most portable, efficient format possible without sacrificing quality.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Nordic Preserves Fish and Wildlife Company image 1
Nordic Preserves Fish and Wildlife Company image 2
Nordic Preserves Fish and Wildlife Company image 3
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Tiny counter inside a market offers extensive cured and smoked fish selections with a focus on high-quality Scandinavian flavors. Atmosphere suits people watching with access to a large beer menu nearby. Limited hours align with market schedule, emphasizing specialty smoked salmon and herring.

Variety of smoked and pickled fish stands out here. Extensive menu includes cured salmon, herring, and tuna, with hunter's smoked salmon as a notable cold smoked option.

The Nordic sandwich stands out with its flavor but comes in a small size. Expect a wait of over 20 minutes for this sandwich.

People are saying

"The food here is so extraordinary, it makes you question reality."

"You'll find so many kinds of smoked and pickled seafood here."

"I found the Nordic sandwich delicious and great."

Good to know

1

Takeaway is available, making it convenient for a quick meal.

2

Limited hours of operation align with Essex Market's schedule; plan accordingly.

3

Expect a variety of smoked and pickled fish options available for takeaway.

02
Datz Deli image 1

Tiny space with cramped interior and limited seating creates an intimate setting. Friendly atmosphere feels like family, enhanced by great music and a welcoming vibe. Unique Caribbean flavors and specialty patties define the culinary experience.

Shrimp dishes stand out with the curry shrimp mac pattie offering a nice kick and balanced flavors. The shrimp patty sandwich delivers a perfect crunch with tender, flavorful shrimp inside.

Sandwiches here combine juicy, flavorful, tender fillings with crispy textures for a rich eating experience. Unique options like the oxtail beef patty and jerk chicken with curry offer bold, aromatic flavors that stand out.

People are saying

"I thought the oxtail sandwich was the best I'd ever tasted."

"I considered this place one of the best for sandwiches I'd ever had."

"The curry shrimp mac pattie has amazing flavor and texture."

Good to know

1

The lunch special runs from 1 PM to 3 PM, offering great value.

2

Street parking is available, but it's limited and can be challenging.

3

Datz opens late, even on Sundays, until 12:00 AM.

03
Casa Colven image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American restaurant offers authentic Colombian and Venezuelan flavors in a beautifully decorated and cozy atmosphere. Music complements the vibe, and unique features like a swing add a playful touch. The bar serves notable cocktails that enhance the overall experience.

Shrimp ceviche features full shrimp instead of chopped pieces, paired with plantains. It stands out as a fantastic dish.

Chicken sandwich features a crispy golden crust and juicy interior with perfect seasoning. Don Patacรณn sandwich uses fried green plantains as bread, offering a unique twist.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and warm."

"The shrimp ceviche here is fantastic, with full shrimp."

"This chicken sandwich is perfectly seasoned and juicy."

Good to know

1

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

2

The restaurant offers a mix of authentic Colombian and Venezuelan cuisine.

3

Prices are reasonable, making it a budget-friendly dining option.

04
Russ & Daughters image 1

Narrow, small shop with no indoor seating and often crowded atmosphere. The vibe is old school, evoking a sense of history and tradition with a calm, unhurried pace despite the crowd. Outdoor benches offer brief respite while enjoying classic bagel and lox combinations.

Smoked fish options include sturgeon, sable, and smoked salmon served with cream cheese on bagels. The selection features a variety of traditional Jewish smoked fish.

Bagel sandwiches feature high-quality smoked salmon and a variety of salmon options. The classic lox and goat cream cheese sandwich stands out for its well-crafted, delicious flavor and iconic experience.

People are saying

"I thought the salmon bagel was the best I ever had."

"The seafood here is so fresh, especially the smoked fish."

"The salmon sandwich was so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

You must take a number when you first enter to be served.

2

There is no dine-in option; it's takeout only.

3

Expect long wait times, often over an hour, especially after 10am.

05
Russ & Daughters Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Interior mimics an old-school diner with retro vibe and classy servers in white lab coats. Atmosphere feels warm and homey yet somewhat sterile and quiet while ordering. Known for classic bagel and lox, it draws those seeking a historic Jewish deli experience.

Smoked fish stands out with its wholly smoked quality and fresh taste. The menu offers unique fish options that pair well with bagels and spreads, including a spiced herring with surprising flavor.

Smoked salmon lox on a bagel forms the core of the sandwich, served unassembled on an old wooden plank. The presentation recalls a ploughman's lunch and pairs well with a Shrub drink.

People are saying

"The bagels here are awesome, especially with the smoked salmon."

"The smoked fish here is silky, perfectly sliced, and worth the legacy."

"The brisket sandwich on a gluten-free bagel is a 10/10."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is necessary to avoid a wait of over an hour.

2

Expect to wait on busy weekend mornings; arrive early to get on the list.

3

No reservations are accepted, so expect long waits on weekends.

06
Ginger and Lemongrass image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small space with paper lanterns and decorative vines creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options, with a large front window that opens to the street. Energy is quiet and inviting, suited for dates or casual outings.

Shrimp features heavily with spring rolls, lemongrass shrimp, and grilled shrimp in the papaya salad.** Fish banh mi and seafood curries also appear on the menu.

Lemongrass tofu sandwich stands out with strong flavor and large portions. The salmon roll and chicken sandwich offer good taste, with the chicken sandwich carrying a mild spice even when ordered mild.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, is so flavorful and comforting."

"I love the fish banh mi; the bread and pickles are amazing."

"I loved the lemongrass tofu sandwich; I wanted another."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is from 5:30 PM on Tuesdays with discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

The kitchen closes before 10 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak days and holidays to secure a table.

07
Fossetta image 1
Restaurant

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.

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.

Mortadella sandwich stands out with its balanced cheese and rich flavor. It ranks among the most memorable sandwiches, perfect for a quick lunch.

People are saying

"I found the focaccia to be amazing."

"I loved the mortadella sandwich; it's one of the best I've ever had."

"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.

08
Dudleys image 1
Restaurant

Bar planted in the center anchors a stylish space with exposed bricks, wooden beams, and indoor orange trees. Atmosphere shifts from lively and warm with an Aussie twist to occasionally loud music that challenges conversation. Outdoor seating offers comfortable shade and fans, attracting brunch crowds who often wait for entry.

Shrimp dishes stand out with options like spicy shrimp, shrimp linguine, and shrimp pasta that all deliver strong flavors. Crocodile meat also appears as a notable alternative to traditional seafood.

Crispy and juicy chicken stands out in the Fried Chicken Sandwich and Chicken Roll. The sandwich often comes with a croissant substitute, adding a unique twist.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the crispy bacon."

"The staff's recommendations for my sandwich were awesome."

"The shrimp linguine is fantastic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect about an hour wait on Saturday mornings.

2

Reservations are not accepted for Sunday brunch.

3

Happy hour runs from 4:30 PM to 7 PM on weekdays with discounted cocktails.

09
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.

Chicken sandwich offers a perfect balance of moisture without being overly juicy. The plant-based Tofu sandwich stands out as a top vegan option with rich flavor and texture.

People are saying

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

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

"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.

10
Omar's Kitchen and Rum Bar image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Small, colorful space captures Jamaican essence with cozy, intimate vibe and Caribbean grooves. DJ spins 80s and 90s hits plus dancehall, creating lively island atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor seating offer relaxed options.

Seafood dishes feature curried shrimp, salt fish fritters, and brownstew fish with rich, layered flavors. Shrimp doubles and conch fritters offer bold, savory tastes that stand out.

Crispy and flavorful, the chicken sandwich stands out with a fried texture and a touch of scotch bonnet spice. The catfish sandwich also features prominently alongside other hearty options.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the jerk chicken."

"The seafood here is so flavorful, I nearly fainted."

"I found the chicken sandwich crispy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are only held for 10 minutes; arrive on time.

2

Expect a wait time of 25-40 minutes during peak hours.

3

The bottomless brunch offers unlimited drinks for 90 minutes with limited entree choices.

11
Mila's Bistro image 1

Small bistro with Parisian brasserie vibe offers cozy indoor and outdoor seating and charming old world decor. Atmosphere feels like a street in Paris with great music enhancing the experience. Space is intimate and comfortable, creating a lovely, relaxed mood.

Happy hour features $2 oysters that are medium size, larger than typical small oysters at other bars. The oysters pair well with French fries and come in generous portions.

Steak sandwich stands out with tender, perfect meat and comes with nice, crisp fries. Chicken sandwich features grilled chicken but costs $22.

People are saying

"The food here is top-notch and really good."

"You have to try the happy hour oysters; they're a great deal."

"I asked if the chicken sandwich was grilled, and they said yes."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $1 oysters and appealing drink prices.

2

Reservations are recommended as the bistro fills up quickly.

3

The restaurant is conveniently located near Bowery Ballroom for concert-goers.

12
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.

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.

Freshly prepared dishes include gourmet sandwiches and authentic ethnic options. Sandwiches come with impressive quality and pair well with other fresh items like fruit and pastries.

People are saying

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

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

"You can find excellent sandwiches among the diverse food vendors here."

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.

13
Sweet Chick image 1
Chicken restaurant

Fried chicken and waffles stand out as culinary masterpieces with classic Southern charm. Loud, hip hop music fills the space, creating a high-energy vibe that makes conversation challenging. Seating mixes indoor and outdoor options with unique decor and a casual, lively atmosphere.

Shrimp and grits with an over easy egg stand out as absolutely incredible and delicious. The Nashville hot fish sandwich is extremely tasty, even for those who don't usually like fish.

Chicken sandwiches stand out with Nashville hot spice and a classic O.G. style that pairs well with fries. The Nashville hot fish sandwich offers a flavorful alternative, even for those who don't usually like fish.

People are saying

"I found the chicken and waffles here to be truly delicious."

"The shrimp and grits here are incredible, reminding me of home."

"I thought the fried chicken sandwich was the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant offers a free chicken and waffles event on October 20th starting after 4 PM.

3

Payment via phone is available for quick departure after dining.

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Lower East Side, New York

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