Seemor
Izakaya MEWB+Worth Trying
53 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001
· Izakaya restaurant, Japanese restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (3396 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Lively basement izakaya with creative Japanese comfort food and strong value for Midtown, but expect loud vibes, waits, and occasionally brusque service.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Izakaya MEW delivers strong food quality with creative dishes like kimchi cream udon and specialty rolls that justify its loyal following, but quality variation and inconsistent service at peak times prevent a higher grade. The hidden basement setting offers charm and reasonable value for Midtown, though tight seating and high volume create friction that tempers the overall experience—solid neighborhood izakaya, not a destination standout.
Restaurant Summary
Down the stairs and away from the Midtown rush, Izakaya MEW hums with loud, kinetic energy. The room is packed, the music up, and plates land fast once you sit. One guest summed it up: "Worth the wait—fresh, flavorful, and fun," though others warn the crowd and volume can overwhelm. Service ranges from warm to rushed at peak, so set expectations accordingly. The kitchen leans modern izakaya with playful twists—think kimchi cream udon, okonomiyaki, and layered specialty rolls—delivering a creative comfort-food sweet spot. The culinary approach leans contemporary izakaya with fusion accents: familiar Japanese frameworks, boosted by creamy, spicy, and crispy textures rather than high-wire theatrics. For families, the menu has plenty kids will actually eat—katsu don, yaki udon, simple rolls, fries, and tofu—at prices that are fair for Midtown. The room is very loud, seating is tight, and there is no kids menu, so younger children may do better early evening or at lunch.
At a Glance
- Creative, tasty izakaya dishes with strong value for Midtown
- Kimchi cream udon and specialty rolls are crowd favorites
- Very loud and tightly packed; expect waits without reservations
- Service can feel rushed or brusque at peak times
- Allergy handling and issue resolution reported inconsistent by some diners
What Sets It Apart
- hidden_basement_izakaya
- creative_fusion_udon
- broad_menu_for_groups
What People Love
- That hidden-basement, buzz-all-around vibe
- Creamy-spicy kimchi udon warmth
- Fresh, layered specialty rolls
- Good value considering Midtown prices
- Fast pacing once seated
Points of Concern
- Noise level is very high; conversation can be difficult
- Strict seating policies (full party required); waits common
- Inconsistent service tone; some guests report rude interactions
- Allergy handling and problem resolution reported as weak by a few
- Pricing add-ons (tip presets, hot sauce fee) can surprise
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$42-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For lighter share: Yellowtail carpaccio + gyoza + miso/seaweed salad
- Comfort set: Kimchi cream udon + karaage + Basque cheesecake
- Sushi-forward: Mew Special + Volcano Roll + 2–3 a la carte nigiri
Perfect For
- Casual group share-plates night
- After-work dinner near Herald Square
- Sushi-and-udon comfort cravings
- Pre-Penn Station meet-up
Location Insights
Area: Busy Midtown block near Herald Square; after-work crowds and visitors mix with office workers.
Safety: High foot traffic, well-lit commercial area; typical Midtown bustle, generally safe.
Nearby: Near Macy’s Herald Square, Penn Station, hotels, and office buildings; strong commuter and tourist flow.
KoreatownKoreatown is a vibrant dining enclave famous for its concentration of Korean restaurants, karaoke bars, and late-night eateries. The area is lively throughout the day and night, attracting a mix of locals and visitors seeking authentic Korean cuisine and casual dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–14:15, 17:00–21:30
Tuesday12:00–14:15, 17:00–21:30
Wednesday12:00–14:15, 17:00–21:30
Thursday12:00–14:15, 17:00–21:30
Friday12:00–14:15, 17:00–22:30
Saturday12:00–14:15, 16:30–22:30
Sunday12:00–14:15, 16:30–21:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
View full analysis on Seemor →