Seemor
Hibachi ExpressBWorth Trying
536 E 14th St, New York, NY 10009
· Chinese restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (120 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Budget-friendly Chinese-American and hibachi-style plates with standout house-made dumplings; mostly positive but a few reports of order errors and inconsistent quality.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Hibachi Express delivers reliable neighborhood value through strong food quality anchored by house-made dumplings and genuinely friendly service, but inconsistent execution on hibachi and occasional dry noodles prevents higher standing. The unpretentious hole-in-the-wall charm and budget-friendly specials make it worth visiting for quick, satisfying meals—just not a destination restaurant.
Restaurant Summary
A compact counter spot in the East Village that feels warm and unpretentious, Hibachi Express wins locals with value and welcoming vibes. One diner summed it up: "sweet, welcoming reception" and dumplings that taste hand made. The room reads hole-in-the-wall charm more than destination decor, ideal for quick meals or takeout. Cooking leans classic Chinese-American with a hibachi bent: think crisp sesame chicken, crowd-pleasing wings, and notably house-made dumplings. Most visits deliver satisfying flavors at wallet-friendly prices, though a few reports cite dry lo mein or a disappointing hibachi order. Come for comforting staples and the budget-friendly specials rather than culinary fireworks. For families, it is an easy fit. Kids can gravitate to fried rice and wings, sesame chicken, or plain dumplings. Vegetarian dumplings and vegetable noodle soup offer simple alternatives. There is no kids menu called out, but the familiar items and counter pace make it practical for a quick, low-stress meal.
At a Glance
- House-made dumplings draw consistent praise
- Excellent value via $10.99 specials and generous portions
- Inconsistent hibachi and occasional dry lo mein reported
- A few order errors and pricing mismatch complaints
- Friendly, family-run vibe with quick counter service
What Sets It Apart
- house_made_dumplings
- all_day_special_combo
- family_run_hospitality
What People Love
- Handmade dumplings with real bite
- Wallet-friendly all day specials
- Crispy sesame chicken and wings
- Genuine, friendly counter service
Points of Concern
- Occasional order mistakes and price discrepancies noted by a few diners
- A small number of reports of dry lo mein or subpar hibachi chicken
- One isolated food safety complaint and one hygiene-handling concern
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$18-$28 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Lean on the All Day Special for best value
- Pair pan-fried dumplings with spicy mayo ($1 extra)
- Vegetarians: choose vegetable dumplings or vegetable noodle soup
Perfect For
- Casual weeknight takeout
- Budget-friendly solo lunch
- Pre-bar bite in the East Village
- Low-key family meal
Location Insights
Area: Lively East Village corridor with students and locals; casual, late-night friendly vibe.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; standard NYC street activity.
Nearby: Near NYU housing, bars, cafes, and quick-serve spots; convenient for takeout.
East VillageThe East Village dining scene is diverse, featuring everything from casual ethnic eateries and trendy cafes to upscale restaurants and bars. The neighborhood is known for its bohemian vibe, attracting a mix of locals and visitors seeking innovative and affordable dining options in a lively social setting.
Alphabet CityAlphabet City, part of the East Village, is known for its gritty yet trendy atmosphere with a strong focus on independent businesses, including unique restaurants and bars. It offers a more intimate and edgy dining experience compared to the broader East Village.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday11:00–23:00
Wednesday11:00–23:00
Thursday11:00–23:00
Friday11:00–23:30
Saturday11:00–23:30
Sunday12:00–23:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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