Seemor
UME 1st AveBWorth Trying
1154 1st Ave, New York, NY 10065
· Sushi restaurant, Asian restaurant, Chinese restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (110 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Neighborhood sushi spot with broad Pan-Asian menu, strong value at happy hour and lunch, generally fresh fish and friendly service, but a few serious inconsistency and safety complaints mean pick carefully.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
UME delivers reliable neighborhood sushi with strong food quality and attentive, friendly service that keep regulars returning. However, inconsistent execution on fish quality and portion sizing, combined with isolated food safety concerns, prevents a higher grade. The cozy UES setting and generous happy hour value make it worth visiting, though it doesn't reach the consistency standards of the area's premier sushi destinations.
Restaurant Summary
On First Avenue in Lenox Hill, UME comes off as a cozy neighborhood spot with friendly service and a steady happy hour crowd. Diners talk about fresh fish and filling rolls, noting that the room feels clean and comfortable with a welcoming vibe. However, there are some review authenticity concerns and a few reports of off nights. The cooking leans classic sushi with playful specials rather than haute theatrics: think Godzilla and Pink Lady rolls, crispy tuna rice, and ramen or stir-fried noodles when you want something warm. It is approachable and varied—good for value seekers at lunch or happy hour, though a few diners found fish quality inconsistent on rare visits. For families, the menu is kid-friendly: simple rolls, fried rice, lo mein, and mild ramen give cautious eaters plenty to choose from. Reviewers even mention kids feeling welcome. No formal kids menu is flagged, but the options are practical for most children.
At a Glance
- Fresh fish and generous rolls praised by many regulars
- Strong lunch and happy hour value on the UES
- Inconsistency reports including off fish and small portions on a few visits
- Health grade B sighting and two food poisoning reports
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- happy_hour_value
- broad_pan_asian_plus_sushi
- neighborhood_regulars
What People Love
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Generous roll fillings with fresh fish
- Crispy tuna rice starter
- Lunch specials and happy hour bargains
Points of Concern
- A few diners report off flavors or thaw issues on isolated visits; quality not perfectly consistent
- Health grade B sighting and two separate illness claims raise caution for sensitive diners
- Occasional takeout delays; one report of 1-hour wait
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (very high five-star share, some marketing language) which may not reflect typical diner experience
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$35-$55 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with crispy tuna rice, then share two special rolls for variety.
- Value path: lunch sushi combo ($16-$20 range on menu) plus one classic roll.
- Warm option: Ume Shio or Miso Ramen ($20) on chilly days.
Perfect For
- Weeknight sushi with friends
- Affordable happy hour bites
- Casual date night
- Neighborhood takeout and poke bowls
Location Insights
Area: Upper East Side, residential and professional mix; steady foot traffic near hospitals and offices; casual neighborhood dining.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy corridors; typical Manhattan street conditions.
Nearby: Near NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell and residential towers; many cafes, bars, and casual eateries.
Lenox HillLenox Hill offers a refined dining atmosphere with a variety of upscale restaurants, casual eateries, and cafes. The neighborhood is known for its safe, clean streets and a mix of classic New York charm with modern amenities, attracting both locals and visitors seeking quality dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–23:00
Saturday14:30–23:00
Sunday14:30–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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