Seemor
Love MamaBWorth Trying
174 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003
· Asian restaurant, Malaysian restaurant, Thai restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (1678 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Casual, affordable Southeast Asian spot with standout Malaysian dishes and quick service, but inconsistent execution and occasional cleanliness complaints—great value if you prioritize flavor over polish.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Love Mama delivers solid food quality with standout Malaysian staples—laksa and roti earn consistent praise—and friendly, attentive service that keeps diners coming back. However, inconsistent execution across visits and cramped, occasionally uncomfortable seating prevent a higher grade. The casual East Village spot excels at quick, flavorful comfort food but falls short of the polish expected at grade A-level establishments.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with a steady stream of dine-ins and takeout. Service skews friendly and fast, and several diners rave about the Malaysian staples: "The laksa was a knockout and the roti hit the spot." A few guests, however, cite cleanliness hiccups and summer heat inside. The cooking leans street-food comfort across Malaysian, Thai, and Vietnamese dishes—bold flavors, quick fire, and generous portions. The culinary approach is elevated traditional rather than showy, so expect classics like curry laksa, rendang nasi lemak, pad thai, and char kway teow, done with heart and speed more than polish. Families will find it kid-friendly: simple noodles, fried rice, and wings are easy wins, and staff have been praised for kindness with children. There is no formal kids menu, but the menu has enough familiar options that many kids will eat happily.
At a Glance
- Standout Malaysian dishes (laksa, roti, rendang) with solid portions
- Weekday lunch set offers strong value
- Inconsistent execution (sweet-leaning sauces, occasional undercooked or greasy items)
- Reports of disposables and periodic cleanliness issues
- Expect a very casual experience rather than a polished sit-down
What Sets It Apart
- weekday_lunch_set_value
- broad_southeast_asian_menu
- malaysian_specialties_standout
What People Love
- Deeply flavorful curry laksa
- Crispy, pillowy roti with curry dip
- Speedy, personable service
- Lunch set value that feels like a steal
Points of Concern
- Some dishes trend sweet; a few diners find pho broth too sugary
- Intermittent cleanliness and disposables usage noted by multiple reviewers
- Occasional service lapses or curt interactions at busy times
- Isolated but serious safety complaints (raw or illness) contrasted by many uneventful visits
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$32-42 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Roti Canai, share Curry Laksa and Char Kway Teow, add a veg like Sambal String Bean; consider lunch set for value.
Perfect For
- A quick, satisfying Southeast Asian meal
- Casual group lunches on weekdays
- Students on a budget craving noodles and curry
- Families wanting friendly, fast service
Location Insights
Area: Lively East Village corridor with students, night owls, and casual dining; strong takeaway flow.
Safety: Generally safe, busy streets and steady foot traffic; occasional summer heat inside reported.
Nearby: Near NYU, indie cinemas, bars, and late-night eats; strong delivery/takeout demand.
East VillageThe East Village dining scene is diverse, featuring everything from casual eateries and trendy cafes to innovative restaurants and bars. The area is popular for its casual yet creative food culture, attracting a mix of locals and visitors seeking unique and affordable dining experiences in a lively, urban setting.
Alphabet CityAlphabet City, part of the East Village, is known for its edgy, artsy vibe with a concentration of bars, music venues, and experimental dining spots. It has a slightly grittier feel compared to the rest of East Village but remains a hotspot for trendsetters and those looking for a vibrant nightlife and dining scene.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–22:00
Tuesday11:30–22:00
Wednesday11:30–22:00
Thursday11:30–22:00
Friday11:30–22:00
Saturday11:30–22:00
Sunday11:30–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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