Seemor
EJ BBQ & SushiA-Worth Trying
168 W 25th St, New York, NY 10001
· Japanese restaurant, Korean restaurant
· 4.9/5 Google (307 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Friendly, family-run Japanese-Korean spot with fresh sushi, homestyle Korean plates, and standout hospitality at moderate prices; expect a casual room and occasional service hiccups.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
EJ BBQ & Sushi delivers solid A-grade performance through strong food quality anchored by fresh fish and well-executed teriyaki, paired with exceptional service attentiveness that defines the experience. The owner-led hospitality and reliable execution across repeat visits support consistent dining, though modest setting appeal and occasional inconsistencies in spice and portion prevent elevation to grade A territory. A neighborhood gem that rewards loyalty and values genuine hospitality over ambiance.
Restaurant Summary
A small Chelsea spot where the room feels warm and welcoming and the owner often greets you like a regular. Diners describe staff who check in often and little touches like complimentary banchan. One guest summed it up: "Service was so kind, and the fish tasted clean and fresh." The vibe is casual and homely rather than fancy, and while the check can lag sometimes, most visits feel unrushed and cared for. The cooking leans fresh and straightforward Japanese with homestyle Korean comforts. The culinary approach leans elevated traditional: dependable teriyaki, generous bento sets, and American-style special rolls, plus Korean plates like bulgogi, soft tofu stew, and LA galbi. It suits diners who value quality ingredients and owner-led hospitality over flash, though a minority found sushi average or certain dishes under-seasoned. Families do well here: kids can eat katsu, teriyaki, simple rolls, or rice bowls. The menu lists many familiar options at moderate prices, and staff have accommodated gluten-free soy on request. There is no kids-specific menu noted, but portions are shareable and spice can be adjusted on Korean dishes.
At a Glance
- Warm, attentive owner and staff who personalize the experience
- Fresh sushi and value-forward bento with generous sides
- Casual setting with occasional slow checkout and minor inconsistencies
- A few reports of average sushi or small portions on some items
What Sets It Apart
- japanese_korean_dual_menu
- hands_on_owner_hospitality
- value_forward_bento_sets
What People Love
- Genuine owner hospitality that feels neighborly
- Fresh fish and well-seasoned sushi rice
- Bento boxes with lots of components
- Complimentary banchan and thoughtful extras
Points of Concern
- Occasional service slips: delayed checks or forgotten orders for kids (isolated)
- Quality variance: a few diners found sushi mediocre or underseasoned items
- Room is plain and sometimes feels like a simple hole-in-the-wall
- One report of strong cleaning odor; one report of stomach upset (isolated)
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$35-$50 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Choose Sushi & Sashimi Combo ($24.95) to sample variety
- Pair a mid-priced special roll ($14-$16) with miso soup ($3.95) for a light meal
- Korean specials ($33-$38) include banchan; shareable for value
Perfect For
- Weekday lunch near FIT or Chelsea offices
- Casual sushi night with a few Korean plates
- Solo meals with friendly service
- Families seeking approachable Japanese-Korean dishes
Location Insights
Area: Chelsea side street near FIT; mixed residential, students, small offices; casual foot traffic.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit with steady pedestrian activity; typical Manhattan awareness advised.
Nearby: Near FIT, galleries, E/C/1 trains; surrounded by cafes and casual eateries; offices and apartments nearby.
ChelseaChelsea offers a lively dining scene with a mix of trendy restaurants, casual eateries, and upscale dining. The area is popular for its art galleries and nightlife, drawing a crowd interested in culture and contemporary urban living. It is generally safe and highly accessible, with a mix of long-term residents and transient visitors.
Chelsea Market DistrictCentered around Chelsea Market and the High Line, this micro-neighborhood is a hub for food lovers and tourists, featuring artisanal food vendors, trendy cafes, and innovative dining concepts. It has a bustling, energetic atmosphere especially during lunch and weekend hours.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–22:00
Tuesday11:00–22:00
Wednesday11:00–22:00
Thursday11:00–22:00
Friday11:00–23:00
Saturday11:00–23:00
Sunday
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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