Seemor
5ive Spice Tacos & Banh MiB+Worth Trying
363 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10016
· Vietnamese restaurant, Bar, Cocktail bar
· 4.5/5 Google (332 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Creative Vietnamese-leaning spot with standout cocktails and popular pho variations, but uneven execution and service consistency; good for happy hour and casual dates if you favor fusion flavors.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
5ive Spice Tacos & Banh Mi delivers strong food quality with creative Vietnamese fusion—pho and bun bo hue earn consistent praise—but quality variation on proteins and seasoning, combined with recent food safety complaints, prevents a higher grade. Attractive design and friendly service create an appealing neighborhood spot, though service inconsistency and safety concerns warrant caution for repeat visits.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with a polished casual vibe, bar seats, and a playlist that sets the mood. Guests highlight staff who can be efficient and friendly, though service pacing varies. One diner remarked, "The short rib pho was rich and comforting," while another praised the fresh ingredients and relaxed ambience. The cooking leans Vietnamese fusion over strict traditionalism: coconut rice crepe tacos, tuna carpaccio with truffle cream, and a pho lineup that ranges from classic beef to braised short rib. It suits diners who enjoy familiar flavors with inventive twists and a solid cocktail program, especially during happy hour. If you want Chinatown-style purism, some bowls may read lighter or sweeter than expected. For families, the menu offers kid-accessible choices like fries, dumplings, mild pho, and simple rice bowls. Banh mi texture and protein load can vary, so consider pho or chicken-and-rice for cautious eaters. Portions are typically fine for kids, and the setting is casual enough for low-stress meals.
At a Glance
- Creative Vietnamese dishes with solid happy hour cocktails
- Popular pho variations and standout bun bo hue for spice lovers
- Inconsistent execution on short rib tenderness and seasoning
- Service lapses and occasional rudeness reported
- A few food safety complaints warrant caution
What Sets It Apart
- creative_vietnamese_fusion_menu
- strong_happy_hour_cocktails
- bar_seating_for_solo_diners
What People Love
- Comforting, aromatic pho bowls
- Fresh herbs and bright flavors
- Creative tacos with coconut rice crepes
- Chill vibe with attentive bar service
- Convenient neighborhood location
Points of Concern
- Short rib toughness and seasoning inconsistency noted by several diners
- Service gaps: slow checks, missed items, and a few rude interactions
- Portion variance: banh mi protein light for some; noodle quantity concerns in soups
- A handful of illness and pest complaints—management should reinforce food safety protocols
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$38-$58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with summer rolls and taro crisps to share
- Choose Sive Special or classic beef pho for reliable comfort
- Try bun bo hue if you like spice
- Finish with pandan creme brulee or coconut sorbet
Perfect For
- After-work happy hour with snacks and cocktails
- Casual date night with fusion-leaning dishes
- Solo bar dining with a comforting bowl of pho
- Small groups wanting shareable apps
Location Insights
Area: Bustling Manhattan corridor serving young professionals, students, and after-work crowds; casual dining and drinks.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, steady foot traffic typical of Kips Bay/Gramercy corridors.
Nearby: Near apartment clusters, offices, and bars; convenient for NYU Langone and Midtown East workers.
KoreatownKoreatown is a vibrant dining hub famous for its concentration of Korean restaurants, karaoke bars, and late-night eateries. The area has a lively, energetic atmosphere with a mix of casual and upscale dining, attracting a diverse crowd looking for authentic Korean cuisine and social nightlife.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–23:00
Saturday12:00–23:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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