Seemor
El Fish MarisqueriaB+Worth Trying
155 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10023
· Mexican restaurant, Seafood restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (285 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Inventive Mexican-seafood fusion with standout plates and uneven service; pricey but memorable when the kitchen hits.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
El Fish Marisqueria delivers creative, high-quality seafood fusion in an elegant neighborhood setting near Lincoln Center, making it competitive with the area's better dining options. However, inconsistent execution across visits—ranging from memorable octopus to overcooked salmon—and recurring reports of managerial friction prevent a higher grade. Worth visiting for adventurous seafood lovers, though expect some variability in both kitchen and service experience.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels elegant yet relaxed, with greenery and soft light that make it easy to settle in. Service often comes off warm, though reports of a brusque front-of-house manager create hit-or-miss first impressions. One diner summed it up: "Plates dazzled, but pacing and a curt welcome dulled the shine." In the kitchen, this is inventive Mexican seafood that happily borrows from Asia—think octopus with yuzu kosho, salmon skewers in kung pao salsa, and lobster over fragrant rice. The best nights deliver memorable, creative plates like the grilled octopus, tuna taquitos, and Langosta Ensenada. Misses do happen—overcooked salmon or an odd sweet note here and there—so expect some variability alongside showpiece dishes. For families, the stance skews not very kid-friendly. Several guests describe stroller pushback and sensitivity to toddler noise. Foodwise, options like fries, rice, beans, or a burger exist, but the menu leans spicy and complex; do not expect a kids menu or many simple plates.
At a Glance
- Creative Mexican-seafood fusion with standout octopus, lobster, and raw bar
- Stylish, relaxed room good for dates and pre-theater
- Managerial interactions and problem resolution reported as poor by multiple guests
- Pricing is high; misses feel costly
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- Mexican-seafood fusion with Asian accents
- Robust raw bar in a refined UWS setting
- Creative takes like swordfish schnitzel and lobster aguachile
What People Love
- Inventive flavors that feel fresh rather than gimmicky
- Well-executed octopus and tuna dishes
- Raw bar quality and presentation
- Refined ambiance without stuffiness
Points of Concern
- Manager in a hat repeatedly cited for rude behavior and inhospitable tone
- Inconsistent pacing and occasional overcooking (notably salmon)
- Expensive; extra charges (e.g., tortillas) can irk
- Food safety concerns reported by a few (isolated but serious)
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$78-110 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair the Tuna Taquitos ($19) with a shared Grilled Octopus ($28) and split Langosta Ensenada ($56) for balance
- Vegetarians can assemble sides: Esquites ($11), Eggplant ($11), Arroz ($11)
Perfect For
- Date night with seafood lovers
- Pre- or post-Lincoln Center dinner
- Adventurous diners seeking fusion twists
- Bar seating for a solo raw bar fix
Location Insights
Area: Upscale residential near Lincoln Center; mix of culture-goers and neighborhood diners.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, steady evening foot traffic.
Nearby: Close to Lincoln Center, Broadway/Columbus dining corridors, theaters and bars.
Upper West SideThe Upper West Side boasts a diverse dining scene ranging from classic New York delis and casual cafes to high-end restaurants. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and family-friendly, with a strong community feel and a steady flow of locals and tourists enjoying the nearby parks and museums.
Lincoln SquareLincoln Square is known for its concentration of performing arts venues, including Lincoln Center, attracting a crowd interested in arts and culture. Dining here often caters to pre- and post-show crowds with a mix of upscale and casual options.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:30–22:00
Tuesday16:30–22:30
Wednesday16:30–22:30
Thursday16:30–22:30
Friday16:30–23:00
Saturday11:30–15:00, 16:30–23:00
Sunday11:30–15:00, 16:30–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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