Seemor
EshelB+Worth Trying
507 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024
· Kosher restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (148 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Modern kosher Persian spot with generous portions and standout kebabs and stews; lively room, occasional service lapses, and premium pricing with desserts and steaks climbing fast.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Eshel delivers solid neighborhood dining through exceptional kebabs, tahdig, and stews with fresh, bold flavors and attentive, warm service that create genuine hospitality. However, inconsistent execution in seasoning and portions prevents grade A territory, while tight spacing and occasional bar delays limit the overall experience. The modern kosher Persian concept is well-executed but not yet fully refined.
Restaurant Summary
Eshel brings a modern kosher Persian table to the Upper West Side with warm, lively energy and plates that lean big and generous. Diners describe kebabs that are "tender and full of flavor" and tahdig crowned with rich stews, while service ranges from attentive and kind to occasionally uneven at the host stand. Expect a bustling room where music and conversation can get loud. The cooking stays rooted in Persian comfort—barg, koobideh, saffron chicken, hearty ghormeh sabzi and gheymeh—elevated with thoughtful touches like eggplant carpaccio and well-spiced arayes. It feels produce-forward and tradition-led rather than theatrical; the draw is quality ingredients and careful grilling, not tricks. Portions are substantial, so sharing mains with a spread of starters is a smart play for balanced value. Families fit right in thanks to kid-friendly sides like fries and rice, plus straightforward skewers that many children enjoy. There is no explicit kids menu, but the menu offers simple, familiar options alongside bolder stews. Gluten-free diners report doing well here, supported by many naturally GF-leaning dishes and clear sides.
At a Glance
- Generous portions make sharing easy and satisfying
- Standout kebabs, tahdig, and stews with fresh flavors
- Noise levels and tight table spacing can reduce comfort
- Bar cocktail timing and staff training can be inconsistent
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- kosher_persian_focus
- generous_portions
- modern_UWS_setting
What People Love
- Tender, juicy barg and koobideh
- Crisp tahdig with comforting stews
- Friendly, proactive servers by name
- Modern space that still feels warm
Points of Concern
- Music and room noise can be loud during peak times
- Cocktails sometimes arrive late or feel unbalanced
- A few guests report light meat portions in stews on off nights
- Desserts can be pricier than expected when off-menu specials are offered
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$62-$92 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair Eggplant Carpaccio ($24) with Koobideh ($40) and Saffron Rice ($15) for a balanced two-person share.
- Value route: Hummus Baladi ($16) + Jujeh Saffron Chicken ($40) + Pistachio Baklava ($16).
- Premium splurge: Barg ($50) or Sultani Barg ($65) with Jeweled Rice ($21).
Perfect For
- Sharing a hearty Persian feast with friends
- Kosher date night with a lively vibe
- Family dinners where large portions matter
- Out-of-town visitors seeking flavorful Middle Eastern grilling
Location Insights
Area: Leafy residential corridor with families and culture-seeking locals; casual-smart dining and boutique retail.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit streets with steady evening foot traffic.
Nearby: Near Central Park, American Museum of Natural History, neighborhood cafes and shops.
Upper West SideThe Upper West Side is characterized by a relaxed yet sophisticated dining scene, featuring a range of eateries from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. The area attracts locals who appreciate quality food in a neighborhood setting, with many establishments catering to families and professionals alike. It is known for its safe, walkable streets and a community-oriented atmosphere.
Lincoln SquareLincoln Square, part of the Upper West Side, is home to major cultural venues like Lincoln Center, drawing a crowd interested in arts and performance. The dining scene here includes refined restaurants and trendy spots that cater to both locals and visitors attending events.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday11:00–14:00
Saturday19:30–00:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
View full analysis on Seemor →