Seemor
FishMarket IIA-Worth Trying
171 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009
· Malaysian restaurant, Asian fusion restaurant, Seafood restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (142 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Divey sports-bar setting hiding standout Malaysian comfort dishes and crisp fried seafood; excellent flavors, moderate spice heat, smallish portions, and prices on the higher end for the neighborhood.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
FishMarket II earns its A- grade through exceptional food quality—particularly standout laksa and beef rendang that reviewers describe as memorable—paired with attentive, friendly service and quick kitchen pacing. Functional but modest interior design and occasional consistency variations prevent grade A territory, though strong customer loyalty and reliable execution across visits confirm solid neighborhood standing.
Restaurant Summary
A no-frills East Village spot where Malaysian comfort cooking meets sports bar energy. Reviewers describe crisp-fried seafood, deeply spiced stews, and a bartender-led welcome that feels genuinely neighborly. One diner summed it up: "The laksa and rendang were the kind that stay on your mind." TVs and country tunes may surprise, but the kitchen delivers. The cooking leans traditional Malaysian with polished execution rather than culinary theatrics. Expect coconut-rich curries, wok aroma on noodles, and excellent fry work on wings and seafood. Spice runs medium to hot depending on the dish, and portions skew modest, so consider an extra plate to share. It suits those who value bold, homestyle flavors over ambience. Families can do well here off-peak: kids often gravitate to ginger wings, fries, and crispy fried rice, while adventurous eaters can explore laksa or nasi lemak. There is not a formal kids menu, and heat can run high, so ask for milder options. The casual bar setting keeps it easy with friendly staff and quick pacing.
At a Glance
- Best-in-area laksa and standout beef rendang with deep flavor
- Friendly, attentive bar-led service with quick pacing
- Excellent fry technique on wings and seafood
- Portions can feel small; one-off skimpy shrimp report
- Divey sports-bar ambiance not for decor seekers
What Sets It Apart
- sports_bar_meets_malaysian
- mamas_home_style_cooking
- late_evening_friendly_bar
What People Love
- Laksa broth depth and spice
- Tender, aromatic rendang
- Crispy fried rice texture
- Welcoming bartender culture
- Fresh, well-seasoned seafood
Points of Concern
- Portions trend modest; some diners order extra to feel full
- Spice levels can be high; request milder sauce when available
- A few marketing-like reviews; overall authenticity still strong
- Occasional inconsistency (saltiness or protein count) but not systemic
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$44-$62 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For milder palates: Chicken & Green Beans (non-spicy), Drunken Fish Soup, Sauteed Bok Choy; For vegetarians: Yummy Noodles, Bok Choy, Fries; Balance a curry with crispy fried rice.
Perfect For
- Casual weeknight Malaysian fix
- Watching a game with quality food
- Small groups sharing plates
- Solo bar meal with friendly service
Location Insights
Area: Lively East Village strip with bars, late-night energy, and eclectic eateries; strong local scene.
Safety: Generally safe with heavy foot traffic; typical late-night bar district dynamics.
Nearby: Near Tompkins Square Park, dense bar cluster, neighboring Asian spots and casual restaurants.
East VillageThe East Village offers a diverse dining scene ranging from casual eateries and ethnic restaurants to trendy bars and cafes. It has a lively social atmosphere with a mix of bohemian charm and modern urban energy, attracting a crowd interested in creative and alternative lifestyles.
Alphabet CityAlphabet City is known for its gritty yet revitalized vibe, with a strong presence of independent restaurants, dive bars, and cultural venues. It maintains a more underground and edgy character compared to the broader East Village.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–22:30
Tuesday16:00–22:30
Wednesday16:00–22:30
Thursday16:00–22:30
Friday16:00–22:30
Saturday16:00–22:30
Sunday16:00–21:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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