Seemor
Forsythia NYCB+Worth Trying
9 Stanton St, New York, NY 10002
· Italian restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (403 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Ambitious modern Italian with standout handmade pastas and intimate ambiance, but small portions, slow pacing, and a mandatory 22% service charge polarize diners.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Forsythia NYC delivers excellent handmade pasta and strong wine guidance in a warm, stylish LES setting, earning solid neighborhood restaurant status. However, quality varies noticeably between visits, tasting menu pacing feels stretched, and recent complaints about service charges and portions suggest declining momentum. Worth visiting for pasta lovers who value craft over abundance, but inconsistency prevents a higher grade.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and intimate with low lighting, an open kitchen, and that downtown buzz. Servers are often genuinely attentive, though the door can be cooler. One diner summed it up: "The pasta was exquisite, but the pacing stretched the night." However, there are some review authenticity concerns suggesting certain reviews may be solicited or influenced. The cooking leans modern Roman—handmade pastas, precise technique, and a curated, seasonal menu that favors depth over volume. Expect a few true standouts like the short rib agnolotti and a tight list of elevated antipasti. Portions skew refined, not rustic, and the experience is best for guests who appreciate craft and balance more than abundance. For families, this is not especially accommodating. There is no kids menu, portions are small, and flavors trend grown-up. Some children may enjoy simpler pastas like cacio e pepe, but most options are better for adventurous teens or adults. Budget-conscious families should plan elsewhere.
At a Glance
- Handmade pasta with standout short rib agnolotti
- Cozy, stylish LES room ideal for dates
- Mandatory 20-22% service charge for small parties reported by many
- Small portions and slow tasting-menu pacing
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- handmade_pasta_program
- intimate_LES_setting
- roman_classics_lineup
What People Love
- Handmade pasta texture and finesse
- Thoughtful wine guidance and pairings
- Warm, intimate ambiance with open-kitchen energy
- Memorable agnolotti and well-made Roman classics
Points of Concern
- Mandatory 20-22% service charge on small parties creates sticker shock
- Portions are refined and small, leading some to leave hungry
- Tasting menu pacing can run long with gaps between courses
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; CONCERN: Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$88-$125 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair Suppli ($23) with a lighter salad like Misticanza ($23) before a single pasta for a lighter spend.
- Seafood leaners should consider Branzino ($53) as a secondi; it balances a pasta-first meal.
- Gelati & Sorbetti ($6) is a value-friendly sweet finish vs. larger desserts.
Perfect For
- A pasta-focused date night
- Celebrating with a curated wine pairing
- Solo dining at the bar with a front-row kitchen view
- Food lovers who value craft over portion size
Location Insights
Area: Trendy Lower East Side block with nightlife, boutique restaurants, and date-night crowd.
Safety: Generally busy and safe with heavy evening foot traffic; typical NYC nightlife bustle.
Nearby: Near bars, galleries, and indie shops; convenient to Delancey/Essex transit and LES destinations.
Lower East SideThe Lower East Side offers a dynamic dining scene with a mix of traditional delis, hip cafes, and innovative restaurants. The social atmosphere is lively and eclectic, attracting a diverse crowd interested in culture, nightlife, and culinary exploration.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:30–22:00
Tuesday17:30–22:00
Wednesday17:30–22:00
Thursday17:30–22:00
Friday17:30–22:00
Saturday17:30–22:00
Sunday17:30–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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