Seemor
Hav & MarA-Worth Trying
245 11th Ave, New York, NY 10001
· Seafood restaurant, Ethiopian restaurant, Swedish restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (567 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Creative seafood-forward fusion with standout dishes and warm hospitality, but expect high prices, occasional service delays, and small portions.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Hav & Mar delivers solid A-grade performance through confident, layered food quality and striking design with exceptional visual appeal, but inconsistent execution prevents higher standing. The creative Swedish-Ethiopian seafood fusion excels on standout dishes like the Havatini, yet quality variation and occasional pacing delays temper the overall experience. Best suited for adventurous diners who appreciate chef-driven storytelling over traditional comfort dining.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with soaring ceilings and whimsical mermaid motifs. Guests describe service as genuinely welcoming when it clicks, and plates arrive looking like art. One diner summed it up: "the flavors felt layered and confident," though a few noted pacing hiccups that broke the flow. The culinary approach leans creative fusion where Ethiopian spices meet Nordic cues over a seafood backbone. Expect berbere next to miso butter, uni-laced pasta, and crisp-skinned fish with bright sauces. It suits diners who enjoy discovery and chef-driven storytelling more than traditional comfort fare; order broadly and let the staff guide you. Families can make it work, but the menu skews adventurous. Kids might gravitate to biscuits, fries, or a simply prepared fish or pasta, though there is no clear kids menu. Portions are refined rather than hearty, so conservative eaters may prefer sharing a few gentler dishes.
At a Glance
- Distinctive Swedish-Ethiopian seafood fusion with confident flavors
- Gorgeous room and thoughtful plating enhance the occasion feel
- Standout dishes like Havatini and seared bass earn repeat visits
- Portions run small for the price; value depends on creativity appreciation
- Service pacing can be slow at peak times; communication varies
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- Swedish-Ethiopian seafood fusion
- Striking mermaid-inspired design
- Chef-driven pasta with uni butter
- Chef's table experience
What People Love
- Transportive, design-forward space
- Inventive seafood pasta and raw dishes
- Warm, knowledgeable servers on their game
- Balanced, layered flavors that feel unique
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely high (many mains $30+; shareable platters $99-$135)
- Pacing and course timing can be inconsistent on busy nights
- Portions can feel modest, especially steaks and some platters
- Isolated reports of shellfish issues and inconsistent seasoning
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$82-110 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Blue Cornbread and Tuna Tartare to preview spice and raw programs.
- Share one rich pasta (Havatini or Havatelli) and one seared fish to balance.
- Vegetarian diners: Wild or Green Garden curry with Hav Fries and Spring Salad.
Perfect For
- Date night with a creative menu
- Celebrating with friends who like to share plates
- Pre- or post-gallery dinner in Chelsea
- Adventurous seafood lovers seeking something new
Location Insights
Area: Design-centric Chelsea stretch by galleries and event venues; attracts diners pre- and post-art shows.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked arts district with solid lighting and steady foot traffic.
Nearby: Near art galleries, The High Line access points, and Hudson Yards draws; mixed locals and visitors.
ChelseaChelsea offers a dynamic dining scene ranging from upscale restaurants to casual eateries, attracting a mix of trendy diners and locals. The area is known for its walkability, art culture, and a lively social atmosphere, making it a hotspot for innovative culinary experiences.
West ChelseaWest Chelsea, particularly near 11th Avenue, is known for its concentration of contemporary art galleries and the High Line park, drawing a sophisticated crowd interested in culture and upscale dining. The dining environment here often features modern, stylish venues with a focus on quality and ambiance.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–22:00
Tuesday17:00–22:00
Wednesday17:00–22:00
Thursday17:00–22:00
Friday17:00–22:00
Saturday17:00–22:00
Sunday17:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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