Seemor
沙记烧烤 Manhattan Shaji BBQB+Worth Trying
11 E 7th St, New York, NY 10003
· Chinese restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (112 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Flavor-packed Northeastern Chinese skewers with late-night hours and lively vibe, but expect small portions, slow pacing at peak, and pricing that adds up fast.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Shaji BBQ delivers bold, authentic Northeastern Chinese skewers with standout lamb and tendon that justify its loyal following, and the late-night, lively East Village vibe appeals to groups seeking casual, shareable dining. However, quality swings between exceptional and mediocre batches, service pacing lags significantly, and recent foodborne illness reports create reliability concerns that prevent a higher grade despite the cooking's genuine appeal.
Restaurant Summary
On a buzzy East Village block, Shaji turns out cumin-dusted skewers over live fire with a casual, late-night pulse that feels lively and unpretentious. Expect waves of plates rather than a single drop, and service that swings from thoughtful to stretched. One diner put it simply: "The lamb and chicken came hot and juicy, perfect for a night snack." The cooking leans classic Northeastern Chinese street-barbecue—bold, aromatic, and shareable—with offal options, tin-foil veggies, and plenty of chili-cumin swagger rather than chefly theatrics. It is ideal for groups who like to graze and compare bites, though portions can be compact and costs climb faster than you think. If you prefer gentle flavors, request mild; otherwise, settle in for big spice and smoke. Families can make it work: chicken skewers, non-spicy lamb, and tin-foil tofu or cabbage are approachable for kids. There is no formal kids menu, and prices add up, but a mild order and a couple of safe sides keep it friendly enough for casual family outings.
At a Glance
- Bold, authentic Northeastern Chinese skewers with standout lamb and tendon
- Late-night, lively vibe great for groups
- Portions run small; pricing adds up quickly
- Slow pacing and long waits at peak times
- A few recent food illness reports; proceed with caution
What Sets It Apart
- authentic_cumin_skewers
- broad_offal_selection
- late_night_hours
What People Love
- Juicy, cumin-forward lamb skewers
- Crispy, flavorful chicken skin
- Tender beef tendon texture
- Fun, lively late-night vibe
Points of Concern
- Portions described as small by multiple diners, especially skewers
- Service pacing can be slow with limited staff covering room and deliveries
- Pricing feels high for serving size; veg tin-foil dishes near $12-$16
- Isolated but serious reports of foodborne illness in recent months
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$42-$62 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Build your meal with 2-3 skewers per person to start, then add tin-foil veg like potato chips ($11.99) or baby cabbage ($14.99) for balance.
- Seafood fans: add grilled prawns ($6.99) for value and variety.
Perfect For
- Post-drinks late-night snacks
- Casual group grazing and sharing
- Adventurous eaters into offal and spice
- Students near NYU seeking flavorful bites
Location Insights
Area: Trendy East Village block with students, nightlife, and casual eateries; strong late-night energy.
Safety: Generally busy and well-trafficked; typical late-night urban caution applies.
Nearby: Near NYU, bars, and casual restaurants; good for post-drinks snacks and group hangs.
East VillageThe East Village dining scene is diverse, featuring everything from casual eateries and trendy cafes to innovative fine dining. The social atmosphere is lively and youthful, with a strong presence of creative types and a welcoming vibe for both locals and visitors. The area is known for its walkability, nightlife, and a mix of historic and modern establishments.
St. Mark's PlaceSt. Mark's Place is a well-known stretch within the East Village famous for its bohemian flair, vintage shops, and a concentration of casual dining spots and bars. It attracts a diverse crowd looking for affordable and eclectic food options in a bustling, energetic setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–02:45
Tuesday16:00–02:45
Wednesday16:00–02:45
Thursday16:00–02:45
Friday16:00–02:45
Saturday16:00–02:45
Sunday16:00–02:45
Available: Delivery, Takeout
View full analysis on Seemor →