Seemor
Nobu Fifty SevenB+Worth Trying
40 W 57th St, New York, NY 10019
· Restaurant, Bar
· 4.4/5 Google (2663 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Polished Midtown Nobu delivering signature Japanese-Peruvian fusion, lively energy, and high prices; excellent hits like yellowtail jalapeno and black cod, but service consistency and noise vary.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Nobu Fifty Seven delivers exceptional food quality with signature dishes that consistently impress—yellowtail jalapeno, crispy rice, and miso cod remain reliable highlights. However, inconsistent execution and tight table spacing prevent a higher grade, while service variance at the host stand occasionally undermines the polished Midtown experience. Strong enough for a special occasion, but not among the region's premier dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
The Midtown room hums with lively, polished energy—dim lighting, clinking glasses, and plates landing in a steady rhythm. One diner put it simply: "Service explained each dish and the flavors popped," even if the front desk can feel brusque at peak times. Expect an upbeat scene more than a hushed temple. The culinary approach leans contemporary Japanese-Peruvian: bright citrus, ponzu, jalapeno heat, and clean cuts of fish. Highlights like yellowtail jalapeno, crispy rice with spicy tuna, rock shrimp, and the miso cod deliver the classic Nobu arc—refined, punchy, shareable. Some say it is less groundbreaking than years past, but it remains a reliable hit parade when you order the signatures. For families, there are accessible options—miso soup, chicken teriyaki, salmon, simple rolls, and tempura—yet the vibe is adult-forward and loud at night. No dedicated kids menu noted; picky eaters may fare better at lunch with bento sets and simpler rolls like kappa or salmon-avocado.
At a Glance
- Iconic signatures still shine (yellowtail jalapeno, crispy rice, rock shrimp, miso cod)
- Lively atmosphere and polished Midtown setting
- Service inconsistency at host stand and occasional rude interactions
- Loud dining room and tight table spacing during peak hours
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- Iconic Nobu classics executed in Midtown
- Broad gluten-free and vegetarian pathways
- Lunch bentos that sample signatures
What People Love
- The bright, citrus-forward sashimi style
- Crispy rice with spicy tuna for that craveable crunch
- Attentive servers who explain how to enjoy each dish
- A big-city buzz that feels special without stiffness
Points of Concern
- Host stand and reservation handling can feel curt; occasional seating delays even with bookings
- Noise levels can be very high at peak times; not ideal for quiet conversation
- Portions are small plates; bills add up fast for a full meal
- Review patterns show signs of polarized experiences that may not reflect every visit
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$85-120 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For pescatarians: yellowtail jalapeno + tiradito + black cod for a balanced trio
- Vegetarian flow: kelp salad, warm mushroom salad, eggplant miso, vegetable tacos
- Value path: lunch bento ($68-85) to sample signatures without over-ordering
Perfect For
- Celebratory date nights that lean lively
- Expense-account business lunches with set menus
- Out-of-towners seeking the classic Nobu lineup
- Solo bar or counter sushi sessions
Location Insights
Area: Upscale Midtown corridor near Fifth Avenue retail and offices; draws business diners, tourists, and special-occasion crowds.
Safety: High foot traffic, well-lit and patrolled; typical Midtown congestion but generally safe.
Nearby: Near luxury shopping, hotels, Central Park south edge; heavy commuter and visitor flow influences vibe and pricing.
Hell's KitchenHell's Kitchen offers a dynamic dining scene with a mix of casual eateries, trendy restaurants, and upscale dining options. The area is lively, with a strong presence of nightlife and proximity to Broadway theaters, attracting a diverse crowd seeking both convenience and quality.
The Theater DistrictThe Theater District is characterized by its concentration of theaters and entertainment venues, drawing large crowds before and after shows. Dining options here range from quick bites to fine dining, catering to theater-goers and visitors looking for a vibrant night out.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:45–22:15
Tuesday11:45–22:15
Wednesday11:45–22:15
Thursday11:45–22:15
Friday11:45–23:15
Saturday11:45–23:15
Sunday11:45–22:15
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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