Seemor
NONONOB+Worth Trying
118 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016
· Japanese restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1880 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Lively Japanese izakaya with broad menu, good small plates and skewers, solid value, but recent menu changes, inconsistent ramen, and uneven service mean experiences vary.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
This elevated izakaya delivers strong food quality and fast-paced kitchen execution that make it competitive with respected Midtown neighborhood restaurants. However, quality variation across visits—particularly in ramen and takeout—combined with service inconsistency during peak hours and recent menu reductions prevent it from reaching higher territory. Best experienced for shareable small plates and yakitori in a lively, accessible setting.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels cozy but chic, split across two levels with quick-moving servers and plates that land fast. Diners describe it as a place where "food just keeps coming and stays fun to share." It is lively without being stuffy, and the crowd is a mix of locals and visitors who booked ahead for a stress-free night. In the kitchen, the approach leans elevated izakaya rather than high-concept theatrics. Skewers, teishoku sets, and small plates win most praise, while ramen and creamy udon divide opinion. Expect classic flavors with a few playful touches like the raindrop pudding—more comfort-driven than avant-garde, and best enjoyed as a spread. For families, the menu is surprisingly accessible: karaage, fried rice, shoyu ramen, and soft serve are kid-pleasers, and portions on sets are forgiving. Strict vegan or allergy needs may require care since fryers are shared and customization can be limited during rush.
At a Glance
- Lively izakaya with fast kitchen pacing and great shareable plates
- Strong value for Midtown; many mains under $20 and satisfying sets
- Menu changes reduced yakitori variety; some regulars miss old selections
- Service can feel rushed or curt at peak; mixed problem resolution
- Ramen and creamy udon quality is inconsistent across visits
What Sets It Apart
- broad_izakaya_menu_with_sets
- fast_kitchen_pacing_for_sharing
- affordable_midtown_pricing
What People Love
- Shareable skewers that arrive hot
- Teishoku sets that feel like a deal
- Quick, attentive service on good nights
- Soft serve and raindrop pudding as a playful finish
Points of Concern
- Recent menu reduction frustrated long-time fans of broader yakitori cuts
- Inconsistent noodle dishes; some bowls feel bland or heavy
- Service attitude varies under pressure; a few reports of rudeness or rushing
- Limited flexibility on specials and substitutions, especially during busy periods
- Review patterns show polarized sentiment after menu change; experiences may vary
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$38-55 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Share 3-4 skewers plus Yakitori Teishoku for a satisfying spread
- Pair Kinoko mushrooms with Kalbi Don for balance of richness and umami
- Dessert: Matcha Parfait if you want something more distinctive than soft serve
Perfect For
- Casual group share-plates night
- Pre- or post-work Midtown dinner
- Laid-back birthday with friends
- Solo bar bite with skewers and a beer
Location Insights
Area: Bustling NoMad/Midtown South corridor with offices, hotels, and after-work crowds; lively evenings.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit with steady foot traffic; typical Midtown vigilance recommended.
Nearby: Near Madison Square Park, offices, boutique hotels, and other Japanese spots; convenient for commuters and visitors.
Murray HillMurray Hill is a lively neighborhood popular with young professionals due to its proximity to Midtown offices and relatively affordable housing. The dining scene is diverse, featuring casual eateries, trendy bars, and upscale restaurants catering to after-work crowds and residents alike.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–14:30, 17:00–21:30
Tuesday12:00–14:30, 17:00–21:30
Wednesday12:00–14:30, 17:00–21:30
Thursday12:00–14:30, 17:00–22:00
Friday12:00–14:30, 17:00–22:30
Saturday12:00–14:30, 17:00–22:30
Sunday12:00–14:30, 17:00–21:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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