Seemor
OBAO MidtownA-Worth Trying
222 E 53rd St, New York, NY 10022
· Thai restaurant, Grill, Asian fusion restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (4244 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Lively Thai-Vietnamese fusion spot with flavorful noodles, curries, and solid value in Midtown East; best for bold flavors and groups, though pho quality and occasional service lapses draw mixed feedback.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
OBAO Midtown delivers solid A-grade performance through strong food quality anchored by flavor-forward noodles and curries, paired with attentive service and appealing design. However, inconsistent execution on signature pho and modest destination appeal prevent grade A territory. The contemporary fusion approach and group-friendly space make it competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with intimate corners and a playlist that adds pep. Servers draw praise for attentive guidance, though a few diners mention slow moments. One guest put it simply: "The noodles were packed with flavor and arrived fast." No major authenticity warnings beyond normal polarization. The cooking leans Thai-Vietnamese fusion with creative flourishes (contemporary comfort): think short rib massaman, kimchi fries, and even a whole lobster pad thai. The approach feels energetic rather than showy—bold seasoning, crisp textures, and satisfying portions that suit group sharing and casual dates. If you are set on a traditional pho experience, feedback is mixed. Families should do well here thanks to approachable favorites: pad thai, fried rice, wings, and mild curries. Portions are solid and servers will adjust spice. There is no explicit kids menu, but the noodle-heavy lineup and rice plates usually satisfy less adventurous eaters.
At a Glance
- Flavor-forward noodles and curries with brisk service
- Stylish, cozy space that handles groups well
- Pho quality and portions draw mixed to negative feedback
- Music can be loud; occasional slow or curt service
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- thai_vietnamese_fusion_focus
- group_friendly_layout
- spice_level_customization
What People Love
- Punchy, balanced noodle dishes
- Attentive servers who tailor spice
- Cozy design with a lively soundtrack
- Portions that feel fair for Midtown
Points of Concern
- Pho broth and portion size are inconsistent per several reviews
- Music volume occasionally high for conversation
- Service can vary by shift; a few reports of slow or curt moments
- Review patterns show normal polarization on specific dishes; not indicative of manipulation
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$42-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Lean toward noodles and curries where feedback shines
- Choose pork chops or Bò Lúc Lac for satisfying mains
- Seafood specials are indulgent; verify doneness preferences with server
Perfect For
- Casual group dinners with shared plates
- Midtown lunch where flavor trumps fuss
- Date nights that prefer cozy over formal
- Pre-show or post-work meals near offices and hotels
Location Insights
Area: Busy Midtown East corridor serving office workers and residents; after-work energy with steady lunch and dinner traffic.
Safety: Well-lit, active sidewalks and typical Midtown safety; regular foot traffic into evening.
Nearby: Near offices, hotels, and neighborhood bars; convenient for group meals and casual dates.
Turtle BayTurtle Bay is a primarily residential and commercial neighborhood with a mix of upscale apartments and office buildings. The dining scene includes a variety of mid-to-upscale restaurants catering to business lunches, after-work gatherings, and residents seeking quality dining options in a relatively quiet yet accessible part of Midtown.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–22:00
Tuesday11:30–22:00
Wednesday11:30–22:00
Thursday11:30–22:00
Friday11:30–22:00
Saturday11:30–22:00
Sunday11:30–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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