Seemor
OPTOAMust Try
35 W 20th St, New York, NY 10011
· Mediterranean restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (137 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Stylish Flatiron Mediterranean with standout pastas, polished service, and buzzworthy desserts; excellent overall but pricey mains and occasional execution slips mean choose dishes wisely.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
OPTO stands among the region's finest dining establishments through exceptional food quality—particularly house-made pastas and signature dark chocolate mousse—paired with outstanding service attentiveness and thoughtful setting appeal. While consistency shows occasional variation on execution and some large-format fish offerings question value, the restaurant's polished execution, genuine hospitality, and destination appeal for special occasions justify grade A territory.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling without tipping into chaos, a chic Flatiron backdrop where servers are genuinely attentive. One diner put it simply: "The pastas were unreal and the mousse sealed the deal." However, there are some review authenticity concerns suggesting certain reviews may be solicited or influenced. Cooking leans contemporary Mediterranean with creative flourishes rather than heavy theatrics. Expect bright flavors, well-seasoned seafood, and house-made pasta that draws raves, while pricier shareable fish can divide opinion. Desserts, especially the dark chocolate mousse, are a reliable finale. Families can make it work with accessible picks like lemon pasta, pomodoro, and potatoes, but the vibe skews date-night chic. There is no explicit kids menu, portions are shareable, and servers are accommodating—best for adventurous kids or pasta lovers rather than picky eaters.
At a Glance
- Polished, welcoming service with thoughtful touches and comps when needed
- House pastas and chocolate mousse consistently impress
- Some inconsistent execution on octopus and event nights
- High prices on large-format fish feel weak on value
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- refined_house_pastas
- gluten_free_friendly_menu
- engaged_chef_owner
- bar_seat_hospitality
What People Love
- The lemon pasta that tastes both bright and comforting
- Attentive staff who personalize the night
- Octopus and lamb chops when the kitchen is on point
- Silky, rich chocolate mousse that people crave later
Points of Concern
- Event and holiday menus felt cramped and underwhelming to some diners
- Branzino for 2–3 is expensive and not always memorable for the price
- Occasional overchar or doneness slips on octopus and sauces
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (enthusiastic marketing tones, short five-stars) which may not reflect typical diner experience
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$85-120 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a shareable meal: one dip with bread, octopus, two pastas, a side of carrots, and mousse for dessert
- Value play: half chicken ($42) plus a pasta to split instead of the $135 branzino
- Gluten-free diners can target labeled starters, salads, and several mains
Perfect For
- A celebratory date night with pasta and dessert at the center
- Sharing appetizers and pastas at the bar with great service
- Gluten-free diners seeking clearly labeled options
- Small group dinners exploring multiple dishes
Location Insights
Area: Vibrant Flatiron block with upscale dining and bar scene; draws locals, dates, and small groups.
Safety: Well-trafficked, generally safe at night with good lighting and foot traffic.
Nearby: Near Fifth Ave tech and creative offices, Union Square and Madison Square Park within walking distance.
ChelseaChelsea offers a dynamic dining scene with a blend of upscale restaurants, trendy cafes, and casual eateries. The neighborhood is known for its art galleries, nightlife, and a generally lively social atmosphere attracting a diverse crowd.
NoMad (North of Madison Square Park)NoMad is a trendy micro-neighborhood characterized by boutique hotels, high-end dining, and a growing number of bars and lounges. It has a sophisticated yet approachable vibe, popular for both business lunches and evening socializing.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–22:00
Tuesday17:00–22:00
Wednesday17:00–22:00
Thursday17:00–23:00
Friday17:00–00:00
Saturday17:00–00:00
Sunday17:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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