Seemor
PennyAMust Try
90 E 10th St 1st Floor, New York, NY 10003
· Seafood restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (213 reviews)
Reservations
A creative raw-bar-driven seafood counter with standout bites, great wine, and notable small-portion pricing; book for special nights, not hearty feasts.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
Penny stands among the region's finest seafood destinations through exceptional food quality and distinctive design-forward setting that creates genuine theater around pristine raw preparations. Expert wine guidance and polished service elevate the experience, while creative technique and careful sourcing justify the premium positioning. Counter-only seating and small portions reflect intentional curation rather than limitation—this is curated fine dining, not casual seafood.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling around a long marble counter where cooks plate pristine seafood within arm’s reach. Service is often polished and efficient, though some guests felt the pacing rushed. One diner summed it up: "Every bite tasted like someone obsessed over it first." Cooking leans modern and produce-driven, with creative raw-bar ideas, confident sauces, and cross-cultural touches rather than theatrics. Dishes like stuffed squid and halibut show careful technique, while the ice box showcases quality sourcing. Portions run small; think curated bites plus a wine-forward evening more than a heavy feast. For families, this counter-only, seafood-centric menu is not ideal for kids. While there is brioche and a simple seaweed salad, most options skew adventurous and portioned for tasting. Consider it better for date nights or seafood-loving friends than picky eaters.
At a Glance
- Standout seafood quality with creative touches
- Excellent wine guidance and smart pairings
- Small portions and high prices can leave some hungry
- Counter-only seating with lively noise may not suit all
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- chef_counter_theater
- seafood_driven_fusion
- notable_wine_program
What People Love
- Emotion over pristine raw shrimp and oysters
- The ritual of warm brioche and butter
- Watching chefs plate fish inches away
- Knowledgeable service that nails pairings
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (many mains $28–$45; raw by the piece) which may surprise casual diners
- Some guests felt rushed by time limits and fast pacing
- Counter-only seating can be uncomfortable and loud over a long meal
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$90-$125 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with brioche, then mix one raw selection (shrimp or oysters) with 2–3 cooked plates (e.g., stuffed squid, halibut) and share one dessert.
- Value play: combine a salad ($16–$19) and a mid-priced fish ($28–$35) before a single splurge.
Perfect For
- Seafood-centric date night at the counter
- Wine lovers seeking thoughtful pairings
- Solo diners grabbing an early bar seat
- Special-occasion splurge with raw bar focus
Location Insights
Area: Trendy East Village block with chef-driven spots, strong nightlife, and design-forward venues attracting food-savvy diners.
Safety: Busy, well-trafficked nightlife corridor; generally safe with typical urban late-evening bustle.
Nearby: Near NYU, St. Marks, bars and cafes; sibling restaurant Claud downstairs draws similar crowd.
East VillageEast Village is known for its vibrant nightlife, eclectic dining options, and bohemian atmosphere. The area features a mix of casual and trendy restaurants, bars, and cafes, attracting a crowd interested in innovative cuisine and cultural experiences. It is a lively neighborhood with a strong sense of community and artistic influence.
Alphabet CityAlphabet City, part of the East Village, is recognized for its gritty yet revitalized character, with a growing number of hip restaurants, bars, and music venues. It offers a more laid-back and authentic vibe compared to the busier parts of East Village, appealing to those looking for unique and less touristy dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–22:30
Tuesday17:00–22:30
Wednesday17:00–22:30
Thursday17:00–22:30
Friday17:00–22:30
Saturday17:00–22:30
Sunday17:00–22:30
Available: Reservations
View full analysis on Seemor →