Seemor
SalmaBWorth Trying
351 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003
· Lebanese restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (1007 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Cozy Lebanese spot with flavorful grills and friendly service, but consistency, wait times, and occasional quality lapses mean experiences vary widely.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Salma delivers reliable Lebanese comfort dining with strong food quality when the kitchen executes—grills and mezze platters earn consistent praise. However, inconsistent execution and variable service speed, especially during peak hours, prevent a higher grade. The pleasant East Village setting and warm staff make it worth trying for groups seeking shareable Lebanese fare, though reliability concerns limit it from competing with the area's more dependable neighborhood restaurants.
Restaurant Summary
On a leafy East Village side street, Salma reads as a cozy Lebanese hideaway where mezze meet sizzling grills. Guests describe servers as warm and accommodating, especially with groups. One diner summed it up: "The mixed platter fed our table and the hummus sang with lemon." Still, peak hours can bring long waits and spotty communication. The cooking leans classic and shareable, not showy—traditional Lebanese staples like hummus, fattoush, and mixed grills lead the way. When the kitchen hits, lamb chops and shish tawouk shine; when it misses, shawarma can run dry or underseasoned. Best value comes from family-style spreads rather than solo plates. For families, the menu is accessible: fries, rice, kebabs, and mild hummus are easy wins. There is no formal kids menu, but sandwiches and platters portion well for sharing. If your crew prefers ultra-mild flavors, consider mezze and chicken over spicier or leaner cuts.
At a Glance
- Generous platters and tasty grills when on form
- Friendly staff; multiple servers praised by name
- Long waits and weak communication at peak times
- Inconsistent shawarma quality (dry/bland reports)
- Isolated safety and sanitation concerns cited by diners
What Sets It Apart
- family-style mixed grills
- broad vegetarian mezze
- cozy East Village side street setting
What People Love
- Homey mezze with bright lemon and tahini
- Mixed grill platters that feed two or more
- Kind, attentive servers who guide ordering
- Cozy brick-lined room and side street seating
Points of Concern
- Service delays of 60-90 minutes reported during busy periods; limited updates from staff
- Shawarma inconsistency with dryness or muted seasoning noted by several diners
- A few food safety issues reported (foreign objects, sanitation letter sighting) though not universal
- Value feels uneven for some when quality dips or items are missing
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$34-$52 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Share the Mixed Grill Platter and supplement with Hummus and Fattoush for balance
- Vegetarians: Moutabal, Warak Enab, Msakaa, Lentil Soup, and fries for a complete meal
Perfect For
- Sharing mezze and grills with friends
- Casual date night in the East Village
- Vegetarian-leaning groups who want mezze variety
- Solo quick bite at off-peak hours
Location Insights
Area: Lively East Village side street with casual bars and eateries; draws students, locals, and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, busy at night; typical city foot traffic and lighting.
Nearby: Near St. Marks, NYU, and neighborhood cafes; outdoor seating vibe noted in reviews.
East VillageThe East Village offers a dynamic dining environment with a wide range of cuisines from casual cafes and ethnic eateries to innovative restaurants and bars. The social atmosphere is lively and creative, often drawing a youthful crowd interested in arts, music, and nightlife.
Alphabet CityAlphabet City, part of the East Village, is known for its bohemian vibe, affordable dining spots, and vibrant nightlife. It has a slightly edgier feel with many casual and experimental restaurants popular among a younger, trend-conscious crowd.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–22:00
Tuesday11:30–22:00
Wednesday11:30–22:00
Thursday11:30–22:00
Friday11:30–23:00
Saturday11:30–23:00
Sunday11:30–22:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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