Seemor
SeftonA-Worth Trying
1373 1st Ave, New York, NY 10021
· Restaurant, Brunch restaurant, Cocktail bar
· 4.5/5 Google (273 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
A lively Upper East Side cocktail bar with solid bar food, popular happy hour, and mostly warm service, though noise, occasional rudeness, and fees can frustrate.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Sefton delivers solid neighborhood bar dining through reliable food quality anchored by flatbreads, burgers, and spicy tuna crispy rice, paired with consistently friendly bartender service. The timeless, cozy aesthetic and strong local loyalty support its standing, though tight seating that crowds during peak hours and occasional service inconsistencies prevent grade A territory. A worthwhile Upper East Side destination for cocktails and elevated bar comfort.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels timeless and inviting, a neighborhood bar where locals slide from outdoor tables to a warm, wood-toned interior. Staff often deliver quick, friendly service even when it is buzzing. One diner summed it up: "Great cocktails and a place you can settle in for a while." The cooking leans toward elevated bar comfort rather than culinary fireworks: prosciutto flatbreads, a Pat LaFrieda burger with tots, spicy tuna on crispy rice, and solid salads. Drinks lead the show with well-made classics and spritzes; happy hour value keeps folks returning. It suits anyone chasing lively energy over hush, with food that supports the drinks. Families can do well earlier in the day: burgers, mac and cheese, tacos, and flatbreads give kids familiar choices. Bowls and salads offer lighter paths. Later at night the room trends loud and crowded, so earlier visits fit family needs best.
At a Glance
- Reliable cocktails and popular happy hour
- Flatbreads, burger, and snacks complement drinks well
- Noise levels get very loud at peak times
- Occasional rude service and billing/fee complaints
- Strong neighborhood regulars vibe
What Sets It Apart
- robust_happy_hour
- neighborhood_regulars_scene
- balanced_cocktail_program
What People Love
- Happy hour pours that feel generous
- Cozy, elegant bar feel without fuss
- Prosciutto flatbread and tots with cocktails
- Attentive bartenders who can riff on classics
Points of Concern
- Noise can be club-level at peak; conversation may be hard
- A few reports of rude or dismissive service at the bar
- Billing surprises: reports of a 2.7% processing fee and auto-gratuity on some checks
- Service slows when packed; tab closing can take time
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$38-55 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair the Prosciutto Flatbread with a spritz for balance
- For lighter eating, choose the Harvest Bowl or Malibu Bowl
- Burger or Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich if you want a hearty main
Perfect For
- After-work drinks with shareable bites
- Casual date night with cocktails
- Weekend brunch before shopping or a stroll
- Small group catch-ups in a lively setting
Location Insights
Area: Upscale residential corridor with after-work and weekend crowd; strong neighborhood bar culture.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit Upper East Side block with steady foot traffic.
Nearby: Close to hospitals, apartments, and 1st Ave bar/restaurant strip; attracts locals and visitors.
YorkvilleYorkville offers a more relaxed and residential feel compared to the rest of the Upper East Side, with a variety of casual and upscale dining options. The area is known for its safe, family-friendly atmosphere and a mix of traditional and contemporary eateries, attracting both locals and visitors seeking a quieter dining experience.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–04:00
Tuesday11:00–04:00
Wednesday11:00–04:00
Thursday11:00–04:00
Friday11:00–04:00
Saturday10:00–04:00
Sunday10:00–04:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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