Seemor
SEOUL SALON NYCB+Worth Trying
28 W 33rd St, New York, NY 10001
· Korean restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (532 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery
Creative Korean small plates with standout scallop rice, rose tteokbokki, and winter yellowtail specials; lively scene and strong cocktails but noise, time limits, and uneven service can detract.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Seoul Salon NYC delivers solid neighborhood dining through strong food quality anchored by standout dishes like soy scallop rice and seasonal yellowtail, paired with knowledgeable staff guidance on specials. However, inconsistent execution on certain proteins and cramped seating during peak hours prevent grade A territory. The creative Korean-Italian fusion concept and lively bar energy make it competitive with respected Koreatown favorites, though operational polish remains uneven.
Restaurant Summary
A sleek Koreatown spot where the room hums with lively energy and cocktails clink at the bar. Guests praise servers who guide specials and the kitchen’s hits, though some nights feel cramped and noisy. As one diner put it, "Plates were vibrant and fun, but the room could get loud fast." The cooking leans creative Korean with playful nods to Italian textures: scallop rice with seaweed-laced grains, rose tteokbokki enriched with stracciatella, and barley risotto paired with octopus. Portions are built for sharing, with seasonal yellowtail platters drawing winter regulars. Not every dish lands—clams and jokbal can vary—and the service rhythm may wobble under peak pressure, but when it clicks, it is a polished, spirited ride. Families will find entry points like crispy fried chicken, fried sweet potatoes, and simple rice. Much of the menu skews spicy or saucy, so cautious eaters may prefer milder plates first. High volume and a bar-forward vibe mean it suits older kids or teens better than toddlers.
At a Glance
- Soy scallop with gim rice is a consistent must-order
- Seasonal yellowtail platter offers strong value and freshness
- 90-minute seating and occasional rushing can impact experience
- Noise and tight seating during peak hours
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- seasonal_yellowtail_platter
- modern_korean_with_italian_twists
- cocktail_program_with_soju_focus
What People Love
- Scallop rice that feels both comforting and refined
- Rose tteokbokki’s creamy-spicy balance
- Crispy fried chicken with generous portions
- Winter yellowtail feast that feels like a deal
- Playful cocktails tailored to Korean flavors
Points of Concern
- Noise can be high and tables close together, especially downstairs, reported by multiple diners
- Time limits enforced; some guests felt rushed near cutoff
- Service inconsistencies: long waits for cold plates and occasional curt hosting
- Clams and jokbal quality vary; some found sauces repetitive or heavy
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$45-65 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair soy scallop rice with pine nut salad to cut richness
- Order large fried chicken for groups; add white rice for kids
- If sensitive to heat, choose grilled tteokgalbi over spicier octopus or crab noodles
Perfect For
- Pre-show dinner with creative plates and cocktails
- Girls night sharing platters and snacks
- Casual date night with lively energy
- Repeat visits for seasonal specials
Location Insights
Area: Bustling Koreatown/Herald Square corridor with nightlife, bars, and casual to upscale Korean dining; draws locals and visitors.
Safety: Busy, well-lit commercial area with heavy foot traffic; generally safe though crowded at peak times.
Nearby: Near Penn Station, Herald Square, Macy’s, office towers, and K-town late-night spots; pre/post-show crowd common.
KoreatownKoreatown is a vibrant dining hotspot famous for its concentration of Korean restaurants, karaoke bars, and late-night eateries. The social atmosphere is lively and energetic, attracting a diverse crowd looking for authentic Korean cuisine and casual dining experiences in a compact urban setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:30–00:00
Tuesday17:30–00:00
Wednesday17:30–00:00
Thursday17:30–00:00
Friday17:00–02:00
Saturday17:00–02:00
Sunday17:30–00:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery
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