Fishbone

- Seamore's, 161 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011

In the bustling heart of New York City, finding a place that offers both exceptional food and a relaxing atmosphere can feel like a rare find. Fishbone, located in Chelsea, is exactly that kind of place. Tucked away discreetly to the right of the Seamore's entrance on 8th Avenue, it’s a spot that feels like a well-kept secret among locals. It is not just a seafood restaurant; it's a sophisticated cocktail bar and an oyster bar rolled into one, creating a multi-faceted dining and drinking experience. Fishbone is the kind of place you visit when you want to escape the crowded, loud scenes of Manhattan and settle into a more intimate, unpretentious setting. This article will guide you through the unique charm of Fishbone, highlighting what makes it a must-visit destination for anyone in search of great food and drinks in a cool, low-key environment.

Fishbone’s identity is defined by its quality and its quiet confidence. It doesn't rely on a flashy exterior to draw a crowd; instead, it lets its expertly prepared cocktails and fresh seafood speak for themselves. The bar is a destination for cocktail aficionados, particularly those who appreciate rum-based drinks made with care. The unpretentious atmosphere is a breath of fresh air in a neighborhood often known for its high-energy, packed venues. It’s a place where you can actually have a conversation with your friends or a date without shouting over the music. The fact that it is an oyster bar and a seafood restaurant adds to its appeal, providing a delicious culinary complement to its stellar drinks. We'll delve into the specifics of its menu, its unique features, and the overall experience that makes Fishbone a worthy stop in Chelsea.

Fishbone is strategically located next to Seamore's at 161 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA. Its location in the vibrant Chelsea neighborhood makes it easily accessible for a night out. The restaurant is situated on 8th Avenue, a major thoroughfare with numerous public transportation options, including several subway lines and bus routes within a short walking distance. The discreet entrance adds to its allure as a "secret bar," making it a rewarding find for those in the know.

While information on specific accessibility features like wheelchair ramps is not provided in the public data, the presence of its parent restaurant, Seamore’s, suggests a standard level of urban accessibility. The primary dining and bar area, described as being on the "lower level," provides a quiet, focused atmosphere, which is a major draw for many customers seeking a break from the street-level hustle. This secluded nature contributes to the overall intimate and relaxed vibe of the place, making it a great destination for those seeking a more private experience.

Fishbone offers a concentrated set of services that focus on providing a high-quality, intimate experience for its guests.

• Table Service: Guests can enjoy full table service, allowing for a relaxed and attentive dining experience.
• Seating: The venue offers seating options, providing a comfortable space to enjoy your meal and drinks.
• Reservations: The establishment accepts reservations, which is a great feature for those planning a special night out and wanting to ensure they have a table.
• Dine-in: This is the primary service, with the focus being on the in-person experience of enjoying the food and drinks in the unique atmosphere.

The concise list of services reflects a focus on a high-touch, quality experience rather than a broad range of options like delivery or takeout. The emphasis is on the in-house enjoyment of the expertly crafted cocktails and fresh seafood.

Fishbone's true appeal lies in its unique highlights and features, which create its distinctive atmosphere.

• Hidden Bar: Its location, "to the right of the Seamore's entrance," makes it feel like a secret bar. This provides a sense of discovery and exclusivity without being pretentious.
• Expertly Crafted Cocktails: The drinks are a major draw. The cocktails, many of which are rum-based, are "made with care." The bar manager is praised as a "great mixologist," and drinks like the Dark and Stormy are noted as "delightful." The Cocco Loco is highlighted as an "Instagram-worthy" drink.
• Delicious Seafood: As a seafood restaurant and oyster bar, the food is of high quality. The salmon tacos, in particular, are called "yum!" by a customer.
• Unpretentious Atmosphere: The vibe is described as "unpretentious," "simple," and not packed, which is a rare find in a top neighborhood like Chelsea. It offers a unique space where you can have a comfortable and quiet drink.
• Ironic 90s Pop Music: The music choice adds to the laid-back, cool vibe, providing a nostalgic and fun backdrop to the experience.
• Space and Comfort: Despite being "quite small," the bar is not "packed," allowing for ample space to drink and converse with friends. This is a significant advantage over other crowded city bars.
• Separate, Quieter Space: The lower-level bar is noted for being quieter than the upstairs area, making it an ideal spot for focused activities like reading or simply having a more intimate conversation.

These features collectively create an experience that is both high-quality and exceptionally comfortable, a balance that is hard to strike in a city like New York.

For those planning a visit to Fishbone, here is the contact information.

Address: Seamore's, 161 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA

Phone: (212) 597-9222

Mobile Phone: +1 212-597-9222

Having both contact numbers makes it convenient to call ahead for a reservation or to inquire about the menu and any other details.

Why is Fishbone worth choosing over other options in Chelsea? The answer lies in its unique value proposition. While the cocktails come at "top cocktail prices," the value is in the quality and the atmosphere. You are paying for a meticulously crafted drink in a space where you can actually enjoy it. In a city where a packed bar is the norm, having space to relax and talk is a luxury. Fishbone provides this luxury without being exclusive or intimidating. It is a place for a more discerning patron, one who values quality over volume and a relaxed vibe over a raucous one.

The dual identity of Fishbone as both a cocktail bar and a seafood restaurant also makes it a compelling choice. It’s not just a place for drinks; it’s a place for a great meal. The positive feedback on the food, specifically the salmon tacos, suggests a kitchen that is just as dedicated to its craft as the mixologists behind the bar. This makes it a perfect one-stop-shop for a night out—you can start with some fresh oysters, enjoy a delicious seafood dish, and sip on an expertly made cocktail, all in the same cozy and uncrowded space. Fishbone is a "destination" not for its buzz, but for its substance. It's the kind of place that, once you find it, you'll want to keep coming back to.

Fishbone

Seamore's, 161 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA