Flex Mussels Introduce
Flex Mussels is not just a restaurant; it’s an institution for seafood lovers on the Upper East Side and beyond. Known for its playful approach to classic seafood, this establishment has made a name for itself with its incredible variety of mussel preparations, as well as a standout raw bar and a menu of other equally impressive seafood and non-seafood dishes. It strikes a perfect balance between being trendy and sophisticated while maintaining a warm and inviting neighborhood feel.
The atmosphere is a blend of casual, cozy, and romantic, making it an ideal destination for various occasions. Whether you're looking for a special date night, a celebratory dinner with a group, or a simple yet elegant solo meal, Flex Mussels fits the bill. The restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and its innovative menu, all complemented by an excellent cocktail and wine selection. It is a place that promises a memorable culinary experience with every visit.
Flex Mussels is situated at 1431 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10028, in the heart of the Upper East Side. Its location on Third Avenue makes it easily reachable for New Yorkers via public transportation. It is a short walk from the 4, 5, and 6 subway lines at 86th Street, as well as the Q train at 86th Street, ensuring that it’s a convenient destination from many parts of Manhattan.
The venue is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring wheelchair-accessible seating and restrooms to accommodate all guests comfortably. For those driving, paid street parking is available in the area, though as with many parts of Manhattan, it may require some searching. Flex Mussels also offers outdoor seating, a popular option for enjoying a meal on a beautiful day, with the added bonus of being dog-friendly in their outdoor area.
- Mussel Variety: The highlight of the menu is the extensive list of mussel pots, prepared in a dozen different ways. From the classic Classic with white wine, herbs, and garlic, to more adventurous flavors like the Thai with curry coconut broth, and the savory Fungi with mushrooms and bacon, there is a flavor for every palate.
- Full Dining Experience: Flex Mussels offers a full-service dining experience from brunch to dinner. They have table service, a bar onsite, and a menu that goes far beyond just mussels.
- Cocktail and Wine Bar: The bar is a key feature, known for its great cocktails and a thoughtful selection of beer and wine. It’s a perfect spot for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap.
- Takeout and Delivery: For those who prefer to dine at home, Flex Mussels provides convenient takeout and delivery services, ensuring you can enjoy their delicious food from the comfort of your own space.
- Brunch and Dessert: Flex Mussels is popular for both lunch and dinner, but their brunch menu is a sleeper hit, featuring dishes like the Lobster Roll and their perfectly made Benedict. The dessert menu is also a must-try, especially their famous Flex Donuts.
- Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which are highly recommended for brunch, lunch, and dinner, as it is a popular spot that often has a wait.
- Exceptional Food Quality: The food is consistently praised for being delicious and fresh. The mussels are a clear standout, but customers also rave about the perfectly cooked fries and other entrees like the Lobster Roll and the Burnt Fingers.
- Creative and Diverse Menu: The menu is a highlight in itself. The creativity in the various mussel sauces is a major draw, offering unique combinations of flavors that you won't find anywhere else. The menu also includes healthy options, small plates, and classic comfort food.
- Cozy and Romantic Atmosphere: The ambiance at Flex Mussels is often described as a perfect mix of cozy, casual, and romantic, with a trendy feel. It’s ideal for a quiet date or a lively group gathering.
- Great Desserts: The dessert menu is a star of its own. The Flex Donuts, in particular, are a well-known highlight and are a fun and delicious way to end a meal.
- Attentive Service: The staff is known for their fast and professional service, contributing to the overall positive dining experience.
Address: 1431 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10028
Phone: (212) 717-7772
For a New Yorker, Flex Mussels is worth choosing for its reputation as a consistent and high-quality seafood destination. It is not just a place for a quick meal; it's a place for a culinary experience. The sheer variety of mussel preparations alone is a reason to visit, offering a unique adventure for the palate that is both innovative and deeply satisfying.
The restaurant’s ability to cater to different occasions—be it a romantic dinner, a casual brunch, or a group outing—makes it incredibly versatile. The ambiance is one of its strongest features, creating a space where you can feel at home while still enjoying a sophisticated meal. The fact that the menu extends beyond mussels to include an excellent raw bar, a phenomenal lobster roll, and other well-executed dishes means there is something for everyone, even those who may not be mussel enthusiasts.
Finally, the combination of great food, an exceptional bar, and a cozy yet trendy atmosphere makes Flex Mussels a standout in the city's crowded culinary scene. It's a place that has earned its reputation through years of delivering a consistently great product and a memorable experience. For anyone in New York seeking a fantastic seafood meal, Flex Mussels is an absolute must-visit.
Flex Mussels Menu
Sides
- Parmesan Truffle Fries $13.00
- Seasonal Berries $12.00
- Flex Fries $9.00
French fries
- Two Eggs $7.00
Your way.
- Mixed Greens $12.00
Watermelon radish, champagne vinaigrette, parmesan.
- Old Bay Fries $11.00
- Bacon $12.00
Desserts
- 6 Flex Donuts $19.00
Vanilla bean dipping sauce, choice of six flavors
- Lemon Meringue $13.00
lemon curd, meringue, graham cracker
- Brownie Sundae $14.00
warm brownie, vanilla gelato, salted caramel, sticky nuts, luxardo cherry
- 4 Flex Donuts $15.00
Mussels
- Classic $27.50
Garlic, herb, butter.
- Fra Diavolo $28.50
San Marzano tomato, garlic, basil, chili flake.
- Thai $31.50
Coconut curry, lemongrass, lime leaf, coriander, ginger.
- Parma $31.50
Parmigiano cream, lemon, scallion, crispy shallot.
Sandwiches
- Lobster Roll $45.00
Mayonnaise, celery, and fries.
- Filet O'flex $29.00
Panko crusted hake, tartar sauce, American cheese, iceberg, potato bun, and fries.
- Char Grilled Burger $31.00
Double patty, american cheese, sauteed onion, special sauce, fries
Small Bites
- Deviled Eggs $14.00
Bacon, crispy shallot.
- Fish Dip $18.00
Smoked trout, pickled Fresno chili, crunchy bread.
- Whipped Ricotta $18.00
Truffle, caramelized onion, chives, charred sourdough.
Small
- Fish Tacos $18.00
Crispy hake, avocado, slaw, pickled fresno, chipotle aioli
- Burnt Fingers $24.00
Crispy calamari, shrimp, oyster, shishito pepper, calabrian chili aioli
- Smoked Fish Dip $18.00
Smoked trout, pickled onion, tabasco crema, cucumber, and crunchy bread.
- Whipped Ricotta $18.00
Truffle, caramelized onion marmalade, chives, and charred sourdough.
- Deviled Eggs $18.00
Bacon, crispy shallots
- Crab Guacamole $24.00
Avocado, jalapeno, red onion, cilantro, lime, lump crab, corn tortilla
Sides
- Smoked Salmon $12.00
Watermelon radish, champagne vinaigrette, parmesan.
- Flex Fries $9.00
French fries
- Parmesan Truffle Fries $13.00
For The Table
- Burnt Fingers $24.00
- Deviled Eggs $19.00
Bacon, crispy shallots
- Everything Donuts $14.00
Everything seasoning, herbed cream cheese
- Crab Guacamole $24.00
Smashed avocado, lox, cucumber, pickled red onion, crispy caper, poached egg.
Salads
- Kale $26.00
Grilled shrimp, pecorino, pine nut, lemon vinaigrette
- Caesar $18.00
Baby romaine, anchovy, parmesan, garlic crouton.
- Bibb $16.00
Maytag blue cheese, candied pecan, honey crisp apple, shallot vinaigrette.
- Cobb $20.00
Egg, avocado, bleu cheese, bacon, champagne vinaigrette. With chicken or lobster for additional charge.
Entrées
- Open-Faced Omelette $22.00
Egg white, kale, mushroom, piquillo pepper, onion, feta.
- Kale Salad With Shrimp $26.00
Grilled shrimp, savoy cabbage, sesame, Thai peanut dressing.
- Baked Eggs In Purgatory $21.00
- Baby Romaine In Purgatory $21.00
Boston lettuce, blondee apple, manchego, almond, herbs, champagne vinaigrette
- Blueberry Pancake $17.00
Mussels
- Classic $28.50
Garlic, herb, butter.
- Parma $32.50
Parmigiano cream, lemon, scallion, crispy shallot.
- Fra Diavolo $29.50
San Marzano tomato, garlic, basil, chili flake.
- Thai $32.50
Coconut curry, lemongrass, lime leaf, coriander, ginger.
Mussels, Mussels, Mussels
- Bruschetta $42.00
- Bangkok $32.00
Shrimp, jalapeno, cilantro, ginger, garlic, coconut broth
- Scampi $34.00
Shrimp, white wine, lemon, basil, garlic butter, capers, and parmesan croutons.
- Thai $32.50
Curry coconut broth, lemongrass, lime leaf, coriander, and ginger.
- Parma $32.50
Parmigiano cream, lemon, scallion, toasted garlic, and crispy shallot.
- Fra Diavolo $29.50
San marzano tomato, olive oil, fresh basil, red pepper, and garlic.
- Classic $28.50
White wine, herbs, and garlic.
- Fungi $32.50
Wild mushrooms, double smoked bacon, and porcini cream.
- Dijon $30.00
Dijon mustard, white wine, creme fraiche, and parsley.
Fries & Sides
- Grilled Asparagus $16.00
Parmesan, olive oil, lemon
- Mac & Cheese $28.00
Cavatappi, bechamel, breadcrumb
- Blistered Snow Peas $13.00
- Old Bay Fries $11.00
Old bay seasoning, spicy aioli
- Sauteed Broccolini $13.00
buttered breadcrumb, aleppo chili, lemon
- Parmesan Truffle Fries $13.00
- Flex Fries $9.00
French fries
Entrées
- Chicken Avocado Club $22.00
Chicken, bacon, guacamole, pickled red onion, chipotle aioli, flex fries
- Filet 0 Flex $29.00
Panko crusted hake, tartar sauce, cheddar, iceberg, potato bun, fries.
- Open-Faced Omelette $21.00
Egg white, broccoli rabe, piquillo pepper, mushroom, onion, feta.
- Char Grilled Burger $31.00
Double patty, american cheese, sauteed onion, special sauce, fries. Add egg or bacon for additional charge.
- Lobster Roll $38.00
Mayonnaise, celery, fries.
Sandwiches
- Tuna Melt $25.00
celery, shallot, mayo, new school American cheese, sourdough, flex fries
- Lobster Roll $45.00
fried oysters, shredded lettuce, pickles, remoulade, fries
- Char Grilled Burger $31.00
Double patty, american cheese, sauteed onion, special sauce, fries. Add egg or bacon for additional charge.
- Chicken Avocado Club $22.00
Chicken, bacon, guacamole, pickled red onion, chipotle aioli, flex fries
- Filet 0 Flex $29.00
Panko crusted hake, tartar sauce, cheddar, iceberg, potato bun, fries.
Salads
- Bibb Salad $18.00
Boston lettuce, valencia orange, manchego, herbs, champagne vinaigrette
- Kale Salad $17.00
Pecorino, toasted breadcrumb, pine nut, lemon vinaigrette
- Caesar Salad $18.00
Little gem, anchovy, parmesan, and sourdough.
Not Mussels
- Chicken Frites $32.00
half chicken, pan sauce, herbs, flex fries
- Grilled Faroe Island Salmon $32.00
Heirloom tomato & watermelon gazpacho, cucumber, gochujang, herbs
- Summer Snapper $40.00
Flex Mussels Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great dessert
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
Parking
- Paid street parking
- Parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Flex Mussels Photos










Flex Mussels Location
Flex Mussels Reviews
donutshappy hourlobster rollmusclestruffle friesmussels and friesfra diavolothe metthai musselscrab guacamole
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Lovely neighborhood spot. Haven't been back in years but the mussels are still as good as I remember them! The donuts are always fun to have at the end. Pretty good oyster selection as well.Their Benedict is a sleeper hit. Most places don't make them that well but theirs is on point even though this is a mussel place lol
September 18 · David ChenDined here earlier this week and had a lovely time. Arrived during the transition between lunch and dinner so had limited menu options but it was fine. What was available was delicious. I liked that alternative options to mussels in white wine sauce were listed, that was a nice change. This version of mussels had a nice kick. Bread had to be requested, it wasn’t included which was fine. Just could let all that yummy broth the mussels were sitting in go to waste. I’m a bit particular with French fries and these were perfect. I recommend checking this place out. Perfect for solo eating, a date, yap session with friends, etc. I’m not on the UES often but I definitely want to come back and try more of their menu.
August 08 · Shemeeka GreavesIt seemed like a hidden gem I stumbled upon by chance, yet clearly a local favourite.The mussel dish had no unpleasant smell, and the Wagyu burger—if I recall correctly—was bursting with juicy flavour as I cut it in half; it truly tasted as good as it looked.The male staff member provided impeccable service and appeared to be a person of great tact and charm.Although the ambience and interior design left something to be desired, the quality of the food more than made up for it.I intend to return next week for another visit.
April 06 · Louise LouiseFor many years I have enjoyed everything they have to offer, whether it’s their happy hour specials, some delicious dessert donuts, or a big pot of mussels. Last night they blew us away with their summer lobster special that our whole family enjoyed. Such a treat!
July 29 · Paige ChernickAmazing place. Crab guacamole, whipped ricotta were delicious. Scampi mussels, omg. Sooo good! And the doughnuts, YOU HAVE TO TRY! We order strawberry, lemon, pb&j and salted caramel. Spectacular!!! 👏🏼
April 27 · Aryella Almeida
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