Hav & Mar

- 245 11th Ave, New York, NY 10001

In a city celebrated for its diverse and world-class dining, Hav & Mar emerges as a truly unique destination for New Yorkers seeking a sophisticated yet soulful culinary experience. More than just a restaurant, it's a vibrant wine bar and a testament to the power of cultural fusion, blending Swedish and Ethiopian influences to create something entirely new and exciting. Led by renowned Chef Marcus Samuelsson, this Black-owned establishment offers a seafood-forward menu that is as inventive as it is delicious. The name itself, "Hav & Mar," which means "sea" in Swedish and "honey" in Amharic (Ethiopian), hints at the seamless and heartfelt approach to combining these two rich culinary traditions. This is a place where every dish tells a story, and every sip of wine is part of a carefully curated journey. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be enveloped by an atmosphere that feels both trendy and cozy, making it the perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Whether you are looking for a special occasion dinner or a relaxing evening with friends, Hav & Mar delivers a dining experience that is a true highlight of the New York food scene.

The ambience is a key part of the Hav & Mar appeal. The space is gorgeously designed with a blend of contemporary and classical elements, including a stunning bar and original artwork by award-winning artist Derrick Adams that features captivating depictions of Black mermaids. This artistic and welcoming environment sets a celebratory and relaxed tone. It’s the kind of place that’s buzzing with creative energy but never feels stuffy, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone. The menu is a playground of flavors, encouraging you to explore with a group and try a little bit of everything. The focus on high-quality, thoughtfully sourced seafood and fresh, local produce is evident in every bite, showcasing Chef Samuelsson’s and Executive Chef Fariyal Abdullahi's commitment to culinary excellence. This blend of artistry in both the food and the decor, coupled with a genuinely warm and professional service, is what transforms a simple meal into an unforgettable event. Hav & Mar is a must-visit for New Yorkers who appreciate a place that is not only dedicated to great food but also to great art, culture, and hospitality.

Hav & Mar is strategically located at 245 11th Ave, New York, NY 10001, in the heart of the city’s renowned Chelsea arts district. This puts it in an accessible and dynamic neighborhood that is a destination in its own right. The restaurant is situated in close proximity to the Hudson River and the High Line, making it a perfect spot to grab a bite after a walk along the river or a stroll on the elevated park. While this area is known for being an art hub and a place of creativity, it’s also easy to get to, making it convenient for both locals and tourists. Public transportation options are plentiful, with several subway lines and bus routes serving the area, so you can easily reach the restaurant from any part of the city. For those who choose to drive, both free and paid street parking options are available, as well as a paid parking lot, offering a rare convenience in Manhattan. This makes planning your visit straightforward and stress-free. The restaurant also prides itself on its accessibility, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restrooms, and seating, ensuring that every guest can enjoy their dining experience comfortably. The option for reservations is also a plus for New Yorkers who like to plan ahead for a special dinner, especially given its popularity.

The location of Hav & Mar contributes to its sophisticated and trendy atmosphere. Being in the Chelsea arts district means the restaurant attracts a diverse and fashionable crowd. Its setting provides a great backdrop for a date night, a celebration with a group of friends, or a solo dining experience. The presence of both indoor and outdoor seating (which is also dog-friendly) adds to its versatility, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air during warmer months. The combination of a top-tier restaurant in a vibrant, artistic neighborhood is what makes Hav & Mar a compelling choice for any New Yorker. The ability to easily access the restaurant from various parts of the city and its inclusive design make it a standout destination in the bustling Chelsea scene.

Hav & Mar is a full-service establishment that goes beyond the traditional restaurant model, offering a variety of services to enhance your dining experience. The emphasis is on providing convenience and a wide range of options to cater to every need. The services offered reflect the restaurant's commitment to hospitality and excellence.

• Dine-in and Takeout: The primary service is dine-in, which allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the restaurant's beautiful atmosphere and enjoy table service. For those on the go or who prefer to eat at home, takeout is also available, ensuring you don't have to miss out on the incredible food.

• Comprehensive Beverage Program: Hav & Mar excels as a wine bar, offering a curated wine list that spotlights BIPOC and female producers. This is a unique and groundbreaking feature that sets it apart. The bar also serves great cocktails, beer, hard liquor, and coffee, providing a wide array of drink choices for any preference. The "Happy hour drinks" and "Happy hour food" offerings are a great way to experience the restaurant at a more accessible price point.

• Dining Options: The menu is structured to cater to different dining occasions, including brunch and dinner. It features a range of small plates, which are perfect for sharing with a group, as well as substantial entrées. There are also a variety of vegetarian options, ensuring that guests with different dietary needs can find delicious choices. The dessert menu is also a highlight, providing a perfect end to the meal.

• Reservations: The restaurant strongly recommends reservations, especially for dinner and brunch, which highlights its popularity and helps guests plan their visit smoothly. The ability to book in advance is a great service for those looking to secure a spot at this sought-after venue.

• Inclusivity and Comfort: Hav & Mar is a welcoming space for all, identifying as a Black-owned business and a "Transgender safespace." It has amenities like gender-neutral restrooms and offers a family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly environment, making it a comfortable and inclusive space for a diverse crowd of New Yorkers and tourists alike.

Several key features and highlights make Hav & Mar a standout choice in New York City's competitive dining scene. These elements are what consistently earn it high praise from customers and critics alike.

• Inventive and Delicious Cuisine: The food is the star of the show. The menu successfully marries Swedish and Ethiopian flavors in a seafood-centric format, creating unique dishes like the "SWEDIOPIAN" with berbere-cured salmon and the "DAWA DAWA SALMON." Customer reviews rave about the "perfectly seasoned" grilled ribeye and the "insanely good" fluke ceviche, showcasing the high quality of the ingredients and the skill of the kitchen. The Hav Bread Basket is also consistently mentioned as a must-try, featuring a variety of breads and spreads that are a meal in themselves.

• Exceptional Wine and Cocktail Program: The wine list, which deliberately highlights BIPOC and female producers, is a major draw for wine lovers. The cocktails are also noted as being "great" and "show-stopping," making it an excellent spot for a drink, even if you're not staying for a full meal. This dedication to a diverse and high-quality beverage program elevates the entire experience.

• Superior Ambiance and Vibe: The atmosphere is described as gorgeous, trendy, cozy, and romantic. It’s a place that has a "good vibe and energy" and is a "great escape from the New York heat," as one reviewer noted. The stunning decor and art, combined with the excellent service, create a complete sensory experience that feels both luxurious and welcoming. It's an ideal setting for special occasions or a lovely night out.

• Outstanding Service: The service at Hav & Mar receives consistent praise. Reviews mention servers who are "knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely great at what he does." This attentive and professional service, which includes an ability to guide guests through the complex and exciting menu, is a major reason for the positive dining experiences.

• Unique Cultural Identity: As a Black-owned business with a menu that reflects a unique blend of global influences, Hav & Mar offers a dining experience that is both a culinary delight and a cultural statement. It's a place that celebrates diversity and creativity, which resonates deeply with the New York crowd.

For more information or to secure your table, you can contact Hav & Mar using the following details.

Address: 245 11th Ave, New York, NY 10001, USA

Phone: (212) 328-8041

For New Yorkers looking for a standout dining experience, Hav & Mar is a truly exceptional choice. It’s a restaurant and wine bar that offers a remarkable combination of culinary innovation, a thoughtfully curated beverage program, and a stunning, welcoming atmosphere. The seafood is of the highest quality, and the menu offers a delightful mix of familiar favorites and new, exciting flavors. The commitment to a great wine list, featuring a focus on BIPOC and female producers, is a groundbreaking and commendable feature that makes it a must-visit for any wine enthusiast. The cozy and trendy ambiance is perfect for a romantic evening or a celebratory group dinner, and the knowledgeable and friendly staff ensures that your visit will be seamless and enjoyable. Whether you are a fan of Chef Marcus Samuelsson or simply in search of a new favorite spot, Hav & Mar provides a memorable escape from the ordinary. Its unique cultural identity and unwavering dedication to quality make it a true hidden gem and a significant contributor to New York’s world-renowned food scene, cementing its status as a place worth choosing for any occasion.

Hav & Mar

245 11th Ave, New York, NY 10001, USA