Seven Scents 七号小串 | Skewers · Beer · Chinese BBQ

- 42-17 Crescent St, Long Island City, NY 11101

For those living in or visiting Long Island City, a new and exciting culinary experience awaits at Seven Scents, also known as 七号小串. This barbecue restaurant is quickly making a name for itself as the premier destination for authentic Chinese BBQ, specializing in savory skewers and a wide array of flavorful dishes. In a city where finding truly authentic and high-quality cuisine can sometimes be a challenge, Seven Scents stands out as a genuine "hidden gem." While the atmosphere is intentionally simple and casual—with a focus on efficiency over frills—the food is where this place truly shines. As one customer noted, the food is "incredible—so much better than I expected." This praise highlights the restaurant's commitment to delivering an authentic and delicious meal, reminiscent of what you might find in China, with the unmistakable smoky flavor of real charcoal.

The concept of Seven Scents is built around the communal and enjoyable experience of Chinese barbecue. The menu is expansive, offering much more than just skewers, though they are certainly the star of the show. Diners can explore a variety of spicy and stir-fried dishes, cold plates, and staple foods that complement the main barbecue offerings perfectly. While the price per skewer might seem a "tad high" at around $2 on average, the overall value is found in the quality and taste of the food. Customers have raved about the perfectly seasoned and tender grilled beef skewers, with both the fat & lean beef and the black pepper beef skewers being particularly popular. The menu is diverse enough to satisfy a wide range of tastes, from those looking for classic grilled meats to more adventurous eaters keen on trying dishes like grilled chicken cartilage or the spicy charcoal grilled fish. The simple, no-frills setting allows the focus to remain squarely on the food, ensuring that every bite is as flavorful as it can be.

Despite the simple decor and the "austere interior," the food's quality more than makes up for it. The dedication to authentic preparation, like using real charcoal to impart a deep smokiness, sets Seven Scents apart. It’s a place that’s perfect for a casual dinner with friends, where the goal is to sit down, enjoy great food, and have a good time. The straightforward and efficient service, as described by a customer as "to the point, no frills," means you get your food quickly and can focus on the meal itself. This approach makes Seven Scents a unique and compelling choice for anyone in the Long Island City area looking to experience a taste of genuine Chinese barbecue and stir-fry in a relaxed setting.

Seven Scents is conveniently located at 42-17 Crescent St, Long Island City, NY 11101, placing it in a bustling and easily accessible part of the neighborhood. Its location on Crescent Street makes it a prime destination for local residents and professionals working in the area. The street is well-known for its mix of businesses and residential buildings, ensuring a steady flow of foot traffic. For those traveling by car, the restaurant is situated in an area with paid street parking, which provides a convenient option for diners. While the on-street parking can sometimes be a challenge in New York City, the availability of it is a definite plus for those who prefer to drive.

The Long Island City neighborhood is well-served by public transportation, making Seven Scents an easy spot to get to from other parts of Queens, Brooklyn, and Manhattan. The proximity to major subway lines allows for a seamless journey, whether you're coming for a quick dinner or a more relaxed evening meal with friends. This combination of being in a central location and having decent parking options makes the restaurant a practical choice for a wide range of customers. While the interior ambiance might be simple, the accessibility of the location makes it a great spot to meet up for a spontaneous meal or a planned gathering. The straightforward nature of the establishment, from its location to its service, makes it a reliable choice for a no-fuss dining experience.

The accessibility of Seven Scents highlights its role as a neighborhood staple. It's a place designed for locals to enjoy a quality meal without a long commute or search for a parking spot. The focus is on the convenience of the experience, ensuring that getting to the restaurant is the easiest part of your night. This thoughtful placement and practical approach to accessibility solidifies its reputation as a go-to spot for an enjoyable and stress-free dining experience in Long Island City.

Seven Scents offers a variety of services designed for the convenience of its customers, accommodating different dining preferences and needs.

• Dine-in: The primary service, allowing you to enjoy the full experience of the restaurant's authentic Chinese BBQ in a casual setting.
• Takeout: For those on the go, the takeout service is a quick and efficient way to enjoy your favorite skewers and dishes from the comfort of your home.
• Delivery: The restaurant offers delivery and no-contact delivery options, bringing the delicious food directly to your doorstep for ultimate convenience.
• Curbside Pickup: An additional convenient service, allowing you to pick up your order without leaving your vehicle, perfect for a fast and easy transaction.

These services, combined with the restaurant's reputation for fast and efficient operations, make it a practical and reliable choice for any meal. Whether you want to sit down for a quick dinner or enjoy a feast at home, Seven Scents has a service option to meet your needs.

Seven Scents is a standout barbecue restaurant in Long Island City, distinguished by several key features and highlights that make it a favorite among locals and visitors.

• Authentic Chinese BBQ: The restaurant specializes in real charcoal-grilled skewers, a cooking method that imparts a unique smoky flavor. The menu is heavily influenced by Northeastern Chinese cuisine, offering a genuine taste of the region.
• Fast and Efficient Service: Customers consistently praise the fast and "to the point" service, which is perfect for a casual and quick meal.
• Expansive Menu: Beyond the skewers, Seven Scents offers a wide array of cold dishes, stir-fries, and classic Chinese entrees, such as Sichuan Boiled Fish and Cumin Lamb, providing something for every palate.
• Casual Atmosphere: The setting is laid-back and no-frills, focusing on the quality of the food rather than a fancy dining experience. This makes it a great spot for a relaxed dinner.
• Offers Beer and Alcohol: The restaurant serves a variety of alcoholic beverages, including both Chinese and international beers, which pair perfectly with the savory skewers and spicy dishes.

These highlights, from the authentic flavors to the efficient service, are what make Seven Scents a top choice for those seeking a genuine and satisfying Chinese barbecue experience in New York City. The focus on quality food and practicality makes every visit worthwhile.

For more information, or to inquire about reservations or placing an order, you can contact Seven Scents using the following details:

Address: 42-17 Crescent St, Long Island City, NY 11101

Phone: (917) 397-7779

What makes Seven Scents a particularly worthwhile choice is its dedication to delivering an authentic and no-nonsense dining experience. This isn't a place for a long, drawn-out dinner with extravagant decor. It’s a place for serious food lovers who appreciate the bold and smoky flavors of real Chinese BBQ. The skewers are the main attraction, and they are prepared with a level of care and authenticity that is hard to find. The use of real charcoal, as highlighted by a reviewer, is a key element that gives the meat a distinct and delicious smokiness. The seasoning, with flavors like cumin and pepper, is spot on, ensuring that each skewer is a flavor-packed bite. Beyond the skewers, the menu offers a rich selection of dishes that demonstrate the depth of Northeastern Chinese cuisine. Items like the Dry-Fried Green Beans, Chilled Cauliflower Salad, and the various stir-fried entrees provide a perfect balance to the grilled meats, offering a complete and satisfying meal.

For those looking to get a true taste of China, Seven Scents delivers. The menu features regional specialties like Spicy & Sour Shredded Potatoes and Old Beijing Tripe Hotpot, allowing diners to explore flavors that are less common in many Westernized Chinese restaurants. The option to order takeout or use their delivery services, including curbside pickup, adds to the convenience and makes it an ideal choice for a delicious meal at home. The presence of a variety of beers and other beverages, like Wong Lo Kat and Sour Plum Drink, further enhances the authenticity of the experience. Ultimately, what makes Seven Scents worth choosing is its unwavering focus on the food. It’s a place where the taste speaks for itself, offering a flavorful and memorable meal that is both delicious and efficient, making it a valuable addition to the Long Island City dining scene.

Seven Scents 七号小串 | Skewers · Beer · Chinese BBQ

42-17 Crescent St, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA