Essex Pearl

- 25 11th Ave, New York, NY 10011

In a city known for its endless dining options, a restaurant that can offer a fresh, unique, and delicious experience truly stands out. Essex Pearl is one such place, a culinary gem that brings the vibrant and bold flavors of Southeast Asian coastal cuisine to the heart of New York City. Situated within Pier 57, this seafood-centric restaurant offers more than just a meal—it’s a journey for the senses, blending traditional recipes with a modern New York sensibility.

Essex Pearl is led by a team with deep roots in the seafood industry, a heritage that ensures the highest quality ingredients. This market-to-table approach is a significant part of their identity, guaranteeing that everything from the raw bar to the main courses is as fresh as possible. The restaurant prides itself on being an Asian-owned business, and this authenticity shines through in every dish, from the use of traditional spices to the thoughtful presentation.

With a focus on both fast service for a quick bite and a welcoming atmosphere for a leisurely meal, Essex Pearl has something for everyone. It’s a place where you can grab a world-class lobster roll for lunch, enjoy a plate of perfectly grilled skewers for dinner, or simply sip a carefully crafted cocktail with a view of the Hudson River. Its location within a modern food hall, combined with a dedicated dining area, gives it a unique charm that is both casual and refined.

From the bustling energy of the dining room to the fresh ingredients on every plate, Essex Pearl offers a seafood experience that is a departure from the ordinary. Let’s explore what makes this restaurant a must-visit destination for any seafood lover in NYC.

Essex Pearl is located at 25 11th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA. This address places it within the bustling and recently revitalized Pier 57, which has become a modern culinary and public space destination on the Hudson River. The location offers stunning views of Little Island and the surrounding downtown Manhattan skyline, providing a beautiful backdrop for your meal.

Accessibility is a key priority. The restaurant features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible restroom, and wheelchair-accessible seating, making it welcoming for all guests. The area is easily reachable by public transportation, including several bus routes and a short walk from nearby subway stations. The ability to dine both indoors and outdoors also adds to its appeal, especially during the warmer months when New Yorkers love to enjoy a meal with a view.

The surrounding neighborhood is vibrant and full of things to do, from walking the High Line to exploring the Meatpacking District. This makes Essex Pearl an ideal spot to either begin or end a day of city exploration. The proximity to the water gives the whole area a fresh, open feel that complements the restaurant's seafood-focused menu.

Essex Pearl provides a variety of services to accommodate different dining preferences and occasions.

• Dine-in: Enjoy a full-service dining experience with dedicated seating, either indoors or at their outdoor tables, perfect for a relaxed meal.
• Takeout: For those on the go, a quick and convenient option to enjoy their delicious seafood from home or work.
• Counter Service: The location within a food hall setting also allows for casual counter service, ideal for a quick bite without a long wait.
• Catering: While the specifics are best confirmed by contacting them, the restaurant's menu is well-suited for catering events, bringing their unique flavors to your special occasion.
• Reservations: Guests can make reservations, which is particularly helpful for dinner or weekend brunch to ensure a table.
• Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner: The restaurant offers a menu for all three dining occasions, making it a versatile spot to visit throughout the day.

This range of services ensures that whether you're looking for a formal dinner or a simple snack, Essex Pearl can meet your needs with efficiency and quality.

What truly sets Essex Pearl apart are its unique features and high-quality offerings.

• Fast Service: Customers consistently praise the restaurant for its quick and efficient service, a great benefit in a city where time is often of the essence.
• Fresh Seafood: A primary highlight is the exceptional freshness of the seafood, which is sourced from the family's wholesale business, a purveyor to some of NYC’s top restaurants. This market-to-table philosophy is a key selling point.
• Unique Cocktails: The bar offers a creative selection of cocktails, including a "Pandan Martini" and a "Bali Sunset," which infuse Asian flavors into classic drinks.
• Diverse Menu: The menu goes beyond traditional seafood, with a focus on Southeast Asian flavors. You can find everything from classic lobster rolls and oysters to dishes like "Chili Crab Coconut Fried Rice" and "Grilled Cambodian Pork Belly Skewers."
• Great Location & Ambiance: The restaurant's position within Pier 57 offers a unique and lively atmosphere. With outdoor seating and a view of the water, it provides a scenic and memorable dining experience.
• Asian-Owned Business: Identifying as an Asian-owned business adds to its authenticity and is a point of pride for both the owners and many of its customers.

These highlights combine to create a compelling and attractive dining option for a variety of tastes and preferences.

To make a reservation, inquire about catering, or learn more, you can contact Essex Pearl directly.

• Address: 25 11th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA
• Phone: (347) 899-4998

This phone number provides a direct line to the restaurant, allowing you to easily get in touch for any questions regarding the menu, hours, or specific offerings.

Choosing Essex Pearl is a decision to embrace a truly unique and high-quality seafood experience in New York City. What makes it a standout choice is the fusion of pristine ingredients with the vibrant, spicy, and aromatic profiles of Southeast Asian cuisine. This is not your typical New England seafood shack; it’s a modern and exciting culinary adventure.

The "Essex Pearl Lobster Roll" is a must-try. Unlike the traditional buttered rolls, this version is tossed with "zesty cilantro nuoc cham" and topped with pickled chili, offering a fresh, bright, and slightly spicy twist that has been praised by many customers. Another highlight is the raw bar, with a selection of East and West Coast oysters that are praised for their freshness. This is a testament to the restaurant’s lineage as a seafood purveyor, giving diners access to top-quality ingredients that are often reserved for fine-dining establishments.

Beyond the rolls, the menu is filled with intriguing options. The skewers, such as the "Grilled Cambodian Pork Belly Skewers," are a great choice for sharing. And for a truly indulgent meal, the "Lobster Garlic Noodles" are a popular dish, described by customers as having a rich sauce that perfectly complements the fresh lobster. For those looking for a quick bite, the "S.E.A. Potato Chips" with their unique blend of spices are an excellent snack.

While a review mentioned that the portions might be on the smaller side, the same customer acknowledged that the "taste totally makes up for it" and that the food is "made with care and attention to detail." This emphasizes the restaurant's focus on quality over quantity. The positive reviews from a "newly opened" day and from an international visitor from Austria highlight its immediate appeal and potential for future success. The friendly team and great vibes also contribute to an overall pleasant experience.

Ultimately, Essex Pearl is worth choosing for its authentic flavors, unparalleled freshness, and lively atmosphere. It’s a place where you can explore new culinary horizons while enjoying the comfort of familiar ingredients. It's a true hidden gem in a well-trafficked area, offering a sanctuary for seafood lovers and a destination for foodies seeking something different.

Essex Pearl

25 11th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA