Flex Mussels Introduce
When it comes to seafood in New York City, few names resonate as strongly with locals and visitors alike as Flex Mussels. Nestled in the heart of the Upper East Side, this celebrated restaurant has carved out a unique niche for itself, becoming a go-to spot for those craving fresh, expertly prepared seafood in a welcoming atmosphere. While the name might suggest a singular focus, Flex Mussels offers a surprisingly extensive menu that goes far beyond its famous shellfish, providing a truly diverse dining experience. From perfectly cooked fish and juicy burgers to a tempting array of desserts and creative cocktails, it's a place that promises something for everyone. Whether you're planning a romantic date night, a casual get-together with friends, or a solo dining adventure, Flex Mussels delivers on all fronts with its blend of high-quality food, friendly service, and a cozy yet trendy vibe.
Flex Mussels is conveniently located at 1431 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA. This prime Upper East Side address makes it easily accessible for anyone in the city. The restaurant's location is well-served by public transportation, with several subway lines and bus routes running nearby. For those driving, paid street parking is available, though it can be competitive depending on the time of day. The establishment is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all its guests, offering wheelchair-accessible seating and restrooms. This thoughtful approach ensures that everyone can comfortably enjoy their dining experience. The neighborhood itself is vibrant and upscale, making a visit to Flex Mussels a perfect starting point for exploring the surrounding shops, parks, and cultural attractions of the Upper East Side.
Flex Mussels provides a comprehensive range of services designed to meet the needs of its diverse clientele.
Dine-in: Enjoy a full-service dining experience within the restaurant's cozy and romantic interior. Reservations are recommended for lunch, brunch, and dinner, as the restaurant can get quite busy, especially on weekends.
Outdoor Seating: Take advantage of the pleasant New York weather with the option to dine outside. This is a great choice for a more relaxed, casual meal and a must-have feature for many New Yorkers.
Takeout and Delivery: For those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home, Flex Mussels offers convenient takeout and delivery services. This allows you to savor their delicious food from the comfort of your own space.
Table Service: The restaurant features professional and attentive table service, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience from start to finish.
Bar Onsite: A full-service bar is available, offering a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, including a great variety of cocktails, beer, wine, and hard liquor.
Payment Options: Flex Mussels makes paying for your meal easy and secure by accepting all major credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
Accessibility: The restaurant provides a wheelchair-accessible restroom and seating to accommodate guests with mobility needs.
Flex Mussels stands out from the competition thanks to a number of key features and highlights that consistently receive praise from diners.
Exceptional Mussels Menu: The star of the show, without a doubt, is the incredible variety of mussel preparations. Instead of just a single offering, Flex Mussels presents over a dozen unique and flavorful options, from the spicy Fra Diavolo to the creamy Dijon and rich Parma. This menu diversity is a major draw for seafood lovers. Reviewers consistently mention the lack of an "unpleasant smell" and the rich broth that is perfect for dipping bread.
Great Cocktails and Desserts: The bar at Flex Mussels is celebrated for its fantastic cocktail menu, making it a great spot for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap. Similarly, the dessert menu receives high marks, particularly the famous Flex Donuts, which are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Fast and Attentive Service: The staff at Flex Mussels are known for their efficiency and professionalism. Diners often highlight the fast service and the tactful, charming nature of the staff, which contributes significantly to the overall positive dining experience.
Variety of Menu Offerings: While mussels are the specialty, the menu extends far beyond them to include comfort food, healthy options, small plates, salads, and entrees. Popular non-mussel items include the juicy Wagyu burger, the rich Lobster Roll, and a variety of appetizers like Crab Guacamole and Burnt Fingers. The menu is flexible enough to please different tastes and dietary needs.
Cozy and Romantic Atmosphere: The restaurant's ambiance is described as a perfect blend of casual, cozy, and romantic. It’s a versatile setting that works for a low-key lunch, a trendy dinner, or a special occasion date. This welcoming atmosphere helps make every visit memorable.
Popularity and Planning: Flex Mussels is a favorite among both locals and tourists. Given its popularity, reservations are strongly recommended for all dining periods. The restaurant is often busy and may have a wait, which is a testament to its quality and demand.
Family-Friendly Amenities: High chairs are available for younger diners, making it a good choice for families with children. Additionally, dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area, which is a plus for pet owners.
For reservations, inquiries, or to place a takeout order, you can contact Flex Mussels using the information below.
Address: 1431 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA
Phone: (212) 717-7772
Choosing to dine at Flex Mussels is an experience that offers a variety of compelling reasons beyond just its name. The core of its appeal lies in its unwavering commitment to quality and variety. What truly sets this restaurant apart is its remarkable ability to take a single dish—mussels—and reinvent it in over a dozen innovative ways, each with its own distinct flavor profile. This makes it a place you can return to again and again without ever getting tired of the menu.
The menu is thoughtfully crafted to cater to every kind of diner. For those who aren't in the mood for mussels, the "Not Mussels" and "Sandwiches" sections offer equally tempting options. From the succulent Lobster Roll to the perfectly charred Char Grilled Burger and the rich Grilled Faroe Island Salmon, there is no shortage of delicious alternatives. The small plates, such as the Crab Guacamole and the Deviled Eggs, are perfect for sharing or for a lighter meal.
A visit to Flex Mussels is also about the complete dining experience. The ambiance is a rare find in a bustling city—it manages to be both cozy and romantic, creating a perfect backdrop for intimate conversations or lively group gatherings. The service is consistently praised for being both fast and friendly, with staff members who are knowledgeable about the menu and genuinely dedicated to ensuring guests have a great time. This level of service transforms a simple meal into a memorable occasion.
Finally, you should choose Flex Mussels for the little details that make a big difference. This includes their celebrated Parmesan Truffle Fries, which are perfect for dipping into the flavorful mussel broths, and their incredible dessert options, especially the famous Flex Donuts. The combination of fantastic food, a welcoming atmosphere, and top-notch service makes Flex Mussels not just a restaurant to eat at, but a destination to experience. It’s a hidden gem that feels like a local favorite, and once you visit, you’ll understand why.
Flex Mussels Menu
Small
- Crab Guacamole $24.00
Avocado, jalapeno, red onion, cilantro, lime, lump crab, corn tortilla
- Deviled Eggs $18.00
Bacon, crispy shallots
- Burnt Fingers $24.00
Crispy calamari, shrimp, oyster, shishito pepper, calabrian chili aioli
- Whipped Ricotta $18.00
Truffle, caramelized onion marmalade, chives, and charred sourdough.
- Fish Tacos $18.00
Crispy hake, avocado, slaw, pickled fresno, chipotle aioli
- Smoked Fish Dip $18.00
Smoked trout, pickled onion, tabasco crema, cucumber, and crunchy bread.
Mussels, Mussels, Mussels
- Scampi $34.00
Shrimp, white wine, lemon, basil, garlic butter, capers, and parmesan croutons.
- Bangkok $32.00
Shrimp, jalapeno, cilantro, ginger, garlic, coconut broth
- Dijon $30.00
Dijon mustard, white wine, creme fraiche, and parsley.
- Fra Diavolo $29.50
San marzano tomato, olive oil, fresh basil, red pepper, and garlic.
- Parma $32.50
Parmigiano cream, lemon, scallion, toasted garlic, and crispy shallot.
- Classic $28.50
White wine, herbs, and garlic.
- Fungi $32.50
Wild mushrooms, double smoked bacon, and porcini cream.
- Thai $32.50
Curry coconut broth, lemongrass, lime leaf, coriander, and ginger.
- Bruschetta $42.00
Salads
- Bibb $16.00
Maytag blue cheese, candied pecan, honey crisp apple, shallot vinaigrette.
- Caesar $18.00
Baby romaine, anchovy, parmesan, garlic crouton.
- Kale $26.00
Grilled shrimp, pecorino, pine nut, lemon vinaigrette
- Cobb $20.00
Egg, avocado, bleu cheese, bacon, champagne vinaigrette. With chicken or lobster for additional charge.
Small Bites
- Whipped Ricotta $18.00
Truffle, caramelized onion, chives, charred sourdough.
- Deviled Eggs $14.00
Bacon, crispy shallot.
- Fish Dip $18.00
Smoked trout, pickled Fresno chili, crunchy bread.
Sandwiches
- Lobster Roll $42.00
Mayonnaise, celery, and fries.
- Filet O'flex $26.00
Panko crusted hake, tartar sauce, American cheese, iceberg, potato bun, and fries.
- Char Grilled Burger $28.00
Double patty, american cheese, sauteed onion, special sauce, fries
For The Table
- Crab Guacamole $24.00
Smashed avocado, lox, cucumber, pickled red onion, crispy caper, poached egg.
- Burnt Fingers $24.00
- Deviled Eggs $19.00
Bacon, crispy shallots
- Everything Donuts $14.00
Everything seasoning, herbed cream cheese
Entrées
- Baked Eggs In Purgatory $21.00
- Blueberry Pancake $17.00
- Baby Romaine In Purgatory $21.00
Boston lettuce, blondee apple, manchego, almond, herbs, champagne vinaigrette
- 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.
Sides
- Parmesan Truffle Fries $13.00
- Flex Fries $9.00
French fries
- Smoked Salmon $12.00
Watermelon radish, champagne vinaigrette, parmesan.
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.
Mussels
- Parma $31.50
Parmigiano cream, lemon, scallion, crispy shallot.
- Classic $27.50
Garlic, herb, butter.
- Thai $31.50
Coconut curry, lemongrass, lime leaf, coriander, ginger.
- Fra Diavolo $28.50
San Marzano tomato, garlic, basil, chili flake.
Desserts
- 6 Flex Donuts $19.00
Vanilla bean dipping sauce, choice of six flavors
- Brownie Sundae $14.00
warm brownie, vanilla gelato, salted caramel, sticky nuts, luxardo cherry
- 4 Flex Donuts $15.00
- Lemon Meringue $13.00
lemon curd, meringue, graham cracker
Sides
- Flex Fries $9.00
French fries
- Parmesan Truffle Fries $13.00
- Two Eggs $7.00
Your way.
- Seasonal Berries $12.00
- Mixed Greens $12.00
Watermelon radish, champagne vinaigrette, parmesan.
- Old Bay Fries $11.00
- Bacon $12.00
Sandwiches
- Tuna Melt $22.00
celery, shallot, mayo, new school American cheese, sourdough, flex fries
- Chicken Avocado Club $22.00
Chicken, bacon, guacamole, pickled red onion, chipotle aioli, flex fries
- Lobster Roll $42.00
fried oysters, shredded lettuce, pickles, remoulade, fries
- Char Grilled Burger $28.00
Double patty, american cheese, sauteed onion, special sauce, fries. Add egg or bacon for additional charge.
- Filet 0 Flex $26.00
Panko crusted hake, tartar sauce, cheddar, iceberg, potato bun, fries.
Not Mussels
- Summer Snapper $40.00
- Grilled Faroe Island Salmon $32.00
Heirloom tomato & watermelon gazpacho, cucumber, gochujang, herbs
- Chicken Frites $32.00
half chicken, pan sauce, herbs, flex fries
Mussels
- Classic $28.50
Garlic, herb, butter.
- Thai $32.50
Coconut curry, lemongrass, lime leaf, coriander, ginger.
- Parma $32.50
Parmigiano cream, lemon, scallion, crispy shallot.
- Fra Diavolo $29.50
San Marzano tomato, garlic, basil, chili flake.
Fries & Sides
- Old Bay Fries $11.00
Old bay seasoning, spicy aioli
- Grilled Asparagus $16.00
Parmesan, olive oil, lemon
- Blistered Snow Peas $13.00
- Parmesan Truffle Fries $13.00
- Mac & Cheese $28.00
Cavatappi, bechamel, breadcrumb
- Flex Fries $9.00
French fries
- Sauteed Broccolini $13.00
buttered breadcrumb, aleppo chili, lemon
Entrées
- Lobster Roll $35.00
Mayonnaise, celery, fries.
- Char Grilled Burger $28.00
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
- Open-Faced Omelette $21.00
Egg white, broccoli rabe, piquillo pepper, mushroom, onion, feta.
- Filet 0 Flex $26.00
Panko crusted hake, tartar sauce, cheddar, iceberg, potato bun, fries.
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★ 1Dined 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 ChernickWhere do I start?! My experience from beginning to end was nothing short of amazing. It was the highlight of my day. Curtis and the staff really went above and beyond to give us the best experience. Very attentive! I didn’t have to call anyone for anything. They were so on top of it making sure our drinks were always filled, the bread was always filled and making sure we were enjoying everything. Now the food, wow. I couldn’t stop talking about how good everything tasted while I was eating. The Bangkok Mussels Pot special was so good, I went to sleep thinking about it. My friend tried the Parma and it was so tasty. We also got the Red Snapper ceviche and my goodness, so tasty!! The Parmesan truffle fries with that aioli was to dieeeee for 🤤 our drinks we so yummy we definitely repeated! The doughnuts, oh my goodness. Those were probably the best I’ve ever had. They were so fluffy and each one was different. 100/10. Very happy with my experience! Thank you!
June 17 · Alma MatrecitoTried Flex Mussels for the first time and the vibe was absolutely spot on—inviting, lively, and the perfect setting for a seafood feast. We kicked things off with a solid lineup: fresh oysters, a flavorful fish dip, perfectly crispy calamari, and a side of fries to get things rolling.The star of the show? The mussels. Each sauce was bold, rich, and packed with flavor—perfect for soaking up with the bread, which honestly became its own highlight. We also sampled the fish sandwich and some burgers, all of which were cooked just right and left us wanting more (so naturally, we ordered more fries).To top it all off, we wrapped the meal with fresh, warm donuts that sealed the deal. Service was on point—our waiter was friendly, attentive, and knew the menu inside out.All around, an incredible food experience with great energy and even better flavors. Definitely looking forward to going back.
June 09 · Veni, Vidi, Comedi
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