The Shell Seafood Kitchen & Bar

- 635 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025

Nestled on the vibrant corner of Amsterdam Avenue and 91st Street, The Shell Seafood Kitchen & Bar has quickly become a standout dining destination on the Upper West Side. This modern seafood restaurant offers a fresh and sophisticated take on coastal cuisine, bringing the flavors of the ocean to the heart of New York City. The restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to using sustainably sourced seafood and fresh ingredients, creating a menu that is both delicious and responsible. The moment you arrive, you're greeted by a space that strikes a perfect balance between casual comfort and trendy elegance, with tasteful decor and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that feels both special enough for a celebration and relaxed enough for a spontaneous weeknight dinner.

The core philosophy of The Shell is to provide a truly exceptional culinary experience through a focus on high-quality food and impeccable hospitality. As noted by one very happy customer, the service is "absolutely fantastic, super warm and friendly," with a staff that is "genuinely attentive." This dedication to service creates a feeling of being well-cared for, a quality that is highly valued in the competitive New York dining scene. The menu offers a wide array of choices, from a pristine raw bar featuring oysters and clams to expertly crafted entrees and pastas. Diners consistently praise the freshness of the seafood and the perfect execution of dishes, such as the perfectly cooked lobster ravioli and the beautifully seared salmon. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or a newcomer to the cuisine, The Shell promises a meal that is both satisfying and memorable. The restaurant’s popularity for dinner and solo dining underscores its appeal to both large groups and individuals seeking a high-quality meal.

The Shell Seafood Kitchen & Bar is ideally situated at 635 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025, USA. This location on the Upper West Side makes it easily accessible for a wide audience. Being on Amsterdam Avenue, the restaurant is well-connected to New York City’s extensive public transportation network, with multiple bus routes and subway lines nearby. This makes it a convenient option for locals and tourists alike who are exploring the area. For those who drive, paid street parking is available, though it's always a good idea to plan ahead in this busy part of Manhattan. The restaurant's outdoor seating area, described as "super welcoming" even on a busy street, offers a peaceful and lovely space to dine. This outdoor terrace is a significant draw, providing a pleasant al fresco experience that feels both part of the neighborhood's energy and a quiet oasis at the same time.

Accessibility is a key priority at The Shell, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring that all patrons can enjoy the dining experience comfortably. The restaurant’s location is also family-friendly and popular with tourists, offering a welcoming environment for a diverse crowd. The ability for guests to bring their dogs to the outdoor seating area adds to the community-oriented feel of the place. The combination of a central location and thoughtful amenities makes The Shell a destination that is both convenient and inviting.

The Shell Seafood Kitchen & Bar offers a wide array of services designed to provide maximum convenience and a top-tier experience.

• Outdoor Seating: A lovely terrace offers a great space for enjoying meals outside, providing a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
• Curbside Pickup and Delivery: For those who prefer to dine at home, the restaurant offers both curbside pickup and delivery services, ensuring the fresh food can be enjoyed anywhere.
• Takeout and Dine-in: The primary dining options, allowing guests to either grab their food to go or enjoy the full experience within the cozy and trendy atmosphere.
• Catering: The Shell provides catering services, making it a great option for private events and gatherings.
• Reservations: Reservations are accepted and highly recommended, especially for dinner, to secure a table and avoid a wait.

The Shell is praised for several key highlights that distinguish it from other restaurants in the area.

• Fast Service: The service is described as fast and efficient, which is a significant plus in a busy city like New York.
• Great Cocktails and Wine List: The restaurant boasts a full bar with a selection of signature cocktails, hard liquor, and a well-curated wine list, including bubbles, whites, reds, and rosé, which are fair for NYC prices as one customer noted.
• Kid-Friendly Amenities: The availability of a kids' menu and high chairs makes The Shell a great choice for families.
• Late-Night Food and Happy Hour: The restaurant serves late-night food and features a happy hour with drinks, small plates, and appetizers, making it a great spot for an after-work gathering.
• Atmosphere and Amenities: The casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere, complete with an onsite bar, Wi-Fi, and a gender-neutral restroom, contributes to a comfortable and modern dining experience.

For inquiries, reservations, or to place an order, you can contact The Shell Seafood Kitchen & Bar using the following information:

Address: 635 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025, USA

Phone: (646) 669-7628

What makes The Shell Seafood Kitchen & Bar truly worth choosing is its ability to consistently deliver a high-quality, memorable dining experience. The reviews speak volumes about the quality of the food and service. Customers rave about the fresh oysters, perfectly cooked salmon, and the delicious lobster ravioli. The menu is diverse, offering not only seafood but also options like prime ribeye and a kids' menu, ensuring there is something for everyone. While a customer noted a minor disappointment with a crab cake, the overall quality of the food, especially the main courses, is consistently praised. The ability to find a great deal during NYC Restaurant Week, as one review highlighted, also shows the restaurant’s commitment to providing value to its customers.

Beyond the food, the atmosphere and hospitality are key reasons to visit. The lovely outdoor terrace provides a quiet, serene setting, while the interior is cozy and inviting. The professional and friendly staff, who are described as fantastic and attentive, truly make guests feel welcome. This commitment to customer service, combined with the excellent food and a great selection of drinks, makes The Shell a standout on the Upper West Side. It is a place where every detail is considered, from the freshness of the ingredients to the friendliness of the staff. For anyone in New York seeking a top-notch seafood dining experience in a welcoming and elegant setting, The Shell is a fantastic choice that promises a meal you’ll want to recommend to friends and return to yourself.

The Shell Seafood Kitchen & Bar

635 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025, USA