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Crave Fishbar - Midtown
Master Critic Review
Crave Fishbar - Midtown
8.0
A sustainability-focused seafood spot known for its lively raw bar and nightly #Oystergram happy hour. Since 2012, it’s been a neighborhood favorite for creative fish dishes, cocktails, and a strong oyster program.
Must-Try Dishes:
East and West Coast oysters from the raw bar, Handmade squid ink spaghetti with seafood, Maine lobster roll or lobster curry
Scores:
Value: 6.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: NYC’s original sustainability-driven seafood restaurant with one of the city’s most active oyster happy hours.
Who should go: Oyster lovers and seafood-focused cocktail crowds.
When to visit: Hit #Oystergram happy hour for value and energy.
What to order: Oysters, squid ink spaghetti, lobster roll or lobster curry.
Insider tip: Sit at the raw bar to chat with shuckers and sample more oyster varieties.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet. Street parking is limited in Turtle Bay, especially after 6pm; expect metered spots to be scarce. Closest reliable option is nearby paid garages within a 2–3 block radius.
Dress code: Smart casual. Most guests lean slightly dressy—jeans are fine when paired with a nicer top or jacket.
Noise level: Moderate. Lively during happy hour but still manageable enough for conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, depending on oyster-hour crowds.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; walk-ins are usually seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A handful of options (salads, sides, and occasional non-seafood mains), but the menu skews seafood-forward.
Vegan options: Limited—typically 1–2 dishes or modifiable plates; best to confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Good support. Many seafood dishes and oysters are naturally gluten-free, and staff can guide modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The lively but controlled energy, candle-lit tables, and strong seafood program create a fun but not overwhelming setting—great for breaking the ice.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes—especially at lunch or early evening. For peak happy hour and weekend dinner, walk-ins may face a wait, but bar seating is a dependable fallback.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who enjoy seafood. There’s no kids’ menu, and the atmosphere is more adult-oriented during happy hour.
Best For
Better for: Oyster variety, sustainable sourcing, and a more energetic raw-bar scene than many Midtown seafood options.
Skip if: You want a quiet, white-tablecloth seafood experience or need extensive vegan choices.