TLDR
Modern Italian-Asian fusion featuring inventive dishes like tempura chicken parm and mackerel carbonara in Hell's Kitchen.
Details
This modern Hell's Kitchen destination offers a unique fusion of Italian, Korean, and Pan-Asian flavors [1], [2]. While some patrons appreciate its inventive approach, such as the tempura chicken parm and uni tagliolini [1], [3], others have debated the authenticity of its traditional Italian presentation [2]. Despite varying opinions on its marketing, many diners consider the spot a hidden gem with a welcoming atmosphere provided by the owner [3], [4], [5].
Food Overview
The menu specializes in Italian-Asian fusion, earning praise for creative handmade pasta, oysters, and healthy greens [3]. Recommended highlights include the tempura chicken parm [1], uni tagliolini [3], and the mackerel carbonara [6], though some critics have questioned the use of unconventional ingredients like balsamic reduction or flowers [2].
Caveats
Some diners have questioned the authenticity of the Italian dishes, citing unusual ingredients like balsamic reduction and decorative flowers [2]. Additionally, some users have perceived the restaurant's social media presence as aggressive or unappealing advertising [2], [3].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About SESAMO
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Seeking Recommendation For Good Italian Pasta In
"Recommended for Italian food."
PositiveFrom post: What Is Your Favorite Seafood Pasta Youve Had In
"The author found the mackerel carbonara at Sesamo to be noteworthy, prompting interest from another user."
PositiveFrom post: My Favorite Spots In Hells Kitchen
"Sesamo is suggested as a hidden gem."
PositiveFrom post: Midtown Recs
"The commenter recommended Sesamo but noted that it is located on 10th Ave."
NeutralFrom post: What Is A Good Place For A Business Lunch In
"Sesamo, located at 51st/10th, is suggested as a place for lunch."
PositiveFrom post: Sunday Night Near Times Square
"The user had a great experience at Sesamo a few weeks ago, highlighting the terrific bartender/owner, yummy food, and good drinks."
PositiveFrom post: Sesamo Offers Some Of The Best Italian Food In
"The commenter found the restaurant's post to be a 'wild advertisement attempt' and expressed their opinion on the presentation."
NegativeFrom post: Sesamo Offers Some Of The Best Italian Food In
"This user praised the restaurant's ability to cater to different preferences, highlighting handmade pasta, chicken parm, oysters, seafood, and healthy greens. They specifically mentioned uni tagliolini as a unique dish."
PositiveFrom post: Sesamo Offers Some Of The Best Italian Food In
"This user suggested the restaurant was employing a clever viral marketing strategy to generate reactions."
NeutralFrom post: Sesamo Offers Some Of The Best Italian Food In
"This user agreed with the previous comment about people being on their phones in restaurants, finding it irritating."
NeutralFrom post: Sesamo Offers Some Of The Best Italian Food In
"This commenter expressed annoyance with people using their phones in restaurants, a general observation not specific to the food or service at Sesamo."
NeutralFrom post: Sesamo Offers Some Of The Best Italian Food In
"In response to a comment suggesting the restaurant's post was an advertisement, this user agreed that the food presentation 'does not look good'."
NegativeFrom post: Sesamo Offers Some Of The Best Italian Food In
"Responding to a previous comment, this user clarified that the restaurant offers a fusion of Italian, Korean, and Pan-Asian flavors."
NeutralFrom post: Sesamo Offers Some Of The Best Italian Food In
"The commenter sarcastically praised an 'authentic Italian broccoli asparagus tower', implying skepticism about the restaurant's Italian offerings."
NegativeFrom post: Sesamo Offers Some Of The Best Italian Food In
"The commenter questioned the authenticity of the Italian dishes, noting the presence of balsamic reduction and flowers as unusual ingredients for traditional Italian cuisine."
NeutralFrom post: Sesamo Offers Some Of The Best Italian Food In
"This user suspected the post about the restaurant was an attempt at a bad advertisement."
NegativeFrom post: Moderately Priced No Reservation 4 People No Long
"The user expresses interest in Sesamo, noting it's not too far and asking if it's very good."
NeutralFrom post: Moderately Priced No Reservation 4 People No Long
"Sesamo is described as a modern Italian restaurant with Asian influences. The commenter enjoys the tempura chicken parm and pasta specials, preferring it over places like Torisi and L'Artusi."
Positive