TLDR
Vibrant, heritage-inspired seafood destination blending Swedish and Ethiopian flavors. A standout, Michelin-recognized gem in Chelsea perfect for special occasions or team dinners.
Instagram Posts References
The author had their first experience with Ethiopian cuisine at Hav & Mar and found it to be an exceptional meal. They highlight the restaurant's beautiful atmosphere and incredible hospitality, which contributed to an unforgettable dining experience. The post strongly recommends Hav & Mar to those who have been considering trying it, assuring them they won't be disappointed.
Hav & Mar is highlighted as a must-visit restaurant in New York City, with a strong recommendation for a specific ordering strategy to maximize the dining experience. The post suggests a diverse meal including a bread basket, lamb dumplings, a grilled ribeye with added lobster, biryani fried rice, and Brussels sprouts, indicating a menu with both familiar and unique offerings. The overall sentiment towards the restaurant and its dishes is overwhelmingly positive, with particular praise for the lamb dumplings.
Experience Marcus Samuelsson's seafood eatery, Hav & Mar, in Chelsea, known for its vibrant atmosphere and dishes that tell a story of heritage, including the must-order Hav Bread Basket.
Details
Located in Chelsea, this seafood-focused eatery from chef Marcus Samuelsson celebrates his Swedish and Ethiopian roots with a vibrant atmosphere [1]. The kitchen, led by chef Fariyal Abdullahi, consistently impresses with its unique approach to African fusion cuisine [1], [2]. Recognized on the New York Times Top 100 list for 2024 and 2025, the destination has earned a strong reputation among diners seeking a memorable meal [3].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on creative seafood preparations alongside distinctive Ethiopian and Swedish influences [1], [7]. Customers highly recommend starters like the Hav Bread Basket and flavorful dishes such as lamb dumplings, while the surf-and-turf ribeye topped with lobster is also a frequent favorite [2], [8].
Highlights / Recommended
"The Hav bread basket is a widely recommended starter, and guests should not miss the lamb dumplings, biryani fried rice, or the grilled ribeye with added lobster [2], [8]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •coconut tres leches cake(2)
- •hav bread basket(2)
Customer Sentiment
Diners consistently praise the restaurant for its beautiful atmosphere, exceptional hospitality, and high-quality cuisine, often recommending it as a top-tier choice for groups and special events [4], [5]. It is frequently cited as a standout dining option in an area otherwise lacking in culinary variety [6].
Caveats
Private dining options are available, though they come with minimums such as a $1.5K requirement for the backroom [9].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About HAV & MAR
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Wedding Reception Options For About 12 People
"The commenter highly recommends Hav & Mar for a small wedding dinner, noting their successful experience with a private room and screen."
PositiveFrom post: Any Restaurants With Modern Takes On Traditional
"Recommended as a place to try for modern fusion cuisine."
NeutralFrom post: Anyone Eaten At Both Dogon Dc And Tatiana Nyc
"This commenter recommends Hav & Mar as a 'NYC-unique' African fusion option, suggesting it as an alternative to Tatiana, which they found overrated."
PositiveFrom post: New York Times Top 100 Restaurants X Michelin
"Hav & Mar is mentioned on the NYT top 100 list for 2024 and 2025, with a Michelin selection."
NeutralFrom post: Best Seafood Dinner Experience In Manhattan With
"Hav & Mar was recommended."
Positive