TLDR
Pick-your-own-catch market style dining with customizable grills and fresh Middle Eastern sides. A standout Astoria seafood gem for perfectly charred fish and succulent shrimp.
Instagram Posts References
IBN Hamido Seafood in Astoria offers a distinctive dining experience where patrons select their fresh seafood from a display, then specify their desired cooking method (grilled, fried) and seasoning level. The post highlights the exceptional freshness of the seafood and the perfect execution of dishes, noting that every item served at their table was cooked to perfection and packed with flavor. The customizable approach and high quality make it a standout spot for seafood enthusiasts.
Details
This Astoria destination offers a highly interactive dining experience where guests select their own fresh seafood and dictate the preparation method, seasoning level, and cooking style [1]. The menu is celebrated for its perfectly charred branzino, succulent shrimp, and exceptional appetizers like creamy tahini served with fresh pita [1]. While it is often compared to other local seafood spots, many diners consider it a top-tier choice, particularly for its value and customizability [2], [3].
Food Overview
The restaurant specializes in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-influenced seafood, allowing guests to choose their fish and decide if they want it fried or grilled [1], [2]. Highly recommended dishes include the extra-seasoned branzino, giant stuffed prawns, and fresh pita bread, while some diners have noted that the scallops are generally considered less impressive than those found at nearby competitors [1], [2].
Customer Sentiment
Feedback for this establishment is largely positive, with diners praising the high quality of the food and the unique, customizable nature of the experience [1], [2]. While occasional comparisons to other local seafood houses lead to mixed preferences, the general consensus highlights it as a great, reliable option for groups and seafood lovers [2], [3], [4].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About IBN HAMIDO SEAFOOD
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Is Abuqir Or Another Spot As Good As Astoria
"The user considers Hamido to be much better than Astoria Seafood."
PositiveFrom post: Is Abuqir Or Another Spot As Good As Astoria
"The user notes Hamido has excellent whole grilled fish with flavorful seasoning and great stuffed prawns, though their scallops are not as good as Abuqir's."
PositiveFrom post: Is Abuqir Or Another Spot As Good As Astoria
"The user describes Hamido as a nicer version of Abuqir."
PositiveFrom post: Is Abuqir Or Another Spot As Good As Astoria
"The user describes Hamido as good, but specifically recommends going during lunch."
PositiveFrom post: Is Abuqir Or Another Spot As Good As Astoria
"The user classifies Hamido as being essentially the same as other local seafood spots."
NeutralFrom post: Request What Restaurants Have A Meal Thats Like
"Suggested for a pick-your-own-seafood and have it cooked experience."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Dad Daughter Food Recommendations In
"A pick-your-own seafood restaurant recommendation."
NeutralFrom post: Seafood Restaurant Recommendations That Are Must
"The commenter praises this spot for letting you choose your own fish and for their amazing spice blend, considering it the best value in town."
PositiveFrom post: Places To Take Kids That Are Young But Cultured
"Suggested as a place where you can pick your own seafood."
NeutralFrom post: Tasty Algerian Seafood From Le Petit PêCheur
"The user ties this restaurant with Le Petit Pêcheur in their preference ranking."
PositiveFrom post: Tasty Algerian Seafood From Le Petit PêCheur
"The author considers this a worse version of Abuqir, though notes they have a good lunch special and better shrimp."
NeutralFrom post: Looking For Foodie Reccs That Are Not Heavy
"Recommended for seafood, with the option to choose how it is prepared."
PositiveFrom post: Any Suggestions For A Manhattan Seafood Lunch
"Recommended as a budget-friendly Astoria seafood spot."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find Good Seafood Preferably Seafood
"Hamido Seafood is mentioned as good, but the user prefers other places."
NeutralFrom post: Where Can I Find Good Seafood Preferably Seafood
"Hamido Seafood is mentioned as a general recommendation for seafood in NYC."
PositiveFrom post: Hamido Seafood Astoria
"This user simply stated that Hamido Seafood is an amazing restaurant."
PositiveFrom post: Hamido Seafood Astoria
"In response to a comment about the lack of similar seafood restaurants in Williamsburg, this user recommended Mariscos El Submarino in Greenpoint as a good alternative."
NeutralFrom post: Hamido Seafood Astoria
"This commenter expressed their love for Hamido Seafood, stating that everything they've tried there has been great."
PositiveFrom post: Hamido Seafood Astoria
"This user found Hamido Seafood to be an amazing restaurant that is also great for groups."
PositiveFrom post: Hamido Seafood Astoria
"This commenter praised the shrimp at Hamido Seafood, noting its char and succulence. They also mentioned Hamido and Abuqir as great seafood options."
Positive