Hav & Mar

Nestled in the heart of New York City’s vibrant Chelsea neighborhood, Hav & Mar is a captivating seafood restaurant that brilliantly fuses Ethiopian and Swedish culinary traditions into a unique, sensory-rich dining experience. At 245 11th Ave, this hidden gem excels at delivering bold, surprising flavors with impeccable presentation and an inviting atmosphere that promises more than just a meal—it offers a journey across palate and culture.

Hav & Mar’s menu is a delightful showcase of culinary craftsmanship, drawing you in with its eclectic yet harmonious mix of dishes. Start your experience with the Hav Bread Basket, a tempting array of warm, freshly baked breads like the unexpected Blue Cornbread paired with creative dips like shiro hummus. For an appetizer, the Tuna Tartare and Crudo Trio offer fresh, delicate textures layered with vibrant, nuanced flavors that tease the senses.

The entrees are where Hav & Mar truly shines. The Berbere Honey Chicken Sandwich welcomes you with a perfect balance of crispy fried chicken glazed in a spicy-sweet berbere honey, complemented by crunchy cabbage slaw and tart pickles—a wonderful fusion of Ethiopian spice with classic comfort. The Chelsea Lobster Roll elevates a beloved staple by marrying chilled lobster with a bright yuzu awaze mayo and crispy shallots nestled in a buttery brioche bun, creating a captivating play of textures and freshness. Pasta lovers will revel in the Havatini 2.0, where hearty campanelle pasta gets luxuriously coated in a rich white wine uni butter sauce, studded with shrimp and crab—a dish bursting with oceanic depth balanced by silky indulgence.

On the side, the Hav Fries featuring crispy yucca and sweet potato fries paired with awaze ketchup and creamy shiro hummus offer a delightful contrast of crunch and spice, while the 7 Aunties Greens provide a comforting, smoky reprieve with stewed collard greens, andouille sausage, and crunchy berbere-spiced pumpkin seeds. For dessert, indulge in the velvety Chocolate Cheesecake or the classic and comforting Affogato, where hot espresso meets cold vanilla gelato, exuding a simple yet profound pleasure.

Beyond the menu, Hav & Mar is an oasis of warm yet sophisticated ambiance. Customers repeatedly mention its “gorgeous” feel and “fantastic” service that is attentive without being intrusive, truly enhancing the overall dining pleasure. The space offers an inviting vibe, perfect for a special occasion or a memorable night out, combining the casual energy of New York’s Chelsea with a refined, cosmopolitan dining experience.

Patrons rave about the extraordinary synergy of tastes found here. Deborah Schwartz praises the “surprising flavors and beautiful presentation” alongside a “terrific wine list,” while Hafsah Abdullah called it the “best meal I’ve had in NY,” describing the fish as “amazing” and the pasta as “phenomenal.” John Aylesworth was blown away, emphasizing the careful crafting of complex, balanced dishes where “there were no single note dishes” and he “couldn’t put the fork down.” Alison Pouw recommends coming with a group to savor a variety of dishes, highlighting the perfectly executed crab pasta and mushroom curry, and Ching Daquipil found the grilled ribeye and lobster “perfectly seasoned and just delicious,” praising both the food and the knowledgeable, friendly service staff.

Hav & Mar is more than a restaurant; it is a captivating culinary destination that masterfully blends diverse cultural flavors with expert technique and deep passion. Whether you are a seafood aficionado, a lover of global flavors, or simply craving a fresh, memorable dining experience in New York, Hav & Mar promises a feast that delights all the senses and lingers long after the last bite.

For reservations or inquiries, call +1 212-328-8041.