Seabass Taverna — Restaurant in New York

I am a New Jersey resident and I hadn't even planned on eating lunch here! Believe it or not, I happened to be in really bad traffic on I-287. I originally was supposed to meet a friend in Brooklyn for lunch but heading into Brooklyn via 287, there was nothing but delays. I decided to cancel the lunch and I turned around, back on I-287, the opposite way, which also had horrible traffic back into NJ...AND I was STARVING!

So I Googled "Restuarants Near Me" and Seabass Taverna came up. The reviews looked good and so I threw caution to the wind and got off on exit 14, Hylan Blvd. It was hot, I was exhausted from driving in the traffic, disappointed that I didn't make it to Brooklyn, but I needed to rest and eat. I had no idea what neighborhood I was in and so I parked and observed the bubble tea, spa shops, and other stores -- including a comic store along this interesting street called New Dorp Lane.

When I opened the door to Seabass Taverna, I was greeted warmly by the manager and staff. It wasn't very crowded as it seemed all of the tri-state area was on the highway! I noticed the oceanic-themed decor and the peaceful environment. As I sat, I noticed there was a sharp older couple also having lunch. They looked like they belonged in a movie. Perfect place for a couple to enjoy a private meal, incognito, on what I know was a day in the 90s! It was hot as Hades outside but very cool and calm in the restaurant, which also played pretty good music, too (soft rock, for the most).

I ordered the roasted eggplant and pita as my appetizer and had a lychee cocktail, which was exquisite. I must add that my server, Doumla (sp?) was the most kind, thoughtful, and engaging person. I was stuck between ordering the branzino fillet and the whole red snapper (fried). I opted for the latter, and am so glad I did. It was a wonderfully presented, with lemon, salad, and potatoes. More importantly, the seasoning -- minimal but effective -- drizzled with olive oil and what I believe may have been thyme was so complementary to the fish. The flesh of the snapper was succulent, well marinated, and fried to perfection. When the manager asked me how my meal was, I felt like a savage because I couldn't stop eating the fish! I told him that the snapper tasted like, "...whoever made this cares about you. It tastes like home."

I was not exaggerating. I know food cooked with care when I taste it and I don't know who the chef is but THANK YOU! Doumla served me a Turkish cofffee, which was rich and bold, and I also had the baked halva. I knew as I finished my meal that if I got back on the highway and traffic was still horrendous, I wouldn't have cared a lick -- I was satiated and at ease. The whole experience at Seabass Taverna was literally like culinary therapy for a disgruntled and exhausted commuter.

Everything was served with care and my conversations with the manager and with Dhoumla were so pleasant. I couldn't believe it when I found out the restaurant was not even a year old -- the atmosphere when you walk in makes it feel like they've been serving customers for at least a decade. The hospitality is undoubtedly seasoned, no pun intended. I will surely return! Thanks for feeding this weary New Jersey driver who stumbled upon your restaurant via a rushed...

Nestled in the heart of Staten Island SeaBass Taverna is a delightful gem that transports diners to the sun-kissed shores of our small borough. From the moment you step inside, the warm and inviting atmosphere sets the perfect stage for a memorable dining experience. The decor beautifully reflects traditional Greek aesthetics, featuring rustic wooden tables vibrant blue and white color schemes, and charming nautical touches that evoke the essence of the Mediterranean. Soft Greek music plays in the background, enhancing the overall ambiance while allowing for easy conversation. The service at SeaBass Taverna is exceptional. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about the cuisine they serve. They are more than happy to provide recommendations and share the stories behind each dish, making you feel welcomed and valued as a guest. Now, onto the star of the show: the food. The menu at SeaBass Taverna is a delightful exploration of traditional Greek flavors with a contemporary twist. Overall, SeaBass Taverna is a culinary haven that excels in delivering authentic Greek cuisine with warmth and hospitality. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Greek food or a curious newcomer, this restaurant promises a delightful experience that will leave you craving more. Perfect for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a fun night out with friends, SeaBass Taverna is a must-visit for anyone seeking delicious...

This is a restaurant you would want to come back again and again after your first visit. Beautiful interior and delicious food! Staff is very attentive with great attention to ALL details. I found the restaurant through random google browsing and just couldn't resist wanting to try out this place. Glad we finally made it in, and surely it did not disappoint. In fact, it was amazing!! We tried their Endless Menu, despite just two people. All the food items listed in the first and second selections part of the menu will all come on the table, so you don't have to make any choices. You will choose your entree and your dessert. If you want more, you may ask for more. All items on the menu can be ordered a maximum of 3 times per table. Damla was very attentive and explained all the details and all the dishes to us.

Everything was really good from the first and second selections. The fried calamari was fried to perfection--lightly battered with a nice crunch and the squid inside was so tender, the best I've ever had. All seafood was fresh. We ordered the moussaka and the hanger steak for entree. The hanger steak was AMAZING! You will not be going back to the steakhouse. We had the cheesecake, tiramisu and creme brulee, which were all really good, but he cheesecake really stands out.

Can't wait to come back soon to try out other items on their menu. We will bring more guest for...