Sailor's Choice, a new dining concept with a distinct coastal flair, has docked at Hudson Yards, serving up New England seafood shack classics in the heart of Manhattan. The 200-seat bar, situated at 350 11th Avenue, perches nonchalantly amongst a burgeoning culinary scene, offering patrons a relaxed seafood experience surrounded by the hustle of corporate giants like Time Warner and Meta. According to information from Eater New York, Hudson Yards welcomed the venue that boasts a large deck and counts among the calmer spots to enjoy a drink within this urban collage.
Designed around a vintage fishing boat, which now serves as the central bar, Sailor’s Choice is brought to fruition by Alex and Miles Pincus of the Crew hospitality group, known for other nautical spots such as Grand Banks and Island Oyster. Featuring a casual vibe, Sailor's Choice aims to deliver unfussy ambiance and quality seafood. Alex Pincus was initially uncertain about Hudson Yards—"At first, it didn’t feel like my scene," he remarked to Eater New York. However, a subsequent visit on a bustling Monday morning shifted his perspective, leading to the launch of this unique spot.
The bar invites guests to indulge in a menu rife with maritime favorites including lobsters rolls and sustainably sourced oysters. According to Hudson Yards New York, the Sailor's Choice is particularly known for its lobster BLT, oysters, and caviar tater tots, reinforcing a theme of luxurious yet unpretentious dining.
The drinks menu doesn't lag, providing a selection from rum-fueled tropical cocktails to "yacht club" offerings such as crisp gin and tonics. And yet, the centerpiece of the experience is as much about the social scene as the food and drink. Surrounded by yellow-and-white striped umbrellas and nautical-looking chairs, the Hinckley-made fishing boat contributes to a certain casual charm. Guests can find their seaside reprieve in a vintage Airstream turned cocktail bar, offering a change of scenery with the same laid-back ethos. "How cool would it be to drop a proper New England seafood shack right in the middle of all this?" Pincus told Eater New York, sharing his vision for the project.
Sailor's Choice is now serving up its brand of easy-going nautical flair seven days a week from 11:00am to 11:00pm. Whether seeking a frosty beer on ice or diving into a pile of fresh fish and chips, it offers an East Coast oasis amidst Manhattan's urban sprawl. This seafood shack hopes to be a staple for locals and tourists alike, casting its net wide for those chasing a hint of maritime life in the city.
