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The Shell

The Shell, 635 Amsterdam Ave, New York

4.9
RESTAURANT RATING: 
EXCEPTIONAL
4.9 out of 5 (80 Ratings)
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1.7 miles Symphony Space
About The Shell
The Spotlight on The Shell

Fresh Catches and Good Vibes on Amsterdam Ave

The Shell is a lively, no-frills seafood spot located in Manhattan’s Upper West Side, just a short stroll from key music venues and subway lines. With its casual setting and focus on fresh, flavorful seafood, it’s a go-to for locals and visitors alike. Expect a warm, welcoming vibe and a menu packed with crowd-pleasers like lobster rolls, fish tacos, and oysters on the half shell.

Why Concert-goers love it

Just a few blocks from major music venues and easily accessible by subway, The Shell is great for a pre-show bite without the stress. The service is quick and friendly, making it easy to squeeze in a satisfying meal before curtain call. The atmosphere is lively but not too loud, so you can still chat without shouting over your shrimp cocktail. Plus, they have a solid drink list, making it a great spot to kick off your night.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends looking for a casual seafood fix before the show
  • Solo travelers grabbing dinner at the bar before heading to a gig
  • Couples enjoying a laid-back date night with oysters and wine
  • Fans who want a lively, social spot to get in the concert mood
  • Budget-conscious seafood lovers who still want quality plates

What People Say

Many diners on TripAdvisor and OpenTable highlight the super-fresh seafood, generous portions, and friendly service. The lobster roll and crab cakes get special mentions, and reviewers love the relaxed vibe that works for both casual meals and celebratory nights out. The Shell is often described as a neighborhood gem with a loyal following.

Areas for Improvement

While most guests leave happy, a few mention that the space can get a bit tight during peak hours, and the decor is more functional than fancy. Don’t expect fine dining—this is a spot that focuses more on the food than frills, which suits most concert-goers just fine.

The Bottom Line

If you’re heading to a show nearby and want tasty seafood, quick service, and a fun, unfussy vibe, The Shell hits all the right notes.

Average Price
$31 to $50
Cuisine
Seafood
Opening Hours
Fri, Sat 4:00 pm-11:00 pm
Sun 4:00 pm-10:00 pm
Dinner
Mon-Thu 4:00 pm-10:00 pm

The Shell Customer Reviews

Many have visited, but none have returned to tell the tale. Will you be the first to write a review of The Shell?

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

The Shell Restaurant is #5928 of 14911 things to do in New York City

5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Gary K
Wed 5 Feb, 2025
l Thank God for Restaurant Week, which gave Steve and I the impetus to finally try “The Shell” seafood restaurant on the Upper West Side, a place we passed numerous times on our daily walks in the...

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4 of 5 stars4 out of 5
By: Alan304, Cranford, New Jersey
Sun 16 Jun, 2024
l The daily happy cocktail offerings are reasonably priced and tasty. There also is a 3-course prix fixe menu for early dining. The food is good enough to return. The Salmon was prepared well. There is...

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The Shell 635 Amsterdam Ave, New York