Hav and Mar Restaurant New York City

About Hav & Mar: A Culinary Fusion by Chef Marcus Samuelsson

Opened in 2022, Hav & Mar is more than just a restaurant; it’s a deeply personal expression of Chef Marcus Samuelsson’s diverse culinary roots and global adventures. The name itself is a beautiful homage to his heritage: “Hav” translates to “ocean” in Swedish, reflecting his Scandinavian upbringing, while “Mar” (derived from “mar”) means “honey” in Amharic, nodding to his Ethiopian birthplace. This elegant fusion of languages perfectly encapsulates the restaurant’s groundbreaking “Swediopian” concept, a unique culinary narrative that celebrates both the bounty of the sea and the rich, aromatic flavors of East Africa.

Leading the kitchen with exceptional talent and vision is Executive Chef Fariyal Abdullahi. A rising star in the culinary world, Chef Abdullahi brings a wealth of experience and an undeniable passion for blending global flavors seamlessly. Her innovative approach and dedication to culinary excellence have not gone unnoticed; she is a proud James Beard Foundation semifinalist for Best Chef: New York State, an accolade that speaks volumes about her skill and creativity. Under her leadership, the team at Hav & Mar delivers a dining experience marked by gracious hospitality, imaginative and delicious dishes, breathtaking cocktails, and an expertly curated wine list. This wine program is particularly noteworthy for its commitment to spotlighting talented BIPOC and female producers, adding another layer of depth and social consciousness to the restaurant’s ethos.

It’s this unique combination of a heartfelt concept, exceptional leadership, and a commitment to quality that has earned Hav & Mar widespread critical acclaim. Among its many industry accolades, the restaurant proudly boasts two stars from the prestigious The New York Times, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit culinary hotspot in New York City.

Warm Ambiance and Impeccable Service at Hav & Mar

The moment you step through the doors of Hav & Mar, you are immediately enveloped in an inviting warmth that defines the restaurant’s character. The ambiance strikes a perfect balance, feeling both inherently comfortable and distinctly sophisticated, making it an ideal setting for a myriad of occasions—from an intimate dinner to a lively gathering with friends. The thoughtful design, with its soft lighting, natural textures, and vibrant artistic touches, creates an atmosphere that encourages relaxation and enjoyment.

Adding a profound and whimsical touch to the dining experience is the original artwork by the celebrated artist Derrick Adams. Adorning the walls, his captivating depictions of Black mermaids offer a unique visual narrative, sparking conversation and contributing to the restaurant’s rich cultural tapestry. These pieces imbue the space with a sense of wonder and celebrate diverse stories, transforming the dining room into an art gallery in itself. A focal point of the interior is the beautifully designed open kitchen, positioned right in the heart of the dining room. This allows guests to witness the culinary magic unfold firsthand, adding an element of theater and transparency to the meal preparation. The gentle hum of activity from the kitchen only enhances the vibrant, yet never overwhelming, energy of the space.

Beyond the stunning decor, the service at Hav & Mar is just as warm and inviting as the physical space. Every staff member we encountered demonstrated genuine helpfulness, unwavering friendliness, and an infectious enthusiasm. From the moment of arrival to the final farewell, the team ensures a seamless and memorable experience, anticipating needs and offering recommendations with a genuine smile. This commitment to exceptional hospitality elevates Hav & Mar from merely a restaurant to a truly welcoming haven.

The Legendary Bread Basket: A Must-Try Culinary Masterpiece

While every dish at Hav & Mar is truly outstanding, there’s one particular item that demands special mention: the bread basket. Forget any preconceived notions you have about restaurant bread baskets; the Hav Bread Basket is in a league of its own. I can confidently say it’s one of the best bread baskets I have ever encountered in any restaurant, anywhere. It’s not just an accompaniment to the meal; it’s an experience in itself, a delightful prelude to the culinary journey ahead.

For just $19, this generous basket offers an incredible array of freshly baked delights and artisanal spreads. It features two delicate teff biscuits, offering a unique, slightly nutty flavor and tender texture. Alongside these, you’ll find slices of rich, subtly sweet blue cornbread, a comforting and flavorful treat. The injera crisp provides a delightful textural contrast, adding a satisfying crunch. A soft flatbread rounds out the bread selection, perfect for scooping up the accompanying dips. And the spreads themselves are stars: a creamy, savory shiro hummus, bursting with Ethiopian-inspired spices, and a surprisingly addictive peach jam that provides a sweet and tangy counterpoint. The thoughtful variety of breads and spreads in the Hav Bread Basket creates a symphony of flavors and textures, making it an absolutely perfect and memorable way to commence your dining adventure at Hav & Mar.

Exploring the Swedish and Ethiopian-Inspired Seafood-Forward Menu

The menu at Hav & Mar is a vibrant testament to Chef Samuelsson’s “Swediopian” philosophy, showcasing a masterful blend of fresh, high-quality seafood with the distinct flavors of Scandinavian and East African cuisines. During our visit, we indulged in a selection of dishes that perfectly encapsulated this unique culinary identity.

For starters, we savored the exquisite Swediopian. This dish features perfectly berbere-cured salmon, a testament to the kitchen’s innovative spice work. The salmon, with its delicate texture and subtle heat from the Ethiopian berbere spice blend, was beautifully complemented by crisp cucumber and creamy avocado, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that was both refreshing and intriguing.

We also ordered the seasonal Winter Salad, a delightful composition that celebrated the fresh produce of the season. Featuring tender delicata squash, crisp endive, delicate baby gem lettuce, and a hint of luxurious truffle, this salad was a perfect balance of earthy sweetness and refined aromatic notes, demonstrating the kitchen’s ability to elevate simple ingredients into something truly special.

For our main courses, we opted for some of Hav & Mar’s most popular and highly recommended dishes, each showcasing a different facet of their innovative menu.

Decadent Desserts: A Sweet Conclusion

To provide a truly sweet and satisfying conclusion to our extraordinary meal, we shared the magnificent Chocolate Cake. This decadent creation was a symphony of rich flavors and textures, featuring luscious layers of both white and dark chocolate ganache. Each bite was intensified by ribbons of buttery caramel, adding a delightful depth and sweetness that made this dessert an absolute standout. It was the perfect grand finale, encapsulating the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence from appetizer to dessert.

Artisan Cocktails and Curated Wines at Hav & Mar

The beverage program at Hav & Mar is as meticulously crafted and thoughtfully curated as its culinary menu. The wine list, in particular, stands out for its intentionality, highlighting selections from talented BIPOC and female producers. This commitment not only offers guests a chance to explore unique and exceptional wines but also supports a more inclusive and diverse wine industry, reflecting the restaurant’s broader values.

Beyond wine, the cocktails at Hav & Mar are true works of art—inventive, fun, and delightfully surprising. Their names alone hint at the creativity behind each concoction. For an adventurous palate, consider ordering “ART, BUT I DON’T CHOKE.” As the name playfully suggests, this daring drink incorporates unexpected ingredients like artichokes, skillfully blended with smooth bourbon, rich coffee, and bright orange notes. The result is a complex, herbaceous, and deeply satisfying libation that challenges expectations in the best possible way.

Another must-try is the boldly named “T’KILL-YA WITH PEACHES.” This vibrant cocktail features crisp blanco tequila as its base, expertly muddled with a hint of spicy poblano, the sweet-sour tang of chamoy, a touch of aromatic berbere spice, and a refreshing splash of sour ale. The combination creates a dynamic flavor profile that is simultaneously sweet, spicy, and effervescent, a perfect reflection of the restaurant’s adventurous spirit. Each cocktail is a testament to the skilled mixologists who blend unique ingredients to create truly unforgettable sips, perfectly complementing the restaurant’s innovative dishes.

Getting to Hav & Mar: Your Guide to Transportation

Located in the bustling Chelsea district, Hav & Mar is easily accessible by various modes of public transportation, ensuring a convenient journey for all guests. Planning your visit is simple with these nearby options:

Nearest Train Stations:

• The 7 train stops at 34th St Hudson Yards.
• The C and E trains stop at 23rd St.
• The 1 train stops at 23rd & 28th St.
• The R and W trains stop at 28th St.
• The A, C, E, 1, 2, and 3 trains all stop at 34th Street Penn Station, a major hub connecting you to many lines.

Nearest Bus Stops:

• The M12 bus stops right at our doorstep at 26 St & 11th Ave.
• The M23 bus stops at 24 St & 11th Ave.
• The M11 bus stops at 27 St & 10th Ave.
• The M34 bus stops at 34th Street & 11th Ave.

Explore Chelsea: What’s Nearby Hav & Mar

A visit to Hav & Mar places you in the heart of Chelsea, a vibrant neighborhood teeming with cultural attractions, artistic venues, and unique experiences. Extend your outing by exploring some of these fantastic nearby destinations:

The High Line

Just a few blocks from Hav & Mar, the High Line is an iconic elevated linear park built on a historic freight rail line. This urban oasis winds through the West Side of Manhattan, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Hudson River, meticulously curated gardens that change with the seasons, captivating interactive art installations, and fascinating urban architecture. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely pre-dinner stroll, a refreshing post-lunch escape, or simply to soak in the city’s atmosphere. Pro tip: experiencing sunset on the High Line is nothing short of magical, with the city lights beginning to twinkle against the evening sky.

Chelsea Market

If you’re still craving more culinary delights, unique boutique shopping, or artisan souvenirs, head to Chelsea Market. This legendary indoor food hall is just minutes away from Hav & Mar and is a paradise for foodies and shoppers alike. It’s packed with an incredible array of local vendors offering everything from fresh oysters and gourmet tacos to artisanal bread, handmade jewelry, and unique cookbooks. The market’s lively atmosphere and creative energy make it a must-visit for anyone looking to sample diverse flavors and find one-of-a-kind treasures.

Whitney Museum of American Art

Art lovers will rejoice at the proximity of the Whitney Museum of American Art. Dedicated to 20th- and 21st-century American art, the Whitney is conveniently located at the southern end of the High Line. The museum features dynamic rotating exhibits from both iconic masters and exciting emerging artists, offering fresh perspectives on American creativity. Its rooftop terraces provide not only unique outdoor art installations but also stunning views of downtown Manhattan and the Hudson River. Visiting the Whitney is the perfect cultural pairing with Hav & Mar’s own art-filled interior, creating a harmonious day of artistic and culinary appreciation.

• Montpellier Restaurants: Where to eat in Montpellier, France
• Bergerac Restaurants: Where to eat in Bergerac, France
• Our Bordeaux boulangerie crawl
• Hav & Mar restaurant (New York City)