Cannot recommend this place more. Loved the variety and freshness in the ice box +, probably the best shrimp I’ve ever had. Bread and Oyster Confit definitely were unforgettable. Ice cream sandwich had such a great consistency, it went down too quick. We also got 3 Penny Martinis and it paired so well with everything and was refreshing. Service was spot on and we can’t wait to return!

One of the tastiest lobsters I’ve ever had! Fresh seafood ice box and special shoutout to the warm oysters confit. The bread lives up to the hype. Solid wine and sake list that complements the meal. Bar only seating, friendly staff!

I don’t get the hype about brioche bread. But the seafood was fresh and the wines were crisp. It’s brighter than Claud and the menu much lighter. The stuffed squid was the star menu item. Will come back!

We’ve been longtime fans of Claud, so naturally we had to try Penny—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. This is hands down the best seafood I’ve had in NYC. The absolute must-order is the Ice Box (you have to, have to get it). It’s this jewel box of raw seafood that sets the tone for the whole meal. From there, we went all in: Sesame Brioche + Butter, Kinmedai + Plum, Mackerel + Marinated Beans, Snapper + Melon, Clams + Smoked Potatoes, and the grand finale—1.5 lb Maine Lobster. Everything was insane in the best way, but a few standouts: the mackerel with beans (so unexpected and so good), the clams with smoked potatoes (genius combo), and that lobster—honestly the best I’ve had in my entire life. Bonus: the wine selection is fabulous, and they make a mean, super unique martini that I’m still thinking about. Also, shoutout to Adelaide, our server. If you’re lucky enough to land her, you’re welcome. She crushes every recommendation—just trust whatever she tells you to order. We’re already planning our next trip back to Penny. It’s an absolute gem and cannot be missed.

I don’t care what the naysayers have to write about this place or the bread it’s all great. The staff was very friendly so if they treated you poorly it’s probably because you’re an insufferable person and they’re just trying to do their job, shoutout to Gemma! Fav dishes were the carpaccio, clams in broth & of course the brioche(people that don’t like it just don’t like happiness). I’d maybe pass on the ice box next time just because the other more creative dishes were so good we wanted to try more stuff. Def will come back when I have the $$$

My fav wine bar in NYC! The raw bar centric menu is so good. The seafood platters (boxes) are well done. The staff are incredible and the wine selection impressive. I’m preferential to sitting at the bar so this all bar seat setup is right in my wheelhouse. Fav dish: stuffed squid. The only complaint here is that resys are really hard to get and if you lineup before they open you’re still looking at about an hour wait. They will take your number and text you though so you could hangout somewhere nearby while you wait. Verdict: will return whenever I can!

carlos borges

The ice box is wonderful. I will go back for this and a glass of sherry. The ice box featured Gaia Oysters from New Brunswick, the most perfectly prepared shrimp cocktail, fresh clams, a sea bass ceviche, and perfectly marinated mussels. The Oyster Confit was outstanding. The concept of slow-cooking the oysters in rich chicken fat and serving them with crème fraîche and crackers is a stroke of genius. I would gladly go back for this item alone. The Stuffed Squid was very nice. The squid was tender, and the sauce was rich and flavorful. Be sure to save some of the bread to fully soak up every drop of that excellent sauce. Both the Seaweed Salad and the Beet Boquerones were excessively acidic, which overpowered the flavor of the otherwise perfectly prepared ingredients. I enjoyed a Dr. Brown's Cel-Ray here as well. The service was impeccable.

jake villagio

I’m still in love with Penny. Everything about it is dialed in — the interior, the lighting, the little details, the vibe… it feels effortless but you can tell it’s insanely intentional. The fish is unreal, the flavors are clean and confident, and the wine program is on another level. It’s that rare kind of seafood bar where every bite tastes like someone actually obsessed over it before it hit the table. What’s honestly crazy is this: you can’t get this anywhere else… but here. And that’s coming from someone from South Florida — because no place in Miami even comes close to this level of “fancy seafood bar” done right. Down here, most seafood spots with a bar vibe lean more divey. This concept? If it opened in SoFlo it would be booked out for weeks without even trying. Penny is special. Period.

Debbiebag

If you can get a reservation and you enjoy seafood then you are definitely going to enjoy Penny! Every dish is expertly prepared and beautifully presented. The shrimp cocktail was succulent and so delicious. Tuna carpaccio, tender with subtle marinade, the Halibut with spinach just melted in your mouth... I could go on all day! A very knowledgeable sommelier is on hand if you want pairing reccomendations, and every member of the team were approachable professionals. Amazing!

Richard W

Penny’s accolades are well-deserved. The food’s all about pristine seafood cooked “simply” to bring out their inherent flavors. You must order the stuffed squid and the seafood broken rice, plus some sesame brioche to soak up the sauce on that squid. The squid’s full of that charcoal-kissed flavor without the slightest hint of overcooking. Extremely tender, light crisp on the thin tentacles, stuffed with minced tuna to add body and meatiness. The sauce was addictive, a fruity earthy chili oil with a hint of heat and some acidity to brighten it up without turning it sour. The rice dish transported me to Maine, full of fresh sweet lobster dipped in butter, amplified 10x. Perhaps a stock made from the shells and tomalley? The rice was the right vehicle to deliver maximum comfort, more soothing than a buttered roll. This dish would not feel out of place being served at Le Bernardin with a more elegant plating. The ice box and scallops were of course great. But these two dishes are what I’ll remember for a long time. Service was highly attentive. Everyone’s glasses were constantly topped up. There was always someone to answer any questions. Overall, I enjoyed Penny much more than many tasting menu spots. The dishes were impactful with clear, intense flavors. It’s worth the hassle of getting a reservation.

Kristjan

I was told nobody ever regrets getting the whole lobster. They were correct, it was incredibly satisfying. Penny is a great spot for some of good wine and tasty seafood bites. Given the long narrow space, everyone has a great view of the goings-on in the kitchen. I would suggest 2-3 very hungry guests to tackle the entire menu. As with Claud downstairs, Penny has an impressive wine selection. Shout out to Justin for the great recommendation and hospitality.

Michael Lehrman

This is deservedly one of the hottest restaurants in nyc. A fish and seafood menu that is creative and comforting. One of the tastiest pieces of halibut I've ever eaten. Pristine oysters. A loaf of brioche with butter than you cannot pass up. And an orgasmic chocolate mousse with hazelnuts for dessert. I snagged a solo seat walking in at 515 pm. Sitting at the long counter and watching the bustle as the food is prepared and served is part of the charm. Our server couldn't have been better. She was spot on with her recommendations. Oh and if you like a Martini try the Penny Martini. Delicious.

Penny Fun

I highly recommend the shrimp cocktail. It was absolutely delicious with an amazing texture and perfectly made. The seafood was very fresh. While the flavors were not particularly unique, they were clean and satisfying, something I could enjoy often. Service was excellent and the drink selection was impressive. The menu options are a bit limited, but for a seafood bar I think it is more than enough. We will definitely be coming back very soon!!

LL C

Came to Penny after friends raved about it and it didn't disappoint! A must-go for seafood lovers. Service was great and the somm recommended some great alcohol pairings. We got the icebox+, brioche, clams and confit oysters... everything was incredible. The raw seafood was really fresh (special shootout to the mignonette sauce). We topped it all off with an ice cream sandwich. It was pricey but would definitely come back for a special occasion!

Kelli Durkin

Atmosphere is super fun and service great - perfect spot for a seafood lover - great 🦪 oysters and raw bar selection! Bread 🍞 was my favorite - superb wine 🍷 selection. I had to book on Dorsia to get in last minute 🦪🍤 All counter seating - great for two people

Xiaowei Wang

I don’t get the hype about brioche bread. But the seafood was fresh and the wines were crisp. It’s brighter than Claud and the menu much lighter. The stuffed squid was the star menu item. Will come back!

Rachel White

We’ve been longtime fans of Claud, so naturally we had to try Penny—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. This is hands down the best seafood I’ve had in NYC. The absolute must-order is the Ice Box (you have to, have to get it). It’s this jewel box of raw seafood that sets the tone for the whole meal. From there, we went all in: Sesame Brioche + Butter, Kinmedai + Plum, Mackerel + Marinated Beans, Snapper + Melon, Clams + Smoked Potatoes, and the grand finale—1.5 lb Maine Lobster. Everything was insane in the best way, but a few standouts: the mackerel with beans (so unexpected and so good), the clams with smoked potatoes (genius combo), and that lobster—honestly the best I’ve had in my entire life. Bonus: the wine selection is fabulous, and they make a mean, super unique martini that I’m still thinking about. Also, shoutout to Adelaide, our server. If you’re lucky enough to land her, you’re welcome. She crushes every recommendation—just trust whatever she tells you to order. We’re already planning our next trip back to Penny. It’s an absolute gem and cannot be missed.

Kathleen Siswanto

One of the tastiest lobsters I’ve ever had! Fresh seafood ice box and special shoutout to the warm oysters confit. The bread lives up to the hype. Solid wine and sake list that complements the meal. Bar only seating, friendly staff!

Trevor S

Cannot recommend this place more. Loved the variety and freshness in the ice box +, probably the best shrimp I’ve ever had. Bread and Oyster Confit definitely were unforgettable. Ice cream sandwich had such a great consistency, it went down too quick. We also got 3 Penny Martinis and it paired so well with everything and was refreshing. Service was spot on and we can’t wait to return!

Winnebago Vacation

I don’t care what the naysayers have to write about this place or the bread it’s all great. The staff was very friendly so if they treated you poorly it’s probably because you’re an insufferable person and they’re just trying to do their job, shoutout to Gemma! Fav dishes were the carpaccio, clams in broth & of course the brioche(people that don’t like it just don’t like happiness). I’d maybe pass on the ice box next time just because the other more creative dishes were so good we wanted to try more stuff. Def will come back when I have the $$$

Alice Monica Koltchev

Everything was spectacularly fresh, and prepared directly in front of you. Brioche is unassuming but truly delicious (comes warm out of the oven), and honorable mention also goes to the humble seaweed salad (not what you get at sushi places, but fresher and better). We loved everything we tried and overall great.

Very good food, I particularly liked the raw bar. The dover entree was surprisingly bland and a little dry. The red snapper crudo had a bit too much orange. The chocolate mousse was pretty good, though the olive oil made it a bit too rich. I loved the music, 70s punk and post punk. However, it was easy too loud and I couldn't hear the person next to me very well. It's only bar seating, and it wasn't very comfortable. Overall, I found it expensive and given how hard it is to get a reservation, I wouldn't recommend it.

Really lovely date spot! The food was so good, and the seafood was super fresh! Bread was also super soft and fluffy. Special mention to the razor clam, the stuffed squid, and the ice cream sandwich. The restaurant itself is pretty quiet because the space is small, and the seats are surprisingly comfortable. The only fault in my experience was that this restaurant was worth a pretty penny (pun intended).

A top tier date spot if you’re looking to splurge. Great friendly service with an all seafood menu and all bar seating. We had to wait a bit to sit but were offered a wine list to order from while standing and free mussels that were delicious. Everything we ate was interesting and bright and there were lots of gluten free options. Taking one star off though because I didn’t love anything that was on the wine by the glass list. We tried two whites, a red, a sake martini and a sake. The sake was the only one I would have ordered again. I’m sure the bottle list is much more broad and interesting though.

Javier Kohen

Very good food, I particularly liked the raw bar. The dover entree was surprisingly bland and a little dry. The red snapper crudo had a bit too much orange. The chocolate mousse was pretty good, though the olive oil made it a bit too rich. I loved the music, 70s punk and post punk. However, it was easy too loud and I couldn't hear the person next to me very well. It's only bar seating, and it wasn't very comfortable. Overall, I found it expensive and given how hard it is to get a reservation, I wouldn't recommend it.

Jade Li

Really lovely date spot! The food was so good, and the seafood was super fresh! Bread was also super soft and fluffy. Special mention to the razor clam, the stuffed squid, and the ice cream sandwich. The restaurant itself is pretty quiet because the space is small, and the seats are surprisingly comfortable. The only fault in my experience was that this restaurant was worth a pretty penny (pun intended).

Dave Capra

A top tier date spot if you’re looking to splurge. Great friendly service with an all seafood menu and all bar seating. We had to wait a bit to sit but were offered a wine list to order from while standing and free mussels that were delicious. Everything we ate was interesting and bright and there were lots of gluten free options. Taking one star off though because I didn’t love anything that was on the wine by the glass list. We tried two whites, a red, a sake martini and a sake. The sake was the only one I would have ordered again. I’m sure the bottle list is much more broad and interesting though.

We had a pretty good time, but it’s pricey for what it is. We got there 20 minutes early and the host kicked us out for being too early. There was space to wait inside, which we later discovered was offered to other patrons. Baffling. But hey it’s all good, maybe a misunderstanding. We got the Icebox+, Brioche, Stuffed Squid, Clams and Potatoes, and Black Bass. I liked the squid and clams a lot! The Icebox+ was fine, expensive for what it is. The Black Bass didn’t seem cooked right unfortunately. We got the Brioche because all the five star reviews raved about it. In retrospect, warm bread being the highlight of a seafood restaurant should have been a red flag. No complaints, it was good. Our server was very nice. Overall good place, but at this price point there are better options in the city.

Raghav Phadke

We had a pretty good time, but it’s pricey for what it is. We got there 20 minutes early and the host kicked us out for being too early. There was space to wait inside, which we later discovered was offered to other patrons. Baffling. But hey it’s all good, maybe a misunderstanding. We got the Icebox+, Brioche, Stuffed Squid, Clams and Potatoes, and Black Bass. I liked the squid and clams a lot! The Icebox+ was fine, expensive for what it is. The Black Bass didn’t seem cooked right unfortunately. We got the Brioche because all the five star reviews raved about it. In retrospect, warm bread being the highlight of a seafood restaurant should have been a red flag. No complaints, it was good. Our server was very nice. Overall good place, but at this price point there are better options in the city.

Twomeitous

Penny NYC – Cute Spot, But the Food? Meh. 🤷‍♀️ Quick bites recap: 🍤 Shrimp Cocktail – Cold, classic, safe. Nothing new, nothing wrong, just… shrimp. 🦪 Oyster in Chicken Fat – 🛑 Nope. Gamey, stinky, couldn’t finish. Almost gagged. 🌊🍄 Scallops with Mushrooms – Pretty but SO salty. We gave up halfway. 💸 Total: $136 with tip for a meal we barely ate. Left hungry and a bit sad. Nice ambiance, but the flavors didn’t land for us.