NYC Restaurants: Semma

Semma NYC

Address | 60 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10011

Semma is a highly acclaimed South Indian restaurant located in New York City's West Village. It has gained significant recognition for its authentic and bold approach to South Indian cuisine. Semma, which means "fantastic" in Tamil, lives up to its name with a diverse menu that highlights traditional and regional dishes. The restaurant is helmed by Chef Vijay Kumar, whose culinary creations reflect his roots in Southern India. Semma is a part of the Unapologetic Foods Group (the culinary geniuses behind Dhamaka among many other hits!). Semma has earned a Michelin Star two years in a row now and is in the New York Times top 100 restaurants of 2024.

We’ve tried getting a reservation a few times—this place is popular!—and when in search of dinner in the West Village the other night, we decided to step in and see if there was any availability. We lucked out and snagged two seats at the bar. 10/10 the food, cocktails, ambiance, and service were incredible and Semma is a NYC restaurant you have to hit up. Here’s what we had….

To drink…the cocktail menu at Semma is incredible with a lot of tempting concoctions. We settled on the Yajaman Sour (mezcal, white bitter, lemon, ginger, toasted coriander, bird chile, fresh curry leaf) and Thee Mule (green chile vodka, falernum, lime, toasted black mustard seed, clove, mace, black peppercorn, fresh curry leaf and ginger beer). The scent and notes of of exotic spices were so tasty and refreshing and complimented the meal.

Small…From the Semma’s small plate menu we ordered Mulaikattiya Thaniyam. This dish features a vibrant mix of sprouted mung beans, fresh coconut, and smoked chili. It had a delightful balance of spiciness and nuttiness, the perfect start to our meal.

Medium…we had to go with one of Semma’s standout dishes, the Gunpowder Dosa. This rice and lentil crepe filled with masala potatoes is unlike any dosa you’ve had. It was so tasty with layers of flavor and texture.

Large…Meen Pollichathu (banana leaf wrapped whole sea bass, ginger, shallots) with a side of coconut rice. Our server made a wonderful presentation of unwrapping from the banana leaf and saucing this tender sea bass. We paired it with coconut rice and the combination of aromatic flavors, created a perfect balance of spice and sweetness in each bite.