The Smith

A Cozy Night at The Smith East Village and Photo Booth

If you’re strolling through the lively streets of Manhattan’s East Village, looking for a casual yet charming spot to enjoy great food, good beer, and a memorable vibe, The Smith East Village might just be the perfect place. As someone who loves exploring new NYC restaurants with character, I had high hopes for this spot – and for the most part, it didn’t disappoint.

We visited The Smith on a rainy spring evening. We were in the mood for something hearty but stylish – a classic that blends comfort food with a trendy twist. The East Village is packed with hidden gems and popular dining spots, but The Smith stood out for its glowing reviews, bustling ambiance, and—unexpectedly—a quirky photo booth tucked near the restrooms. It’s the kind of fun little surprise that makes your night extra memorable, whether you’re on a date or out with friends. Naturally, we couldn’t resist squeezing in for a few goofy snapshots before dessert.

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Warm, Bustling, and Instagram-Ready

Located on 3rd Avenue, The Smith East Village has that quintessential New York charm: brick walls, black-and-white tiled floors, warm lighting, and a lively crowd. It strikes that rare balance between trendy and cozy. Walking in, we were immediately greeted by the sounds of clinking glasses, sizzling food, and the hum of conversation - always a good sign.

The staff was friendly and efficient, getting us seated quickly even though the restaurant was nearly full. We were given a cozy two-person table near the back, close enough to the action without feeling cramped.

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Draft Beer to Start: Local Favorites on Tap

One small but thoughtful touch that really stood out was the water service. As soon as we were seated, our server brought over two glass bottles—one filled with still tap water and the other with house-made sparkling water. Both were complimentary, which is something you don’t see often in NYC restaurants. It’s a subtle but generous gesture that adds to the welcoming vibe of the place. Whether you’re a sparkling water fan or just want a simple glass of tap, The Smith makes sure you’re taken care of without needing to ask.

We kicked things off with some drinks, choosing from The Smith’s solid list of local draft beers, many of which are brewed right here in New York. Jaedon ordered the Captain Lawrence Classic Lager, brewed in Elmsford, NY. It had a smooth, crisp finish and a mild maltiness – perfect for someone who enjoys a traditional lager with a clean profile.

I went for something a little more floral and bright: the Alewife Sunnyside Blonde Ale. Alewife is a Queens-based brewery, and their Sunnyside Blonde Ale was a beautiful choice – light, citrusy, and just the right touch of hops. It paired beautifully with what was to come.

For craft beer lovers exploring East Village bars and restaurants, The Smith offers a reliable and flavorful selection of New York craft beers that doesn’t try too hard to be obscure but still delivers quality.

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What we ordered

Before our foods come out, they serve the basic bread and butter.

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The Smith Burger – Medium Rare Perfection

For the main course, I decided to go classic and ordered The Smith Burger. It came medium rare just as I asked - juicy, flavorful, and cooked with precision. The patty had a rich beefiness that balanced beautifully with fried onion and fresh cucumber.

The fries served on the side were golden and crisp, well-seasoned, and addictive. This was hands down one of the best burgers in East Village I’ve had in a long time - straightforward, unpretentious, and satisfying.

SPICY SHRIMP SCAMPI – Bold Flavor, Slightly Overcooked Shrimp

Alongside the burger, we ordered the Spicy Shrimp Scampi, a pasta dish with spaghetti, garlic, chili, lemon, and large shrimp tossed in a slightly creamy, spicy sauce. The pasta itself was divine - perfectly al dente with just the right amount of garlic and heat. The lemon zest added a pop of brightness that lifted the entire dish.

The only downside? The shrimp, though fresh, were slightly overcooked. They had that firmer-than-desirable texture, missing the plump juiciness that really makes shrimp dishes sing. It wasn’t enough to ruin the dish, but it stood out, especially considering how excellent everything else was.

Still, if you’re looking for flavorful seafood pasta in East Village, this is a great option - just maybe ask if the chef can go easy on the cooking time for the shrimp.

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Friendly and Attentive Without Being Pushy

Our server was friendly, and happy to answer our questions. He checked in just enough times to make sure we had everything we needed but never hovered. Our water glasses stayed filled, and plates were cleared efficiently. It’s always refreshing when service feels human and not overly robotic or rehearsed.

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The Unexpected Highlight: A Vintage Photo Booth

One thing that totally caught me by surprise - and stole the show - was the photo booth near the restrooms. At first, I thought it was just quirky decor, but no - it actually works! The vintage-style booth was such a fun addition to the night. Jaedon and I ducked inside after our meal and snapped a quick photo strip. It felt like a spontaneous little date-night bonus, and now we have a fun memento to keep on our fridge.

This unexpected detail added a whimsical touch to the evening. It’s the kind of thing that turns a good night out into something more memorable. And let’s be honest - every great East Village restaurant should have at least one Instagram-worthy moment, right?

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Casual Yet Classy

What I love most about The Smith is its ability to feel both casual and elevated. It’s the kind of place you could show up in jeans and sneakers, or dress up for a date night, and feel equally comfortable. The music was upbeat but not overpowering, and the overall energy of the space was infectious. It’s easy to see why this place is a go-to for both locals and tourists alike.

The interior design deserves a quick shout out too - think exposed brick, globe lighting, subway tiles, and cozy booths. It feels curated but not pretentious, with a vibe that encourages lingering over dessert or one more drink.

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Final Thoughts

We’ll go again,

Lowkey, for the photo booth haha

The food was not bad, but not perfect; however, we liked it.

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Tips for First-Timers:

• Make a reservation: The place gets busy, especially on weekends.
• Try the Smith Burger: You won’t regret it.
• Don’t skip the photo booth: It’s by the restrooms - you’ll thank me later.
• Local beer fans: Go for the Alewife or Captain Lawrence - both solid options.
• Ask for medium rare on the burger: They nail it.

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If you’re planning your next night out in Manhattan and want somewhere that delivers on flavor, ambiance, and just a little fun, definitely give The Smith East Village a try. You might come for the food, but you’ll leave with a photo strip, a happy stomach, and a new favorite spot.