Menu to Taste

Semma

South Indian · New York · Michelin One Star · Chef Vijay Kumar

One-Michelin-star South Indian restaurant in Greenwich Village by Chef Vijay Kumar (Tamil Nadu native). First South Indian restaurant in NYC to earn Michelin star. NYT #1 restaurant NYC (2025), previously #7 (2024). James Beard Best Chef NY 2025 (Vijay Kumar). Unapologetically spicy with authentic Tamil/Kerala techniques - no Americanization. Signature dishes: Gunpowder Dosa (must-order - rice/lentil crepe, potato masala, sambar), Nathai Pirattal (Peconic snails, ginger, tamarind, kal dosa - limited availability). Casual upscale atmosphere, houseboat-inspired décor, staff in colorful tees. Vegan/vegetarian options available. Weekdays 5:30-10pm, weekends till 11pm.

60 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10011, New York

  • One Michelin Star
  • Best Chef: New York
  • #1 Restaurant in NYC
  • #41 North America's 50 Best 2026

Menu

Cocktails

  • Thanga Magan Colada (22) — Tropical cocktail with cultured coconut and South Indian spices. Signature cocktail.
  • Surya Udhayam (13) — Agave, orange, lemon. Sweet and refreshing. Non-alcoholic mocktail.
  • Panakkaran Old-Fashioned (23) — Traditional old fashioned with Indian twist. Signature cocktail.
  • Yajaman Sour (22) — Mezcal, white bitter, lemon, ginger, toasted coriander, bird chile, fresh curry leaf. South Indian spices.
  • Annaatthe Negroni (22) — South Indian spice-infused Negroni with adventurous flavor pairings. Signature cocktail.
  • Thee Mule (22) — Green chile vodka, falernum, lime, toasted black mustard seed, clove, mace, black peppercorn, fresh curry leaf, ginger beer. South Indian spices.

Dishes

  • Paniyaram (15) — Rice & lentil dumplings, asafetida, paatti's chutney
  • Dindigul Biryani (42) — Mixed rice with goat
  • Nathai Pirattal (27) — Peconic snails with ginger, tamarind, and kal dosa. Limited availability. Signature showstopper dish.
  • Meen Pollichathu (45) — Banana leaf wrapped whole sea bass, ginger, shallots. Dramatic tableside presentation. Source: semma.nyc
  • Kuttanadan Tharavu (46) — Hudson Valley duck leg, poppy seeds, coriander. Source: semma.nyc
  • Elaneer Payasam (14) — Traditional South Indian dessert. Source: semma.nyc
  • Lobster Tail (55) — Superb South Indian sauce
  • Coconut Rice (8) — Traditional coconut-infused rice
  • Lamb Chops Chettinad (48) — Grilled lamb chops with South Indian spices
  • Eral Thokku (25) — Tiger prawn with green chili, fenugreek, and curry leaves

Tasting Menu

  • À la Carte Dinner (60) — Average spend per person

Wines

  • Riesling (Alsace) • Glass (24) — Trimbach, pairs well with South Indian spices

The Experience

The meal is structured around à la carte dining. A good fit for a romantic evening.

Phone: +1 718-689-5888

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