I’m looking for somewhere fun for us to have dinner before seeing frozen. It’s me and my bf both adults no kids. I don’t get to go to the city often but I don’t want to stray to far from the theaters.
There’s Ellen Stardust Diner, but in my opinion the food there isn’t good and it’s more of a place that’s known for its entertainment (singing waiters/waitresses)
If you like Vietnamese, there's always Cha Pa's on 52/8. It seems popular with actors in shows, too, as I've seen a lot of them there over the years...
Stay far away from Ellen's--its a tourist trap filled with families from the Midwest (no dig, just not what most adults want to deal with). Try somewhere in Chelsea or Hells Kitchen if you aren't willing to travel far
If you want to go somewhere very close to the theater, there's a bunch of more touristy places like Carmine's (Italian food), Junior's (American classic), and Sardi's (a theatre district staple), which are all on the same block. John's Pizzeria is good too. Even Tony Di Napoli's is a good Italian alternative to Carmine's which has longer wait times.
Nearby, one block over in Hell's Kitchen, there are tons of sushi, Italian, burger, etc. restaurants.
Ippudo on West 51st if you like Japanese and especially ramen. Sit at bar. The entire staff yells hello to you in Japanese when you are seated. Never gets old. Tends to be crowded, leave yourself plenty of time. I've never made reservation and usually go before matinees - so not sure what dinner rez policy is.
I know some people turn their nose up at Sardi’s, but it’s the perfect place to go before a show. I visit on every NYC trip. Great service and so much Broadway history.
Try Becco on 46th between 8th and 9th. They have an amazing $25 homemade pasta special (all you can eat), and $30 bottles of wine. The food is great, so is the service, but you will need to reserve about a month in advance as it’s very popular.
theaterdarling said: "Ippudo on West 51st if you like Japanese and especially ramen. Sit at bar. The entire staff yells hello to you in Japanese when you are seated. Never gets old. Tends to be crowded, leave yourself plenty of time. I've never made reservation and usually go before matinees - so not sure what dinner rez policy is."
Ippudo doesn’t do reservations. You have to go early (like 5pm) to avoid a long wait. But I agree, it is delicious!
Reunion Surf Bar is fun. 44th between 8th & 9th, which is on the same street as Frozen, one avenue away. It’s a surf-themed (heavily themed) bar with tacos and creative bar food. Literally the opposite vibe of Frozen, haha... but that could be a fun combo.
I didn't find Sardi's particularly interesting food-wise, but it's not bad and worth going to at least once.
The larger Wondee Thai on 54th/9th is now called Yuqi's and is pretty good and not all that crowded — I was just there last week with a friend and we shared the whole fried snapper.
"This thread reads like a series of White House memos." — Mister Matt
Sardi's is only good to go for post-show drinks/dessert. Dinner service feels rushed and unappealing as 98.9% of the people having dinner are seeing a show so you can feel the rushed energy in the service and level of food preparation. You know, the idiots who have a 7pm dinner reservation for an 8pm show at a theatre 6 blocks away.
New2broadway2 said: "I’m looking for somewhere fun for us to have dinner before seeing frozen. It’s me and my bf both adults no kids. I don’t get to go to the city often but I don’t want to stray to far from the theaters."
If you're looking to try something new on the slightly higher end of the price scale I'd highly recommend Saju Bistro. It's a French spot that's pretty centrally located in the theater district. The entree's are on the pricier side, but I've been going there over the years and they've never failed to disappoint. Plus the waitstaff is wonderfully friendly and sure to get you in and out in time for your show without rushing you!
Joe Allen on 46th between 8th and 9th avenues. The food is top notch, and it’s one of the few remaining restaurants left that feel like NYC should. Of course, if you’re going to see “Frozen” that ethos might escape your attention.
I’d consider traveling a bit north and go to Rosa Mexicano Lincoln Center. It’s a short cab ride (or 20 minute walk each way). Food is always good and good drinks.
For more casual fare in theater district I like Bourbon Street on Restaurant Row for New Orleans/Cajun style cuisine.
I'm virtually certain it's always on the menu at the HB Burger, which is next to the bigger Heartland Brewery restaurant on 43rd. I went once to that location for a business lunch and the burger was not listed or available. I believe the waitperson said it wasn't served at all locations. However, another time I went to the one (less desirable location) at the Port Authority and it was on the menu. My advice: Try HB Burger itself. If it's not on the menu there, let me know. ??
p.s. The other thing I love about the place -- at least HB Burger -- is that they serve tiny sundaes in shot glasses for dessert. I think they're about $2.50. You can have whatever kind of ice cream they've got available. It's the perfect size when you're pretty much full but want something sweet to finish it off.
I was going to post the same question here, commenting to follow. These are all great suggestions everyone! I'm personally more interested in local faves and less touristy things.
joined:3/15/18
joined:
3/15/18
Posted: 4/4/18 at 6:40pm