Best Restaurants Near Broadway: Pre-Show Meals & Post-Show Bites
When it comes to finding the best restaurants near Broadway NYC, the choices can be dizzying. Whether you’re looking for near or a late-night indulgence after the curtain falls, we’ve got you covered with a guide to some of the best pre-theater restaurants in NYC.
New York City, with its hustle and bustle, is a mecca of tantalizing food options that cater to every palate. One area that stands out particularly is the famed Broadway district at the heart of the city renowned not only for its awe-striking performances but also for the diverse dining scenes.
The bustling area hosts an abundance of top-class dining establishments, providing a myriad of opportunities for both pre-show meals and post-show bites.
Whether you’re pining for an intimate dining room experience, a wine bar with an extensive wine list, or a place specializing in signature cocktails, there’s always a venue around the corner that offers exactly what you’re after.
Let’s embark on a culinary journey around Broadway and scour some of the best restaurants near me in NYC.
Classic Favorites
Joe Allen
Open in Maps: 326 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
For over half a century, Joe Allen has been the go-to spot in the Broadway Theater District, serving as a lively backdrop for performers and theatergoers alike. Nestled right in the heart of the action, a search for “places to eat near me” in the Theater District almost always leads to Joe’s door.
Step into Joe Allen and you’ll find yourself enveloped in an ambiance that’s both cozy and vibrant, perfect for the pre-show energy or post-show discussions. The restaurant is famed for its signature cocktails—each a perfect curtain-raiser or a final bow to your night out. Settle into the restful dining room and you’ll feel the buzz of Broadway without stepping outside.
Joe Allen’s menu is a hit parade of American classics. From juicy burgers and sizzling steaks to a lineup of enticing lunch specials, there’s something to cater to every taste and craving. This isn’t just a meal; it’s part of your New York City adventure. This restaurant near Broadway offers an authentic New York City dining experience and stands as a testament to landmark Broadway eateries.
Sardi’s
Open in Maps: 234 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036
Where to eat before a Broadway show? Located on 44th Street, Sardi’s is one of the best restaurants near Broadway and a popular pre-theater dining spot. The rich history of this timeless spot enhances the allure as you dine amongst the famous caricatures that fill the walls.
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The menu features classic American and Italian cuisine, with options catering to a variety of taste buds. Whether it’s their tender Veal Scallopini or the homemade Cannelloni, Sardi’s makes every dining experience unique.
Gather with friends or mingle with locals and tourists alike as you enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers, all while soaking in the historic and lively atmosphere. Sardi’s isn’t just a meal; it’s a part of Broadway history waiting to add a dash of extra excitement to your night out!
Bar Centrale
Open in Maps: 324 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
Amid the bustling streets and bright lights of the Hell’s Kitchen, tucked away on a side street, you’ll find Bar Centrale, a gem hidden in plain sight. Here, you’re invited to enjoy a pre-show bite in a setting reminiscent of a cozy living room.
The restaurant is secretly tucked inside a brownstone building. With its low lights, vintage interior style, and comfortable couches, it offers an intimate escape from the city’s commercial bustle.
Their menu features a variety of delectable Italian dishes that will transport you straight to the vibrant culinary scenes of Rome or Tuscany.
Not to be overlooked is their refined selection of wines which perfectly complements any entrée choice or serves as an indulgent post-show treat on its own. Indulge in their signature cocktails during happy hour, or ask their knowledgeable staff for a recommended wine pairing.
Trendy & Flavorful
Bond 45
Open in Maps: 221 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
Situated just a stone’s throw away from the Theater District, Bond 45 is known for its delightful delicacies and signature cocktails that would make any night out a memorable one. The dining room offers an intimate setting, promoting a cozy yet sophisticated vibe.
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As for the food, get ready for an opening act of mouth-watering antipasti and the star of the show, their famous mozzarella en carrozza, which will have you applauding for an encore. Scouting for ‘lunch near me’ or the ‘best restaurants near Broadway NYC’? Look no further. Bond 45’s extensive menu caters to all tastes, ensuring that everyone at your table finds something to cheer about.
And what’s a grand finale without a perfect pour? Their extensive selection of wines is curated to complement your meal, setting the stage for a perfect pre-theater experience.
Los Tacos No. 1
Open in Maps: 229 W 43rd St, New York, NY 10036
If you’re wondering about the best restaurants near Broadway NYC that offer a casual yet engaging dining experience, then you must visit Los Tacos No.1 on 43rd Street near Times Square.
Dive into their celebrated menu, where the marinated pork and grilled chicken tacos promise to dazzle your palate. Don’t miss their famous queso taco, a gooey, cheesy wonder that’s become a crowd favorite. With a vibrant atmosphere and accolades like three stars from Eater NY, Los Tacos No. 1 delivers a quick, delicious escape to the flavors of Mexico—perfect for a pre-show meal or a lively snack after the curtains fall.
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Becco
Open in Maps: 355 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
Wondering where to eat before the Broadway show? Becco, perched comfortably on the renowned eateries street of 46th Street’s Restaurant Row, lures culinary aficionados seeking a taste of classic southern Italian cuisine.
The signature dish, ‘Sinfonia di Paste’ offers an all-you-can-eat pasta course rotating daily, rekindling the idea of grand family-style dinners.
Beyond pasta, Becco’s menu featuring items like Caciotta cheese ravioli or spicy lobster rigatoni alla vodka, fascinates with a variety of flavors. The extensive wine list pairs magnificently with the dishes, polishing the overall fine dining experience.
Well, deserving of the three stars awarded by Eater NY, Becco is a quintessential choice for theater-goers around Broadway, and those in search of ‘restaurants near me’ or ‘lunch specials near me’.
International Delights
Marseille
Open in Maps: 630 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036
Boasting of prime Broadway locale just beside 8th Ave, Marseille enchants patrons with its Southern French cuisine mixed with North African and Mediterranean influences. It’s a delight to dine here before your Broadway show, surrounded by the vibrant, vintage Parisian vibes.
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They offer a pre-theater menu featuring a variety of signature dishes that ensure a quick, sumptuous meal. Pair your meal with their extensive wine list or sip on their uniquely crafted cocktails for an ideal start to your New York City night out.
Donburiya
Open in Maps: 253 W 55th St, New York, NY 10019
Whether you’re searching for a spot for pre-show meals or an ideal destination for post-theater experiences, Donburiya should be on your list of must-visit restaurants near Broadway NYC.
Spice up your evening with their Karaka Spicy ramen, served in a rich vegetarian broth, or indulge in the crispy, irresistible Karaage fried rice. For a deeper dive into traditional flavors, their signature udon bowls are a must-try, offering both warmth and comfort in every slurp.
Feeling adventurous? Opt for the Kaiseki Omakase, a special chef’s choice menu that promises a memorable dining adventure. And sushi aficionados, rejoice! Delicate Uni Sashimi and luxurious Oh Toro Sushi await to tantalize your taste buds, each bite more heavenly than the last.
Despite its quiet, understated exterior, Donburiya is a bustling treasure trove of authentic Japanese cuisine in the heart of New York City.
Elevated Experiences
Gabriel Kreuther
Open in Maps: 41 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036
With a menu featuring a fusion of Alsatian and contemporary French cuisine, Gabriel Kreuther’s Midtown fine dining restaurant here in New York City is a culinary masterpiece. Right on 42nd Street, this luxurious establishment is perfect for both pre-show meals and post-show bites.
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Savour signature dishes paired with wines from their extensive wine bar, all while enjoying a view of the bustling 42nd Street. The intriguing blend of flavors makes Gabriel Kreuther an elevated choice among Broadway theatergoers.
Having been awarded three stars in a review by Eater NY, it’s clear why this spot has quickly become a favorite within the theater district (thus consistently earning a spot for best restaurants before Broadway shows).
Marea
Open in Maps: 240 Central Park S, New York, NY 10019
In the heart of New York City, within a stone’s throw of Broadway, sits Marea. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers more than just a beautiful view of Central Park.
At Marea, the spotlight shines on exquisite coastal Italian cuisine, crafted with the finest seafood. Feast on their renowned lobster, which has guests singing praises as loud as any Broadway chorus. The menu is a symphony of sophisticated flavors, each dish more enchanting than the last, complemented by a dazzling array of signature cocktails that are perfect for toasting to a night at the theatre.
Yes, Marea might be a splurge, but it’s a splurge that pays dividends in culinary delight and impeccable service. The elegant ambiance of the dining room makes every meal feel like an occasion, turning dinner into more than just a meal—it’s an integral part of a luxurious night out. So, if you’re looking for an exceptional dining experience to pair with your Broadway show, Marea promises a performance that your taste buds will applaud long after the curtains close.
FAQs About Where to Eat Before a Broadway Show
Does it Make Sense to Eat in Times Square or Are There Better Options Nearby?
While Times Square offers convenience, venturing a few blocks away usually yields better quality food and a less touristy atmosphere. Explore the side streets of the Theater District or head towards Hell's Kitchen for a wider and more interesting Broadway restaurant selection.
Where Can I Find Late-night Restaurants Near Broadway for After the Show?
Thankfully, many restaurants in the Theater District cater to post-show crowds with late kitchens. Classic spots like Joe Allen often stay bustling after curtain calls.
Brasseries and diners are also reliable bets and search online for specific restaurants near your theater with extended hours. Just search for "restaurant near me" and the open ones will come up!
NYC Broadway Discount Tickets
Want to make your Broadway trip even more memorable and budget-friendly? We’ve got just the solution for you. Consider booking your Broadway tickets on Tripster.
Aside from scoring discounted tickets, you also have the opportunity to bundle tickets to multiple shows for even more savings. There’s no better way to experience the excitement of Broadway on a budget.
Plan your theater excursion now and enjoy the best of Broadway, without breaking the bank.
What Did We Miss?
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