Whether it’s pre-show, post-show, or a no-show kind of day in New York, there are thousands of places to catch a bite. One of the best things about the city is that there is literally every kind of you food can think of and you can get something great to eat 24/7. My number one tip when it comes to eating in NYC is to avoid chain restaurants if you can because there are hundreds of eateries you can’t get anywhere else. I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite places to grab a meal when you’re in town!
John’s Pizzeria (260 W. 44th St.) – I feel like it’s illegal to visit New York and not have a slice of pizza. This is my first-choice for pizza with its fresh ingredients, prime location, and many options to share with friends (no slices). The building used to be a church, so th interior is gorgeous. After seeing it featured on a Food Network program, my family and I checked it out and have been going back ever since.
Tony’s DiNapoli (147 W. 43rd St.) – This family-styled Italian restaurant offers huge portions of delicious dishes to share. You get the feeling like you’re having a huge home-cooked meal with your family. Tony’s DeNapoli also features a Broadway Wall of Fame with portraits of theatrical shows and stars aligning the walls.
Junior’s (corner of Shubert Alley and W. 45th St.) – Known for their desserts (and rightfully so), Junior’s also offers a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, steaks, and more. My personal favorite menu items include the macaroni and cheese and the meat dishes. But when it comes to dessert, this place literally takes the cake with two dozen options. My favorite is the double chocolate chocolate layer cake because you can never have too much chocolate. Seating is offered on an outdoor patio when the weather is nice and overlooks some of Broadway’s best theatres.
Speaking of outdoor seating, New World Plaza (W. 50th St. between 8th Ave. and 9th Ave.) hosts two great eateries – Blockheads and Mother Burger. Blockheads focus on Mexican dishes like burritos, quesadillas, and nachos while Mother Burger specializes in their four food groups: burgers, hot dogs, fries, and beer. Both options are great for an afternoon bite or drinks at night with a full bar and highlighted bulldog alcoholic beverage (which is deliciously refreshing).
One of the first places I went to eat before a show was Ellen’s Stardust Diner (1650 Broadway at 51st St.). Any diner features food from a similar menu, but Ellen’s has the added bonus of a singing waitstaff — many have gone on to appear on Broadway! My friends and I always sing along with the staff and have a great time as an appetizer to a show.
Lastly, no trip of mine to NYC is complete without a trip to Schmackary’s (W. 45th St. and 9th Ave.), featured as one of Camp Broadway’s favorite things. With a cookie menu that features classic flavors and bold new flavors, they have something for everybody. I love putting a bag of cookies into my purse to enjoy when my trip to New York is done; my family has gotten into a habit of asking for a piece themselves!
These are only a few of the many eateries New York City has to offer. Even though these are my favorites, I’m always looking for new places to check out. What are some of your favorite places to eat in NYC?