Times Square - The Crossroads Of The World.
If there's one area in New York City that I know like the back of my hand,
it's Times Square.
For 30+ years, I worked in that neighborhood,
and even now, I'm frequently in the vicinity to meet friends for a meal,
or to see a Broadway show.
A LOT of food has been consumed in Times Square by Yours Truly over the years.
I've eaten at all kinds of places........
everything from street food to fancy-shmancy establishments.
My palate doesn't discriminate.......
give me a soft pretzel with mustard from a street cart,
or a chef's tasting menu from one of the city's top restaurants.
I'll gobble up both with equal satisfaction.
give me a soft pretzel with mustard from a street cart,
or a chef's tasting menu from one of the city's top restaurants.
I'll gobble up both with equal satisfaction.
Although I'm sharing 50 places to eat in the area
(which sounds like a lot, I know),
there are HUNDREDS more!
In fact, you can barely take a step in and around Times Square
without stumbling upon a place to grab a bite.
There's even a street dubbed "Restaurant Row"
(W. 46th St. between 8th and 9th Avenues).
There's even a street dubbed "Restaurant Row"
(W. 46th St. between 8th and 9th Avenues).
This isn't meant to be a "50 Best" list.....
rather, a sampling of the many different types of places
one can find in the area,
based almost entirely on my own personal experiences.
rather, a sampling of the many different types of places
one can find in the area,
based almost entirely on my own personal experiences.
So please........don't take offense if I left out some of your favorites.......
Heck, I left out some of my own!
Kinda leaves the door open for a part 2, right?
There's a lot of info in this post, and it's long.
I don't expect you to read every word,
but I hope you'll pin it and save it for future reference.
Kinda leaves the door open for a part 2, right?
There's a lot of info in this post, and it's long.
I don't expect you to read every word,
but I hope you'll pin it and save it for future reference.
Please read "Things to Know," below........
it explains how I selected my list of 50,
and contains some info you may find helpful.
* New York City Restaurant Week dates for 2019 are January 21- February 8.*
During this time, you can enjoy 2 and 3-course prix fixe meals
(Lunches - $26; Dinners - $42)
at some of the city's finest restaurants.
That's a deal, my friends!
A number of places on my list are taking part.
Click here for more information.
 |
| Times Square, Crossroads Of The World, New York City |
THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT 50 PLACES TO EAT:
1. I am listing places I've personally been to........well, with four exceptions (and I've been to a couple of those outside of Manhattan). I've noted them with asterisks. ***
2. My breakdown of cost is somewhat subjective, so please check out menu prices for yourself by clicking the For More Info link. I've grouped restaurants based on what I think is considered inexpensive, moderate, etc. according to NYC standards. I've color-coded them for your convenience.
3. Many restaurants in the Times Square area offer prix fixe lunch and dinner menus, which are an excellent value. Don't assume an expensive restaurant is off-limits until you check out their specially-priced menus. Great deals can be had during "Restaurant Week," held twice a year (late January - mid February, and late July - mid August).
4. Don't assume restaurants in Times Square are tourist traps. Some of the finest restaurants in New York City, if not the country, are in this area, and are frequented by locals. However, I'd encourage you to avoid the chain restaurants that you can eat in at home. After all, you're in one of the greatest 'foodie" cities in the world!
5. For locations of the 50 restaurants on my list, please refer to the map I've included at the end of this post. While Times Square proper runs from W. 42nd to W. 47th Streets and from Broadway to 7th Avenue, the restaurants I've noted can be found between
W. 40th to W. 50th Steets, and from 5th Avenue to 9th Avenue. Note: Avenue Of The Americas is also known as 6th Ave.
W. 40th to W. 50th Steets, and from 5th Avenue to 9th Avenue. Note: Avenue Of The Americas is also known as 6th Ave.
6. Reservations are recommended, if not required at many restaurants in the Moderate, Expensive and Very Expensive categories. As the theater district is adjacent to Times Square, most restaurants are extremely busy just before curtain time, so plan accordingly.
7. If you are dining pre-theater, it's always good to mention it to your server (some will even ask you). Most restaurants in the area are quite adept at moving pre-theater patrons in and out quickly. Conversely, if you don't have theater tickets, let them know so they don't rush your service.
8. Regarding attire, casual will suffice for Grab & Go, Inexpensive and Moderate eateries. Business casual or dressy casual is suitable for Expensive restaurants. For Very Expensive restaurants, business, dressy casual, or festive attire is appropriate. Some may require men to wear jackets, so check with individual establishments if you are unsure.
9. Please check the restaurant's website before heading to it to confirm hours of operation, etc. Although most places on my list have been around for years, things change in New York City, and restaurants may close, move, or change menus, chefs, and prices.
LET'S EAT!
GRAB & GO:
1. STREET FOOD CARTS
What: Coffee, Hot Dogs, Pretzels, Fruit, Ethnic Foods
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks
Where: Street corners everywhere
Good To Know:
For hot dogs, Sabrett is tops.
In my humble opinion, street cart coffee is the best!
Seek out carts where office workers are lined up at lunchtime.
They know which are the good ones.
What: Fresh, high-quality pre-packaged soups, sandwiches, salads,
baked goods and more, ready to grab off the shelf.
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks
Where: 1071 6th Avenue. between 40th and 41st Streets
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
All unsold food is donated daily to local food rescue organizations.
For More Info, Click Here.
What: Beverages, sweet and savory pastries inside the park.
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks
Where: W. 40th - W. 42nd Streets between 5th and 6th Avenues
Good To Know:
There are plenty of tables and chairs scattered around the park
(even in winter) to enjoy your food.
For More Info, Click Here.
4. WHOLE FOODS
What: Upscale market with wide variety of natural and organic foods.
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks
Where: 1095 Avenue of the Americas (aka 6th Ave.) between W. 41st and
W. 42nd Streets
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
Weather-permitting, take your purchase across the street and eat
in lovely Bryant Park.
For More Info, Click Here.
5. HALE & HEARTY SOUPS
What: Soup made from scratch using fresh local ingredients. (Salads and
sandwiches, too).
Best For: Lunch
Where: 49 W. 42nd Street between 5th and 6th Avenues
(Plus other locations throughout the city).
Good To Know:
Look for symbols on menus which designate Dairy Free, Gluten Free,
Vegetarian, Low-Fat and Vegan.
For More Info, Click Here.
 |
| Joe & The Juice |
6. JOE & THE JUICE
What: Smoothies and shakes, sandwiches, coffee and more.
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks
Where: 1114 Avenue Of The Americas (aka 6th Ave.) between W.42nd
and W. 43rd Streets
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
Juices come in three categories: Veggie, Energize and Berries.
For More Info, Click Here.
 |
| Patzeria Pizza |
7. PATZERIA PIZZA
What: Pizza - among the best in NYC.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
Where: 231 W. 46th St. between 7th and 8th Avenues
Good To Know:
There is one tiny counter inside, so you will mostly likely have to stand
outside to eat your slice. Or, order a pie and take it back to your hotel room.
For More Info, Click Here.
8. MAGNOLIA BAKERY
What: Beautifully decorated cupcakes and cakes made famous by Sex & The City.
Best For: Dessert
Where: 1240 Avenue Of The Americas (aka 6th Ave.) at 49th Street
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
Take a class in the store, and learn how to decorate like a boss.
Nationwide shipping is available.
For More Info, Click Here.
INEXPENSIVE:
9. LE PAIN QUOTIDIEN
What: Simple quality food, plus bread and pastries, with a Belgian twist.
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks
Where: 70 W. 40th Street near 6th Avenue
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
Table service with a larger menu is available in the rear of the restaurant.
Communal tables enable patrons to share in tradition of breaking bread
together.
For More Info, Click Here.
10. MAISON KAYSER
What: An authentic artisanal French bakery and cafe
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch, Snack
Where: 8 W. 40th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
The best bread you can get, this side of France.
There is seating in the rear of the bakery.
For More Info, Click Here.
11. SCHNIPPERS
What: Old-fashioned American fast food (Burgers, Sandwiches, Salads,
Hot dogs, Shakes) plus plenty of healthy menu options.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 620 8th Avenue at 41st Street
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
A fast-food restaurant with high-quality food in a non-fussy environment.
Lines move quickly.
For More Info, Click Here.
 |
| Bluestone Lane |
12. BLUESTONE LANE
What: Coffee shop and quick bites; also serves beer and wine.
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks
Where: 1114 Avenue of The Americans (aka 6th Avenue) at W. 43rd St. in Grace Plaza
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
Try a "Wellness Latte" or cold-pressed juice.
For More Info, Click Here.
13. RED FLAME DINER
What: Typical diner fare serving everything from cold cereal to sirloin steaks.
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Where: 67 W. 44th Street and 6th Avenue
Good To Know:
Be prepared to wait for a table during peak times.
For More Info, Click Here.
14. CITY KITCHEN
What: Upscale food court with an interesting array of restauranteurs.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 700 8th Avenue at 44th Street
Good To Know:
Have someone in your group scout for a table while others order.
For More Info, Click Here.
MODERATE:
15. CROTON RESERVOIR TAVERN
What: Modern American cuisine in a comfortable and casual setting.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner, Late Night Dining, Drinks
Where: 108 W. 40th Street between 6th Avenue and Broadway
Good To Know:
The restaurant was named for the historic Fortress Reservoir which
stood on the site of the current NYC Library.
Check out the "Lunch At The Bar" specials.
For More Info, Click Here.
16. DAFNI GREEK TAVERNA
What: Authentic Greek cuisine at reasonable prices.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 325 W. 42nd Street between 8th and 9th Avenues
Good To Know:
Save room for dessert, prepared fresh daily. Try the Galaktoboureko.
For More Info, Click Here.
17. DALLAS BBQ
What: Ribs, wings, and lots more.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 241 W. 42nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
Go for the early bird special on Mondays-Thursdays (see
website for restrictions).
For More Info, Click Here.
18. HARU
What: A creative spin on sushi and other Japanese cuisine,
in addition to all the usual favorites.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 229 W. 43rd Street between Broadway and 8th Avenue
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
Check out the seasonal specials and cocktails.
For More Info, Click Here.
 |
| Brooklyn Diner |
19. BROOKLYN DINER
What: All-American comfort food with an emphasis on quintessential
NYC-style favorites.
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Where: 155 W. 43rd Street between 6th and 7th Avenues
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
The chicken soup, Chinese chicken salad, and cheeseburger deluxe
were all voted the BEST OF NEW YORK by New York Magazine.
For More Info, Click Here.
 |
| HB Burger |
20. HB BURGER
What: Burgers and Brew, with an extensive craft beer menu.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 127 W. 43rd Street between 6th and 7th Avenues
Good To Know:
For a lighter option, try the Southwest salad.
For More Info, Click Here.
 |
| BXL Cafe |
21. BXL CAFE
What: A beer pub with a Belgian bistro menu and an impressive beer list.
Best For: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
Where: 125 W. 43rd Street between 6th and 7th Avenues
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
The $22 Prix Fixe lunch menu (at time of this publication) is a great deal.
Also, check the menu for daily specials.
For More Info, Click Here.
22. JOHN'S OF TIMES SQUARE
What: NY's most famous coal-fired brick-oven pizza, and a whole lot more.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 260 W. 44th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues
Good To Know:
Be prepared to wait (especially pre-theater).
For More Info, Click Here.
23. CARMINE'S
What: Family-style Italian with generous portions meant for sharing at
reasonable prices.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 200 W. 44th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
It's best to go with a larger group, in order to sample a variety
of the oversized portions.
For More Info, Click Here.
24. VIRGIL'S REAL BARBECUE
What: Southern-style comfort food in one of America's Top 10 BBQ restaurants.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 152 W. 44th St. between 6th and 7th Avenues
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
Can't decide? Order the Pig Out Platter -- it's got everything!
For More Info, Click Here.
25. FIVE NAPKIN BURGER
What: Burgers (and more) taken to a higher standard in an attractive setting.
Best For: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
Where: 630 9th Avenue at W. 45th Street
Plus other locations throughout the city
Good To Know:
It's not just beef. There are veggie burgers, turkey burgers,
chicken burgers, tuna burgers, salads, and even sushi.
For More Info, Click Here.
 |
| Junior's |
26. JUNIOR'S
What: An iconic NYC landmark with an extensive menu, featuring
popular Brooklyn specialties.
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Where: 1515 Broadway at W. 45th Street
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
The original Junior's in Brooklyn was founded in 1950.
As the saying goes, "You haven't really lived until you've had
cheesecake at Junior's."
For More Info, Click Here.
 |
| Akdeniz |
27. AKDENIZ
What: Authenitic Turkish cuisine in a cozy setting with reasonable prices.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 19 W. 46th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues
Good To Know:
The entire menu (except for the BBQ Meatballs) is gluten free.
The prix fixe menu is an excellent value.
For More Info, Click Here.
28. DOS CAMINOS
What: Mexican cuisine and over 100 kinds of tequila in the heart of Times Square.
Best For: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
Where: 1567 Broadway at 47th Street
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
Sit upstairs for casual dining and window looking out on Times Square;
Sit downstairs for more comfortable dining.
For More Info, Click Here.
29. PATZERIA FAMILY AND FRIENDS
What: Traditional Italian dishes at a great value in the heart of the theater district.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 311 W. 48th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues
Good To Know:
This no-frills restaurant is currently #96 out of 10,541 on Tripadvisor's
NYC restaurants list. Not too shabby.
For More Info, Click Here.
30. TOLOACHE
What: Contemporary Mexican menu prepared by classically trained
and renowned chef, Julian Medina.
Best For: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner
Where: 251 W. 50th Street between Broadway and 8th Avenues
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
It's pronounced toe-lo-AH-chay.
Three types of guacamole are served. Can't decide? Order the Trio de
Guacamoles.
For More Info, Click Here.
EXPENSIVE:
 |
| Bryant Park Grill |
31. BRYANT PARK GRILL
What: Parisian-style cuisine in a sophisticated dining room overlooking Bryant Park.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
Where: 25 W. 40th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues
Good To Know:
When weather permits, patio and rooftop dining/bar is available.
For More Info, Click Here.
32. TONY'S DI NAPOLI ***
What: Southern Neopolitan Italian fare served family style.
Best For: Lunch and Dinner
Where: 147 W. 43rd Street between 6th Avenue and Broadway
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
Large portions are meant to serve 2-3 people.
The restaurant has been a fixture in Times Square since 1959.
For More Info, Click Here.
 |
| Osteria al Doge |
33. OSTERIA AL DOGE
What: Venetian-inspired Italian cuisine in a charming setting.
Best For: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner
Where: 142 W. 44th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues
Good To Know:
The brunch prix-fixe menu is a terrific deal at $21.95 (price
at time of this publication).
For More Info, Click Here.
 |
| Cafe Un Deux Trois |
34. CAFE UN DEUX TROIX
What: French cuisine in an elegant space reminiscent of a cafe
one might find in France.
Best For: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner
Where: 123 W. 44th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues
Good To Know:
A staple in Times Square since 1977, the restaurant is a favorite of
actors, politicians, and Broadway cast and crew members.
For More Info, Click Here.
 |
| Saju Bistro |
35. SAJU BISTRO
What: Authentic French Provencal cuisine in a casual bistro setting.
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
Where: 120 W. 44th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues
Good To Know:
During summer months, celebrate Saju's Rosé Festival,
and try some of the world's greatest rosé wines.
For More Info, Click Here.
 |
| Kellari Taverna |
36. KELLARI TAVERNA
What: Greek Mediterranean-style seafood cuisine, where warmth
and hospitality are central to the dining experience.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 19 W. 44th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues
Good To Know:
Two and three-course Pre- and Post- Theater Prix Fixe menus
are available daily. Check website for times and prices.
For a truly memorable experience, try the Chef's Menu Degustation,
a six-course tasting menu with wine pairings ($225pp at time of this
publication). Must be booked 48 hours in advance.
For More Info, Click Here.
37. BECCO
What: One of Lidia Bastianich's Italian popular eateries, located
on famed Restaurant Row.
Best For: Lunch and Dinner
Where: 355 W. 46th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues
Good To Know:
The Sinfonia de Paste, a trio of all-you-can pastas that change daily,
may be the best deal in town: $20.95 for lunch; $25.95 for dinner
(at time of this publication).
Also, an extensive wine list, with all priced at $33 per bottle.
For More Info, Click Here.
38. LE RIVAGE
What: Traditional French cuisine in a cozy, romantic French country
atmosphere on Restaurant Row.
Best For: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner
Where: 340 W. 46th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues
Good To Know:
Reasonably priced three-course prix fixe menus are available,
making this an ideal stop before the theater.
For More Info, Click Here.
 |
| Bond 45 |
39. BOND 45
What: Italian kitchen and bar with an extensive menu in a sprawling space.
Best For: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner
Where: 223 W. 46th Street between Broadway and 8th Avenues
Good To Know:
Best known for its impressive vegetable antipasto bar.
In addition to a wide-ranging lunch and dinner menu, breakfast is
available all day.
Bond 45 regularly attracts Broadway performers whoo pop in for a bite or drink
after their performances.
For More Info, Click Here.
40. TRATTORIA TRE COLORI
What: Classic Italian like mama used to make in a cozy setting.
Best For: Lunch and Dinner
Where: 254 W. 47th Street between Broadway and 8th Avenue
Good To Know:
Specialties of the house include lasagna, ravioli, chicken scarpariello,
veal martini, and homemade tiramisu.
For More Info, Click Here.
41. BLUE FIN
What: Upscale seafood and sushi restaurant with sleek interior design.
Best For: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner
Where: 1567 Broadway at W. 47th Street
Good To Know:
Check the Events section of the website for special happenings.
For example, attend the "I 💙 NY WINE DINNER" , a chef-inspired
five-course dinner and wine pairing, on Feb. 11, 2019.
For More Info, Click Here.
42. LA MASSERIA
What: Southern Italian in an old-world setting; a "farmhouse in the middle
of Manhattan."
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 235 W. 48th Street between Broadway and 8th Avenue
Good To Know:
La Masseria has received numerous accolades, including the
Concierge Choice Award as "Best Restaurant in Times Square";
The Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for having one of the most
outstanding restaurant wine lists in the world, and the Michelin Guide
calls it one of the best Italian restaurants in the area.
For More Info, Click Here.
43. THALIA ***
What: New American fare that is locally sourced, and globally inspired.
Best For: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner
Where: 828 8th Avenue at 50th Street
Good To Know:
Check out the Thalia Kitchen take-out menu for prepared-from-
scratch soups, salads, sushi, entrees and more.
For More Info, Click Here.
VERY EXPENSIVE / FINE DINING:
44. AUREOLE
What: Progressive New American cuisine in a contemporary urban elegant setting.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 135 W. 42nd Street between 6th Avenue and Broadway
Good To Know:
Dinner options include a six-course tasting menu or a 3-course menu: $145
and $104, respectively (at time of this publication).
The Liberty Room offers a more casual a la carte dining option.
In warmer weather, the outdoor Patio serves bar bites and drinks under
a breezeway roof.
For more info, click here.
45. ESCA
What: Southern Italian trattoria specializing in exceptional simply-prepared seafood.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 402 W. 43rd Street at 9th Avenue
Good To Know:
An outdoor patio is available when weather permits.
For more info, click here.
46. STK
What: A modern steakhouse and a chic lounge, all in one. As they say,
"This is not your daddy's steakhouse."
Best For: Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
Where: 1114 Avenue Of The Americas (aka 6th Ave.) at W. 43rd Street
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
STK "Social Hour" with a DJ is held every day from 3:30pm to 7:00pm.
In warmer months, grab a drink or eat on the outdoor patio in Grace Plaza.
For more info, click here.
 |
| db Bistro Moderne |
47. db BISTRO MODERNE
What: Chef Daniel Boulud's chic Modern French bistro.
Best For: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner
Where: 55 W. 44th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues
Good To Know:
Famous for the db Burger, stuffed with red wine-braised short ribs,
foie gras and black truffle.
For more info, click here.
 |
| Bobby Van's |
48. BOBBY VAN'S ***
What: Upscale classic steakhouse. It's not just beef.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner
Where: 120 W. 45th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
Check out BV's Burger, a takeout location (120 W. 45th Street)
with the same high-quality food as their restaurants, offering burgers,
salads, soups, pizzas, and more -- even breakfast.
For more info, click here.
49. DEL FRISCO'S
What: Exceptional, high-end classic American steakhouse.
Best For: Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
Where: 1221 Avenue of the Americas (aka 6th Ave.) at W. 49th Street
Good To Know:
Floor-to-ceiling windows offer diners spectacular views of 6th Avenue,
with Radio City Music Hall right across the street.
For more info, click here.
50. THE PALM WEST SIDE ***
What: Iconic NY steakhouse serving aged USDA Prime beef, but equally known
for large, broiled lobster tails, fresh-caught daily from Nova Scotia.
Best For: Lunch and Dinner
Where: 250 W. 50th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues
(Plus other locations throughout the city)
Good To Know:
The first Palm restaurant was opened in 1926, and has been a
NYC institution ever since.
For more info, click here.
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