On the Town: Where to Eat and Drink in New York City

You did it. You've purchased your ticket to a Broadway show in New York. You've planning your outfit, figuring out what other activities you want to do around the city. But wait, you realize, where are you going to eat? There's so many restaurants, which one is a show stopper? And will they know to bring th food out quickly so you can make your curtain? 

Well, Playbill is here to help with our On the Town guide, a handy listing of recommended restaurants to visit before or after a show, from bars that offer show-themed cocktails, restaurants that offer theatre menus, to spaces designed by Tony winners! Whether you’re looking for a cozy table for two or an outstanding beverage program to toast a standing ovation, Playbill's On the Town has you covered.

Browse through our curated list of places to eat and drink below.

ALBERT’S BAR (Tavern - New American)
140 E. 41st Street | (212) 597-9345

From the teams behind The Penrose and The Spaniard and nestled amidst the daily flurry of commuters passing through Grand Central Station, Albert's Bar emerges as a refreshing revelation, offering an elevated and progressive drinking experience to a neighborhood that has long been parched for quality cocktail destinations. With a dual-level, spacious design, this Art Deco-inspired haven pays homage to the glamor of the 1950s, inviting guests to indulge in the nostalgia of a bygone era. Head over to Albert's Bar, where tradition meets innovation, and every sip is a toast to Midtown's timeless allure. 

Hours:
Monday-Friday: 11:30AM – 2:00AM
Saturday: 11:00AM – 2:00AM
Sunday: 11:00am – 11:00PM
Happy Hour Monday-Friday: 3:00-6:00PM

BLAKE’S TAVERN NYC (Tavern - New American)
252 W. 46th Street | (646) 454-0647

Brand new to Times Square, Blake’s Tavern is a two-floor Irish-American restaurant and bar serving elevated pub fare and a wide selection of drinks. Just steps from Broadway hits Chess and Hamilton, Blake’s is the perfect spot for pre- and post-show meetups. Enjoy Broadway-inspired cocktails in a warm, cozy, and inviting space on your next visit to the Theatre District with a menu featuring classics like Blake's Burger and ice-cold beer on tap. 

Hours:
Monday-Sunday: 11:00AM – Closing

BRASSERIE COGNAC (French)
922 7th Avenue | (212) 470-5087

Just steps from Broadway, Brasserie Cognac brings the energy of the Theatre District together with timeless French classics, fresh seafood, and an outstanding wine list. Warm, lively, and unmistakably elegant, it’s the perfect setting for pre- or post-show dining. Raise a glass of Champagne and make your Broadway night unforgettable! 

Hours:
Monday-Sunday: 9:00AM – 10:00PM

CARVERSTEAK (Contemporary Steakhouse)
305 W. 48th Street | [email protected]

Opening March 2026, Carversteak is the forthcoming modern steak house restaurant from Carver Road Hospitality, spearheaded by CEO Sean Christie and the team behind the award-winning Carversteak in Las Vegas, Rosevale Cocktail Room and Starchild Rooftop in New York. The menu from Executive Chef Daniel Ontiveros will feature a robust steak program, alongside sharable small plates. The beverage program from Carver Road Hospitality’s Vice President of Beverage and Hospitality Culture, Francesco Lafranconi will highlight innovative cocktails inspired by traditional steakhouse flavors. The space is designed by Tony-winner David Rockwell and blends the spirits of historic theater district hangouts with the comfort of a neighborhood bistro. 

Hours:
Monday-Sunday: 5:00PM – 11:00PM

CUERNO NEW YORK (Mexican Steakhouse)
1271 Avenue of the Americas | (332) 269-0094

Rooted in the tradition of carne asada and the warmth of true Mexican hospitality, our kitchen brings people together over expertly grilled prime cuts, crafted tacos, charred vegetables, and fresh seafood. Join us for an unforgettable culinary experience, perfect for a pre-theatre meal or a late-night bite after the show. 

Hours:
Sunday-Thursday: 11:30AM – 11:00PM
Friday-Saturday: 12:00PM – 12:00AM

FRANKIE & JOHNNIE’S STEAKHOUSE NYC (Steakhouse)
320 W. 46th Street | (212) 997-9494

In the heart of the Theatre District, the restaurant is a celebrated Broadway fixture. A New York Institution, Frankie & Johnnie’s Steakhouse is the longest-running show on Broadway (as well as one of the city’s oldest continuously operating dining establishments) having first opened as a speakeasy in 1926. Offering world-famous steaks and chops, exquisite in-house handcrafted cocktails, a very rare bourbon, whiskey & tequila list, and an extensive and rich wine list, this is your must-dine location in the heart on New York City. 

Hours:
LUNCH: Wednesday & Saturday: 12:00PM – 2:30PM
DINNER: Tuesday-Saturday: 4:30PM – 11:30PM; Sunday 3:30PM – 9:30PM

GATSBY’S LANDING (New American)
120 W. 44th Street | (212) 597-2850

Experience the Roaring Twenties with the splendor of grand ballroom chandeliers, elegant ambiance, and gracious service at our restaurant and bar located in the heart of Times Square. Our expertly executed and globally inspired menu is created from the finest seasonal ingredients, including homemade pastas, brick-oven pizzas, a selection of steak and fish dishes. Our trendy bar-lounge offers an assortment of wines, beers, and creative cocktails made to please all tastes. Offering daily pre-theatre and post-theatre dining, as well as weekend brunch; there truly is something for everyone!

Hours:
Monday: 11:30AM – 10:00PM
Tuesday: 11:30AM – 12:00AM
Wednesday: 11:00AM – 12:00AM
Thursday: 11:30AM – 12:00AM
Friday: 11:30AM – 12:00AM
Saturday: 11:00AM – 12:00AM (Saturday Brunch: 11:00AM – 3:00PM)
Sunday: 10:30AM – 10:00PM (Sunday Brunch: 10:30AM – 3:00PM)

HAVANA CENTRAL (Cuban)
151 W. 46th Street | (212) 398-7440

Take a Cuban vacation in the middle vacation in the middle of Times Square! Havana Central serves home-cooked Cuban food in a lively setting in the heart of New York. Step into this spacious 1950s-inspired eatery, where the Latin music is always bumping with Mojitos, Ropa Vieja and Flan. Weekdays from 3:00PM-7:00PM, enjoy Happy Hour drink specials like $8 Margaritas & Cuban bites like Tostones Rellenos, and half-priced Empanadas (drink specials restaurant wide, food specials at bar-only). Great for large groups, dates or a girl’s night out! Celebrating a birthday? We’ve got free flan and a fedora waiting for you! 

Hours:
Monday-Tuesday: 11:30AM – 10:00PM
Wednesday-Friday: 11:30AM – 10:30PM
Saturday: 11:30AM – 12:00AM
Sunday: 11:30AM – 10:30PM

HERSHEY’S CHOCOLATE WORLD TIMES SQUARE (Candy Store)
20 Times Square | 212-581-9100

From colossal cupcakes to candy-inspired clothing, we've got all you need to step off the busy New York sidewalk and make some sweet HERSHEY'S Chocolate inspired memories. Smoosh a HERSHEY'S Double Chocolate S'more, sip a decadent milkshake and pick up the World's Largest HERSHEY'S Bar in the heart of Times Square! 

Hours:
Monday-Sunday: 10:00AM – 12:00AM
(Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve.)

KASHKAVAL GARDEN (Mediterranean, Fondue & Wine Bar)
852 9th Avenue | (212) 245-1758

Serving Broadway since 2004, Kashkaval Garden offers Mediterranean-inspired small plates and skewers, a diverse and affordable wine list, creative craft cocktails and fondues for guests looking for a delicious meal, a great drink, and a cozy atmosphere. Located steps from the Theatre District, Kashkaval features Happy Hours with drinks and tapas. Join us after the show for our “After Theatre Exclusive” and enjoy 2-4-1 drinks or a complementary dessert with purchase by showing same day tickets and your Playbill to your server. For our theatre industry friends, show your union card to enjoy 10%-off anytime. Reservations are available via Resy or phone. The friendliest staff in Hell’s Kitchen look forward to serving you! 

Hours:
Monday-Wednesday: 12:00PM – 11:00PM
Thursday-Saturday: 12:00PM – 12:00AM
Sunday: 11:00AM – 11:00PM
Weekend Brunch: 11:00AM – 4:00PM
Happy Hour: Sunday-Friday 'til 6pm. Bar Happy Hours: All day, Every day!

LE TOUT VA BIEN (French Bistro)
311 W. 51st Street | (212) 265-0190

Bonjour! Welcome to Le Tout Va Bien, a charming French bistro nestled in the heart of NYC for over seven decades. Our menu features a curated selection of classic dishes from Escargot and Coq au Vin to Boeuf Bourguignon and Crème Brûlée. Each dish is crafted with the finest ingredients imported locally, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable dining experience that promises to delight your palate! Join us for cocktails, an exceptional wine selection and more! 

Hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday: 4:00PM – 11:00PM
Wednesday & Saturday: 12:00PM – 11:00PM
Sunday: 12:00PM – 10:00PM

OSTERIA AL DOGE (Italian)
142 West 44th Street | (212) 944-3643

The charm and taste of Venice is in the heart of the Theatre District! For three decades, this classic osteria has delighted guests with its authentic Northern Italian fare and elegantly homey atmosphere. House-made pastas, brick oven-styled pizzas, antipasti, classic Italian seafood and meat dishes are all expertly crafted by our award-winning chef. The perfect spot for an intimate dinner or a celebratory pre/post-theatre gathering. 

Hours:
Monday: 11:30AM – 10:30PM
Tuesday-Friday: 11:30AM – 11:00PM
Saturday: 11:30AM – 1:30PM
Sunday: 4:00PM – 10:30PM

SERAFINA (Italian)
Times Square: 224 W. 49th Street and additional locations across NYC
(212) 247-1000

Serafina’s unique combination of a casual-cool setting, charming service, and its creative twist on homestyle Italian fare has kept both locals and a celebrity-studded clientele coming back for more. Quite simply, Serafina has become one of the world’s favorite restaurants. Renowned for its Northern Italian fare, thin-crust pizza, and vibrant, bustling atmosphere, the menu features high-quality ingredients like imported Burrata, San Marzano tomatoes, and Prosciutto di Parma, as well as a wonderful bar program of specialty cocktails, wines, and spirits. 

Hours:
Sunday-Thursday: 7:00AM – 10:00PM
Friday-Saturday: 7:00AM – 11:00PM

SHOWA ERA IZAKAYA – Japanese
767 9th Avenue | (646) 882-0156

Showa Era Izakaya was born from a longing to recreate the feeling of Japan's golden age of neighborhood izakaya taverns in New York City. In the heart of Hell's Kitchen, they have built a space that honors this tradition while embracing the energy and diversity of Manhattan. Every detail has been chosen to transport guests across time and ocean to the izakaya’s of old Tokyo. Each dish is a product of disciplined technique and artistic sensibility, honoring Japanese culinary tradition without compromise. The flavors, techniques, and ingredients stay true to their origins, recognized and appreciated by Japanese diners and NYC locals alike. 

Hours:
Monday-Thursday: 10:00AM – 1:00AM
Friday-Sunday: 10:00AM – 2:00AM

Continue checking back as we update our “On The Town” partners each month.