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 been 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? Want to hit up a cozy bar pre- or post-show? There are so many locales, which one is a showstopper?

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, NYC has it all! 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. Continue checking back monthly for new restaurants! 

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

ALL & SUNDRY (Bistro/Bar)
312 W. 58th Street | (646) 964-4703

Nestled just steps from Columbus Circle, all & sundry is a whimsical, emerald-hued escape that masterfully blends the charm of a classic New York tavern with a modern bistro soul. Whether you’re stopping in for a sun-drenched brunch or a late-night rendezvous, the menu tempts with elevated comforts like the double-patty Smash Burger, fresh oysters Rockefeller, and a perfectly seared Steak Frites. The cocktail program is equally spirited, featuring playful icons like the Betty Boop and the draft Manhattan, served in an atmosphere defined by vintage decor, velvet nooks, and a warm, neighborhood glow. From the decadent, shared "all & sundae" to their famous house-roasted turkey club, every bite is crafted to satisfy the cravings of both locals and wanderers alike. It’s the kind of rare Manhattan find where the kitchen stays open until 2:00AM, ensuring that the city's best flavors are always within reach!

Hours:
Monday-Wednesday: 12:00PM – 2:00AM
Saturday: 11:00AM – 3:00AM
Sunday: 11:00AM – 2:00AM
Kitchen open until 2:00AM daily.

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]

Opened in March 2026, Carversteak is the newest 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 

CHATTI by Regi Mathew (Indian)
252 W. 37th Street | (646) 598-9393

Chatti (pronounced chuht-tee) refers to the traditional clay pot central to Kerala’s homes and toddy shops. This emblem of Kerala’s culinary heritage sets the tone for a dining experience that marries tradition with innovation. Chef Regi Mathew, renowned for his acclaimed restaurants Kappa Chakka Kandhari in Chennai and Bengaluru, debuts internationally with Chatti. His mission: to elevate Kerala’s cuisine to global prominence while preserving its authenticity.

Situated on India’s southern coastline, Kerala’s cuisine is shaped by its vibrant history as a spice trade hub and enriched by global influences, including Portuguese and Arabian traditions. At Chatti, every dish tells a story of Kerala’s abundant seafood, tropical produce, and masterful use of spices like coconut, tamarind, and pepper. Visit Chatti for a Taste of Kerala in the Heart of New York.

Hours: (Happy Hours are within Chatti’s Bar Hook.)
Monday-Thursday: LUNCH: 12:00PM – 2:00PM | HAPPY HOUR: 4:00PM – 6:00PM | DINNER: 5:00PM – 9:30PM
Friday-Saturday: LUNCH: 12:00PM – 2:30PM | HAPPY HOUR: 3:00PM – 6:00PM | DINNER: 5:00PM – 10:30PM
Sunday: BRUNCH: 12:00PM – 2:30PM | HAPPY HOUR: 3:00PM – 6:00PM | DINNER: 5:00PM – 9:30PM

On the Town Special: Mention this article to your server, bring in your Playbill, or show ticket for a free dessert!

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:

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

ESTIATORIO MILOS (Greek)
125 W. 55th Street and additional locations in NYC and across the globe | (212) 245-7400

There’s something strikingly simple about the Mediterranean. It goes beyond the clarity of the water or the starkness of the architecture. Nothing expresses this better than the delicious simplicity of Greek cuisine. With its Manhattan opening in 1997, Milos becomes the very first Montréal restaurant ever to expand beyond that city. Daringly, chef Costas Spiliadis has selected the most demanding restaurant city in the world for his second Milos. The restaurant is a sensation; New Yorkers have never experienced Greek food so elegant, so pristine.

Milos New York, assuredly high-end, is the first Greek restaurant of its kind. It features warm hospitality and a large, airy, open space with a high ceilings and décor that incorporates cultural artifacts such as earthenware jars and urns. It establishes itself as an ambassador for Greek dining, with a focus on market pricing, family-style sharing, impeccably fresh seafood simply prepared, superb vegetables and fruits, and artisanal olive oil and yogurt imported from Greece. New Yorkers immediately warm to this new and elegant perspective on Greek cuisine. A renovation later expands the restaurant to open a spacious lower level, meeting demand for private events.

Named one of New York’s Top Seafood Restaurants by Thrillist in 2021; International Cuisine winner of the 2017 Concierge Choice Awards; called “one of the best Greek restaurants in the world,” by GQ in 2010. Welcome to Milos.

Hours:
Monday-Friday: LUNCH: 11:30AM – 3:30PM | DINNER: 4:30PM – 12:00AM
Saturday: LUNCH: 12:00PM – 3:30PM | DINNER: 4:30PM – 12:00AM
Sunday: LUNCH: 12:00PM – 3:30PM | DINNER: 4:30PM – 11:00PM

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

PLANET HOLLYWOOD (American)
136 W. 42nd Street | (212) 333-7827

Planet Hollywood New York is a must-visit Times Square destination for lunch, dinner, cocktails, group dining, and events. Located near Broadway theaters and world-famous attractions, it delivers an iconic NYC dining experience in the heart of the city. The menu features crave-worthy favorites, elevated comfort food, and bold flavors made for sharing, paired with creative cocktails inspired by the energy of Times Square. Every visit is designed to deliver more than a meal; it is a moment. This is where New York comes to celebrate. From birthdays to milestones to group events, Planet Hollywood New York is the most fun place in NYC to make any moment bigger!

Hours:
Sunday-Wednesday: 11:30AM – 9:00PM
Thursday-Saturday: 11:30AM – 10:00PM

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 

SOUVLAKI (Greek)
162 W. 56th Street and other locations in NYC and Florida | (212) 974-7482

Five years after opening 116 Stanton Street, we decided to expand to midtown at many of our customer's request. Our doors have just opened in September ’25, and we are thrilled to see familiar faces stop by. Similar to our flagship, the restaurant is designed as an outdoor taverna in Mykonos. We have carried our menu items over but stay tuned for some new items to be launched as specials shortly. The attention to detail in this space is unmatched like the large window and signs and doors from Greece. We pay homage to 116 Stanton Street in subtle ways, so stop by to see if you can find them. What you will find is that everything around you shows our culture and pride so give us a try!

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

TAVERN ON THE GREEN (American)
67th Street & Central Park West | (212) 877-8684

Welcome to the Iconic Central Park Restaurant in NYC. Centered around a hearty, rustic menu shaped by local, seasonal ingredients, Tavern on the Green invites patrons into a warm, celebratory gathering space that captures the spirit of Central Park and the energy of New York City. Originally designed by Calvert Vaux and built in 1870 to house the sheep that grazed in Central Park's Sheep Meadow, Tavern on the Green has proudly served locals, presidents, royalty, artists, actors, and first-time visitors since 1934.

Hours:
Main Restaurant: Monday-Thursday: 11:00AM – 9:00PM
Friday: 11:00AM – 10:00PM
Saturday: 9:00AM – 10:00PM
Sunday: 9:00AM – 9:00PM

Bar Room Seating & Bar Menu: available all day, seven days a week. Reservations are available two months in advance by contacting directly via phone. Please note holiday bookings must be made by phone, not online. Dress Code: Smart Casual (Jacket & Tie not required).

Looking for NYC-centric attractions and experiences? Check out Playbill's DiscoverNYC guide, updated monthly, to the best experiences in New York City.