The ultimate list of best theater district restaurants in NYC

A little piece of Italy in the heart of Manhattan, La Masseria offers up the perfect, pre-theater dinner. Classic dishes made with fresh ingredients capture the true essence of a farm-to-table dining experience. With an extensive wine list to compliment the food and an epic cheesecake you won’t want to miss, La Masseria is by far one of the best Italian restaurants in the Theater District.

Torishin truly provides one of the most authentic, Tokyo style yakitori experiences. The name ‘Tori shin’ means ‘true chicken’, while ‘yakitori’ means ‘grilled chicken’. This upscale Japanese restaurant uses only top quality ingredients, including organic chicken. The art of yakitori has been perfected by the chefs here and meals include performances by the masters themselves, offering you a unique peek at this ancient technique. The sake collection is also impressive, offering one of the most extensive menus in all of New York.

For those looking to have some fun at dinner and don’t mind getting a little messy, this is your spot. Wings, BBQ ribs, and burgers, oh my! ...It’s time to get your hands dirty! Save your appetite for after the Broadway show and enjoy Dallas BBQ's late night hours. It's nothing but good vibes (and good food) here.

This restaurant exudes flavors as colorful as a broadway show itself. From the shores of Southern France to the coast of North Africa, the dishes at Boulud offer up a true taste of the Mediterranean. The pleasant decor and sunflower-yellow accents make it such a charming atmosphere… you might want to keep an eye on your watch or you could easily end up missing your show!

Authentic flavors from the Middle East that jump off your plate, meals here are made with only the freshest of ingredients. (Balade actually means ‘fresh’.) The staff are more than willing to prepare your food just the way you like it, so take advantage of the diverse ingredients available! Shawarma, falafel, kebab… you really can have it your way at Balade.

Strip House will cater toward all of your cravings. The restaurant’s siren red interior recreates the old glamour world in a sophisticated, classy manor. Studio Manasse prints of 1930’s burlesque stars adorn the walls, giving your eyes something to feast upon as you sip on a cocktail or glass of wine before your food arrives.

Sashimi, hot pot, and teishoku, oh my! Specializing in traditional home cooking, Ootoya brings the taste of mom’s kitchen to NYC. Meals are fresh and healthy, and satisfying. This sophisticated restaurant is the perfect place to broaden your palate for Japanese cuisine.

The Glass House Tavern brings creativity to New York’s theater district. Executive Chef Craig Cupani serves a contemporary American menu that focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients, with hints of Italian flair. The restaurant’s warm tavern-like atmosphere makes for a calming environment to enjoy a meal amidst the bustling Theater District. It’s also a favorite among Broadway stars - perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to be seated next to one!

Craving a perfectly cooked, famous Porterhouse Steak? Enough said; Wolfgang’s is your place. With side dishes to satisfy every taste bud and a decadent dessert menu to top it all off, your stomach will feel the love tonight.

Everyone is havana a good time here. Tapas, classic Cuban entrees, and live latin music set the scene for more than just a simple meal. Happy hour deals give both you and your pocket something to feel happy about.

A cozy atmosphere and mouth-watering, traditional French cuisine make this pre-theater dinner spot a favorite. Located in the heart of the Theater District, Le Rivage offers a great selection of entrees at unbeatable prices.

From seafood to pasta, you won’t leave Carmine’s hungry. This family-style restaurant specializes in serving up some of the best Southern Italian food in the Theater District. With two locations, you’re sure to make it to the theater with plenty of time to settle into your seats before the show starts.

Speciality martinis and some of the city’s best sushi rolls? Color me happy! With an exceptionally amazing Happy Hour, this spot is great for both food and drinks. Be sure to sample some of Natsumi’s outstanding Japanese-Italian fusion dishes (...did someone say Japanese carpaccio?!)

Spice up your pre-theater dinner plans with some authentic Mexican food. One of the best restaurants on Broadway, Toloache’s recipes are sure to send you off to the theater feeling nice and tipsy... the restaurant has a fantastic tequila list you don't want to pass up! And if liquor isn’t really your thing, no worries- instead, get your buzz from the awesome guacamole and ceviche bar.

Inspired by its namesake French port city, Marseille has incorporated the cultural influence of the Mediterranean. Dishes exude an exciting fusion of French, Italian, Greek, and North African flavors. Bouillabaisse, savory tagines, gourmet ‘five napkin’ burgers, and short ribs are just a few favorites. Its Casablanca-like atmosphere makes this spot a beloved pre-theater staple.

Danji is one of NYC’s restaurants that just keep getting better! Authentic Korean dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients and classic techniques that capture the flavors perfectly. Ordering a bunch of small plates and sharing is a great way to sample the wide array of unique menu items. The tall communal tables make the atmosphere fun and lively, or, if you want a more intimate experience, opt for a personal table.

Azalea offers a delicious spin on classic Italian food in the Theater District. The restaurant serves up unique under-the-sea specialities from the Brescia and Amalfi Coast regions. The menu beautifully fuses together rich, creamy sauces and heavy meats of Brescia, with fresh seafood and savoury vegetables of the Amalfi Coast. Don’t forget to check out the wine list!

This classic hot-spot is one of the best Theater District restaurants of all time. Nowhere else captures the spirit of show-biz like the walls of Sardi’s. Over a thousand caricatures of celebrities line the walls, setting the stage for a great Broadway-esque meal. Order off the special, pre-theater dinner menu and choose between a variety of satisfying, continental recipes.

Dished out like a true Italian family-style dinner, Tony’s cooks up fantastic, South Neapolitan recipes. So bring your appetite because portions are huge; and with food this good, you might find yourself gobbling up double helpings! And did I mention the killer dessert menu? Cannolis, tiramisu, tartufo, cheesecake, chocolate decadence… Need I say more?

Named after it’s Alsatian executive chef, both the food and the dining area at Gabriel Kreuther’s exude European grandeur. From the ceiling hang 42 crystal storks, while elegant, reclaimed wood beams generate a relaxed warmth that perfectly rounds out the luxurious space. Perhaps the most uniquely designed component of Kreuther’s kitchen is the chef’s table. Tucked away in the midst of all the action, yet visible from the main dining area, people have the opportunity to connect with the talented team behind their exceptional culinary experience.

Indian Accent offers up traditional Indian dishes with a modern twist. Nostalgic flavours are packed into each and every recipe, while global techniques are incorporated in the preparation. This careful blend of old and new results in food that is beautifully executed.

Let your experience begin by allowing the gorgeous glass elevator to escort you to your table, 48 stories above New York City. Enjoy classic American food and cocktails from probably the only revolving rooftop restaurant in the entire city. The rotating floor makes a 360° turn every hour, giving you breathtaking views of Times Square throughout your entire dinner. A meal at The View is a show itself!

The brilliant architects and designers of The NoMad have created a dining space that’ll make you feel as though you’ve just stepped into an elegant, French chateau. Situated in the center of several dining rooms is a gorgeous atrium that produces the atmosphere of an airy, sun-kissed European courtyard. As for the food, it’s as impressive as the pyramidal glass roof that perfectly lights the atrium. Each dish intertwines color and flavor into a lovely masterpiece- also known as, your fantastic dinner. Order a cocktail or glass of wine from the 24-foot-long mahogany bar and enjoy it while soaking up the warmth from the beautiful fireplace imported from France.

Known for their exquisite seafood and steaks, The Palm also has an extensive wine collection to match. Their stunning bar is known for its delicious cocktails, and the food, especially the steaks, are to be seen to be believed.

Straight from Paris, Le Bernardin serves some of the absolute, finest French cuisine in New York. The restaurant has held three stars from the Michelin Guide since its 2005 New York launch. Not a bad way to preface your broadway show! It’s nothing but class and magnificent seafood at La Bernardin.

Nestled within One Bryant Park, Aureole is an intimate dining experience. Be it prix fixe or the chef's tasting menu, there is a delight in every bite. Whether you're looking for a light pre-show meal or a nice after-show dinner, Aureole is a great choice.

While the cocktails here are definitely on-point, it’s something else that’ll give you a buzz at Bar Centrale… the very likely-encounter with Broadway stars who are also looking for a place to kick back after a show. This speakeasy bar is sophisticated, cozy, and conveniently tucked away in a nicely hidden spot. Enjoy an intimate experience at this gem and you’ll feel like you just scored an invitation to a secret, 1920’s drinking den.

Art Deco, swanky red décor, and the smooth sound of jazz create quite the feel-good atmosphere at The Rum House. Soak up the exciting New York City nightlife at this hip, midtown piano bar specializing in rum cocktails. After watching a lively Broadway show, it’s the perfect place to unwind.

Set atop the 54-story Hyatt hotel, it’s nothing but seductive views and sultry cocktails at Bar 54. As you shift your gaze from the impressive skyline of Manhattan to your gorgeous, gourmet appetizer, prepare for your senses to be blown away. Bar 54 is definitely something wonderful!