Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Foodies in Times Square
Top Things to Do in New York City for Foodies in Times Square
1. Carmine's Italian Restaurant
A boisterous, family-style Italian institution just off the red steps, where heaping platters of classics turn dinner into a celebration.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the quintessential Times Square feast—massive portions meant for sharing, a lively dining room, and a pre/post-theater buzz that feels pure NYC.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late lunch or after 9:30 pm to dodge the pre-theater rush; weekends fill quickly.
✓ Insider Tip:
One entrée and one pasta typically feed 3–4; snag bar seating for faster turns if you didn’t reserve.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Joyfully loud and convivial; travelers rave about generous portions and the celebratory vibe.
2. Junior's Restaurant & Bakery
A Broadway-adjacent diner famed for towering sandwiches and the city’s most storied slice of cheesecake.
✓ Why Go:
Icon status plus a sprawling menu makes it perfect for groups; the cheesecake alone is a pilgrimage.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late-night dessert runs after curtain call (10 pm–midnight) or early breakfast before 9 am.
✓ Insider Tip:
Skip the line by using the bakery counter for to-go cheesecake; strawberry is a fan favorite.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Nostalgic, friendly, and consistent; portions wow, prices feel fair for Times Square.
3. Los Tacos No.
Stand-up taco spot serving sizzling adobada off the trompo, crammed with locals and theatergoers between shows.
✓ Why Go:
Fast, focused, and wildly flavorful—arguably the most craveable quick bite steps from the neon.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid‑afternoon (3–5 pm) for shorter lines; evenings are busiest.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order adobada con todo with a side of grilled nopales and finish with an ice-cold horchata.
✓ What Visitors Say:
High-energy and addictive; many call it their must-stop before or after a show.
4. Sardi's
Theater history on the walls (and in the air), Sardi’s pairs Broadway caricatures with classic American-Continental fare and martinis.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a rite of passage for stage lovers—dine among legends and soak up a century of showbiz lore.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Post‑matinee early dinner (4–6 pm) for a calmer room and great people‑watching.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab a stool at the bar for quicker service and a prime view of the caricatures.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Charming and nostalgic; guests love the ambiance as much as the meal.
5. Virgil's Real Barbecue
A Southern smokehouse planted in the Theater District, turning out ribs, brisket, and hush puppies with a cold beer chaser.
✓ Why Go:
Comfort-food classics, big portions, and quick service make it ideal before curtain time.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early lunch (11:30 am–1 pm) or late dinner after 9:30 pm to avoid peak pre‑theater crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Split the Pig Out Platter to sample the hits; ask for extra pickles to balance the smoke.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Reliable and satisfying; families and groups appreciate the variety and value.
6. City Kitchen
A compact food hall inside Row NYC showcasing favorite NYC vendors—ramen, lobster rolls, tacos, and sweet treats under one roof.
✓ Why Go:
Perfect for mixed cravings and quick eats without committing to a full sit‑down meal.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Before noon for easy seating or late night after the dinner rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Claim a window perch overlooking 8th Ave and mix-and-match from multiple stalls for a DIY tasting.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Convenient and tasty; travelers love the variety and indoor respite from the crowds.
7. Joe's Pizza
A classic New York slice joint delivering blistered, foldable pies to a constant stream of pizza purists.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the essential NYC slice—simple, fast, and perfect for a pre‑show or midnight snack.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late night after shows empty (around 10:30 pm–12:30 am) or mid‑afternoon.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order a plain slice and ask for it well‑done for extra char and snap.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Beloved by locals and visitors alike; expect a line that moves quickly.
8. St. Cloud Rooftop at The Knickerbocker
A sky‑high perch above Times Square with craft cocktails and shareable plates, perfect for sunset over the billboards.
✓ Why Go:
Eat and sip with views that shout ‘Times Square’ while escaping the street‑level crush.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Golden hour for photos and a calmer scene; nights get lively.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve ahead and bring a light layer—breezes can pick up even in summer.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Atmospheric and memorable; guests praise the views and upscale bites.
9. Le Marais
A French steakhouse that’s also kosher, drawing theatergoers for sizzling steaks, frites, and bistro classics.
✓ Why Go:
Distinctly New York mix of tradition and flavor right in the Theater District.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening pre‑theater (5–6:30 pm) for a relaxed pace.
✓ Insider Tip:
The hanger steak is a standout; book in advance for peak show nights.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Warm service and consistently good steaks; a surprise favorite for many non‑locals.
10. Havana Central Times Square
A festive Cuban escape near Broadway with mojitos, empanadas, and slow‑braised classics set to Latin beats.
✓ Why Go:
Flavorful comfort food and lively ambiance deliver vacation vibes steps from the marquees.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday happy hour (3–6 pm) or early dinner before theater crowds swell.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pair the ropa vieja with yuca fries; ask about live music nights.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fun, filling, and friendly; many return for the cocktails and atmosphere.
