Heading to New York City’s Times Square is a must for any first-time visitor. The billboards are just as magnificent as in the movies, the Theater District is right next to it all, and there’s plenty of souvenir shops to visit. But between all that, you need to eat.
As someone born and raised in the city, and who has seen over 30 Broadway productions, I can tell you that a pre-show meal is important. You also don’t want to get stuck at a lackluster chain when wanting something authentically NYC. From casual to trendy to upscale, add these restaurants to the must-dine-at list when visiting Times Square.
Beast & Butterflies
Thanks to the wrap-around rooftop terrace, Beast & Butterflies inside the M Social Hotel Times Square gives guests the best way to see Times Square while sipping, nibbling, and staying out of the weather. The food proves casual and easy with sharable bites like charcuterie boards, dips, and sliders. Or go for more of a meal with a solid burger, wood-fired pizza, steak frites, and a Caesar salad.
The hotel lounge opens at 7 a.m. for breakfast, making it the perfect spot for some light-filled photos with a killer backdrop. While the brand has outposts in different hotel locations, the Times Square one remains the flagship. 226 W. 52nd St., Midtown, beastandbutterfliesnyc.com
Lolita Restaurant
For Mexican fare with a cantina vibe, head to Lolita. Choose from full menu of regional favorites such as a side of sweet plantains, Hot Queso Frito, Shrimp and Crab Flautas, and tacos stuffed with everything from beer-battered cod to fried mushrooms to ribeye. The first floor houses a bar with modern furnishings, perfect for enjoying a drink before heading upstairs for a more formal dining experience. 45 W. 45th St., Midtown, lolitanewyorkcity.com
Lillie’s Victorian Establishment
Step inside this stunning Victorian-themed bistro for brunch, lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea, with a side of scandalous history. The name of the establishment comes from Lillie Langtry, a notorious actress, socialite, and lover of King Edward VII. We imagine she would approve of the stained glass windows, flowery decor, and ornate walls.
She may have even liked the food, being the British force that she was. Fish and Chips, Chicken Pot Pie, and Oven-Roasted Lemon Chicken, and of course high tea, all lean toward the UK side; while Buffalo Wings, macaroni and cheese, and the vegetarian Zucchini Noodles are undoubtedly American. 249 W. 49th St., Midtown, lilliesnyc.com
Broadway Lounge
Nestled on the 8th floor of the New York Marriott Marquis, Broadway Lounge serves dinner each day at 5 p.m. Despite being in the heart of Times Square, the lounge-style restaurant feels far away, and offers an escape from the people-packed streets and overly-stimulating signs. Unless of course you want to watch it all from the glass-enclosed patio.
The menu features an array of items such as pizzas, pasta, steaks, sandwiches, and a delightful Buttermilk Fried Chicken with squash, kale, pecan hash, garlic confit, and a honey butter spiked with brandy. 1535 Broadway, Midtown, broadwaylounge.nyc
Highball
Recently opened by cocktail bar expert Jeff Bell (of PDT fame), Highball offers impeccable food and Times Square views to pair with the excellent drinks. The lounge is meant to resemble a luxury train car, though given it’s located within the hotel Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square, guests have clearly gone off the rails.
Whether you’re seeking to share some appetizers, a couple of dishes, or a drink, the menu remains approachable and packed with flavor. And if the cocktail list feels too daunting, you can always go for the namesake Highball. 1568 Broadway, Midtown, highball.nyc
Madame George
This 4,400-square-foot cocktail lounge is a solid spot for drinks and light bites when wandering around Times Square. While the main focus revolves around the beverages, several shareable food items should be considered too, such as General Tso’s Chicken and Rockefeller Oysters. Relax and mingle on the colorful and velvet furnishings while savoring the buzz of the city. 45 W. 45th St., Midtown, madamegeorgenyc.com
Carmine’s
The original Carmine’s opened over 30 years ago on the Upper West Side, and since then owner Artie Cutler has spread his Italian eatery to five other locations. The only other NYC spot is right in the middle of Times Square, and while the service and presentations make it exciting to eat here, you’ll feel a million miles away from the glitz of the area.
The food comes out family style, so it’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Expect red sauce joint favorites such as Antipasto, Baked Clams, Veal Parmigiana, Manicotti, Chicken Marsala, and so much more.200 W. 44th St., Midtown, carminesnyc.com
Valerie
Executive chef JC Colón whips up addictive bistro fare best enjoyed when going to the theater or taking a respite from Times Square. Think Lobster Mac & Cheese, truffle fries cooked in duck fat, steak with a savory peppercorn compound butter on top, and hearty salads. And that’s just for dinner. Valerie also serves weekend brunch and lunch.
It’s owned by the team behind Lolita and Madam George, and exudes the same warm energy, festive decor, and excellent cocktail list. 45 W. 45th St., Midtown, valerienewyorkcity.com
Miss Nellie’s Offers Vintage Charm
The swanky Miss Nellie’s offers elevated American cuisine. Menu highlights include the Chicken Parm Meatballs with cavatelli, Caviar Lobster Rolls, and Eggplant Chips with hot honey. On the dessert side, don’t miss the Sticky Toffee Sundae or the three-layer Hazelnut Cake, either will give you extra energy for your Times Square adventure.
As for ambiance, vintage-inspired light fixtures and throw pillows add to the nostalgic feel, without feeling stuffy. Bonus, the restaurant has a photo booth, perfect for capturing the literal moment. some special memories from your meal. The only catch: Everyone has to be at least 21-years-old to enter. 321 W. 44th St., Midtown, missnelliesnyc.com
