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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

American and Mexican Food in the Theater District

The bold flavors of Mexican dishes sit right alongside the staples of American comfort food.

Based on 948 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
P.S. Kitchen image 1
P.S. Kitchen image 2
P.S. Kitchen image 3
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Vegan restaurant

Vegan restaurant offers modern decor with cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating on a small terrace. The space includes a full bar serving crafted cocktails with balanced flavors. Warm, clean environment attracts diners seeking a trendy yet comfortable dining experience.

Chicken pot pie stands out with rich, comforting flavors. Buffalo wings and Chilli Cheese Fries offer bold, satisfying tastes that pair well with cocktails.

Burritos come out super fast and taste hearty and delicious, with options like the Beyond Meat Burrito and vegan versions. Queso and mango margaritas add solid flavor to the Mexican food lineup.

People are saying

"The vegetarian food here is surprisingly delicious and satisfying."

"The vegan American food, especially the crab cakes, is delicious."

"The burrito was a flavorful, filling meal with fresh garden greens."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner during show nights.

2

The weekend brunch is popular and can get busy.

3

Every purchase at P.S. Kitchen supports social causes.

02
Mermaid Oyster Bar Times Square image 1

Spacious seafood restaurant with laidback atmosphere and classic rock music sets a welcoming tone. Fresh oysters and craft cocktails highlight the menu, complemented by clean, crisp decor and attentive service. The vibe balances comfort with a lively, inviting energy.

Fresh lobster roll shines with ample lobster meat and a brioche bun. Oysters complement the menu well.

Fish tacos stand out with blackened seasoning, a touch of heat, and juicy, flavorful fillings. Tortillas add a great texture contrast, and gluten-free options swap beer-battered for blackened fish.

People are saying

"The oysters during happy hour were delicious and intensely flavored."

"The American Food oysters here were rich, intense, and delicious."

"I loved the rich, intense flavor of the oysters."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $1.50 oysters from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM daily.

2

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

3

The restaurant is located in the heart of the theater district.

03
Amor Loco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with chic decor and live drag performances creates an invigorating atmosphere. Music plays loudly, adding to the lively vibe. Seating includes a bar for groups and lacks chairs with backs, contributing to a casual feel.

Nachos stand out with huge portions and full flavor, including options like chicken and shrimp. Birria tacos and carnitas tacos also deliver exceptional taste.

Birria tacos stand out as a signature dish, often described as the best tasted. The menu also features fish tacos, Burrito Loco, and strong, flavorful margaritas like passionfruit and jalapeรฑo.

People are saying

"Our server Rose was so attentive to our food and drinks."

"The Mexican food here is amazing, Rose is a fantastic server."

"The American Food here is great, and the service is friendly."

Good to know

1

The Sunday drag brunch starts at 1:30 PM and requires food purchase for bottomless drinks.

2

Happy hour ends at 6 PM, with drinks priced at $14 and up afterward.

3

The kitchen closes at 10:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

04
The Three Monkeys image 1

Three floors with an open window area overlooking the city create a spacious setting. Heated terrace with screens, live comedy shows, and multiple TVs offer varied entertainment. Music is loud and energetic, attracting crowds who enjoy a lively sports bar vibe.

Nachos stand out as a highlight, often described as perfect and satisfying. Other American staples like beef sliders and wings also appear alongside fresh options like mango salad.

Fish tacos stand out as a highlight, often described as some of the best. Flatbreads and quesadillas also appear, with quesadillas noted as tasty but a bit greasy.

People are saying

"Delaney at the bar made the best espresso martini."

"The American Food Delaney served was friendly and attentive."

"I thought the fish tacos were probably the best Iโ€™ve ever had."

Good to know

1

The venue hosts comedy shows every night, perfect for entertainment.

2

Bottomless brunch is available for $30 with the purchase of an entree.

3

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to all bills.

05
Planet Hollywood New York image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant with giant LED screens showing music videos creates a loud, energetic atmosphere where conversation requires shouting. Design is streamlined and sophisticated, lacking traditional Hollywood memorabilia. Guests enjoy vibrant music and video entertainment that dominates the space.

Cheeseburgers and prime rib sliders stand out with rich flavors, though the sliders can be a bit messy. Nachos come with a heavy dose of cheddar cheese sauce, and the club sandwich also impresses.

Blood orange margaritas stand out with strong flavor and good balance. Guacamole and sliders offer solid Mexican food options alongside sour peach margaritas.

People are saying

"The American food here, like the burgers and nachos, is delicious and satisfying."

"The staff here go above and beyond for your Date Spots."

"I loved the chips and guacamole; it was excellent."

Good to know

1

The restaurant takes reservations for dining.

2

Planet Hollywood is back in NYC with a new location.

3

The menu is upscale but limited.

06
The Long Acre Tavern image 1

Long bar with multiple TVs showing various sports creates an engaging setting. Small space with mezzanine seating offers a unique view and a friendly atmosphere where live music plays at a comfortable volume. Impressive beer selection includes fresh Guinness and local IPAs, complementing well-regarded pub food.

Chicken wings stand out with their large size and BBQ flavor. Nachos come in chicken and steak varieties, both tasty appetizers. Mac and cheese offers a filling, rich option.

Chicken quesadillas stand out with a cheese and broccoli filling, which is unusual. Kickin potato skins and quesadillas come out very good and delicious.

People are saying

"It's a great bar for watching the games on TV."

"The loaded tater tots are delicious American food."

"The quesadillas here are terrific and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $6 local draft beer all day on Monday and a few hours Tuesday-Thursday.

2

The late night menu is available after 11 PM.

3

Karaoke happens on Fridays, starting at 10 PM.

07
Times Square Cafe image 1

Spacious cafรฉ with a 1960s diner vibe and cozy atmosphere offers a welcoming environment and friendly service. Seating is limited but not crowded, with a mini market inside for quick options. The place stands out for its fresh food and clean setting in a busy area.

Reuben sandwich offers a hearty portion that can be nearly too much to finish. Cheeseburgers come freshly prepared and satisfy well. Brownies have a perfect bite but lean toward the pricier side.

Burritos stand out with options like the NYC burrito featuring a perfect Pepper Jack spice and the el patron burrito. Menus include various combos with cold meats, eggs, cheese, and salads.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The American Food here is excellent, and the staff is super friendly."

"I found the Mexican food here to be a great breakfast spot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open 24 hours a day.

2

The establishment warmly welcomes customers at any time.

3

The restaurant has vegan options.

08
Brooklyn Diner image 1

Large, bright diner with traditional New York decor and retro exterior creates an authentic vibe. Atmosphere feels lively and celebrity-infused, with comfortable seating and booths ideal for people watching. Design uses shutters and mirrors to avoid feeling cramped, distinguishing it from typical NYC diners.

Club sandwiches and Reuben sandwiches stand out with rich flavors and fresh ingredients. The waffle grilled cheese with pastrami offers a unique twist, while cheeseburgers and fries come perfectly cooked and satisfying.

Huevos rancheros stand out as a highlight, praised for their flavor and value. Guacamole tastes close to homemade, and chicken tacos offer a solid, tasty option.

People are saying

"This Diner burger was juicy, flavorful, and cooked perfectly."

"You have to get the chicken pot pie; it's huge!"

"The Mexican Food here is served by such cheerful and polite staff."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served all day.

2

The restaurant closes at 9:00 p.m.

3

Reservations are needed for this diner.

09
Yard House image 1
New American restaurant

Sprawling multi-story space with big screens and three-story cooler creates a lively, pub-like atmosphere. The vibe is relaxed yet loud, filled with sports fans watching games on numerous TVs. Tables feature self-service kiosks for easy ordering, enhancing the energetic dining experience.

Menu features sports bar classics like juicy burgers, crispy chicken wings, and nachos. Appetizers include jumbo pretzels and an onion ring tower. Grilled cheese with tomato soup and jambalaya also stand out.

Chicken tortilla soup stands out with rich flavor. Tacos come with a twist like lettuce wraps. The menu pairs well with beer and includes other items like burgers.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious and thoughtfully prepared food."

"The pub grub here is top-tier, especially the nachos."

"I really enjoyed the shrimp tacos; they were well seasoned."

Good to know

1

The open bar is available until 1 o'clock on New Year's evening.

2

Guests are asked to leave the building after the party ends at 12:30 AM.

3

Expect a crowded venue during happy hour and game nights.

10
The Long Room image 1
Irish restaurant

Cozy Irish pub with dark wood interiors and a vintage decor creates an intimate, laid-back vibe despite a busy setting. Live traditional music and an impressive fireplace lounge add warmth and character. Known for strong Guinness pours and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere that fills up quickly.

Grilled cheese sandwiches stand out with fresh ingredients and rich flavors. The menu also features chicken sandwiches, Mac and cheese, and pulled pork sandwiches, all prepared with care and good taste.

Mahi Mahi tacos stand out as a frequent choice with consistent mentions. The menu also includes a breakfast burrito, though it caused food poisoning once.

People are saying

"The food here is great and the service is amazing."

"The American Food here is served with incredibly prompt and friendly service."

"I loved the Mahi Mahi street tacos."

Good to know

1

Live shows are hosted every Friday at 9 PM, creating a lively atmosphere.

2

Enjoy live Irish music every Sunday from 5 PM to 8 PM.

3

Make a reservation online before dinner to secure your spot.

11
Haswell Green's image 1
Cocktail bar

Large cocktail bar with live music and a stage for performers creates a lively atmosphere. Spacious layout includes two floors and ample seating, with cozy booths for conversation. Energy peaks on weekends with dancing and dueling pianos.

Brisket features heavily with Brisket Bao Buns, a brisket sandwich, and brisket nachos that are large and flavorful. Chicken nachos and hamburgers also appear as solid American food options.

Guacamole stands out with its great flavor and pairs well with chips. The street corn quesadilla offers a tasty twist on classic Mexican flavors.

People are saying

"The food here was really good and delicious."

"The brisket nachos here are amazing and large enough to feed a few."

"I enjoyed the good drinks and appetizers here."

Good to know

1

There is usually a cover charge of $10 when they have live music.

2

The bottomless dinner starts at 5pm and includes unlimited drinks for 90 minutes.

3

Thursday, Friday, and Saturday are the best days to visit for live music.

12
The Independent image 1
American restaurant

Narrow space with roaring-20s style decor and vintage New York photographs creates an upscale yet casual atmosphere. Live music plays regularly, adding to a warm and inviting vibe. Drinks feature creative cocktails, though prices are notably high.

Prime rib burger stands out for its tenderness and perfect cooking. Shrimp tacos balance spice well with coleslaw and cooked shrimp. Vegan jalapeรฑo grilled cheese offers a unique twist. Chicken wings come juicy and saucy with balanced spice. Cauliflower tater tots provide a surprising flavor.

Shrimp tacos stand out with perfectly cooked shrimp and a balanced spice level. Tacos come fresh, quick, and packed with full flavor.

People are saying

"The Date Spots here have amazing fries and truffle fries."

"The American food here, especially the burgers and fries, is fantastic."

"The shrimp tacos here are fresh, quick, and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

During restaurant week, enjoy two 3-course meals for $40 per person.

2

Live music is available on Wednesdays and Fridays.

3

Happy hour is extended, making it a great spot for after-work gatherings.

13
The Mean Fiddler image 1

Irish pub with two floors and a dance floor offers a lively and upbeat atmosphere filled with live music and DJ sets that engage the crowd. Traditional decor includes local art and patrons' keepsakes, creating a unique, cozy vibe. Outdoor seating adds to the spacious feel, making it a popular spot for celebrations and socializing.

Brisket burger and fried chicken sandwich stand out as hearty American classics. Nachos come loaded with steak and French fries, adding bold flavors to the menu.

Margaritas stand out, especially the spicy and dragon fruit versions. The menu includes fish tacos and steak quesadillas, with options like cauliflower bites and spinach dip adding variety.

People are saying

"The food here is lovely and delicious."

"The American Food here is perfect for parties and celebrations."

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the chicken quesadilla."

Good to know

1

Bottomless brunch is available for $25 with a meal purchase for 90 minutes.

2

Happy hour runs from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with unlimited drinks.

3

Reservations are required for dining, especially during busy times.

14
Lagos TSQ image 1
African restaurant

Row-house style building with exquisite artwork and vibrant decor creates a lively atmosphere. Afrobeats music from a skilled DJ fills the space, encouraging dancing and socializing. Seating is cozy and close, blending a Manhattan bar and lounge vibe with African dining.

Jerk chicken wings come spicy and flavorful. The mac and cheese and steak and eggs with homestyle fries are cooked well and satisfying.

Happy hour features fish tacos and sliders that hold up well and offer great value. The menu includes goat tacos, suya, and plantains, all with strong flavors and good texture.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the Jollof rice with goat."

"The American food here has a lively, vibrant atmosphere."

"The fish tacos here are fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday.

2

To enjoy happy hour, you must be seated at the bar.

3

A reservation is necessary if you are going with more than 2 people.

15
Pink Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Two-story Mexican restaurant with live DJs and Day of the Dead theme creates a lively, comfortable atmosphere. Large windows offer city views while interior stays dim and cozy. Margaritas and sports on big screens add to the energetic vibe.

Nachos stand out with fresh, crisp chips and tasty salsa. Tacos and quesadillas also deliver solid, flavorful bites.

Tacos stand out with amazing flavors like coconut shrimp and fresh, crisp nachos with guacamole. Drinks include well-made margaritas that balance sweetness and tang perfectly.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really fresh and flavorful."

"You have to try the tacos; they're fresh and flavorful."

"The American Food here was really good, especially the tacos."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is until 7:00 PM with great deals.

2

You need to tell the staff you are ordering off the happy hour menu to avoid full price.

3

The actual party starts at 6 PM during events.

16
Applebee's Grill + Bar image 1

An expansive multi-level restaurant with a maze-like layout creates a sense of disorientation. The atmosphere is lively and noisy, featuring loud music and sports broadcasts on screens. A live photographer and private celebration rooms add unique touches to the experience.

Baby back ribs come out superbly delicious and the Bourbon St Sirloin Steak is tender and cooked to perfection. The bacon cheeseburger is cooked medium and stands out compared to specialty hamburger shops.

Margaritas stand out with perfect mixes and strong flavors. Chicken tacos bring freshness from onion and cilantro, while dishes like the boneless chicken and chicken fajita wrap offer solid, tasty options.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The American food, especially the BBQ ribs and chicken wings, was flavorful and tender."

"The chicken tacos here are delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour drinks are $7 and $8 all night between Monday and Thursday.

2

Each evening event runs from 7 - 10 pm.

3

An 18% tip will be automatically included in the bill.

17
Sugar Factory New York - Time Square image 1

Restaurant offers upstairs and downstairs bars with loud music and a fun atmosphere suited for celebrations. Maximalist desserts and cocktail variety stand out amid a space with worn decor and mixed cleanliness impressions.

Rainbow sliders and buffalo wings stand out among appetizers. Crispy mac and cheese balls and loaded fries add variety. Pulled pork fries, veggie burger, seafood chowder, and top sirloin steak offer solid main options.

Shrimp tacos stand out with fresh, flavorful fillings. Margaritas come in several varieties like Strawberry and Pretty In Pink, both with a balanced kick and fruity notes.

People are saying

"It's a fun spot with a high-energy, exciting atmosphere."

"The American food, like the mac and cheese pops, is delicious."

"The Mexican food here is great, and the servers are super sweet."

Good to know

1

Lunch is served after 3:30 PM.

2

A mandatory 20% service fee is added to every bill.

3

The restaurant has no parking available.

18
Hard Rock Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant doubles as a rock 'n' roll museum with walls covered in signed guitars, stage costumes, and photos. Atmosphere feels loud and crowded, filled with great music that can make conversation difficult. Popular spot for tourists, often requiring reservations due to high demand.

Nachos with Chicken and Guacamole come in large portions and pack a tasty punch. Pulled pork sandwiches feature a gluten-free bun that stands out, while burgers and ribs deliver classic American flavors.

Spicy watermelon margarita and happy jalapeรฑo margarita stand out with their balance of subtle sweetness and a light burn. Nachos with chicken and guacamole, along with chicken fajita and Caesar salad, offer tasty Mexican flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent and came out really fast."

"The American Food here has outstanding, friendly service."

"I'd recommend the fajitas; they were delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially during peak hours.

2

Happy hour runs from 4pm to 6pm daily for select food and drinks.

3

The venue often hosts live music events and private parties.

19
Friedman's image 1
Gluten-free restaurant

Dining room features Broadway-style singing staff creating a lively and fun atmosphere. Ornate, historic interior with authentic design lacks sound dampening, leading to high noise levels. Offers gluten-free options and a gluten-free dedicated fryer, attracting those with dietary restrictions.

Gluten-free mac and cheese stands out with its creamy texture. Fried chicken and the B.E.L.T. sandwich offer crispy, flavorful bites. The Reuben features thick-cut pastrami and a balanced house sauce. Smoked salmon eggs benedict pairs well with an iced oat milk latte.

Chicken chilaquiles stand out with salsa that soaks the chips while keeping them slightly crunchy. Fish tacos offer a solid, tasty option alongside the chilaquiles.

People are saying

"I found the gluten free pancakes to be amazing."

"Their American food has so many great gluten-free options."

"The chicken chilaquiles here are so delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for large groups.

2

The restaurant offers Broadway night events where servers perform.

3

Food service starts at 3:30 PM, but drinks are available at the bar before that.

20
Havana Central Times Square image 1

Spacious interior with colorful, festive decor evokes 1930s-1950s Havana glamour. Lively atmosphere features live Cuban music and a large bar often packed with guests. Music volume can be high, making conversation challenging near the band.

Cuban Fried Chicken stands out with rich flavor, paired well with crab cakes as a sharp appetizer. The menu also features solid pulled pork and cilantro rice and tasty Caribbean chicken wings.

Black beans stand out as exceptionally flavorful. Mango special margarita cheese empanada and jerk wings come with yellow rice. Crispy fried calamari and tortillas with guacamole add variety. Tres leches dessert and well-crafted margaritas and mojitos complete the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful and amazing."

"The guava ribs and fried chicken were unbelievable."

"The Mexican food appetizers like empanadas and tostones were delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. except on Saturday and Sunday.

2

Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

3

The restaurant adds a 20% tip to the bill automatically.

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