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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in the Theater District

Italian food and fun activities

You want to combine an Italian meal with an engaging activity.

Based on 110 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Dave & Buster's New York City - Times Square image 1
Dave & Buster's New York City - Times Square image 2
Dave & Buster's New York City - Times Square image 3
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Bright space filled with arcade games and giant screens showing live sports creates an electric atmosphere. Loud music and TV volume make it lively but challenging for conversation. A mix of bar and restaurant areas offers food and drinks alongside nonstop gaming fun.

Mozzarella sticks stand out with their insane flavor. The menu offers a variety of Italian dishes like pepperoni pizza, creamy chicken pasta, and fresh shrimp pasta, all tasting delicious and fresh.

An evening here offers a fun vibe with plenty of activities that keep energy high. The atmosphere makes group outings especially enjoyable and memorable.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and delicious."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful, making it a great Kid Friendly spot."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, is delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4:30 to 7:00 pm with $5 drinks.

2

Wednesdays feature half-price games, making it a great day to visit.

3

You must be 21 or older to enter, or accompanied by an adult 25+.

02
Tony's Di Napoli image 1
Italian restaurant

Two-floor Italian restaurant offers a festive atmosphere with live music and waiters who sing between courses. The space is gorgeous and bustling, often noisy with a lively crowd. Classic Italian design and traditional plating create an authentic dining experience.

Spaghetti bolognese and meatballs stand out for their rich flavor. Fettuccine Alfredo and other pasta dishes show a high level of craftsmanship and taste.

Upbeat and noisy atmosphere creates a fun vibe. Busy setting with delicious southern Italian food adds to the lively experience.

People are saying

"The Italian food portions here are huge, enough for three people."

"These dinner spots serve huge, flavorful portions meant for sharing."

"The singing waiters create a fun, lively atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant is always packed.

2

Expect large portion sizes; one dish can serve 2-3 people.

3

Gratuity is automatically added to the bill, so check your total.

03
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.

Pumpkin ravioli stands out with rich flavor and great texture. The burrata appetizer adds a creamy, fresh start. Bao buns also appear as a notable choice.

Lively atmosphere with piano music and a stage sets the tone for fun. Craft drinks and smooth service keep the good times flowing.

People are saying

"The food here was really good and delicious."

"The dueling piano nights here are a blast and super fun."

"The Italian food here, especially the ravioli, is absolutely delicious."

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.

04
The View image 1
Restaurant

Rotating restaurant offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city skyline with a full floor rotation every two hours. Soft live piano music creates a cozy, vibey atmosphere alongside stunning city views. The setting combines an unusual dining concept with a relaxed, elegant energy.

Lobster spaghetti stands out with impeccable flavor. The Hearts of Palm and Toasted Ravioli also deliver strong, distinct tastes.

A revolving restaurant called The View offers a unique dining experience. The dry-aged slice with Bรฉarnaise sauce stands out as a flavorful option.

People are saying

"The view here is amazing, and it slowly revolves."

"The Italian Food here is delectable with breathtaking rotating views."

"It's a fun experience because the venue revolves, offering new vantage points."

Good to know

1

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

2

The kitchen closes at 10:00 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Parking is available in a garage across the street for convenience.

05
Carmine's - Time Square image 1
Italian restaurant

Historic Italian restaurant offers spacious dining with family-sized portions and live entertainment including singing waiters and actors. Atmosphere is warm and inviting, often lively and bustling, with a mix of inside and outside seating. Reservations are essential due to popularity and crowding.

Lasagna stands out as a highlight, noted for its quality. The menu includes carbonara pasta and penne with vodka and bolognese sauce, all served in generous portions.

Festive atmosphere creates a lively spot for families and parties. Generous portions make sharing food a fun and social experience.

People are saying

"You'll get enough food; the dishes are massive."

"The Italian food portions are massive, perfect for sharing."

"I attended the murder mystery dinner, it was a great idea for a celebration."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required in advance to secure a table.

2

One dish is enough for three people, making it great for sharing.

3

The restaurant offers a murder mystery dinner experience on select nights.

06
Connolly's image 1
Irish restaurant

Oversized pub spans four floors with distinct dining areas and a rooftop bar offering a quintessential Irish pub experience. Atmosphere is lively and noisy, with live music and a fun vibe especially during events. Crowds gather for authentic Irish drinks and hearty traditional food in a setting that feels inviting and exotic.

Pasta dishes stand out with gluten-free options available for buns and pasta. Desserts feature crispy, creamy cannoli that leave a lasting impression.

A fun atmosphere fills the space, especially lively on St Patrick's Day. The doorman adds to the enjoyable entrance and exit experience.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are incredibly friendly and make your experience enjoyable."

"It's a fun place with a lot happening."

"I was so happy they had gluten-free options for Italian food."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounts on select beers and runs from 4-7pm.

2

The kitchen stays open until midnight for late-night diners.

3

Expect a bonus charge of $10 added to your bill without notice.

07
O'Donoghueโ€™s Times Square image 1

Irish pub with live music and 24 beers on tap creates a lively atmosphere filled with noise and energy. Small, clean space features Irish decor and packed seating, attracting crowds especially on busy nights. Outdoor patio and rooftop add casual spots to enjoy drinks and food.

Chicken panini features mozzarella and roasted red pepper well executed. Lobster ravioli stands out with a fantastic sauce. Tiramisu impresses with its rich flavor. Linguine pasta is good but mild in taste.

Rooftop offers a loud, busy atmosphere with good drinks and food. Bartender Sharon adds a fun, friendly vibe that makes the experience enjoyable.

People are saying

"The pub's fish and chips were tasty and authentic Irish food."

"The live music here is so much fun."

"The Italian food, especially the lobster ravioli, was superb."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is from 4-7 PM from Monday to Friday.

2

The bar is open until 4 AM.

3

Table service closes at 2 AM.

08
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.

Spaghetti marinara stands out with its rich flavor. Spicy chicken penne alla vodka and shrimp penne pasta come with bold sauces. Chicken Alfredo offers a creamy, tasty experience.

A lively atmosphere creates a fun vibe for all ages with a menu that suits both kids and adults. Staff like Aixa add a welcoming touch that makes celebrations, like birthdays, especially enjoyable.

People are saying

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

"It's so kid friendly; they make your child feel like a VIP."

"The Italian food here is amazing, thanks to the super nice servers."

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.

09
Joe's Pizza Broadway image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small, bustling pizza joint with limited seating and a covered outdoor stand for standing diners. Atmosphere feels electric and very New York, often crowded and lively with a celebrity photo wall adding character. Pizza preparation is visible, enhancing the fast-paced, authentic vibe.

Pizza features fresh mozzarella slices that offer a creamy contrast to the sauce. Both margherita and pepperoni with spicy salami pizzas stand out for their balanced flavors.

Walls lined with celebrity photos add a fun vibe. Friendly staff make eating a New York slice an enjoyable experience.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I'd ever tasted."

"The Italian food here has a genuinely good, crispy, thin crust."

"It's a fun experience getting pizza with friends here."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait in a long line, especially on weekends.

2

The wait time for this pizza store is over 1 hour.

3

Theyโ€™re open till 4am, making it a perfect place for late night cravings.

10
John's Pizzeria of Times Square image 1

Converted church with a stained glass ceiling and four coal-fired brick ovens creates a unique dining space. Atmosphere ranges from cozy and spacious to loud and crowded depending on the time and crowd. Guests watch pizzas prepared in full view, adding to the engaging experience.

Pizza and spaghetti feature fresh sauce, basil, and mozzarella with dough that is good but slightly overcooked. Garlic rolls come with a homemade marinara sauce that stands out.

A fun atmosphere fills the place with friendly bartenders adding to the vibe. The service and food combine for an enjoyable evening without long waits.

People are saying

"The pizza here has a super crispy crust and amazing flavor."

"The Italian food, especially the pizza, is so damn good."

"It's a fun and original place to go."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for groups larger than four to avoid long waits.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait on Friday nights if you arrive after opening.

3

Only whole pies are sold; no slices available.

11
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant immerses diners in a Forrest Gump theme with playful decor and interactive dining elements like trivia and signal signs to call servers. The atmosphere combines lively energy with views of Times Square, creating a unique and engaging experience.

Shrimp takes center stage with various preparations like breaded, garlic, and tacos. Pasta dishes, especially the shrimp scampi, come in large portions and are well cooked.

Fun servers bring energy and trivia to the table. The atmosphere feels kid-friendly and characterful, making activities enjoyable for all ages.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fun, with decor inspired by the Forrest Gump movie."

"The servers here make it so fun with trivia and attentive service."

"The Italian Food here is fun and family-friendly, with a New York vibe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for New Year's Eve to secure a spot.

2

Expect long wait times even with a reservation on New Year's Eve.

3

The restaurant offers a great view of the ball drop in Times Square.

12
Da Marino NYC image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with narrow seating and walls covered in murals and famous patrons creates an old school New York vibe. Live piano music adds energy but can be loud enough to make conversation difficult. The atmosphere feels crowded and intimate, especially during evening hours.

Saffron risotto with Ossobuco stands out as a distinctive dish here. Pasta comes simply prepared and well cooked, with ravioli and tiramisu also noted for their quality.

Live music creates a lively atmosphere that makes it easy to unwind or kick off a fun evening. Friendly and attentive hosts add to the engaging entertainment and make everyone feel like regulars.

People are saying

"The pasta here is cooked al dente and perfectly spiced."

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is so comforting and delicious."

"The live music here is so much fun, especially the piano player taking requests."

Good to know

1

The bar seating is available without a reservation, allowing for spontaneous visits.

2

The restaurant gets crowded before and after theatre show times, so plan ahead.

3

If you are planning to see a show, make a reservation around 5:00pm or 5:30pm.

13
Junior's Restaurant and Bakery image 1

Space combines retro diner vibe with vibrant decor featuring red and yellow hues. Atmosphere stays fun and lively, often busy and chaotic, with music that is pleasant and not overpowering. Crowd enjoys classic American comfort with standout cheesecake and a bar offering notable cocktails and beers.

Parmigiana with pasta stands out with its rich flavors blending Italian and Brazilian tastes. Pasta dishes are consistently delicious and well-prepared.

A fun atmosphere fills the space with plenty of people watching opportunities near Times Square. It pairs well with a good meal for a lively outing.

People are saying

"I found their famous cheesecake to be truly delicious."

"The cheesecake here is delicious and creamy."

"The atmosphere here is so fun, especially with the desserts."

Good to know

1

You can put your name on a waitlist to plan your visit better.

2

The place is busy and open till midnight, close to Times Square.

3

On Saturday night at 6:00 PM, there was a 10-minute wait for a table for two.

14
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.

The LA lasagna stands out with its gourmet upgrade, featuring layers of fried mozzarella, pasta, and meat sauce. Pasta dishes with shrimp and fresh ingredients also deliver strong flavors.

A fun, comfortable atmosphere makes it easy to relax and enjoy. The vibe stays professional yet welcoming, perfect for celebrations.

People are saying

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

"The servers here are so attentive and make you feel special."

"The Italian food here, especially the lasagna, was huge!"

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.

15
Sardi's image 1
Continental restaurant

Walls covered with celebrity caricatures create a unique, old-fashioned Broadway atmosphere. The space feels elegant yet eclectic, with a lively bar upstairs known for classic cocktails. It draws a mix of locals and theatre-goers seeking a historic, iconic dining experience.

Classic dishes like bolognese and fusili pasta stand out with rich flavors. Starters such as prosciutto with melon and tomato fennel soup add variety to the Italian offerings.

Drawing collection offers unique entertainment tied to Broadway culture. The lively second floor features a fun bar and a welcoming host, creating an exciting atmosphere alongside great food and drinks.

People are saying

"It's a historical place worth visiting, especially before a Broadway show."

"The Italian food here is iconic, especially for theater lovers."

"It's fun seeing all the hundreds of caricatures of famous people."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must to dine at the restaurant.

2

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

3

You should arrive no later than 12:30 PM for a 2 PM show.

16
Haven Rooftop image 1

Rooftop bar offers amazing city views with a semi-covered seating area that stays open year-round. Loud music from a DJ creates a vibrant atmosphere that energizes the space. The setting balances cozy and upscale vibes, attracting those who enjoy lively evenings with scenic backdrops.

Variety of pasta dishes stands out with well-cooked penne and flavorful sauces. The vodka penne is notably rich, and the truffle spaghetti offers a subtle truffle taste without overpowering.

A live DJ spins during brunch, adding energy to the fun atmosphere. Servers like Axel bring a lively vibe with great suggestions that enhance the experience.

People are saying

"The service on the Rooftop was amazing and attentive."

"It's a fun place with a great atmosphere and gorgeous views and music."

"The penne alla vodka here is excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, and it's best to book in advance.

2

Brunch is only available on weekends with a limited time for bottomless drinks.

3

Expect a 1.5-hour maximum on table time during busy hours.

17
Beast & Butterflies Times Square image 1

Rooftop bar offers direct Times Square views with an open terrace and outdoor seating including mounted binoculars for closer looks. Atmosphere stays fun and lively, with indoor games and plenty of seating. The spot stands out for its amazing cityscape and decent prices near a major tourist area.

Penne Alfredo appears as a recurring dish with a mediocre quality noted. Guac & chips also feature but the focus stays on the Penne Alfredo and its consistent presence.

Pre-show rooftop bar sets a lively tone. The fun atmosphere continues inside with a nearby lounge and a spot known for a great evening with friends.

People are saying

"I loved the spectacular view of Times Square."

"The Italian Food here has a great view of Times Square."

"You can grab drinks and enjoy the decent view."

Good to know

1

The rooftop bar takes reservations and can get you in and out quickly if you're seeing a Broadway show.

2

Get there early if you want a rooftop seat because people stay awhile.

3

You cannot reserve a table for outside seating.

18
Sake Bar Hagi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese-themed space blends live jazz music with authentic decor featuring anime posters and imported items. Atmosphere stays calm and classy, offering a relaxing vibe amid the city bustle. Unique touches like a Pac-Man arcade add playful character without overwhelming the setting.

Creamy and flavorful mentaiko pasta stands out, priced around $12. The spicy cod roe pasta also delivers rich taste, making these dishes highlights in the Italian food selection.

Fun vibes come from Japanese music and decor referencing famous art forms like manga. Playing Pac-Man adds an interactive twist, and the staff bring lively energy.

People are saying

"They pour a generous selection of sake and shochu."

"The Pac-Man machine by the restroom is a really fun activity."

"The mentai pasta here is creamy and unique."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6:30 PM with $4 drinks after work.

2

The restaurant does not take reservations; it's first come, first served.

3

Drinks are available for takeout, including beer and sake.

19
Margaritaville Restaurant - Times Square image 1

Rooftop spaces offer magnificent city views with glass siding and an hourly LED light show enhancing the atmosphere. Islander decor creates a laid-back, beachy vibe contrasting the urban surroundings. Music stays at a volume that allows conversation, supporting a casual and fun environment.

Alfredo pasta comes with options like blackened chicken or simple fettucini without meat or shellfish. Seafood pasta and spaghetti also stand out as solid choices.

A fun atmosphere with a casual, beachy vibe sets the tone. The variety of food choices adds to the overall enjoyable experience.

People are saying

"The food here was excellent and well worth it."

"The views here are amazing, especially for fun activities like watching the ball drop."

"The Italian Food here has amazing views of Times Square."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

The restaurant stays open late at night on weekends for late-night dining.

3

Every Saturday, there is a mixology class taught by Alfonse.

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