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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in the Theater District

Lively Italian spots

Made for those who want their pasta and wine served in a room that feels as vibrant as the neighborhood itself.

Based on 961 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
AperiBar image 1
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Italian restaurant

Italian dishes like pizza Margherita and pasta with burrata shine with fresh flavors. Energetic staff keep a lively atmosphere buzzing. Comfortable lounge seating and a semi-private dining area create an inviting, intimate vibe perfect for relaxed evenings.

Squash salad, pizza Margherita, and pasta with burrata stand out with fresh, vibrant flavors. Antipasti and cocktails add variety, while meatballs and torta tenerina offer hearty and sweet options.

An energetic atmosphere fills the space with a great vibe. Staff members are upbeat and attentive, keeping the energy lively throughout.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta and pizza, was delicious."

"The service at dinner spots was so attentive and charming."

"The staff here is so energetic and kind."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM with great deals.

3

The restaurant offers a pre-theater happy hour with appetizers and wine.

02
OLIO E PIÙ Bryant Park image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian trattoria style interior features candlelit ambiance and luxurious upholstered chairs creating an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Lounge and chill music plays softly from hanging speakers, enhancing the peaceful, welcoming vibe. The space often includes seasonal decorations that add warmth and elegance.

Pasta stands out with a rich, authentic taste, especially the carbonara which gets strong recommendations. The pairing of pasta and cocktails creates a memorable dining experience.

Warm, lively, and authentically rustic atmosphere creates an inviting vibe. The bar buzzes with energy but stays comfortably calm for enjoying meals.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing, with attentive and friendly service."

"The staff made our birthday celebration perfect, even arranging special desserts."

"Fernando and Omar made our birthday feel special and celebrated."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink selections.

2

Tables are only held for 10 minutes before being released.

3

Expect a packed waiting area during peak hours, especially on weekends.

03
Osteria La Baia image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers vongole pasta and tiramisu in a cozy setting with live music. Attentive service keeps the lively atmosphere buzzing. Indoor and outdoor seating fit any mood or weather.

Pasta dishes stand out with the vongole pasta and cacio e Pepe noted for their flavor. The lasagna and tiramisu also receive strong mentions for their quality and taste.

Atmosphere feels lively and inviting with a warm vibe. Service is attentive and energetic, adding to the fun mood.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"Our server made wonderful dessert recommendations."

"The atmosphere here is lively, energetic, and fun."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant is always busy.

2

Brunch is served on weekends with cocktails, appetizers, entrees, and dessert.

3

Expect to spend between $130 to $150 per person for dinner.

04
Tony's Di Napoli image 1
Italian restaurant

Two-floor Italian spot buzzes with live music and waiters singing. Classic dishes like spaghetti bolognese shine with rich flavor. Upbeat energy keeps the room noisy and fun while serving hearty southern Italian fare.

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 energy fills the room with a waiter singing and napkins twirling in the air. The place stays busy, noisy, and fun while serving hearty southern Italian dishes.

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 atmosphere here is lively, warm, and inviting."

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.

05
Langan's image 1
Restaurant

Cocktail bar mixes 1920s elegance with Irish charm, offering lobster ravioli and rich Italian flavors. A lively bar area buzzes with energy, balanced by quiet booths for relaxed chats. Drinks like Irish Coffee perfectly match standout burgers and fries.

Lobster ravioli stands out with rich flavor paired well with excellent cocktails. The sausage and broccoli rabe flatbread features proper Italian mozzarella, and the burrata with toast draws strong attention for its creamy texture.

A lively bar area creates an exciting atmosphere. Quiet booths offer balance for after-work gatherings, making the space both inviting and energetic.

People are saying

"The food here is really great and delicious."

"The atmosphere here is lively and inviting."

"The Italian food here has top-notch service and a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended during busy happy hour periods.

3

Free drinks are offered with a Broadway ticket.

06
Glass House Tavern image 1

Restaurant offers tight spaces with a lively bar that feels like a party every night. Atmosphere is loud when crowded but maintains a welcoming community vibe, especially popular after shows. Upstairs provides a quieter, less crowded area contrasting with the busy downstairs.

Risotto balls stand out as a signature dish, consistently described as perfect and highly praised. Other Italian offerings include flatbread and a variety of salads that complement the menu.

Buzzing atmosphere creates a lively and fun vibe even on a Tuesday night. Energy stays balanced, never over the top.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and cooked perfectly."

"The Italian Food here has such attentive and friendly staff."

"The service here is so friendly and professional."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the prix fixe pre-theater menu.

2

The restaurant is a short 4-minute walk from the theaters.

3

Happy Hour is a great time to enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers.

07
Empire Steak House Times Square image 1

Steakhouse offers cozy, quiet atmosphere with a well-laid-out interior that avoids feeling crowded. Table-side dessert flambé and complimentary port wines add unique touches to the dining experience. The place draws those seeking exceptional steak and wine selections in a warm, welcoming setting.

Lobster ravioli stands out with its tender and tasty texture. Pasta dishes like the ragu and others have a tender bite and rich flavor, while the eggplant parmigiana offers an amazing classic taste.

Energy buzzes with a lively ambiance that mixes with intimate charm. Service stays sharp, matching the upbeat vibe without missing a beat.

People are saying

"I've never had a steak cooked so perfectly, it just melted in my mouth."

"The steak and ravioli here are delicious."

"The atmosphere here is so lively, with an energetic vibe."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a pre-theater menu only from 4:00 - 7:00 pm.

2

You can have a pre-theatre dinner between 4-7 PM for only DKK 350.

3

The happy hour offers a perfectly crafted burger and a glass of wine.

08
Dave & Buster's New York City - Times Square image 1

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.

Vibrant and lively atmosphere fills the space, making it engaging and fun. Servers bring energetic service, adding to the safe and exciting environment.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and delicious."

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

"The games here are non-stop fun for everyone."

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+.

09
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.

Loud, energetic atmosphere fills the space with constant buzz. Staff show great energy and attentiveness, while actors bring extra excitement to the night.

People are saying

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

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

"The service here is outstandingly friendly and perfectly coordinated."

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.

10
Haswell Green's image 1
Cocktail bar

Large cocktail bar offers live music nightly and a lively atmosphere with dancing and dueling pianos on weekends. Italian dishes like pumpkin ravioli and creamy burrata shine alongside unique bao buns. Spacious two-floor layout includes cozy booths perfect for conversation.

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.

Vibrant live music plays every night, creating a lively bar experience with a mix of genres. The atmosphere blends fun, upbeat energy with cozy vibes, making it a hotspot for an energetic crowd.

People are saying

"The food here was really good and delicious."

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

"The live music makes it a lively, energetic vibe."

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.

11
O'Donoghue’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.

Energy pulses through the space with a lively atmosphere that blends city buzz and traditional charm. This spot buzzes with authentic pub vibes just steps from the heart of the city.

People are saying

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

"It's a lively pub, full of laughs and good atmosphere."

"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.

12
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.

Energy fills the room with a lively atmosphere and many people watching multiple sports screens. The place stays busy and energetic, especially in the heart of the theater district.

People are saying

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

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

"The staff here is so friendly and welcoming."

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.

13
Carnegie Diner & Cafe image 1

Modern space with comfortable seating and bright, welcoming decor creates a warm, lively atmosphere. Energy stays cozy and inviting, perfect for relaxed meals with friends. Tables sit close together, fostering a bustling yet pleasant vibe.

Fettuccine Alfredo stands out with its rich, creamy sauce. Spaghetti carbonara offers a classic Italian pasta experience alongside a broad menu that includes other dishes.

Warm and bustling with people, the atmosphere stays lively without being annoying. It suits brunch or dinner with friends well.

People are saying

"The portions at this diner are massive, you'll need to take leftovers home."

"It's a cozy spot with a warm, welcoming atmosphere."

"The Italian food here is amazing, and Hatice was very attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy pre-theater hours.

2

The diner is conveniently located near the M, F, B, and D subway lines.

3

Prices are reasonable for New York, with good portion sizes.

14
SaiTong Thai image 1
Thai restaurant

Rich, colorful decor sets a modern, stylish atmosphere with authentic Thai vibes. Unique black spaghetti dishes like crab curry shine on the menu. Staff bring a super energetic vibe, making the place lively and welcoming.

Black spaghetti dishes stand out, especially the crab curry and pad cha versions. Fried soft shell crab curry spaghetti and fried fish dishes add unique flavors to the menu.

A vibrant atmosphere fills the space with energy. Staff bring a super energetic and kind vibe, making the place feel lively yet welcoming.

People are saying

"The food here is seasoned well and full of flavor."

"The squid ink spaghetti and lobster tail spaghetti were amazing."

"The atmosphere here is lively and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Sunday and Monday, and from 5 PM to 9 PM Tuesday to Friday.

2

Reservations are needed on Saturday nights due to high demand.

3

SaiTong offers quick bar snacks during happy hour, perfect before or after a show.

15
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.

Constant movement of delivery drivers creates a crowded atmosphere. The pizza adds to the energetic vibe.

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."

"The pizza here is so lively, packed with flavor and perfectly cooked."

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

They’re open till 4am, making it a perfect place for late night cravings.

16
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.

Energy pulses through the space with a fun and energetic atmosphere. Food and service match the vibe, making it a truly lively experience.

People are saying

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

"The service here is outstanding and the staff are so welcoming."

"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.

17
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.

Glowing red lights and red leather booths create a 1950s vibe that feels lively and nostalgic. Neon signage adds to the energetic atmosphere with a retro touch.

People are saying

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

"The cheesecake here is rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced."

"The cheesecake here is delicious and creamy."

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.

18
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.

Fun menu items like hot Cheeto burgers and foot-long cheese sticks add excitement. Staff stay energetic and friendly, keeping the atmosphere lively.

People are saying

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

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

"Amy's lively energy made our celebration unforgettable."

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.

19
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.

Seafood pasta stands out with dishes like lobster pasta and penne rose. Pasta dishes are generally tasty but can sometimes be salty.

Energy fills the space with upbeat music and big screens creating a lively vibe. The bar buzzes with a huge menu and fast service that keeps things moving.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious and thoughtfully prepared food."

"It's lively with great music and TVs showing sports."

"I found the Italian food here to be delicious."

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.

20
Red Lobster image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant spans multiple floors with large space and elevator access. Atmosphere mixes strong seafood aroma with a family-friendly vibe, though seating can feel cramped. Drinks vary widely, from notably sweet sangrias to well-received cocktails.

Seafood pasta dishes like Shrimp Alfredo and Linguine with lobster come in generous portions and offer rich flavors. The Fettuccini Alfredo with prawns stands out as an exceptional choice.

Lively atmosphere fills the space with energy and warmth. Staff stay upbeat and respectful, enhancing the exciting vibe from the heart of the city.

People are saying

"I thought the Bobby biscuits were the greatest of all time."

"The Italian food here is amazing, and Gabby was such a great server!"

"Our server was so upbeat and funny, it felt like being with a friend."

Good to know

1

The unlimited shrimp offer is available on Mondays.

2

The Wednesday deal includes lobster tail and steak for $32, excluding taxes.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy days like Valentine's Day.

21
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.

Energy fills the space inside a converted church, creating a lively and cozy atmosphere. This spot works well as a functional refuelling stop or a place to kick off an evening.

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 lively and energetic inside the converted church."

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.

22
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.

Vibrant lobby and a DJ create a lively atmosphere. The view over Times Square adds unique energy to the spot.

People are saying

"I loved the spectacular view of Times Square."

"The rooftop view of Times Square is the best part."

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

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.

23
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.

A lively atmosphere fills the space with energetic, friendly servers who keep the vibe upbeat. Generous portions of classic American seafood complement the fun setting overlooking Times Square.

People are saying

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

"The staff here is so fun and friendly, always smiling."

"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.

24
Junior's Restaurant & Bakery image 1
American restaurant

1950s decor with neon lights and period furniture creates a movie-like atmosphere. The space feels spacious yet busy, with a high noise level typical of a bustling city setting. A wide variety of cheesecakes and a full bar complement the lively environment.

Pasta comes in generous bowls and tastes rich and satisfying. The pastrami sandwich with mozzarella offers a flavorful twist on Italian classics.

Lively atmosphere fills the space, especially during peak hours. The bustling diner vibe captures the energetic spirit of the city.

People are saying

"I thought the cheesecake here was the best ever."

"I thought the cheesecake was delicious and a perfect 10."

"The cheesecake here is indulgent, satisfying, and a perfect sweet ending."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended at the diner.

2

Breakfast service ends at 11:00 AM on Christmas day.

3

Expect long queues; wait times may exceed 1 hour.

25
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.

Upbeat music from a live DJ fills the air while retractable awnings open after sunset. Staff bring energetic service and seating supports a friendly, lively atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The penne alla vodka here is excellent."

"It's a lively place with lots of people."

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.

26
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.

Energy fills the second floor where a welcoming host keeps the bar lively. The atmosphere buzzes with theatrical charm and constant, talkative excitement.

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 a lively spot with infectious energy, perfect for pre- or post-show gatherings."

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.

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