8 Great Pre-Theater Restaurants

1. db Bistro Moderne

db Bistro is Daniel Boulud's casual, contemporary take on the modern Parisian bistro. The cuisine reflects American ingredients prepared in the French tradition, with an emphasis on highlighting seasonal flavors.

• Address: 55 West 44th Street (5th/6th Aves)
• Telephone: 212-391-2400
• Cuisine: French-American bistro
• Hours: Lunch Mon-Sat: 12 pm - 2:30 pm; Dinner Mon-Sun: 5:30 - 11:30 pm
• Price Range: appetizers from $12; entrees from $27
• Reservations Recommended? Yes, accepted 1 month in advance

2. Sushi Zen

Sushi Zen serves up the neighborhood's best sushi, in a serene setting. Fish is impeccably fresh and reflects both traditional and creative preparations. Sushi Zen also offers several tasting menus ($55-75).

• Address: 108 West 44th Street (6th/Broadway)
• Telephone: 212-302-0707
• Cuisine: Japanese/Sushi
• Hours: Mon-Fri noon - 2:45 pm; Mon-Sat 5:30 - 10 pm (5 p.m. Sat), closed Sunday
• Price Range: entrees $25-80+

3. Thalia

Fresh, creative American cuisine, including a raw bar, is the focus at this stylish theater district restaurant.

• Address: 828 Eighth Avenue (50th St)
• Telephone: 212-399-4444
• Cuisine: contemporary American
• Hours: lunch Mon-Fri 12-2:30 pm; brunch Sat/Sun 11:30-3 pm; dinner Mon 5:30 - 11:30 pm; Wed-Fri 5:30 - 12 am; Tues/Sat 5 pm-12 am; Sun 4:30-11:30 pm
• Price Range: prix-fixe lunch $16.95; prix-fixe dinner $35 ($45 w/wine pairing), a la carte available
• Good for Groups? Yes (private rooms available)

4. Osteria Al Doge

Fans of Osteria al Doge appreciate the high-quality cuisine served up at moderate prices at this theater district restaurant. The menu features a variety of pizzas, pastas and main courses that will satisfy those seeking Italian cuisine.

• Address: 142 West 44th street (7th/Broadway)
• Telephone: 212-944-3643
• Cuisine: Italian/Venetian
• Hours: lunch and dinner daily
• Price Range: entrees/pizzas $15-27
• Good for Groups? Yes

5. Lattanzi

The only downside of pre-theater dining at Lattanzi is missing out on the outstanding Jewish-Roman menu that's only available after 8 p.m. once the theater-goers have left. Pastas, grilled meats, fried artichokes and the housemade napoleon are all highly recommended.

• Address: 361 West 46th St (8th/9th Aves)
• Telephone: 212-315-0980
• Cuisine: Italian/Roman/Jewish
• Hours: Lunch: 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; Dinner: 4:30 p.m.–11:30 p.m.
• Price Range: approx $40-50 per person

6. Trattoria Trecolori

Classic Italian cuisine is served with rustic flair at Trattoria Trecolori and you might end up leaving surprised at how affordable it is. Pastas (particularly black linguini) and housemade desserts (including tiramisu) are especially delicious.

• Address: 254 West 47th Street (Broadway/8th)
• Telephone: 212-997-4540
• Cuisine: Italian
• Hours: lunch and dinner daily
• Price Range: most dishes $12-28 (specials tend to be higher)
• Good for Kids/Groups? Yes (private parties also available)

7. FireBird

FireBird offers a beautiful setting and impeccable service for experiencing fine Russian cuisine. Borscht and caviar are highly recommended, as is their selection of vodkas.

• Address: 365 West 46th St (8th/9th Aves)
• Telephone: 212-586-0244
• Cuisine: Russian
• Hours: Lunch: Mon-Sat 11:45-2:30 p.m.; Dinner: Mon/Tues & Sun 5-9 p.m. Wed-Sat 5–11 p.m.
• Price Range: lunch prix-fixe $20; dinner prix-fixe $44.98; (a la carte also available)

8. Angus McIndoe

Angus McIndoe offers great service, a pleasant atmosphere and strives to accommodate theater-goers and ensure you'll arrive at your show on time. Excellent raw bar offerings and delicious mains will please traditional and adventurous diners alike.

• Address: 258 West 44th St (Broadway/8th Ave)
• Telephone: 212-221-9222
• Cuisine: American
• Hours: Mon/Tues 12–11 p.m.; Wed/Thurs 12–11:30 p.m.; Fri/Sat noon-midnight; Sun 12–10:30 p.m.
• Price Range: entrees $17-28 (porterhouse for 2, $79)
• Good for Kids/Groups? Yes (private parties available)