This post may contain affiliate links! I will receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase something recommended here.
If you’re looking for a great place to eat before or after a show at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre in New York City–or anywhere in the Broadway Theatre District–then you’ve come to the right place!
As a professional actor living and auditioning in New York City, I’ve spent many evenings watching productions at all levels around the Theatre District.
And, y’know, a girl’s gotta eat!
From classic Italian fare to modern American cuisine, I’ll highlight some of my favorite restaurants near the Eugene O’Neill Theatre in NYC that satisfy any cravings for pre-theatre dining or post-theatre dessert.
And yes, in case you’re wondering, I’ve personally eaten at just about every restaurant on this list!
Restaurants Near the Eugene O’Neill Theatre in NYC
1. Lillie’s Victorian Establishment


- Address: 249 W 49th St, New York, NY 10019
- Website
Right across from the theater, you’ll find Lillie’s Victorian Establishment.
This is an excellent spot for a drink after the show.
When you head inside, the interior is decorated to resemble a 19th-century home, with Victorian-era decor lining the walls.
Their fare is standard pub food and eclectic cocktails.
It’s one of my favorite places to go after seeing a Broadway show with friends or enjoying a drink under their beautiful decorations during the Christmas season.
2. Mom’s Kitchen and Bar


- Address: 701 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019
- Website
As far as viral New York City desserts go, I’m sure you’ve seen the pictures of Black Tap’s towering milkshake confections.
To be honest, I’ve compared–Mom’s are better.
You’ll be met with major retro vibes when you head into Mom’s Kitchen and Bar.
It feels like you are wandering into the 1950s car hop, with checkerboard floor tiles and spacious booths.
Their food is standard American, and they serve a breakfast menu all day.
But again–have you seen their milkshakes?
They have six different flavors, from Cotton Candy to this incredible Chocolate Peanut Butter one that comes with whole chunks of Reese’s cups decorating the outside of the glass.
Mhmmmmm.
You can find Mom’s other location over in Astoria, Queens.
3. Becco


- Address: 355 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
- Website
I hope you’ll forgive me; as an American living in Italy, I am particularly partial to excellent Italian cuisine.
Thankfully, there are tons in New York City.
Found on West 46th Street, Becco is a small Italian restaurant with an incredible menu.
Aside from their à la carte options, you can opt for an all-you-can-eat pasta sampler.
Yes, I said all-you-can-eat pasta.
You will be given small but unlimited portions of the three different kinds of pasta they are cooking that day.
They have a lovely ambiance inside, and the food is excellent.
It’s a great option if you’re looking for restaurants near the Eugene O’Neill Theatre in NYC.
4. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ


- Address: 321 W 44th St #103, New York, NY 10036
- Website
If you want to experience an authentic Japanese yakiniku (grilled barbecue), then Gyu-Kaku is the place for you.
Found right around the corner from the Eugene O’Neill Theatre, you can choose premium meats to cook to order over a flaming, smokeless grill.
The menu includes a wide selection of Japanese BBQ favorites, from the popular Harami Skirt Steak to Prime Kalbi Short Ribs.
Since you get to cook the food yourself at your table, Gyu-Kaku is a memorable dining experience if you want to spend time with friends and family before the show–or need an interesting wintery date idea!
7. Ageha Sushi


- Address: 767 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019
- Website
This unassuming sushi spot on 9th Avenue is one of my go-to restaurants when I’m in the mood for sushi in the Theater District.
They serve high-quality sushi rolls made with fresh sushi-grade fish and other fresh ingredients and a full hibachi menu.
Thankfully, I rarely wait for a table.
If you’re looking for a great lunch restaurant, they have sushi has a lunch menu, where you can get a few rolls and soup for under $20.
8. Empire Steak House West
- Address: 237 W 54th St, New York, NY 10019
- Website
The most high-end restaurant on this list is the Empire Steak House West located on W. 54th St. at the Hilton Hotel, making it the perfect spot for a meal before or after a show at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre in NYC.
This classy steakhouse offers beautiful modern décor with just a touch of trendy.
Of course, you’re going to this dining destination for its succulent steak.
Empire Steak House West is renowned for its dry-aged porterhouse for two, but its menu also includes a wide selection of seafood dishes and platters like Chilean Sea Bass, yellowfin tuna, salmon, and 4-to 5-lb lobsters.
You can also enjoy an extensive wine list featuring some of California’s most sought-after selections.
9. Tacuba


- Address: 802 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019
- Website
Across the street from Flaming Saddles is another fun restaurant spot.
Tacuba serves up authentic Mexican cuisine in a fun atmosphere with excellent margaritas and a heaping bowl of fresh guacamole.
This is a fun place to go with your friends when you’re looking for a great meal in the Theater District.
10. Bocca di Bacco
- Address: 836 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019, or 635 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036
- Website
Rounding out this list of the best restaurants near the Eugene O’Neill Theatre in NYC is one of my favorite restaurants in Manhattan, Bocca di Bacco.
It’s the farthest away from the theater, but it’s only a 10-minute walk away.
This restaurant serves excellent Italian food and coming from someone who has lived in Italy, that’s saying something.
And with two locations on 9th Avenue, each just a 10-minute walk from the theater, you have twice the chance to get in before showtime.
11. Schmackary’s


- Address: 362 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036
- Website
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention some of my favorite dessert places near the Eugene O’Neill Theatre.
Schmackary’s is the cookie shop to the Broadway stars.
After a show, you’ll find a line wrapped around the block as people await their after-show sugar shock.
With a rotating list of flavors and cookies more on the crispy side of the chewy debate, a Broadway lover can’t leave the Theater District without a taste.
Sometimes, you’ll find a Broadway actor manning the counter as the professional theatre community partners with Schmackary’s for charity projects all the time.
12. Mia’s Brooklyn Bakery
- Address: 716 7th Ave, New York, NY 10036
- Website
Over on Seventh Avenue, you’ll find the Manhattan outpost of Mia’s Brooklyn Bakery.
Serving up fresh pastries and baked goods until well into the night, this little shop was founded on the idea of traditional, classic desserts perfected.
Cases of perfectly laid out pastries, cookies, and cake slices sit prettily in their displays.
And, of course, they taste as delicious as they look.
Make sure to grab a rainbow cookie or a piece of their incredible chocolate cake. Or a Creme Brûlée cupcake, or a lobster tail, or a Napoleon–you can’t go wrong with any of them!
13. Holey Cream
- Address: 791 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019
- Website
My final favorite dessert in the area is Holey Cream.
This ice cream shop is known for creating ice cream sandwiches with freshly baked donuts.
They come out huge, so be prepared to share one if you’re going with friends.
They also have milkshakes, blizzards, and donuts.
Restaurants Near the Eugene O’Neill Theatre NYC: FAQs


Where is the Eugene O’Neill Theatre?
The Eugene O’Neill Theatre is located right in the heart of New York City’s Broadway Theatre District, at 230 West 49th Street, between Broadway and 8th Avenue.
Thankfully, you don’t have to go far to find excellent restaurants near the Eugene O’Neill Theatre.
Since you’re on the edge of the city’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood, you can find several outstanding restaurants within a few blocks.
There is also the Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center near Mystic, Connecticut.
What show is running at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre in New York City?
The highly-acclaimed Broadway musical, The Book of Mormon, has been running at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre since 2011.
It’s the 13th-longest-running Broadway show and won 9 Tony Awards.
You can check out their show schedule and purchase tickets through SeatGeek or directly at the theater.
Or, enter their lottery through Lucky Seat for the chance to purchase $40 tickets.
Take a look at my complete guide to learn more about the lottery system and tips on going to a Broadway show or the best way to buy tickets.
Who is the Eugene O’Neill Theatre named after?
The Eugene O’Neill Theatre in New York City is named after the famous American playwright Eugene O’Neill.
Originally named the Forrest Theatre and then the Coronet Theatre, the theater space was officially renamed the Eugene O’Neill Theatre in 1959.
The Nobel Prize-winning playwright is known for plays like Beyond the Horizon, The Iceman Cometh, and Long Day’s Journey into Night.
Should I make a reservation to have dinner before a Broadway show?
If you want to have dinner before attending a Broadway show, make sure to book a reservation at least an hour and a half before your showtime.
And be sure to tell your server when you sit down what time your show starts, so they know you need to leave with enough time.
You’re in the Theater District, so restaurants know people are coming to eat before a show.
They’ll do their best to ensure you have a great dining experience and get out with enough time to sit down before the house lights come down–but you need to let them know in advance!
NYC Restaurants Near the Eugene O’Neill Theatre: Wrap-Up
Since you’re right in the heart of the Broadway Theatre District, there are plenty of excellent restaurants near the Eugene O’Neill Theatre in NYC.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite before the show or a whole dinner experience, you’re sure to find a restaurant that fits your taste and interest.
And remember to make a reservation ahead of time and let your server know when your show starts so you can make the show in time!
Read More
- What to Expect at Your First BroadwayCon
- Favorite Features: Popular Movies & TV Shows Set in New York City
- Your Guide to Navigating the New York City Subway System
- How To Understand NYC Streets: The New York Grid System Explained
- 41+ Crazy Things to do in New York City at Night



