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Ask any New Yorker and they’ll tell you – Times Square is a must-see attraction, but finding a decent place to eat in that neon jungle can feel impossible. Block after block of chain restaurants, overpriced tourist traps, and mediocre food makes you want to throw your hands up in defeat.
But as a someone who is familiar with Manhattan, I’m here to let you in on a local secret: hidden among the bright lights and crowds are some seriously tasty restaurants that even we New Yorkers love. From old school steakhouses to hole-in-the-wall taco joints, Times Square dining can actually be awesome if you know where to look.
Times Square’s Hidden Food Gems
Here’s my insider guide to the 10 best spots to eat in Times Square:
Gallagher’s Steakhouse – The Vibe: Classic Old School Manhattan
First opened in 1927, Gallagher’s takes you back to an era of red leather booths and white tablecloths. Their USDA prime steaks are dry aged in-house – try the bone-in ribeye seared perfectly charred on the open grill. Get the jumbo shrimp cocktail and creamed spinach as sides. Between the top-notch service and quality meat, you’ll feel like Frank Sinatra could walk in any moment.
Carmine’s – The Vibe: Loud, Fun, Italian Family-Style
Carmine’s has been a Times Square staple since 1990 for good reason – they excel at big hearty Italian classics meant for sharing “family style.” Their linguine in clam sauce is a personal favorite, but you can’t go wrong with any of their pastas smothered in alfredo or marinara.Go with a group and order a bunch of apps and mains to sample. Just prepare for the noise level to be as big as the portions!
Los Tacos No. 1 – The Vibe: Authentic Mexican Hole-in-the-Wall
Los Tacos started as a tiny stand before becoming so popular it expanded to a bricks-and-mortar spot. And man are these tacos worth seeking out. Fresh soft corn tortillas get loaded up with your protein of choice – citrusy carnitas or smoky carne asada are what taco dreams are made of. Toppings are simple – just cilantro, diced pineapple, onions, salsa. At $3 a pop, I sometimes can’t resist getting one of each.
The Glass House Tavern – The Vibe: Upscale Gastropub
If you’re looking for a more “elevated” Times Square dining experience, Glass House Tavern is a good bet. Sunny floor-to-ceiling windows make it feel bright and airy. Apps like goat cheese bruschetta and mains like braised short ribs over parsnip puree are creative modern American dishes. It’s a great date spot, especially to cap off a Broadway show. Just be prepared for that signature NYC sticker shock when you get the bill!
Sake Bar Hagi – The Vibe: Intimate Underground Japanese Spot
After the sensory overload of Times Square, descending into Sake Bar Hagi feels like entering a peaceful hideaway. Tucked below street level, I love their funky underground izakaya energy. Share their lettuce wraps stuffed with kimchi pork or soft shell crab in pepper mayo for a taste explosion. Get the green tea soba noodles and a glass of hot sake while you’re at it!
Junior’s Restaurant & Bakery- The Vibe: Old School Diner Charm
Junior’s takes me right back to childhood with their classic diner vibe. Their pastrami sandwiches tower about a foot high and come with the requisite NY deli pickles. But as a born-and-bred New Yorker, I can definitively say their cheesecake is world class. The strawberry swirl flavor with bursts of fruit is my personal kryptonite. Grab a booth, order a slice (or three), and watch the crowds go by.
Margon – The Vibe: No Frills Cuban Spot
Before or after a Broadway show, Margon is my go-to for a quick, delicious Cuban bite on the cheap. Their classic Cubanos layered with roasted pork, ham, and melty Swiss cheese seriously can’t be beat, especially with a side of tostones or fried yucca. Tip: eat early or late to avoid the pre-theater dinner rush. The place gets packed but it’s worth it!
Artesano – The Vibe: Trendy South American Cuisine
If you want to impress someone on date night, I’d suggest Artesano. Inspired by Brazilian, Peruvian, and Argentinian fare, the dishes put creative spins on South American staples. Their tuna tacos with mango are a favorite, as is the lomo saltado beef stir fry. The atmosphere feels sexy and modern with dim lighting, an impressive bar scene, and smooth Latin music in the background. It’s pricier but special occasion worthy.
Sesamo – The Vibe: Cozy, Romantic Italian
Sesamo instantly transports me to Italy, with its vine-covered brick walls and strings of tiny lights. Split an order of bruschetta with creamy burrata cheese to start – it’s the must try appetizer. For your main course, the seafood risotto loaded with shrimp and scallops is highly recommended. And you simply can’t pass up the tiramisu for dessert. Grabbing an outdoor table for two on their sidewalk patio is my ideal date night.
Tips for Navigating the Times Square Dining Scene
Here’s some important tips when planning meals in Times Square:
- Plan to eat before or after popular showtimes. That way you avoid the crowds.
- For a more relaxed experience, try to go for an early dinner around 5pm or a late meal after 9:30pm when the theater crowds have died down.
- Making reservations ahead for any of the upscale restaurants is highly recommended.
That completes my must-eat restaurants for savoring the best of Times Square’s dining scene. I hope my local expertise helps you discover new spots beyond the crowds and neon where you can eat like a true New Yorker. Just don’t forget the cardinal rule of Manhattan dining – cash only at many of our favorites! Wherever you choose, embrace the spirit of this one-of-a-kind neighborhood. The billboards and bright lights will still be waiting after an amazing meal.
