Jordan Bentley Eats in Manhattan, New York

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for New York

Must-try foods in New York

• Koji-Rubbed Bone-In Ribeye
  Koji-Rubbed Bone-In RibeyeThe standout dish at Carversteak, the high-profile Las Vegas import that opened in the Theater District in March 2026. The steak is aged and treated with koji and black garlic, representing the neighborhood's shift toward high-concept, trendy steakhouse dining.
• Montanara Starita Pizza
  Montanara Starita PizzaA traditional but unique fried pizza from Don Antonio on 50th Street. The dough is lightly flash-fried before being topped with smoked mozzarella and tomato sauce and finished in a wood-fired oven, a technique perfected by world-renowned pizzaiola Giorgia Caporuscio.
• Shrimp Dumplings in Chili Oil
  Shrimp Dumplings in Chili OilA trending favorite at Kung Fu Little Steamed Buns Ramen. Known for actor-turned-chef Peter Song’s hand-pulled noodles and thin-skinned dumplings, this dish is a staple for theater-goers seeking authentic, high-quality Chinese food without the 'tourist trap' prices.
• Spinach Cannelloni with Béchamel
  Spinach Cannelloni with BéchamelThe ultimate 'classic' dish at Sardi's, the legendary Broadway institution known for its celebrity caricatures. While the restaurant is historic, locals and actors still flock here for this comforting, traditional Italian-American staple before evening performances.
• Burger
  BurgerA quintessential 'insider' meal at Joe Allen, the famous 'flop' restaurant where posters of failed Broadway shows line the walls. This straightforward, reliable burger is the go-to for Broadway actors and stagehands grabbing a quick bite between a matinee and evening show.
• Ceviche in Tiger's Milk
  Ceviche in Tiger's MilkA highlight of the 2026 trending Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian) scene at Kansha. This dish features fresh fish cured in a vibrant, citrusy 'leche de tigre' with choclo (Andean corn) and sweet potato, offering a refreshing alternative to the area's heavier steak and pasta options.

Trip guide

• About New York
  About New YorkThe Theater District in Midtown Manhattan is a designated subdistrict bounded by West 40th and West 54th Streets between Sixth and Eighth Avenues. Its historical development began in the late 19th century as entertainment venues moved northward from Union Square and Herald Square.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit the Theater District is during the shoulder seasons of April to June or September to October, when the weather is mild and pleasant for walking between shows. Peak tourist season occurs during the hot, humid summer months and the festive holiday season in December, leading to high ticket prices and dense crowds. For the best deals and fewest crowds, visit during "Broadway Week" in late January or February.
• Getting around
  Getting around New York

  • NYC Subway The most efficient way to arrive is via the Times Square–42nd Street station, which serves the 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W, and S lines. Alternatively, use the 42nd St–Port Authority station for the A, C.
  • Walking Once in the district, walking is the fastest way to navigate between theaters, which are mostly clustered within a 13-block radius from 41st to 54th Streets.
  • Taxi and Rideshare Yellow taxis and apps like Uber or Lyft are widely available for door-to-door service.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Arrive at the theater at least 30 minutes before the curtain time to clear security and find your seat, as many venues do not seat latecomers until a designated break.
  • Maintain strict theater etiquette by silencing all electronic devices and refraining from talking, singing along, or unwrapping noisy snacks during the performance.
  • Walk with purpose and avoid stopping abruptly in the middle of the sidewalk to prevent collisions with fast-moving local commuters.
• What’s new
  What’s new in New York

  • Cats: The Jellicle Ball (Broadway transfer of the Harlem ballroom-inspired reimagining).
  • Carversteak NYC (the famed Las Vegas steakhouse's East Coast debut on W. 48th St.).
• New York City Tourism + Conventions↗
  New York City Tourism + ConventionsThe official destination marketing organization and visitor guide for the five boroughs of New York City, including Manhattan.