Where to Eat Before the Met Opera: A Guide to the Best Restaurants in the Area

Ahead of your next night at the Met Opera, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of these nearby restaurants. From classic Italian to modern American, there’s something for everyone within walking distance of the opera house. So whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely pre-show dinner, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy a meal before taking your seat in the orchestra.

Here are a few of our top recommendations:

  • Del Posto is a Michelin-starred Italian restaurant that offers an elegant dining experience in a sophisticated atmosphere.
  • Marea is another Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in seafood. The restaurant has a beautiful waterfront view and offers a variety of tasting menus.
  • Nice Matin is a casual French bistro that serves classic dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
  • The Modern is a fine-dining restaurant that offers a tasting menu that changes seasonally. The restaurant has a stunning view of Central Park.

No matter what your budget or taste, you’re sure to find a great place to eat before your next night at the Met Opera. So take your time, explore the options, and enjoy a delicious meal before enjoying a night of world-class opera.

“`html

Restaurant Cuisine Price Range
The Met Opera Restaurant American $$$
La Scala Italian $$$
Marea Seafood $$$
Nice Matin French $$$
The Modern Modern American $$$

“`

Options in the Theater District

The Theater District is home to some of the best restaurants in New York City, and it’s no wonder why. With so many theaters and other attractions in the area, there’s always a reason to go out and enjoy a meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite before the show or a leisurely dinner after, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from in the Theater District.

Restaurants within walking distance of the Met Opera

The Met Opera is located at 30 Lincoln Center Plaza, just steps away from some of the best restaurants in the city. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • The Grill Room at the Waldorf Astoria is a classic New York City dining experience. The menu features American classics, such as steak and lobster, as well as international dishes. The restaurant also offers stunning views of Central Park.
  • Marea is a seafood-focused restaurant from Michelin-starred chef Michael White. The menu features fresh seafood dishes, such as oysters, lobster, and sea bass. The restaurant also has a raw bar and a wine list that’s second to none.
  • Nice Matin is a French bistro with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu features classic French dishes, such as escargots, steak frites, and coq au vin. The restaurant also has a great selection of wines to pair with your meal.

Restaurants with pre-theater menus

Many restaurants in the Theater District offer pre-theater menus, which are designed to be quick and affordable. These menus typically include smaller portions of food, so you can enjoy a meal without having to rush to the theater. Here are a few of our favorite restaurants with pre-theater menus:

  • The View Restaurant and Lounge offers stunning views of Central Park from its rooftop terrace. The pre-theater menu includes items such as salads, sandwiches, and pizzas.
  • The Hard Rock Cafe is a classic American diner with a rock ‘n’ roll theme. The pre-theater menu includes burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
  • The Olive Garden is a family-friendly Italian restaurant with a wide variety of dishes to choose from. The pre-theater menu includes pasta dishes, salads, and pizzas.

Restaurants with views of the theater district

If you’re looking for a meal with a view, there are plenty of restaurants in the Theater District that offer stunning views of the city. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • The View Restaurant and Lounge offers 360-degree views of Central Park from its rooftop terrace. The restaurant also has a full bar and a menu that includes American classics, such as steak and lobster.
  • The Rainbow Room is located on the 65th floor of Rockefeller Center. The restaurant offers stunning views of Midtown Manhattan and the Empire State Building. The menu features American classics, as well as international dishes.
  • The Top of the Rock Observation Deck is located on the 70th floor of Rockefeller Center. The observation deck offers stunning views of the city, including the Met Opera.

Options in Midtown West

Midtown West is another great option for pre-theater dining. The neighborhood is home to a variety of restaurants, including some of the best steakhouses, sushi restaurants, and Italian restaurants in the city. Here are a few of our favorites:

Restaurants with a variety of cuisines

  • The Modern is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a tasting menu of modern American cuisine. The menu changes seasonally, but you can always expect to find creative and innovative dishes.
  • Sushi Nakazawa is a world-renowned sushi restaurant from chef Masayoshi Takayama. The restaurant offers an omakase menu, which means that the chef chooses the dishes for you.
  • Il Mulino is a classic Italian restaurant with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu features traditional Italian dishes, such as pasta, pizza, and risotto.

Restaurants with outdoor seating

If you’re looking for a meal alfresco, there are plenty of restaurants in Midtown West that offer outdoor seating. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • The View Restaurant and Lounge offers stunning views of Central Park from its rooftop terrace. The restaurant also has a full bar and a menu that includes American classics, such as steak and lobster.
  • The Hard Rock Cafe is a classic American diner with a rock ‘n’ roll theme. The restaurant has outdoor seating on its rooftop terrace.
  • The Olive Garden is a family-friendly Italian restaurant with a wide variety of dishes to choose from. The restaurant has outdoor seating on its patio.

Restaurants with late-night hours

If you’re looking for a meal after the show, there are plenty of restaurants in Midtown West that

Options in Times Square

Times Square is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it’s no wonder why. With its bright lights, Broadway shows, and world-famous restaurants, it’s the perfect place to spend an evening. If you’re planning on seeing a show at the Metropolitan Opera, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of great restaurants in Times Square to choose from. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • The View Restaurant and Lounge offers stunning views of Times Square from its 49th-floor location. The menu features American cuisine with a modern twist, and the wine list is extensive.
  • Ellen’s Stardust Diner is a fun and lively spot where the waitstaff sings and dances while they serve your food. The menu features classic American diner fare, and the atmosphere is electric.
  • The Hard Rock Cafe is a New York City institution. The menu features classic American fare with a rock ‘n’ roll twist, and the walls are adorned with memorabilia from rock stars past and present.

Restaurants with a lively atmosphere

If you’re looking for a restaurant with a lively atmosphere, there are plenty of options in Times Square. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • The View Restaurant and Lounge offers stunning views of Times Square from its 49th-floor location. The menu features American cuisine with a modern twist, and the wine list is extensive. The atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a special occasion.
  • Ellen’s Stardust Diner is a fun and lively spot where the waitstaff sings and dances while they serve your food. The menu features classic American diner fare, and the atmosphere is electric. It’s the perfect place to go for a fun and memorable meal.
  • The Hard Rock Cafe is a New York City institution. The menu features classic American fare with a rock ‘n’ roll twist, and the walls are adorned with memorabilia from rock stars past and present. The atmosphere is lively and fun, and it’s the perfect place to go for a casual meal with friends.

Restaurants with celebrity chefs

If you’re looking for a restaurant with a celebrity chef, there are a few options in Times Square. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • The View Restaurant and Lounge offers stunning views of Times Square from its 49th-floor location. The menu features American cuisine with a modern twist, and the wine list is extensive. The chef, Julian Serrano, has been named one of the “Best New Chefs” by Food & Wine magazine.
  • Ellen’s Stardust Diner is a fun and lively spot where the waitstaff sings and dances while they serve your food. The menu features classic American diner fare, and the atmosphere is electric. The chef, Scott Conant, has been named one of the “Best New Chefs” by Food & Wine magazine.
  • The Hard Rock Cafe is a New York City institution. The menu features classic American fare with a rock ‘n’ roll twist, and the walls are adorned with memorabilia from rock stars past and present. The chef, Wolfgang Puck, is one of the most famous chefs in the world.

Restaurants with affordable prices

If you’re looking for a restaurant with affordable prices, there are plenty of options in Times Square. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • The View Restaurant and Lounge offers stunning views of Times Square from its 49th-floor location. The menu features American cuisine with a modern twist, and the wine list is extensive. The prices are on the higher end, but the views and the experience are worth it.
  • Ellen’s Stardust Diner is a fun and lively spot where the waitstaff sings and dances while they serve your food. The menu features classic American diner fare, and the prices are very reasonable. It’s the perfect place to go for a fun and affordable meal.
  • The Hard Rock Cafe is a New York City institution. The menu features classic American fare with a rock ‘n’ roll twist, and the prices are very reasonable. It’s the perfect place to go for a casual meal with friends.

Other Options

In addition to the restaurants listed above, there are a few other options for eating before the Met Opera in Times Square. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • Restaurants in nearby neighborhoods

If you’re not interested in eating in Times Square, there are plenty of other great restaurants in nearby neighborhoods. Some of our favorites include:

*

Q: What are some of the best restaurants near the Met Opera?

A: There are many great restaurants near the Met Opera, including:

  • The Grill Room at the Metropolitan Opera House offers a sophisticated dining experience in a beautiful setting. The menu features classic American dishes with a modern twist, and the wine list is extensive.
  • Nice Matin is a French bistro with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu features classic French dishes, such as escargots and steak frites, as well as more creative dishes, such as foie gras terrine with black truffles.
  • The View Restaurant and Lounge offers stunning views of Central Park from its rooftop location. The menu features American fare with a Mediterranean twist, and the cocktails are creative and delicious.

Q: What are some of the best options for pre-theater dining at the Met Opera?

A: There are a few different ways to enjoy pre-theater dining at the Met Opera. You can:

  • Make a reservation at one of the restaurants in the opera house. This is the most convenient option, as you can enjoy your meal without having to leave the theater. However, reservations can be difficult to get, especially for popular shows.
  • Dine at one of the restaurants in the neighborhood. There are many great restaurants within walking distance of the Met Opera, so you can enjoy a leisurely meal before the show. Just be sure to leave plenty of time to get to the theater.
  • Have a picnic in Central Park. If you’re looking for a more casual option, you can pack a picnic and enjoy it in Central Park, which is just across the street from the Met Opera. This is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some fresh air before the show.

Q: What are some things to consider when choosing a restaurant for pre-theater dining at the Met Opera?

A: There are a few things to consider when choosing a restaurant for pre-theater dining at the Met Opera, including:

  • The price range. The cost of dinner at the Met Opera can vary significantly, from casual restaurants that offer inexpensive fare to fine dining establishments that charge hundreds of dollars per person.
  • The type of cuisine. There are restaurants serving all types of cuisine near the Met Opera, from classic American to international fare.
  • The atmosphere. Some restaurants are more casual and relaxed, while others are more formal and elegant.
  • The location. It’s important to choose a restaurant that’s located close to the Met Opera so you don’t have to rush to get to the theater.

Q: What are some tips for enjoying a pre-theater meal at the Met Opera?

A: Here are a few tips for enjoying a pre-theater meal at the Met Opera:

  • Make your reservation well in advance. Reservations are essential for popular shows, especially if you’re hoping to dine at one of the restaurants in the opera house.
  • Arrive early. You’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy your meal and get to your seat before the show starts.
  • Dress appropriately. The dress code for the Met Opera varies depending on the show, but it’s generally recommended to dress in formal attire.
  • Relax and enjoy the experience. A pre-theater meal is a great way to get into the spirit of the show and enjoy a special evening out.

    there are many great options for dining before a night at the Met Opera. Whether you’re looking for a casual pre-show bite or a more formal meal, you’re sure to find something to your taste within walking distance of the opera house. Be sure to make your reservations well in advance, especially for shows on weekends and during peak season. And don’t forget to enjoy the lively atmosphere of New York City’s Theater District before taking your seat for a night of world-class opera.

Author Profile

Kelsey Hammons
Kelsey Hammons
I was born and raised in the fabulous state of Maryland but recently decided to pack up my stuff and move to the Midwest city they call Chicago.

I hope to capture all of my life’s adventures of living in the windy city. AKA the food I cook, my journey to the Chicago Marathon, the books I read and the trashy TV shows I watch. I’m a health-nut, book-worm and exercise fiend.

Join me, Kelsey, on this exciting journey as I embrace the challenges and joys of my new life in Chicago. From mastering the art of healthy cooking to hitting the pavement for marathon training, my blog is a window into my world of self-discovery and fun.

Similar Posts