One can live for years in New York struggling with this simple food dilemma: where to eat before that 7PM Broadway show in Midtown. Now, this issue for me was exacerbated by the fact I am an avid Broadway Lottery player, meaning if I win lottery tickets on any given day, I have very little time to convince my partner to attend a show that same night, pay for the discounted tickets, and then run to the show immediately after work. And as many New Yorkers will tell you, they completely avoid midtown Manhattan, making them totally unaware of tasty food options there.

Over the last couple years, I’ve started planning ahead and asked around about food options in Midtown West / Hell’s Kitchen. There are a few excellent restaurants, but they are either pricey or slow, often both. Luckily, I’ve found several food options in Midtown that now I can look forward to stopping at for a speedy, affordable and delicious bite before the show.

Ramen or Thai:

Totto Ramen: 366 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019 or 464 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019

A personal favorite! Ramen is prepared quickly and this spot is always top quality.

Wondee Siam: 792 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019

Thai is a specialty on Hell’s Kitchen’s 9th Avenue. This spot is tiny, but the service and meals are always great.

Talad Wat: 714 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019

Communal tables and a country style make this a unique and delicious Thai experience.

Burger and Shake:

Shake Shack: 691 8th Ave, New York, NY 10036

This burger chain originates in NYC, but has spread all over the country. It’s still a great quick meal and the lines move fast.

5 Napkin Burger: 630 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036

This is another NYC burger chain serving up high quality burgers, salads, and bar food.

Mexican:

Los Tacos No.1: 229 W 43rd St, New York, NY 10036

This popular cult favorite serves excellent street style tacos and feels like you’re stepping into a California fast-food joint. There are skinny tables for standing and quick taco consumption.

Pizza:

Patzeria Perfect Pizza: 231 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036 (for slices/ garlic knots),

There are several cheap take-away pizza slice options in NYC, but this is one of the best. They also offer many toppings.

Food Court:

City Kitchen: 700 8th Ave, New York, NY 10036

This artisanal food court won me over with a doughnut stand. Having options is nice for a family or larger group that may not be able to decide on one restaurant.

Caffeine or Pastry:

St Kilda Coffee: 328 W 44th St, New York, NY

If I’m dragging before a show, I want a quick espresso or coffee. St Kilda is a favorite because it has a unique location underneath 44th Street (around the corner from Shake Shack), and if you’re lucky you’ll spot some Broadway stars also seeking a shot of energy.

Cafe Grumpy: 200 W 39th St, New York, NY 10018

My classic go-to coffee shop in NYC has a Times Square location.

Bars:

Jimmy’s Corner: 140 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036

A narrow and packed classic NYC dive bar. You’ll find all ages and types here, and you’ll be squeezing by everyone, so this is not for the claustrophobic.

Flaming Saddles: 793 9th Avenue (between W 52nd/ W 53rd St), New York, NY 10019

This is an energetic gay bar, popular with all genders and orientations. This is a perfect spot to grab a quick beer and get in the mood for a musical. The bartenders here all wear cowboy boots and dance on the bar à la Coyote Ugly.

Pocket Bar: 455 W 48th St, New York, NY 10036

Super small bar only locals know about with a wonderful owner/bartender. You’ll feel welcome the instant you enter, and they give out free popcorn. Also consider their sister bar Back Pocket one block north.