If you’re visiting the Big Apple, it’s a must that you plan some time to visit a Broadway theater. But of course, any Broadway theater visit is not complete without a dining experience that encapsulates the beauty and vibrance of New York City. 

As you plan where to eat dinner before a Broadway show, there are a couple of factors you should consider first.  

You’ll want a restaurant that’s convenient, accessible, and flexible around show schedules. It doesn’t hurt to have a stylish and ambient atmosphere either. That’s where Starchild Rooftop Lounge comes in. Starchild is an excellent choice for theatergoers who are catching a show on Broadway but want somewhere elevated and enjoyable where they can eat before or after the show. 

At Starchild, we’ve grown to be a popular location for theatergoers, professionals, and both locals and visitors, in part because of our upscale and ambient environment. Featuring a trendy rooftop bar and full-service kitchen, you can stop in for a pre-game dinner or enjoy an incredible lineup of cocktails that you’ll only find in New York City. 

Book your reservation today! 

Which Restaurants Offer Quick Service Before a Show? 

The Broadway theaters are scattered around Midtown, Times Square, and the Theater District. This means that you’ll have several options to choose from if you’re looking for a restaurant within walking distance before your show, or a lively place to catch happy hour.   

There are a number of mom and pop, hole-in-the-wall, and Michelin star restaurants that make it easy to grab a bite before your show. You’ll also find a number of restaurants that offer a more elevated dining experience as well. 

Starchild does a really good job blending a diverse menu with quality pours so that you can experience a memorable night out. Located on the 27th floor of the Civilian Hotel, you’ll get to experience the city below in a one-of-a-kind ambiance you’ll only find in a rooftop dining setting.  

Our open-air rooftop offers a panoramic view of the city skyline, and you’ll get to soak in this ambiance before or after showtime. 

What Types of Food Are Popular Before a Broadway Show? 

The right meal can set the tone for your evening. If you’re planning on having dinner before your show, it’s best to dine on something light yet satisfying. This can include salads, seafood, gourmet burgers that are on the lighter side, and even pasta dishes.  

It’s not the time to have a hearty meal because this can keep you from enjoying the show, especially if you’re someone who gets up and moves around after a big meal. 

At Starchild, you’ll find a number of small plates to indulge in before your show. Popular dishes include Spicy Salmon Tartare Cones, Spicy Sea Bass Ceviche, BLT Lettuce Wraps, and Wagyu & Foie Gras Dumplings. You can see more of our small plates and dishes when you explore our menu. 

How Early Should I Arrive To Eat Before the Show Starts? 

Broadway shows run throughout the afternoon and evening, with shows starting as early as 1:00 p.m. and usually running through until 7:30 p.m. The best time to plan your meal is around your specific showtime, but you want to make sure that you don’t eat too early so that you can still enjoy your show without having to plan for dinner reservations right after. 

Typically, you should aim to complete your meal roughly 45 minutes to an hour before your show starts. Of course, you’ll also want to calculate commute time to make sure that you get to your show on time. 

Can I Make Reservations for a Pre-Show Dinner? 

Many restaurants will take a pre-show dinner reservation, which can help you catch your Broadway show on time. If you know you’re catching the show that day, your best bet is to make sure you have a reservation, so you don’t have to worry about the wait time or planning out your day.  

At Starchild, pre-show dinner reservations can start as early as 3:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 5:00 p.m. on weekdays. Visit us online to book your table reservation or special event after a Broadway show.  

What Are Some Good Options for Dining After the Show? 

If you’d rather wait to have dinner after your show, then there are a number of good post show dining options available to you, especially throughout Times Square and the Theater District.  

Starchild Rooftop Lounge is a great option if you’re looking for after theater drinks and small bites. We also have a really lively atmosphere that can help complete a perfect night out. Plus, our panoramic views from the rooftop terrace make a great way to end the night with the twinkling city below. 

Is Starchild a Good Spot for Dinner Before a Broadway Show? 

Absolutely. Serving carefully curated small bites and a thoughtfully crafted variety of cocktails, wines, beers, and other pours, Starchild can be a great place to start an evening and pre-game before your Broadway theater show. 

Our selection of small bites has also been popular among theatergoers because the dishes are filling yet light, helping tide you over before your Broadway show. Being a highly sought after rooftop bar in New York City that’s close to the Theater District, Starchild has become a popular place for theatergoers to pop in for a quick bite before catching a Broadway show. 

How Close Is Starchild to Broadway Theaters? 

Starchild is conveniently located on the 27th floor of the Civilian Hotel, and it’s just a couple of blocks away from most Broadway theaters. Typically, it can take anywhere from a five to 10-minute walk to get to your Broadway show. 

Our proximity to the Theater District has made us a popular choice for theatergoers because it takes out the issue of having to plan out the logistics, like commuting or making it to your show on time. Plus, we’re a great location to stop in after a Broadway show because we provide a really elegant and magical way to end your night.  

Our rooftop bar is open until midnight on weekdays and until 2:00 a.m. on Thursday to Saturday. Stopping by after your show offers you the opportunity to experience the vibrance and eclectic dining scene you’ll truly only find in the city that never sleeps. 

Book Your Broadway Show Dinner at Starchild Rooftop Lounge  

When you reserve your dinner before a Broadway show at Starchild, you can look forward to having an experience that will complement your Broadway theater plans nicely.  

Looking to end your night off on a high note? Starchild does an exceptional job setting the scene for a memorable evening out in New York City, thanks to our regularly hosted events, panoramic rooftop lounge, and lively environment.  

Experience this ambiance for yourself when you plan your dinner reservation at Starchild. 

Reserve your table today!