Introduction: Eating Well on a Broadway Timeline
Let’s be honest: finding a decent meal in Times Square can feel like a high-stakes scavenger hunt. It’s easy to settle for a lukewarm pretzel and call it dinner. But when you’ve already dropped a small fortune on Broadway tickets, you shouldn’t have to choose between a $50 fixed price menu and a soggy sandwich. Whether you’re sprinting toward a 2:00pm matinee or trying to squeeze in a bite before the 8:00pm curtain, the “Center of the Universe”– as Times Square is famously known – actually hides some of the best culinary deals in Manhattan, if you know which side streets to walk down.
In this guide, I’m breaking down the absolute best cheap eats in Times Square and the Theater District (Broadway) that hit the trifecta of New York dining: cheap, fast, and genuinely good. I’m not talking about “good for a tourist trap”; I’m talking about local-favorite spots where the food is served in minutes and the bill stays under $30. From legendary Cuban counters to the city’s most efficient taco stands, here is how to eat like a savvy New Yorker before your next big show.
Map
I’ve pinned each restaurant below, color-coded by cuisine for easy browsing.
How to Use & Save This Map
To make your trip to Times Square even easier, you can save this custom map directly to your Google Maps app:
- Open the Map: Click the [ ] icon in the top right corner of the map above to open it in full-screen mode.
- Save to Your Account: If you are signed into your Google account, the map will automatically be saved to your “Your Places” or “Saved” list.
- Access on the Go: On your phone, open the Google Maps app, tap the “Saved” (or “You”) tab at the bottom, scroll down to “Maps,” and select “Times Square Cheap Eats” to see all these pins while you’re walking!
- Pro-Tip: If you have limited data or a spotty connection, you can download the “Midtown Manhattan” area for offline use in your Google Maps settings so you never lose your way.
Broadway Quick Bite Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Los Tacos No. 1 | Margon | Joe’s Pizza | Empanada Mama | Mountain House |
| Cuisine | Mexican | Cuban | NYC Pizza | Latin | Szechuan |
| Signature Dish | Adobada Tacos | Cuban Sandwich (Cubano) | Classic Cheese Slice | Shredded Beef | Swing Pork Belly |
| Price Range | $5 –$15 | $12 – $18 | $5 –$10 | $5 –$15 | $25 – $45 |
| Speed | Fast (Standing) | Moderate | Instant | Fast | Sit-down (Efficient) |
| Best For… | High-speed flavor | Hearty matinee lunch | The classic NYC dash | Groups & 24/7 dining | A “fancy” pre-show meal |
| Location | West 43rd St between 7th and 8th Ave | 136 West 46th St between 6th and 7th Ave | 1435 Broadway between 40th and 41st St | 765 9th Ave between 51st and 52st St | 353 West 46th St between 8th and 9th Ave |
The Pre-Theater Dining “6:30 Rule” & Logistics: Expert Advice on Timing
If you are new to the New York theater scene, the most important thing to understand is that “Showtime” isn’t actually when the experience begins. To have a stress-free evening, you need to master the logistics of the Theater District. Here is my gold-standard strategy for timing your “quick bite” so you never have to sprint to your seat.
The “6:30 Rule”
For a standard 8:00pm curtain, you should aim to be finished with your meal by 6:30pm (for a 7:30pm curtain, I advise being done with dinner by 6:00pm the latest). This might seem early, but there is a method to the madness.
- The Security Surge: Most Broadway houses (like the Gershwin or Minskoff) begin their security screenings and “doors open” phase at 7:15pm or 7:30pm (for 8:00pm shows). Lines can wrap around the block, and the “bag check” process is thorough.
- Walking through Times Square: Navigating the three blocks between a restaurant and a theater can take twice as long as Google Maps predicts. Between the costume characters, slow-moving tour groups, and pedestrian gridlock, you need a 15-minute “buffer zone” just for walking.
- The Restroom Rush: Once you are inside the theater, the lines for the restrooms are notoriously long (even more so during intermission). Finishing your meal by 6:30pm gives you time to arrive at the theater early, clear security, and handle the amenities before your show starts.
Navigating the Broadway Matinee Rush
If you’re attending a Wednesday or Saturday matinee (usually a 2:00pm start), the timing shifts significantly. The “Cheap & Fast” spots mentioned below will be at their absolute peak at 12:45pm. To beat the crowd:
- The 11:45am Arrival: If you can get to your lunch spot before noon, you’ll bypass the massive wave of office workers and fellow theater-goers.
- The “Mobile Order” Hack: For places like Joe’s Pizza, check if their mobile app is active for the Broadway location. Ordering while you’re still on the subway can save you 15 minutes of standing on the sidewalk.
Los Tacos No. 1: The Gold Standard for Speed and Flavor
If you ask any local for the best “bang for your buck” near the Theater District, Los Tacos No. 1 is almost always the first name mentioned. Located on 43rd Street, steps from the bright lights of Broadway, this isn’t just a taco stand—it’s a finely tuned machine designed for the New York pace.
The Vibe: Authentic Market Energy
Walking into Los Tacos No. 1 feels like stepping off a midtown sidewalk and straight into a bustling Tijuana street market. It is high-energy, standing-room-only, and unpretentious. You won’t find white tablecloths or soft music here; instead, you’ll find the rhythmic sound of cleavers hitting chopping blocks and the smell of marinated pork roasting on a trompo. It’s the perfect “reset” from the polished glitz of a Broadway lobby.
What to Order: The Adobada Tacos
While their carne asada is excellent, the Adobada (marinated pork) is the undisputed star of the show. The pork is thinly sliced directly from the vertical spit, ensuring every piece has a mix of juicy interior and charred, crispy edges. Check out their full menu on their website.
- Pro Tip on Tortillas: You will be asked, “Flour or Corn?” I recommend the corn tortilla. They are pressed fresh to order and have a structural integrity that flour can’t match when loaded with salsa.
- The “Con Todo” Factor: When they ask if you want it “con todo” (with everything), say yes. This adds a creamy dollop of guacamole, onions, cilantro, and salsa that balances the smoky heat of the pork perfectly.
The Speed Factor: Built for the “Dash”
Do not let the line snaking out the door intimidate you. Los Tacos No. 1 is famous for its efficiency. The flow is simple: you pay at the register first, take your ticket to the counter, and hand it to one of the many taqueros. Even with a line of 30 people, you will likely have a steaming hot plate in your hand in under 10 minutes. I personally did not have to wait in line for more than 15 minutes!
The “Secret” Tip for Theater-Goers
Because seating is nonexistent, most people huddle around the standing ledges. If the main room is too crowded, look toward the back corners or take your tacos to go and walk one block over to the public seating area on Broadway (Pedestrian Plaza) between 43rd and 44th Street. It’s a great spot to people-watch for five minutes before you head into your show.
Closest Theaters to Los Tacos No. 1
One of the biggest advantages of dining at Los Tacos No. 1 is its unbeatable location at 229 West 43rd Street, which places you quite literally at the doorstep of Broadway’s most iconic stages. If you are seeing a show at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre (& Juliet) or the Lyric Theatre (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child), you are less than a 60-second walk away.
Just around the corner on 44th Street, you’ll find the St. James Theatre, the Hayes Theater, and the Majestic Theatre, all reachable within a three-minute stroll. Even the massive New Amsterdam Theatre (Aladdin) and the Todd Haimes Theatre on 42nd Street are just a block away. This proximity makes it the ultimate “no-panic” dinner spot; you can enjoy your last taco at 7:45pm and still be in your seat comfortably before the 8:00pm curtain rises.
Margon: The Hidden Cuban Gem of 46th Street
Important Note: Unlike the other spots, Margon is generally closed on Sundays and closes early (around 5:00pm) most other days. It is perfect for a matinee lunch or an early pre-theater dinner, but this isn’t an option for 8:00pm showgoers.
If you want to eat like a true New Yorker who knows the neighborhood’s secrets, you go to Margon. While the neon lights of Times Square are only a block away, this family-run Cuban institution feels like a soulful escape. It’s been a staple of the theater district for decades, serving up massive portions of Caribbean comfort food that could easily fuel you through a two-act musical and a walk home (or back to the train).
The Vibe: A “Hole-in-the-Wall” with Heart
Margon is the definition of a “no-frills” counter-service spot. You’ll find a mix of construction workers, Broadway stagehands, and savvy tourists all squeezed into a narrow space with a long lunch counter. The walls are lined with photos and awards, and the atmosphere is loud, fast, and friendly. It is steered by the beloved “Papa Bear” (Rafael Rivas), and the service is efficient—they understand that most of their customers are on a clock.
What to Order: The Iconic Cuban Sandwich (The “Cubano”)
While their Roast Chicken and Oxtail Stew are legendary, you cannot visit Margon without trying their Cuban Sandwich:
- The Secret Ingredient: Most NYC Cubanos use just ham and pork, but Margon adds a layer of Genoa Salami, a nod to the Tampa-style tradition.
- The Build: It’s loaded with succulent roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and a generous amount of their “mojito” garlic sauce, then pressed until the bread is shatteringly crisp.
- Make it a Combo: For about $15.00, you can get the sandwich combo, which comes with a massive side of yellow rice and beans or a cup of their home-style chicken soup. It’s easily enough food for two people to share if you’re looking to save even more money.
See their full menu on their website.
The Speed Factor: The Counter-Service Sprint
Margon is a well-oiled machine. You walk in, join the line (which often moves faster than it looks), and order at the glass display. Because most of their stews and meats are already slow-cooked and ready to plate, you can have a full “sit-down quality” meal in front of you within 5 minutes of reaching the register. If you’re in a rush to catch a 2:00 PM matinee, this is your safest bet for a “real” meal that doesn’t feel like fast food.
The “Secret” Tip for Theater-Goers
If you aren’t too full from the sandwich, order a Cafe con Leche to go. It is widely considered one of the best in Midtown—rich, sweet, and strong. It’s the perfect caffeine kick to ensure you stay wide awake through a long show after a heavy lunch.
Closest Theaters to Margon
Located at 136 West 46th Street, Margon is tucked away on one of the most theater-dense blocks of Broadway. Its position between 6th and 7th Avenues makes it the ultimate strategy for those attending the “big three” houses on 46th Street. You are just steps away from the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre (Death Becomes Her), the Richard Rodgers Theatre (Hamilton), and the Marquis Theatre (located inside the Marriott Marquis).
Additionally, the Lyceum Theatre (Oh, Mary!) is a quick four-minute walk south on 45th Street. Because Margon is so close to the Churchill and Palace theaters as well, it serves as the perfect home base for a matinee lunch. Just remember to check the clock—Margon typically closes by 5:00pm, so it is the “hidden gem” specifically for afternoon shows or very early dinner before the evening rush begins.
Joe’s Pizza: The Ultimate Broadway Slice
If there is one name synonymous with the classic New York street slice, it’s Joe’s Pizza. Established in 1975, this “Greenwich Village institution” finally brought its no-nonsense, high-quality pies to the Theater District with its Broadway location. It is the quintessential “fast” meal—designed to be ordered in seconds, eaten while standing, and finished before you even reach the theater doors.
The Vibe: Electric and Efficient
Stepping into Joe’s at 1435 Broadway is like walking into the heart of New York. The walls are covered in photos of celebrities and Broadway stars who have stopped by for a pre-curtain bite. There is rarely any seating, but that’s part of the charm; you’ll see everyone from theater tourists to local stagehands leaning against the narrow counters, folding their slices in half. It is loud, crowded, and moves with a speed that only a New York pizza joint can maintain.
What to Order: The Plain Cheese Slice
At Joe’s, simplicity is the point. While they offer pepperoni and a fantastic fresh mozzarella pie, you should start with the Classic Cheese Slice.
- The Perfect Ratio: The crust is thin and charred just enough to provide a “snap” when folded, supporting a sweet, simple tomato sauce and high-quality mozzarella that isn’t overly greasy.
- The Price Point: A single slice will set you back about $4.00–$5.00, making it one of the most affordable ways to fill up before a three-hour show.
- Pro Tip: Don’t over-complicate your order with too many toppings. Joe’s is famous for the “standard” slice; adding too much weight can ruin the structural integrity of that perfect thin crust.
See their full menu on their website.
The Speed Factor: The 20-Minute Guarantee
Even when the line wraps out the door and onto Broadway, do not panic. Joe’s is equipped with a battery of high-heat ovens that churn out fresh pies every few minutes. Most diners report that even a line of 20+ people only takes about 15 to 20 minutes to get through. If you are truly pressed for time, they are famous for their “grab-and-go” efficiency—just have your payment ready and know your order before you hit the register.
Closest Theaters to Joe’s Pizza
Because Joe’s Pizza is located at 1435 Broadway (perfectly nestled between 40th and 41st Streets), it is the premier pit stop for theaters on the southern end of the district. You are mere seconds away from the Nederlander Theatre, which is just a two-minute walk south on 41st Street. Fans of Disney’s Aladdin will find the New Amsterdam Theatre only three minutes away on 42nd Street, the same short distance required to reach the Todd Haimes Theatre. You can also comfortably make the five-minute walk north to the massive Lyric Theatre on 43rd Street.
Joe’s Pizza FAQs
Q: Can I take my Joe’s Pizza slice into a Broadway theater?
A: No. Broadway theaters have a strict “no outside hot food” policy. Since Joe’s has limited seating, plan to eat your slice on the sidewalk or in the pedestrian plaza nearby before heading to the theater.
Q: Is there a “best time” to visit Joe’s to avoid the line?
A: If you’re aiming for a pre-theater bite, try to go between 5:00pm and 6:00pm. The “matinee rush” (1:00pm- 2:00pm) and the “pre-curtain rush” (6:30pm- 7:30pm) are the busiest times.
Empanada Mama: The 24/7 Flavor Powerhouse
When you need a meal that is as fast as it is flavorful, Empanada Mama is the gold standard. While they have multiple locations, their Hell’s Kitchen and Times Square outposts are legendary for being open 24/7, making them the perfect choice for an early matinee lunch or a late-night post-show snack.
The Vibe: Vibrant and Energetic
The atmosphere here is pure energy. It’s colorful, loud, and smells like toasted corn and savory spices. It’s a favorite for large groups because the menu is massive, ensuring that even the pickiest eater in your party finds something they love. It feels like a celebration of Latin culture right in the middle of Manhattan.
What to Order: The “Wheat” vs. “Corn” Classics
The menu features over 40 types of empanadas, but don’t get overwhelmed.
- The Shredded Beef (Corn Crust): This is the quintessential order. The corn crust provides a crunchy, slightly sweet exterior that perfectly complements the savory, slow-cooked beef.
- The Viagra (Wheat Crust): Don’t let the name scare you; this is a seafood lover’s dream, packed with shrimp, scallops, and crab meat.
- The Mama’s Pizza Empanada: If you’re traveling with kids, this is a foolproof winner—classic pepperoni and mozzarella in a flaky pastry.
See their full menu on their website.
The Speed Factor: Built for the Rush
Because empanadas are essentially “pre-packaged,” the turnaround is incredibly fast. Even if you sit down for full service, your order usually arrives within 10 minutes. If you’re really in a hurry, you can order from the counter and have a hot meal in your hand in under 2 minutes.
Closest Theaters to Empanada Mama
Empanada Mama is just a 5 to 8-minute walk from several major Broadway houses, making it exceptionally convenient for the theaters clustered on the west side of 45th and 46th Streets, sitting just a 5 to 8-minute walk from the Al Hirschfeld Theatre (currently home to Moulin Rouge! The Musical) and the Richard Rodgers Theatre (home to Hamilton). You’ll also find the Music Box Theatre (slated for Giant in early 2026) and the Imperial Theatre (housing the revival of Chess) within a quick three-block radius. Because it’s open 24/7, it’s not only a perfect pre-show destination but also one of the best late-night spots to grab a post-performance meal after the curtain falls.
Mountain House (Times Square): The “Fancy” Fast Alternative
If you want the soul-warming heat of authentic Szechuan cuisine but don’t want to spend three hours at a table, Mountain House (川山甲) is a masterclass in efficiency. Located on the famous “Restaurant Row,” it manages to feel like a high-end escape while moving with the precision required for a theater-going crowd.
The Vibe: Immersive Szechuan Luxury
The moment you walk in, the noise of Times Square disappears. You are greeted by dark wood, traditional lanterns, and a level of aesthetic detail you usually don’t find in “budget” guides. It feels like a special occasion spot, which is perfect if you’re treating someone to a Broadway show but only have an hour to eat.
What to Order: The “Swing” Pork Belly
For a pre-theater meal, you want dishes that come out fast.
- Swing Pork Belly (晾衣白肉): This is their most famous appetizer—thinly sliced pork belly and cucumber draped over a wooden rack. Because it’s a cold dish, it often hits your table within minutes of ordering.
- La-Zi Chicken: A mountain of crispy, spicy diced chicken buried in dried red chilies. It’s addictive and serves as a great shared plate for a group.
- Mapo Tofu: At around $17.00, this is one of the best values on the menu. It is silky, numbing, and incredibly filling when paired with their $2.00 white rice.
See their full menu on their website.
The Speed Factor: High-End Efficiency
Despite the upscale atmosphere, the kitchen at Mountain House is surprisingly quick. Most appetizers arrive within 5-10 minutes.
Pro Tip: They use a digital waitlist (Minitable). To keep this “fast,” join the waitlist on your phone via their website while you are still 20 minutes away. By the time you reach 46th Street, your table will likely be ready, allowing you to bypass the crowds of people waiting on the sidewalk.
Closest Theaters to Mountain House
Because Mountain House sits on 46th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues, you are in the literal backyard of some of the busiest theaters in New York. You are just a few doors east of the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre (currently home to Death Becomes Her), while the Lena Horne Theatre (SIX: The Musical) is located almost directly across the street, making this the ultimate spot for an effortless pre-show dinner.
The legendary Richard Rodgers Theatre, where Hamilton continues its historic run, is less than a three-minute walk away. Additionally, both the Imperial Theatre (home to the revival of Chess) and the Music Box Theatre are located just one block south on 45th Street, reachable in under five minutes. This prime location on Restaurant Row ensures you can enjoy a high-end Szechuan meal and still arrive at your venue with time to spare.
When to Level Up: The Best Sit-Down Value
Sometimes, a standing-room-only taco or a slice of pizza on the sidewalk doesn’t cut it—especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or need a place to actually sit and rest your feet. This is where Mountain House comes in.
While it’s a “level up” in price compared to a $5 empanada, it still fits the “Fast & Good” criteria. Most Midtown sit-down restaurants have slow, languid service that is a nightmare for theatergoers. Mountain House, however, is famous for its “high-speed luxury.” You get the beautiful atmosphere and world-class Szechuan cuisine, but the kitchen moves with the urgency of a Broadway stage manager. It’s the perfect compromise for when you want a “proper dinner” without the stress of a ticking clock.
FAQs: Broadway Dining
How much time should I leave for dinner before a Broadway show?
As a general rule, aim to finish your meal 90 minutes before your show’s curtain time. For an 8:00pm show, you should be walking out of the restaurant by 6:30pm. This accounts for the slow pedestrian traffic in Times Square and the mandatory security and ticket-scanning lines at the theater.
Do I need to make reservations for these “quick bite” spots?
Most of the spots on this list, like Los Tacos No. 1, Joe’s Pizza, and Margon, are counter-service only and do not take reservations. For Empanada Mama, reservations are recommended for large groups. For Mountain House, you can quickly reserve a table online or join their digital waitlist via the Minitable app about 30 minutes before you arrive to ensure a seat.
Can I bring my leftovers or outside food into a Broadway theater?
No. Almost all Broadway theaters have a strict “no outside hot food” policy. While you might get away with a sealed water bottle or a small, quiet snack (like a granola bar) hidden in your bag, security will ask you to throw away pizza boxes, taco bags, or takeout containers at the door.
Are these restaurants kid-friendly?
Yes! Joe’s Pizza and Empanada Mama are particularly great for families. Mountain House is excellent for adventurous eaters, while Los Tacos No. 1 is perfect for a fast meal, though keep in mind it is standing-room only, which might be tough for very small children.
What is the average cost of a “cheap” meal near Times Square?
In this guide, “cheap” refers to meals ranging from $5 to $20 per person. A slice at Joe’s will be under $5, while a full platter at Margon or a few tacos and a drink at Los Tacos No. 1 will land closer to the $15–$18 range.
Final Verdict: Which Spot Should You Choose?
With so many incredible options in the Theater District, the “best” choice really depends on the clock and your cravings. Here is my quick cheat sheet to help you decide:
- If you have 15 minutes or less: Go to Joe’s Pizza. It is the fastest, most iconic “New York minute” meal you can have. Stand on the sidewalk, fold your slice, and you’ll be at your theater before the show starts.
- If you want the best flavor for your dollar: Head to Los Tacos No. 1. The quality of their Adobada is world-class, and while you might have to stand while you eat, the taste is worth every second.
- If you are seeing a Matinee or an early show: Choose Margon. It’s a local legend for a reason, but since they close early, it’s specifically the “insider’s secret” for afternoon theatergoers.
- If you are with a group or want variety: Empanada Mama is your winner. With 40+ flavors and a sit-down vibe, it’s the best way to keep a large party happy without breaking the bank.
- If you want a “real” date night experience: Mountain House is the only choice. You get the luxury of a beautiful sit-down restaurant and elite Szechuan cuisine, all while keeping on a strict “Broadway-friendly” schedule.
Conclusions: Setting the Stage for Your Best Night Out
At the end of the day, a trip to Broadway is about the magic that happens when the house lights go down, but your experience starts long before the first note of the overture. Navigating the culinary landscape of Times Square doesn’t have to be a stressful choice between a tourist trap and an empty stomach. Whether you’re folding a classic slice from Joe’s Pizza on the move, savoring the spicy depth of Mountain House, or grabbing a quick-and-flavorful bite from Los Tacos No. 1, these are the best cheap eats in Times Square and Broadway that let you eat like a local in the “Center of the Universe.”
If you are planning to see more of the city after your show, be sure to check out my guide to the best places to eat near iconic NYC landmarks for more top-tier recommendations. By following the 6:30 rule and choosing any of these five tried-and-true spots, you’re ensuring that the only thing you’re thinking about during Act I is the performance—not your dinner bill.
