Introduction
Let’s be honest: Times Square has a reputation for being the “tourist trap” capital of the world, where a mediocre burger can easily cost you $30 once you factor in the “Midtown markup.” Finding cheap restaurants in Times Square that offer a real sit-down experience is the ultimate NYC “travel hack.” If you’re heading to a Broadway show or exploring the bright lights of 42nd Street, this post shows you don’t have to settle for overpriced chains or a sad slice of pizza eaten on a street corner.
This guide is specifically designed for theatergoers who want to enjoy a relaxed, delicious meal and still make it to their seats before the overture begins. (If you’re in a massive rush and need something even faster, check out my guide to the 5 best cheap eat, quick-service spots near Broadway). After years of navigating the Theater District, I’ve found that the real magic happens just a block or two off the main drag. Whether you’re looking for a legendary unlimited pasta feast or trendy Southern Thai flavors that foodies actually swear by, these are the 5 best sit-down cheap restaurants in Times Square that prove you can eat like a local without draining your vacation budget.
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.
Times Square Sit Down Restaurants Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Becco | Dim Sum Palace | Junior’s | KOHOKU-KU Ramen | Chalong Southern Thai | Alternative: John’s Pizzeria |
| Price Per Person | $35 – $50 | $20 – $35 | $25 – $40 | $18 – $28 | $25 – $45 | $15 – $25 |
| Signature Dish | Sinfonia di Paste (Unlimited table-side pasta) | Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao) & BBQ Pork Buns | Famous No. 1 Cheesecake & Giant Deli Sandwiches | Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen & Yakitori Skewers | Moo Hong (Phuket-style braised pork belly) | Coal-Fired Pizza Pie |
| Location | 355 West 46th Street between 8th and 9th Ave | 334 W 46th Street between 8th and 9th Ave | 1515 Broadway at 45th Street between 7th and 8th Ave (located in One Astor Plaza) | 709 9th Ave between 48th and 49th Street | 749 9th Ave between 50th and 51st Street | 260 West 44th Street between 7th and 8th Ave |
| Best For… | Pasta lovers and hungry theater-goers. | Groups, sharing plates, and late-night cravings. | Classic NYC vibes and families with kids. | Solo diners and cozy, quick comfort food. | Foodies and trendy “value” date nights. | Families, big groups, and stunning architecture. |
Becco: The Ultimate Italian Feast on Restaurant Row
If you have a massive appetite but a modest budget, Becco is the crown jewel of West 46th Street’s Restaurant Row. Opened by celebrity chef Lidia Bastianich, this institution is famous for its “Sinfonia di Paste”—a table-side service where servers circulate with three different daily pastas, offering unlimited refills until you say “basta!” It’s the best-value sit-down dinner in the district, providing a white-tablecloth experience without the intimidating price tag.
- Why I chose it: It is the most reliable way to get a high-quality, filling Italian meal in a space that feels upscale. The efficiency of the pasta service also makes it one of the most theater-friendly spots on this list.
- The Vibe: High-energy, rustic, and bustling. It feels like a lively dinner party in a cozy Italian farmhouse.
- What to Order: The Sinfonia di Paste is the obvious choice, but don’t overlook the Polpette di Manzo (beef meatballs) as a starter.
- The Drink to Pair: A bottle from their legendary $35 (or $42) Wine List. They specifically curate a massive selection of Italian reds and whites at this flat rate.
- Budget Hack: The pasta special includes a large Caesar salad or antipasti misto to start. Skip the separate appetizers; the “Sinfonia” package is more than enough food.
- Closest Theaters:Al Hirschfeld Theatre: (Home to Moulin Rouge! The Musical) — Just a 2-minute walk.
- Imperial Theatre: (Home to the hit revival of Chess) — Right across the street.
- Lena Horne Theatre: (Home to SIX: The Musical) — 3 minutes away.
For more information and/or to make a reservation, visit their website.
Dim Sum Palace: Late-Night Dumplings and Group Dining
For those who want variety, Dim Sum Palace on 46th Street offers a massive menu of traditional Cantonese small plates. It’s one of the few places near Times Square where you can find a large table for a group without a three-week lead time. Because they serve dim sum all day (and late into the night), it’s just as good for a quick pre-show lunch as it is for a post-show midnight feast.
- Why I chose it: The “sharing” nature of dim sum makes it the most affordable way to eat a diverse meal in Midtown. Plus, their late-night hours are a lifesaver when most of the neighborhood shuts down.
- The Vibe: Busy, no-frills, and authentic. It’s a fast-paced environment where the food comes out steaming hot as soon as it’s ready.
- What to Order: The Shanghai Juicy Pork Buns (Soup Dumplings) and the Crystal Shrimp Dumplings. If you want something crispy, the Salt and Pepper Jumbo Shrimp is a local favorite.
- The Drink to Pair: Jasmine or Pu-erh Tea. It’s traditional, bottomless, and helps balance the richness of the dumplings.
- Budget Hack: Stick to the “Dim Sum” section of the menu rather than the “Chef’s Specials” entrées. Ordering 3–4 small baskets per person is cheaper and much more fun.
- Closest Theaters:
- Samuel J. Friedman Theatre: (Currently playing Bug starring Tom Felton) — 2 minutes away.
- Ethel Barrymore Theatre: (Home to Joe Turner’s Come and Gone) — Just around the corner on 47th St.
- Majestic Theatre: (Home to the new musical Beaches) — A 4-minute walk to 44th St.
For more information, visit their website.
Junior’s: A Literal Slice of New York History
No trip to Midtown is complete without sliding into a retro booth at Junior’s. While it’s world-famous for its cheesecake, it’s also a massive, full-service deli that serves up quintessential New York comfort food. It’s loud, colorful, and right in the heart of the action at 45th and Broadway, making it the perfect “home base” for a day of sightseeing.
- Why I chose it: It’s a classic for a reason. Despite being in the most “touristy” spot possible, the quality of the deli meats and the legendary cheesecake remains consistently excellent.
- The Vibe: Vibrant, nostalgic Americana with bright neon lights and orange vinyl booths. It’s great for families and groups.
- What to Order: The Corned Beef or Pastrami Reuben is a mountain of meat that is easily shareable. For dessert, the Original Plain Cheesecake is non-negotiable.
- The Drink to Pair: A Chocolate Egg Cream. It’s an old-school NYC staple made with seltzer, milk, and Fox’s U-bet syrup (no actual eggs involved!).
- Budget Hack: Portions here are notoriously huge. Splitting a sandwich and a slice of cheesecake between two people is a pro-move that keeps your bill under $25 per person.
- Closest Theaters:
- Minskoff Theatre: (Home to The Lion King) — Literally across the street.
- Marquis Theatre: (Home to Stranger Things: The First Shadow) — Connected to the Marriott Marquis next door.
- Booth Theatre: (Currently playing Proof starring Ayo Edebiri) — A 2-minute walk on 45th St.
For more information, visit their website.
KOHOKU-KU RAMEN: Authentic Comfort in a Cozy Corner
While not actually on a street corner, KOHOKU-KU is a hidden gem for those looking to escape the sensory overload of Broadway. This intimate Japanese shop specializes in rich, 24-hour broths and springy, authentic noodles. It’s a favorite for solo travelers and “locals” who work in the theater industry, offering a quiet, steaming bowl of comfort food that feels like a hug in a bowl.
- Why I chose it: The quality-to-price ratio here is unbeatable. For under $20, you get a massive, nutritious meal in a serene environment that feels worlds away from the 7th Avenue chaos.
- The Vibe: Intimate, cozy, and minimalist. It’s the kind of place where you can comfortably dine alone with a book or have a quiet conversation.
- What to Order: The Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen is their bestseller, but the Kumamoto Ramen with black garlic oil (mayu) is the true insider’s choice.
- The Drink to Pair: A cold Sapporo or a Melon Cream Soda for a hit of Japanese nostalgia.
- Budget Hack: Check out their Lunch Specials. You can often get a “Ramen + Mini Donburi” (rice bowl) combo for a price that would barely buy you a sandwich elsewhere in Midtown.
- Closest Theaters:
- Gershwin Theatre: (Home to Wicked) — 5-minute walk.
- August Wilson Theatre: (Home to Dog Day Afternoon starring Jon Bernthal) — 4-minute walk.
- Eugene O’Neill Theatre: (Home to The Book of Mormon) — 5-minute walk.
For more information and to see their full menu, visit their website.
Chalong: Trendy Southern Thai for the “In-The-Know” Foodie
For a “value” date night that feels high-end, Chalong offers bold, spicy Southern Thai flavors in a modern, stylish space. While it’s the trendiest spot on this list, it’s also one of the best-kept secrets for those who want a sophisticated sit-down dinner without the $100-per-person bill. Unlike the more generic Thai spots in Midtown, Chalong focuses specifically on Southern Thai cuisine, which means deeper curries and more intense spice profiles.
- Why I chose it: It bridges the gap between a “cheap eat” and a “nice dinner.” It’s rare to find a place this stylish in Hell’s Kitchen where you can still get out for under $30 if you order strategically.
- The Vibe: Moody, modern, and very “New York.” It feels like a boutique lounge but serves world-class food.
- What to Order: The Moo Hong (Phuket-style braised pork belly) is life-changing, but if you’re on a budget, stick to the Pad Thai Chicken—their Southern version uses a coconut curry cream that makes it the best in the city.
- The Drink to Pair: A Thai Iced Tea (essential for cooling down the spicy Southern dishes) or their signature Butterfly Pea cocktail.
- Budget Hack: Visit for the Weekday Lunch Special (12:00 PM – 3:30 PM). You can get a high-end entrée for around $18–$22, which is an absolute steal for this quality of cooking.
- Closest Theaters:
- Ambassador Theatre: (Home to Chicago) — 6-minute walk.
- Winter Garden Theatre: (Home to the revival of Death of a Salesman) — 7-minute walk.
- The Broadway Theatre: (Home to The Great Gatsby) — 8-minute walk.
To see their full menu and make a reservation, visit their website.
Alternative Choice: John’s Pizzeria of Times Square – Pizza in a Historic Church
If you want a dining experience that looks like a million dollars but costs under $20 per person, John’s of Times Square is an absolute must. Housed in the stunning, decommissioned 19th-century Gospel Tabernacle Church, this is officially the largest pizzeria in the United States. You’ll dine under a massive, eight-sided stained-glass dome and original church architecture that makes it one of the most Instagrammable (and affordable) spots in Midtown. Unlike most NYC slice joints, John’s only serves whole pies cooked in 800-degree coal-fired brick ovens, resulting in a thin, crispy crust that purists adore.
- Why I chose it: It is the best way to feed a group or a family in a “wow” setting. Even though it’s massive (seating over 400 people), it maintains a local feel and serves high-quality pizza that isn’t just “tourist food.”
- The Vibe: Breathtaking and grand. The combination of old church pews, grand murals, and the soaring stained-glass ceiling creates an atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
- What to Order: The Traditional Coal-Fired Pie. Their sauce is made from San Marzano-style tomatoes and topped with fresh mozzarella. If you want a kick, add their sliced meatballs or hot cherry peppers.
- The Drink to Pair: A Pitcher of Sangria or a cold local craft beer. Sharing a pitcher is one of the most cost-effective ways to drink in Times Square.
- Budget Hack: Remember: No slices! Only whole pies are sold here. To save money, go with a group and split two large pies—you’ll likely have leftovers, and the price per person will be lower than almost any other sit-down meal in the area.
- Closest Theaters: St. James Theatre: (Home to Sunset Boulevard) — Just 2 doors down!
- Majestic Theatre: (Home to Beaches) — Directly across the street.
- Hayes Theater: (Home to Marjorie Prime) — 2 minutes away on 44th St.
For more information and to see their full menu, visit their website.
Know Before You Go: Pro-Tips and Logistics
| Restaurant | Becco | Dim Sum Palace | Junior’s | KOHOKU-KU RAMEN | Chalong Southern Thai | John’s Pizzeria |
| Takes Reservations? | Yes (Recommended) | Walk-in Only (usually) | Waitlist Only | Walk-in Only | Yes (Recommended) | Only for 15+ people |
| Payment Method | Credit and Debit | Credit and Debit | Credit and Debit | Credit and Debit | Credit and Debit | Credit and Debit |
| What to Know | Reservations are essential for a pre-theater dinner. If they’re full, try the bar for the same menu! | They have multiple locations; if the 46th St spot is packed, feel free to try their newer, larger spot on 40th St. | They don’t take traditional reservations; use their online “waitlist” on their site before you arrive. | This is a small shop. It’s perfect for solo travelers or pairs, but not great for groups of 4 or more. | This is the “splurge” of this list. Book a table on their website to ensure you don’t miss out on their lunch specials. | Parties under 15 are first-come, first-served. Don’t let the line scare you; they seat 400 people and move fast! |
Conclusions
Finding a budget-friendly, high-quality sit-down meal in Times Square doesn’t have to be a theatrical challenge. By stepping just a few blocks away from the neon glow of 42nd Street, you can trade overpriced tourist traps for authentic Southern Thai spices, unlimited Italian pasta, or a legendary slice of New York cheesecake. Whether you’re fueling up for a three-hour Broadway epic or winding down after the standing ovation, these five spots offer the perfect balance of atmosphere, speed, and value for 2026. Eating like a local in Midtown is all about knowing which side streets to turn down—and now, you have the map to do it.
Which of these spots are you adding to your NYC itinerary? Or did I miss your favorite “hidden gem” in the Theater District? Let me know in the comments below—I’m always looking for new recommendations to test out!
