New York: 3 Michelin Stars Before Broadway
$$$$: This itinerary is for special occasions given the price tag, but in my humble opinion, it’s worth the splurge every single time. It’s memorable, elevated, relaxed, and the kind of night dreams are made of. It was my favorite way to celebrate a birthday while living in the Big Apple.
TICKET TIP: I recommend using the TodayTix app, fair prices and tickets are sent directly to your phone. Otherwise, best way to save on fees and have the most control over where you sit is going to the theater box office in person, ahead of time. Not sure which show to choose? Check out Show Score, it’s the “rotten tomatoes” for broadway.
4:40pm - Hop in the cab, ready for a night on the town! I love an excuse to dress up. I’ll often wear an elegant, casual, weather-appropriate dress and jacket. The last time I went, I wore Everlane flats with a floral silk high-neck gown. Rush hour can start early depending on the day, so check Waze to see if you need to leave earlier.
4:58pm - Wait outside for the doors to open right at 5pm. SECRET: To experience the full dining room requires a previous reservation, but there are a few seats in the lounge for walk-ins. The lounge has its own menu, and you can still order from the full restaurant’s the tasting menu. I recommend ordering a few starters from the lounge (Tuna + Lobster Rolls). Then, I recommend that you and your party do the four-course tasting menu. While you could order the full eight course meal (and you should!), I recommend doing it properly in the dining room and making that your main event for the night. Remember, you still have an 8 PM Broadway show to catch! Normally I’d say watch the bread, but the bread basket is one of my favorite parts. The baguettes and the raisin nut bread specifically. I only allow myself two pieces so I have room for dessert. My signature cocktail is a French 75, but the bar can make anything. Their seasonal cocktails are also refreshing and have punny names based on the shows currently playing. The staff is incredibly friendly without being overbearing— the perfect balance. If you have Simba as your waiter, you’ll never forget his incredible smile. I still make sure to say hello to him when I am in town. Because all the ingredients are fresh, and the restaurant is French with a focus on seafood, you won’t feel too heavy when leaving so you can enjoy the show!
7:30 - Grab the check. Remember to use a credit card like Amex Platinum or Chase Reserve to earn points for dining purchases. You can walk or take a taxi to the show, depending on the weather.
BROADWAY TIP- Shows typically start at 8 PM. In NYC, curtains will actually lift around 8:05/8:06. If you’d like to use the restroom beforehand, I recommend arriving at 7:40. That will give you plenty of time.
8 PM - Show begins! Don’t forget to grab your Playbill - I love cataloguing my Playbills as souvenirs. I recommend starting your own collection, it’s an excellent way to remember your magical night!
CONCESSIONS TIP: The only theater that serves bubbly in real glass is Studio 54. Oh la la! Several theaters will let you pre-order a drink for intermission to avoid the queue. I often choose to save room for a nightcap after the show - check out The Rum House or Pebble Bar nearby.
10:30 PM - Run times vary, but you’ll likely egress from the theater around 10:30pm. What now? If you’ve walked your 10,000 steps you might be hungry for a slice of pizza or a slice of cheesecake at Junior’s Cheesecake. Don’t forget to take a selfie in Times Square! I find Times Square most magical at night - by this time the crowds have thinned and the city’s lights are on full display.
