7 Reliable Restaurants Close to the Beacon Theater

Catching a show at the Beacon Theatre and need a pre- or post-concert meal nearby? These seven reliable Upper West Side favorites are all a quick walk from the venue and offer crowd-pleasing menus, comfortable atmospheres, and consistent service.

1. Cafe Luxembourg

A classic Upper West Side bistro, Cafe Luxembourg is ideal if you want that “only-in-New-York” feel before a show. Expect French-American dishes, a lively but polished room, a great martini, and service that runs like clockwork, which is a big plus on a tight curtain time. Located at 200 W. 70th St. (Between Amsterdam & West End Avenue). 212.873.7411

Best for: Date night, celebratory dinners, pre-show cocktails at the bar.

2. Tessa

Just a short stroll from the Beacon, Tessa serves modern Mediterranean food in a sleek, dimly lit space that works equally well for groups or couples. Think generous plates, pastas, and beautifully prepared seafood, along with a solid wine and cocktail list. Located at 349 Amsterdam Ave. (Between 76th & 77th St.). 212.390.1974

Best for: Mediterranean flavors, stylish but relaxed pre-theatre dinners.

3. Sala Thai

Sala Thai is one of the neighborhood go-tos for flavorful Thai food close to the theater. The menu hits all the favorites—curries, noodles, and seafood dishes—with bright, balanced seasoning, and it’s popular enough that reservations are strongly recommended on show nights. Located at 307 Amsterdam Avenue (between 74th & 75th Street). 212.433.3999

Best for: Bold flavors, sharable plates, and casual groups before or after a show.

4. Sushi Yasaka

If you prefer something lighter, Sushi Yasaka is a long-standing neighborhood favorite for quality sushi at fair prices. The fish is consistently fresh, the rolls and nigiri are clean and well executed, and the space is compact but efficient, making it a reliable choice when you want to avoid a heavy meal before a performance. Located at 251 W. 72nd St. (between Broadway & West End). 212.496.8460

Best for: Sushi lovers, lighter pre-show dinners, small groups.

5. Hummus Place

For a more casual, affordable option right by the theater, Hummus Place delivers comforting Middle Eastern and Mediterranean plates. The hummus is the star, but you’ll also find falafel, salads, and warm pita that work well for both quick sit-down meals and shorter, pre-show schedules. Located at 305 Amsterdam Ave. (between 74th & 75th Street) 212.799.3335 ​

Best for: Vegetarian-friendly dining, quick and relaxed pre-concert bites.​

6. Viand Cafe

If you want a classic New York diner experience steps from the Beacon, Viand Cafe is a dependable choice. The menu runs the full diner spectrum—from burgers and club sandwiches to omelets and pancakes—so it’s easy for everyone in your party to find something familiar and satisfying at almost any time of day. Located at 2130 Broadway (between W. 74th & 75th Streets) 212.877.2888

Best for: Families, unfussy comfort food, brunch or late lunch before a matinee.​

7. Playa Betty’s

Playa Betty’s brings a fun, West Coast–inspired spin on tacos and Californian-style Mexican right around the corner from the theater. Expect colorful cocktails, shareable plates, and a lively atmosphere that pairs well with a night out, whether you’re fueling up before the show or keeping the energy going afterward. Located at 320 Amsterdam Ave. (between 75th & 76th Street). 212.712.0777

Best for: Groups, festive vibes, margaritas and tacos near the Beacon.

How to Choose the Right Spot for Your Show Night

• Short on time: Go for Hummus Place, Viand Cafe, or Playa Betty’s for faster, more casual service.
• Date night: Book Cafe Luxembourg, Tessa, or Sushi Yasaka for a more polished, intimate pre-show experience.
• Big group: Playa Betty’s, Tessa, or Sala Thai usually handle groups well with sharable dishes and flexible seating (reserve ahead, especially on weekends and big show nights)