Ask Alex What to Eat

Pre-Theater Near Lincoln Center

Michelle Asks:

“I am going to see a play at Lincoln Center tomorrow night. I’m not very familiar with the area, can you recommend a nice place for my boyfriend and I to go before the show?  No particular cuisine in mind but something good that’s not in the highest price category, Thanks!”

Well my favorite destination for a pre-opera bite would have to be Bouchon Bakery in the Time Warner Building, at Columbus Circle.  It’s a limited menu, little cafe on the third floor of the shops by executive chef Thomas Keller (of Per Se in the same building as well as French Laundy).  While it might seem overpriced for some sandwiches and light fare, you’ll end up spending less than you will at most good restaurants in the area and the food is great.  The breads are all delicious and the deserts (chocolate mouse with vanilla bean custard…mmm) are awesome.

There’s also apparently a branch of Joe Shanghai (one of my chinatown favorites) on 56th, between 5th and 6th.  Hopefully the food is up to par with the downtown one.  They are known for their soup-filled dumplings and for good reason.  The rest of the menu is really good but nothing that noteworthy — the prices are great though.

For something a little more formal and still not overwhelmingly pricey is Landmarc — also in Time Warner.  The bistro menu is nothing extraordinarily creative, but it’s some really good, straightforward food.  I haven’t ventured far from the steaks but everything coming out of the kitchen looked great.

Enjoy the show!