Weekday lunch near Barrymore Theater (W. 47th btw 8th and B'Way)

[KWynn]

Any suggestions? We're seeing a 2 pm matinee of Company and would like a sit-down lunch. Doesn't have to be anything fancy but would love to know which places in the area are worth checking out vs. which ones are tourist traps. We're not picky eaters but would prefer to stay away from Italian (having that in the evening). A place that takes reservations is a plus.

[elizabeththinks]

Esca at 43d & 9th is very good Italian/Seafood. Hell's Kitchen on 9th btwn 46 & 47 is amazing Mexican/Southwest - everything there is good, especially the guacamole & chips!

[alc]

I enjoy Turkish Cuisine on 9th Ave. between 45th and 46th.

[batterypark]

On 48th Street just east of 8th Avenue, try Saigon 48 -- a great variety of Vietnamese food in a nice atmosphere.

[kelea]

If you are meat fans, Churrascaria Plataforma (brazillian bbq) is only 2 blocks away. on 49th.

I personally enjoy Victor's Cafe (cuban) on 52nd and Broadway. though some chowhounders seem to have had bad experiences there

[KWynn]

Thanks. Brazilian steak house might be too heavy--especially if we have to sit through a show. (I might fall asleep!)
Victor's looks good and might be worh checking out...Do you suggest reservations for lunch?
Anyone else have other suggestions?

[RGR]

Marseille, on the corner of 9th Av. & 44th St., serves excellent French/Mediterranean cuisine. Good service and very attractive brasserie setting.

http://www.marseillenyc.com

Rene Pujol, on 51st St., b/t 8th & 9th Avs., has been in its townhouse location for more than 50 years and continues to serve delicious French cuisine. There's a lunch prix-fixe for $24. Efficient service and very pleasant atmospherics.

http://www.renepujol.com

Both these restaurants are very popular pre-theater, so reservations are definitely recommended.

Enjoy the show and Bon Appetit!

[KWynn]

Thanks for the recommendations, RGR. We made a noon reservation at Rene Pujol for next Wednesday--the atmosphere paired with prix fix option make it seem like it will be right up our alley!
Please let me know if you have any specific suggestions from the menu.

[RGR]

Hey, KWynn, It's been quite some time since our last time at Rene Pujol, and that was for dinner, not lunch. But I can honestly say that, over the years, we've never had a disappointing experience there. Therefore, I don't think you can go wrong no matter what you order. Enjoy!