Top 12 fast food restaurants in Theater District NYC
Fast food restaurants in Theater District NYC are a popular choice for both tourists and locals looking for a quick and affordable meal. From national chains to local favorites, these establishments offer a variety of options to suit any taste. Whether you're catching a Broadway show or simply exploring the area, these fast food restaurants are a convenient and delicious choice in the Theater District of NYC.
1. Schnipper's
Classic American food with a modern twist.

Emphasis on locally sourced, sustainable ingredients.
A memorable dining experience awaits at this establishment, where the lunch menu is highly satisfactory. The burger stands out, perfectly cooked to order and made with care. It's easy to see why this dish is a favorite among patrons.
For those craving something with a bit of a kick, the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is a top choice. Its popularity is well-deserved, as it consistently delivers on taste and quality. Whether it's a burger or this sandwich, diners can expect a delicious meal at this recommended restaurant.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
2. Five Guys
Fresh ingredients, no freezers, endless customization.

Hand-formed burgers grilled to perfection, fresh-cut fries cooked in pure peanut oil
The culinary experience at this establishment is truly exceptional. The fries, in particular, are a standout feature. They boast a satisfying crunch with each bite, while the flavor is consistently delicious. Additionally, the portion sizes are generous, ensuring that customers leave feeling content and satisfied.
In addition to the outstanding fries, the burgers are another highlight. Customers consistently rave about the taste and quality of the patties. Moreover, the restaurant offers a range of options for customization, allowing patrons to create their ideal burger. The service is also noteworthy, with fast and efficient delivery of orders, making it a great option for those looking for a quick and satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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3. McDonald's
Quick bites in the heart of NYC.

Iconic fast-food chain with a global presence
Some customers have reported experiencing fast and friendly service, while others have had the opposite experience with rude staff and extended waiting periods. The service team may face difficulties in handling large crowds, which can lead to delays in food delivery, causing the dishes to lose their warmth.
On the other hand, the food served is generally of standard quality and is prepared promptly. The quick food preparation time may, unfortunately, come at the expense of the service quality during busy hours. Therefore, while the food meets expectations, there is room for improvement in the service department, particularly when dealing with a high volume of customers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
4. Jollibee
Where Joy is Served Daily.

Iconic Filipino fast food chain with a loyal following
The Peach Mango Pie is a standout at this establishment, offering the perfect combination of sweet and flaky textures. The quality of the pie reflects the care taken in maintaining a clean and pleasant dining environment. The staff members are known for their attentiveness and desire to ensure a positive experience for all patrons.
Situated in a prime location in Times Square, this establishment is easily accessible and offers delicious, fresh fried chicken. Despite the crowds, which are to be expected in such a popular area, the food and atmosphere make it worth the wait. The restaurant's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is evident in every aspect of the dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
5. McDonald's in Theater District
Massive three-story flagship with table service

Iconic restaurant with a prime location in Times Square
The exceptional service offered by the establishment is frequently highlighted by customers, who often comment on the friendliness of the staff and the quickness of service. This commitment to providing excellent customer service has helped to build a strong reputation for the business.
In addition to its top-notch service, the establishment is also known for its clean and well-maintained facilities. This focus on cleanliness helps to create a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for customers, and further contributes to the business's positive reputation.
TOPICS
- Late Night
- Downtown Spots
- Happy Hours
6. Burger Man
Juicy burgers even in tourist-heavy Times Square.

Unique, high-quality ingredients and flavorful combinations
The burgers at this establishment are a must-try, known for their satisfying taste and convenience. They offer a wide range of options, with the Veggie Kale Burger standing out for its impressive size and mouthwatering flavor.
The service is efficient and the seating is generally plentiful. Besides their famous burgers, their breakfast menu is equally tempting, especially their egg and cheese sandwiches, which are a crowd favorite. The tea selection is also worth mentioning, with a variety of options to choose from.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
7. Taco Bell in Theater District
Mexican-inspired fast food with a twist.

Open till late night, offers vegetarian options
A recent dining experience was marred by poor customer service and unacceptable cleanliness. Upon asking a female staff member for assistance with the bathroom code, she responded in an impolite and dismissive manner. Moreover, the bathroom facilities were not up to standard, with noticeable dirt and grime.
The food served during this visit was disappointing and inedible. The chicken fries and buffalo chicken fries, along with a burrito and chicken taco, were all served cold. Despite bringing the issue to the attention of the staff, the replacement order was similarly subpar. Rather than offering a refund or a discount, the staff seemed unconcerned with the customer's satisfaction. Overall, the experience was a complete disaster, leaving a bad taste and a determination never to return.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Late Night
8. McDonald's
Quick bites in the heart of NYC.

Iconic fast-food chain with a wide variety of options
A visit to this establishment may leave you feeling somewhat underwhelmed. The process of ordering can be time-consuming, with long lines that may test your patience. It is advisable to keep a close eye on your personal belongings while you are there, as the crowded atmosphere means it is easy to be distracted.
The cleanliness of the location is also somewhat lackluster. Despite not being overly busy during our visit, the tables, floor, and walls were not as clean as one might hope. This was only noticed after the food had been ordered and paid for, which added to the overall disappointment.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
9. Ci Siamo
Live-fire cooking with seasonal ingredients.

Authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of New York City
A recent dining experience at an anonymous restaurant resulted in a satisfied couple. The service was commendable, and the food was even better. The skirt steak with potatoes and greens was particularly enjoyable, and the atmosphere was casual yet attentive. The waitstaff provided excellent care, and a free small dessert was a nice touch for the celebratory occasion. Overall, the portion size and quality of the food made it well worth the cost.
The food and service at this restaurant were exceptional, earning a standing ovation. The hosts, Jesse and team, provided outstanding service, along with spectacular waitperson Aaron. The floor manager, Gabriella, and the chef, Hilary Sterling, were also notable in their excellent service. The gnocco fritto, a homemade, puffy, cheesy Cheez-it, was a must-try and the onion tart, with caramelized Vidalias and a luxurious flaky crust, was outstanding. The seared lamb dish and housemade rigatoni were also highly recommended. The wine list had premium selections, and the service was unmatched. While reservations can be tough, the restaurant reportedly opens for 80-100 walk-ins daily, and have lunch hours, making it a bit easier to get a table. The focus on a few dishes done exceptionally well made for a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
10. Teriyaki R Us - Times Square
Best teriyaki taste in Times Square

Try their homemade teriyaki sauce and variety of protein options.
The teriyaki dish at this restaurant did not live up to the high expectations set by the establishment's name. While not a terrible experience, it was far from great. There was some confusion with the order, as the teriyaki was originally prepared as part of a bento box. However, after checking the receipt, the staff correctively disassembled the bento box to complete the individual teriyaki order. Unfortunately, the teriyaki itself was unremarkable, resembling what one might find at a mall food court. The rice was soggy, and the accompanying vegetables were mostly cabbage and carrots.
On the other hand, the dragon roll ordered by the reviewer's wife was a positive aspect of the meal. In contrast to the teriyaki, this dish was flavorful and well-executed. The speed of service, freshness of ingredients, and affordability of the meal were also commendable. The staff members were friendly and had clearly mastered the preparation process. Overall, it proved to be a decent option for a quick, satisfying meal. However, the subpar teriyaki left something to be desired, and the pricing was slightly steep for the quality provided.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
- Dinner
11. Shake Shack Bryant Park
Stand for Something Good®

Sustainable and humane sourcing of ingredients, collaborations with local chefs and restaurants
Bryant Park in Manhattan is an urban oasis of lush greenery and scenic beauty, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. However, the Shake Shack located in the vicinity recently served up a disappointing experience for this reviewer. The burger received was far from satisfying, with an unappetizing texture and temperature, leaving a bad taste both literally and figuratively.
On a more positive note, just 200 meters from Bryant Park, another eatery offers a delectable selection of gourmet burgers, spicy fries, and refreshing homemade lemonade. The highlight of the meal was the perfectly cooked, flavorful smashed burgers, which were considerably better than the ones served at the aforementioned Shake Shack. Additionally, the eatery provides comfortable seating for customers, making it an ideal spot to savor the delicious food while taking in the beautiful views of Bryant Park.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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12. Taco Bell
Mexican-inspired fast food with a twist

Late-night hours, value menu options
A recent lunchtime order of burritos from a popular US chain based in Times Square was disappointing due to the absence of one item and four missing burritos. Despite this issue, the location of the restaurant is convenient and well-suited for take-out orders, particularly for those staying in nearby hotels.
The quesadillas and burritos offered at this establishment were a delight, with a good balance of flavors and affordable pricing. The location, while small and lacking in seating, is in a prime spot on Times Square, making it an easy choice for those looking for a quick and satisfying meal on-the-go. It is worth noting, however, that attention to order accuracy is an area that could be improved.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots