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Cheap (ish) Theater, Dinner and Drinks in Manhattan

Manhattan-Midtown West

The thing I love most about New York is the theatre. You can see good, reasonably priced theatre every single week if you want to, and when I first moved to NYC, I did. Of course, there’s nothing like Broadway, but if you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, I have the perfect outing for you.

Bonnie BroerenBonnie Broeren

Bonnie is a Mom, lawyer, brand strategist, public relations expert and lifelong fan of NYC. She knows the best spots for a play date AND a real date. You can see more of her work here.

BeaBars & Lounges
Intimate, brick-walled eatery & bar with handcrafted cocktails, eclectic small plates & a courtyard.
$$
(212) 602-1910website
403 W 43rd St, New York, NY 10036

I’ll be honest, I am not a fan of the restaurant scene near the Theatre District and Times Square. It’s crowded, chaotic, and full of tourist traps. Fear not. Bea is a cute, chill oasis with excellent cocktails and tasty items on their menu. They are also used to the theatre crowd, so they won’t keep you waiting or make you late for your show.

Signature Theatre CompanyTheatre
Sleek, Frank Gehry-designed performing arts venue with 3 theaters, a cafe & a bookstore.
$$
(212) 244-7529website
480 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036

Signature Theatre Company provides an experience that is a bit more intimate than your typical broadway show-- not only because its theaters are small, but because it hosts several plays by the same playwright for an extended period of time, making it possible to really get to know a playwright’s vision and body of work. The cost of Signature Theatre’s productions is also offset by its initiative, A Generation of Access, launched in 2005 to make theatre more affordable and accessible by all. As if this weren’t enough, the plays hosted by Signature Theatre Company are just really, really good, often centered around social justice issues, and starring some talented actors you are likely to recognize. This theatre is a go-to for a night out with friends.

The Rum HouseBars & Lounges
This swanky, candlelit, wood-paneled piano bar draws the well-heeled for classic cocktails.
$$
(646) 490-6924website
228 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036

Tucked inside Hotel Edison, the Rum House is the perfect place to get a nightcap and decompress. Enjoy a pisco sour and the music and performances of the theatre crowd that frequents the venue.

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