Seemor

The SmithB+Worth Trying

Name: The Smith
Address: 1900 Broadway, New York, NY 10023, New York, United States
Rating: 4.4

1900 Broadway, New York, NY 10023 · American restaurant, Breakfast restaurant, Brunch restaurant · 4.4/5 Google (5394 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Reliable American bistro across from Lincoln Center with lively energy, solid comfort-food hits, and crowd-pleasing brunch; book ahead and expect noise and occasional host stand delays.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

The Smith delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality—particularly its signature mac and cheese, burgers, and raw bar—and attentive service that shines during normal service. However, quality dips noticeably during rushes, and cramped seating in peak sections limits the experience. Its prime Lincoln Center location and reliable execution on core dishes make it a solid choice for pre-show dining, though it doesn't reach the distinction of the area's premier restaurants.

Restaurant Summary

Across from Lincoln Center, The Smith buzzes with pre- and post-show energy, servers hustling through a brasserie-styled room that feels lively and polished. Guests praise quick check-ins and warm touches like birthday desserts, while some note crowded host stands and loud sections. One diner put it simply: "Mac and cheese came bubbling hot and set the tone for a relaxed, well-run meal." The kitchen leans classic American with elevated comforts: a craveable skillet mac and cheese, juicy burgers with crisp fries, and a raw bar that suits a light start before curtain. Expect reliable hits more than culinary theatrics; a few global accents keep things interesting without getting fussy. It suits diners who want quality without pretension in a prime location. Families fit right in. The menu is stacked with things kids actually eat—burgers, fries, pancakes, and simple pastas—plus brunch staples and fruit-yogurt options. If your crew needs quiet, request a calmer section; otherwise, the bustle, fries, and pancakes make it an easy kid-friendly choice before a show.

At a Glance

Prime spot for pre- and post-theater dining
Mac and cheese, burgers, and raw bar are consistent crowd-pleasers
Noise and tight tables during peak times
Host stand delays even with reservations at rush
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food

What Sets It Apart

pre_theater_powerhouse
comfort_classics_executed_well
robust_raw_bar

What People Love

That bubbling skillet mac and cheese comfort hit
Friendly, attentive servers who keep things moving
Convenience right across from Lincoln Center
Burgers with crispy fries and well-poured cocktails
Fresh oyster sampler for light starts

Points of Concern

Peak-hour seating delays even with reservations; arrive early
High noise levels and some cramped tables
Occasional inconsistencies on steaks and pasta during rushes
Pricing is genuinely expensive ($28+ mains) given location

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$45-$65 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

If noise-sensitive, choose hearty mains like The Smith Bar Steak ($38) earlier in the evening
Share Mac + Cheese ($19) and an Oyster Sampler ($31) to balance richness
Burger Royale ($26) offers value with fries in this location

Perfect For

Pre-show dinner before Lincoln Center
Comfort-food brunch with friends
Casual date night with lively energy
Family meal where kids can find favorites

Location Insights

Area: Cultural hub opposite Lincoln Center; draws pre/post-show crowds, families, and visitors.

Safety: Well-lit, high-foot-traffic, generally safe upscale corridor.

Nearby: Steps from Lincoln Center, near Columbus Circle, hotels, shops, and transit.

Lincoln SquareLincoln Square is a lively sub-area of the Upper West Side centered around the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. The dining scene includes a range of upscale restaurants, casual cafes, and ethnic eateries catering to theatergoers, local residents, and tourists. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet welcoming, with a strong emphasis on arts and culture.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday08:00–23:00 Tuesday08:00–23:00 Wednesday08:00–23:00 Thursday08:00–23:00 Friday08:00–00:00 Saturday09:00–00:00 Sunday09:00–23:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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