Bond 45 brings a slice of old-world Italian charm to the heart of the Theater District, making it both a pre-show staple and a destination in its own right. This sprawling, two-story restaurant balances theatrical flair with genuine warmth, much like the neighborhood it calls home. What immediately grabs you is the impressive antipasto bar, a vibrant display of vegetables, cheeses, and cured meats that sets the tone for the feast to come.

The menu excels at elevated Italian comfort food that somehow manages to feel both special and familiar. Their homemade pasta dishes shine with authenticity – the pappardelle with short rib ragu is rich without being heavy, while the tableside-prepared cacio e pepe creates an experience as memorable as the flavor. For meat lovers, the veal chop Parmigiana is a masterclass in indulgence.

Perhaps what keeps both tourists and locals coming back is the restaurant’s undeniable energy. The service staff navigates the fine line between attentiveness and giving you space to enjoy your conversation. They’re experts at getting you to your show on time without making you feel rushed.

While not the most cutting-edge Italian in the city, Bond 45 delivers consistent excellence with just enough theatrical flourish to make any meal feel like an occasion. It’s the rare Times Square area restaurant that New Yorkers will actually recommend to their friends.