Restaurants near Madison Square Garden

For years the area around Manhattan’s premier entertainment venue has been criticised for a lack of decent food options. It has all the bright lights, but often people want a bit more than an overpriced burger or a plate of Nachos. However, the area has been undergoing a renaissance in recent times and now the dining scene is as electric as the events that draw people to the neighbourhood.

It’s a cliché that sports events and meat go hand in hand but it’s true – at every tailgate you’ll find burgers cooking on the grill and enjoying a hotdog at a baseball game is all part of the authentic experience. No wonder then that The Breslin has become a favourite for sports fans before and after the game. Less than a 10-minute walk away on West 29^th Street, The Breslin embraces the concept of a ‘gastro-pub’ wholeheartedly and with its location in the effortlessly cool ACE Hotel, it’s a place you can’t miss. In a nutshell, The Breslin is perfectly cooked, generous servings of fatty meat without your highbrow airs and graces – No reservations, No tablecloths. Do yourself a favour and try the Lamb Burger. You’ll leave with higher cholesterol but it’s worth it.

The area around 32^nd street is known as K-Town (see map below) and it’s easy to see why – with the flashing neon lights, karaoke bars and blaring K-pop, you’d be forgiven in thinking you’d stepped somehow into downtown Seoul. However, if you know where to look there are some gems in the chaos. Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong gives you an experience to remember as well as food to write home about; with the food cooked in front of you in traditional style and a K-pop induced frenzy happening all around! However, three week aged Omaha Beef, tender short rips and thin caramelised brisket will convert even the foodies among your group.

While many restaurants in the area are relatively new – Keens Steakhouse has been wowing people since 1885! The décor hasn’t changed a lot since then – with the restaurant having an ‘exclusive old-money club’ sort of feel to it. It’s grand interior complete with a stuffed moose head and one of the biggest pipe collections in the city; is matched by its wonderful steaks. The steaks are the stars of the dish, and do come with a price tag to match – but if your wallet matches your appetite – splash out, get a single malt with your dinner and you won’t regret a thing.

Keens Steakhouse Main Bar

However, tourists to the Big Apple often want to follow up an American pastime with an all American meal. This is where Kabooz’s Bar and Grill comes in. Yes, it is located in the attached Penn Station so it’s surroundings leave something to be desired – but if you are after classic dishes such as Steak and Eggs or their Reuben, all washed down with a beer, for a cheap price – you can do much worse. Besides, with the quick service, you won’t miss a second of the game.

Need more information on visiting MSG for a sports event? See what local fans recommend here