Playwright Introduce
Welcome to The Playwright, a quintessential New York City destination that perfectly blends the warm, inviting spirit of a traditional Irish pub with the energetic pulse of a modern live music venue and sports bar. Nestled conveniently in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, The Playwright has become a go-to spot for locals, tourists, and theater-goers alike, offering a multifaceted experience that caters to a wide range of tastes. Whether you're seeking a cozy corner for a quiet pint, a lively space to watch the big game, or a stage to discover your new favorite local band, The Playwright delivers.
This establishment is more than just a place to grab a drink; it's a hub of activity and a true community gathering spot. The menu is a testament to classic comfort food with an Irish twist, featuring hearty dishes that are both satisfying and familiar. The atmosphere is consistently praised for being both casual and trendy, making it an ideal setting for any occasion, from a quick bite during a solo adventure to a celebratory dinner with a large group. The Playwright's commitment to quality service, great food, and an authentic experience is what sets it apart as a standout choice in a city known for its endless options.
The pub's dedication to providing a memorable experience is evident in its diverse offerings, which include an impressive selection of beer, cocktails, and wines. The staff's efficiency ensures that whether you're in for a quick lunch or settling in for the evening's entertainment, you'll receive prompt and friendly service. The Playwright's reputation is built on these pillars of excellence, making it a reliable and cherished venue for anyone exploring the vibrant neighborhood. It's the kind of place where you feel right at home, even on your first visit, and the kind of place you'll want to return to again and again.
The Playwright is centrally located at 202 W 49th St, New York, NY 10019, USA. Its prime position in Midtown Manhattan makes it incredibly accessible from various parts of the city. Being just a stone's throw away from Times Square and the Theater District, it’s an ideal pre- or post-show spot. You can easily reach the pub via several subway lines, including the N, Q, R, and W trains at the 49th Street station, or the 1, C, and E trains at the 50th Street station. The dense network of public transportation ensures a hassle-free journey. For those with mobility needs, the venue offers wheelchair-accessible seating, demonstrating a commitment to welcoming all patrons. The surrounding area is well-lit and bustling, providing a safe and inviting environment day and night.
The accessibility of The Playwright is one of its major draws. Its location is perfect for tourists exploring the iconic sights of the city, as well as for New Yorkers looking for a convenient meeting point. Whether you are coming from a Broadway show, an office building in the area, or a nearby hotel, you will find The Playwright to be an easily reachable and prominent fixture. The vibrant street life of 49th Street adds to the overall experience, making the journey to the pub part of the fun. The combination of easy access and a prime location makes The Playwright a top choice for anyone looking to enjoy the best of what New York has to offer.
Services Offered
- Dine-in, Takeout, and Delivery: The Playwright provides flexible dining options to suit your schedule and preference.
- Table Service: Enjoy a comfortable and attentive dining experience with full table service.
- Reservations Accepted: Plan ahead for your group gatherings or special occasions by making a reservation.
- High Chairs: The pub is family-friendly, offering high chairs for children.
- NFC Mobile Payments: A convenient and modern payment option is available for a quick and easy checkout process.
- Happy Hour: Take advantage of special deals on both food and drinks during happy hour.
- Bar Service: A well-stocked bar is available for those who prefer to sit at the counter.
- Late-night Food: Perfect for those post-show cravings, The Playwright offers a menu that extends into the late hours.
Features and Highlights
- Great Beer Selection: A wide variety of beers, including the best Guinness, is available on tap and in bottles.
- Great Cocktails and Wine List: Expertly crafted cocktails and a curated wine list complement the extensive beer offerings.
- Live Performances: Experience the vibrant atmosphere with regular live music and entertainment.
- Sports: A dedicated sports bar area with multiple screens ensures you won't miss any of the major games.
- Fast Service: The staff is known for their efficiency, ensuring you get your food and drinks promptly.
- Comfort Food: The menu is filled with satisfying and flavorful comfort dishes, from burgers and sandwiches to traditional Irish favorites.
- Cozy & Trendy Atmosphere: The interior design creates a welcoming, comfortable, and stylish environment.
- Popular for Diverse Crowds: The pub attracts a mix of college students, groups, and tourists, creating a lively and diverse crowd.
Contact Information
- Address: 202 W 49th St, New York, NY 10019, USA
- Phone: (212) 262-9229
What is worth choosing
Choosing The Playwright is a decision to embrace a truly authentic and multifaceted New York experience. From the moment you step through the doors, you are greeted with a unique blend of traditional Irish hospitality and the undeniable energy of Midtown Manhattan. The pub's ability to seamlessly transition from a cozy lunch spot to a bustling pre-theater hub and finally to a lively late-night destination is a testament to its exceptional design and service.
The menu itself is a compelling reason to visit. Where else can you find classic Irish dishes like Shepherd's Pie and Bangers & Mash alongside modern American favorites like a James Yoce Burger or Thai Grilled Chicken? The variety ensures there's something to please every palate, and the quality of the food is consistently praised by patrons. The Beer Battered Fish & Chips and the Corned Beef & Cabbage are particular highlights that transport you straight to the heart of Ireland.
Beyond the food and drink, The Playwright stands out for its atmosphere and entertainment. The live music creates an unforgettable ambiance, making it a perfect spot for a date night or a fun outing with friends. The sports bar aspect, with multiple large screens, ensures that sports enthusiasts have a dedicated place to cheer on their favorite teams. The combination of these elements—live music, sports, great food, and a vibrant atmosphere—is what makes The Playwright more than just a pub; it's a destination.
Furthermore, the exceptional service is a frequent highlight in customer feedback. Visitors consistently report friendly and efficient staff who are knowledgeable about the menu and drink offerings. This level of service, combined with the pub's convenient location and comfortable amenities like wheelchair-accessible seating and a well-maintained restroom, makes for a stress-free and enjoyable visit. Whether you're a local seeking a reliable haunt or a visitor looking for a genuine New York pub experience, The Playwright delivers on all fronts, promising a memorable time with every visit.
Playwright Menu
Appetizers
- Soup Du Jour $12.00
- French Onion Soup $14.00
- Crispy Calamari $21.00
Choose style yogurt lemon dill sauce, marinra sauce or Buffalo style.
- Crispy Coconut Shrimp $0.00
Thai chili sauce.
- Playwright Nachos $20.00
Black beans, melted cheddar, Jack cheese pico de gallo, pickled jalapenos sour cream.
- Finest Buffalo Wings $18.00
Celery, blue cheese.
- Golden Fried Chicken Fingers $18.00
Homemade honey mustard.
- Beer Battered Mozzarella Sticks $13.00
Marinara sauce.
- Irish Nacho Fries $14.00
Chopped smoked bacon, cheddar, Jack cheese, scallions.
- Waffle Fries $12.00
- Truffle Fries $14.00
Shaved Parmesan.
- Playwright Medley $32.00
Wings, fingers, sticks or skins.
Salads
- Caesar Salad $13.00
All dressing gluten free.
- Mesclun Green Salad $13.00
All dressing gluten free.
- Thai Grilled Chicken $22.00
Lettuce, crispy noodles, cabbage, red onion, soy ginger dressing.
- Southwest Kale & Grilled Shrimp $26.00
Tomatoes, corn, black beans, guacamole cheddar Jack cheese, ranch dressing.
- Crispy Chicken Caesar $22.00
Crsipy romaine shaved Parmesan garlic croutons, Caesar dressing.
Pasta
- Pasta Paisano $22.00
Chopped kale, tomato, mushrooms, olives, pesto olive oil, shaved Parmesan.
- Chicken Penne Ala Vodka $25.00
Flambeed with smirnoff vodka, roasted garlic tomato sauce, splash of cream.
- Mushroom Ravioli $24.00
Sauteed mushrooms, shallots, garlic, port wine creamed emi-glaze.
Burger
- James Yoce Burger $25.00
Irish bacon, cheddar, fries.
- Sean Ocasey Burger $24.00
Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, fries.
- Grilled Turkey Burger $23.00
Chipotle mayo, fries.
- California Veggie Burger $22.00
Guacamole, ranch dressing, fries.
Sandwiches
- Times Square Chicken Sandwich $22.00
Breaded chicken, lettuce, tomato, garlic mayo, toasted Kaiser roll, fries.
- Playwright's Reuben Sandwich $26.00
Open faced corned beef or pastrami sauerkraut, melted Swiss, Russian dressing.
- Playwright Chicken Sandwich Sandwich $22.00
Grilled chicken, roasted red peppers, pesto mayo, melted mozzarella, focaccia bread, fries.
Traditional Favorites
- Grilled New York Strip Steak $56.00
Mashed potatoes, vegetable of the day.
- Corned Beef & Cabbage $32.00
Buttered boiled red bliss potatoes.
- Shepherd's Pie $26.00
Ground sirloin, fresh vegetables, brown gravy, topped with mashed potatoes.
- Bangers & Mash $25.00
Caramelized onion gravy.
- Guinness Brown Beef Stew $32.00
Slow braised with carrots, onions, turnips, celery and potatoes.
- Playwright's Chicken Pot Pie $26.00
Tender stewed chicken with carrots, onion, celery, and pigeon peas in a velvet cream sauce.
- Beer Battered Fish & Chips $30.00
Tartar sauce, lemon wedge, fries.
- Broiled Atlantic Salmon $34.00
Smothered in Dijon mustard, topped with fresh herb crumb crust.
- Mexican Shrimp Scampi $34.00
Flambeed with gold tequila, lime juice, butter.
- Irish Style Saute Chicken $30.00
Flambeed with Irish mist with mushrooms finished with demi glaze and a splash of cream.
Sides
- Fries $13.00
- Cajun Fries $13.00
- Onion Rings $13.00
- Mashed Potatoes $13.00
- Baked Potato $13.00
Playwright Details
Service options
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great wine list
- Live performances
- Sports
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Food
- Food at bar
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
Playwright Photos










Playwright Location
Playwright Reviews
times squaretipshepherd's piefloorcalamaribroadwaypot piesingerfrank sinatramartini
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Nice bar with good service. Food was delicious. Come by & have a few.🍺🍻🍷🍸🍹🥂🍾🥃🍔🌭🌮🌯🥙🥗🥪
July 11 · Ronnie BenzWe didn’t get food. Guinness beer is the best. Bar mans are so kind.
June 21 · Eduardo FernandezFor our complete stay in NY the Playwright was our place to be for the evenings! We really really loved the atmosphere in there! If we‘ll come back to NY we‘d also come back for the Playwright! ❤️
February 01 · Rena GPost-theatre drinks at one of my favorite bars in NYC, The Playwright, on West 49th. Great vibe and fantastic bartenders (+ they have great food too!).
May 15 · Francine LauraBest espresso martini ever!!I stop in each time I am in NYC. The bar staff is always so friendly and attentive.
April 21 · Lynda Lowder
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