The Independent Introduce
In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of Midtown Manhattan, finding a place that balances a great atmosphere, delicious food, and a reasonable price can feel like a rare find. The Independent, affectionately known as "The Indo," is just such a place. Located at 147 W 40th St, this snug and stylish restaurant has become a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. It offers a fresh and creative take on classic American cuisine, paired with an impressive selection of handcrafted cocktails and local beers. Whether you're looking for a comfortable spot for a business lunch, a casual dinner with friends, or a late-night bite, The Independent provides a welcoming and vibrant setting.
The ambiance at The Independent is a key part of its appeal. It strikes a perfect balance between casual and trendy, making it a comfortable space for a variety of occasions. The setting is cozy, providing a relaxing escape from the constant buzz of Midtown. The creative menu features a wide range of offerings, from small plates and shareable snacks to hearty main courses and handhelds. This variety ensures there is something for every palate and every craving. From the "Sticky Tofu" and "Halloumi Fries" to the "NY Steak Frites" and "Angus Prime Rib Burger," the menu is designed to be both approachable and exciting.
What truly sets The Independent apart is its commitment to both quality food and exceptional service. Customer reviews frequently praise the attentive and friendly staff, who are noted for making guests feel welcome and un-rushed. This level of care and professionalism elevates the dining experience, transforming a simple meal into a memorable outing. The restaurant is a perfect example of a place that understands the needs of its patrons—whether it's a quick lunch for a professional on a tight schedule or a leisurely dinner where conversation flows easily.
The Independent has successfully carved out its niche as a go-to spot for a variety of needs. It's a popular choice for dinner and solo dining, but it also caters to groups and those looking for a lively happy hour. The restaurant's strategic location near Bryant Park, Times Square, and the Theater District makes it a convenient pit-stop for a pre-theater bite or a post-theater nightcap. The thoughtful menu, combined with the excellent drink selection and cozy atmosphere, makes The Independent a true gem in a neighborhood often dominated by tourist traps. It's a place where you can relax, enjoy a great meal, and feel like a true New Yorker.
The Independent is located at 147 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018, USA. Its prime location in the Garment District, a short walk from Bryant Park and Times Square, makes it highly accessible. The area is a major transportation hub, with numerous subway lines and bus routes running through it, ensuring that getting to and from the restaurant is always convenient.
The restaurant is also committed to accessibility for all guests. It features a wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, making it a welcoming and comfortable space for individuals with mobility needs. While street parking is available, it can be a challenge in this busy part of the city, but paid parking lots are an option nearby.
- Delivery: For those who prefer to dine at home or at the office, the restaurant offers delivery services.
- Takeout: Customers can pick up their orders to enjoy on the go.
- Dine-in: Seating is available for guests who wish to enjoy their meal at the restaurant.
- No-Contact Delivery: An option for added safety and convenience.
- Reservations: The Independent accepts reservations, which are a good idea, especially for dinner.
- Great Cocktails & Beer Selection: The bar offers a wide variety of handcrafted cocktails, local draught beers, and a well-curated wine list.
- Late-Night Food: The restaurant serves a late-night menu from Thursday through Saturday until midnight, perfect for a post-show snack.
- Creative Menu: The menu features a modern twist on classic American dishes, with a focus on small plates and shares.
- Happy Hour Specials: The Independent offers happy hour food and drink specials, making it a great after-work destination.
- Combo Deals: Unique combo offerings, such as the "Burger & Any Draught Beer," provide excellent value.
- Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The dining space is stylish and comfortable, ideal for both casual and special occasions.
Address: 147 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018, USA
Phone: (917) 388-3727
The menu at The Independent is designed to please a wide range of tastes, but a few items truly stand out. The "SNACKS AND SHARES" section is a great place to start, especially if you’re with a group. The "Halloumi Fries" and "Sticky Tofu" are both highly creative and flavorful appetizers that offer a delicious start to the meal. For a heartier shareable, the "Shrimp Mac & Cheese" is a popular choice, providing rich and comforting flavors. The "Chile Crisp Chicken Wings" are also a must-try for those who enjoy a little heat and a lot of flavor.
When it comes to the main courses, the "ANGUS PRIME RIB BURGER" is a strong contender for one of the best burgers in the area. It is known for its high-quality ingredients and incredible taste. Another crowd favorite is the "NY STEAK FRITES," which, according to a customer review, is "so good." For a lighter yet equally satisfying meal, the "Blackened Salmon" sandwich or the "Roast Cauliflower Al Pastor Tacos" are excellent choices. The "Harvest Chicken Bowl" is a perfect option for a fresh and healthy lunch. The menu's variety ensures that whether you're in the mood for classic comfort food or something more adventurous, you'll find a delicious option.
Beyond the food, the drinks are a key part of the experience at The Independent. The bar offers a wide range of handcrafted cocktails, including unique creations like the "Longacre Square" and "Indo Old Fashioned." Their happy hour and combo deals are worth noting, especially the "New York Happy Meal" which includes a classic martini and fries for a great price. The impressive draught beer list, featuring local breweries like Montauk and Five Boroughs, also makes it a great destination for beer enthusiasts. This dedication to both high-quality food and drink, combined with the professional and attentive service, makes The Independent a top choice for a memorable and enjoyable dining experience in Midtown.
The Independent Menu
SNACKS AND SHARES
- HALLOUMI FRIES $16.00
harissa crema / pomegranate / za'atar / mint
- STICKY TOFU $16.00
hoisin ginger glaze / sesame / scallions / bird's eye chile
- BURRATA $20.00
balsamic strawberries / pistachio / mint / olive oil / focaccia
- Warm Cheddar Pull-Apart Brioche $12.00
Vermont Cheddar / cultured butter / Maldon Salt
- Shrimp Mac & Cheese $21.00
campanelle / truffle white cheese sauce / chive
- MARGHERITA PINSA $18.00
fermented sourdough / fresh mozzarella / roasted tomatoes / basil pesto
- CHILE CRISP CHICKEN WINGS $18.00
scallion / dill pickle ranch
- Fried Calamari $21.00
cilantro tartar sauce / blistered cherry tomatoes / basil chips
- Mortadella Sliders $16.00
pistachio pesto / lemon ricotta / basil / focaccia
- Tuna Tartare $23.00
avocado / pineapple pico de gallo / cucumber / rice paper crisp
- CRISPY CHICKEN BAO BUNS $18.00
cucumber / red onion / cilantro / sesame / gochujang
- Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail $22.00
harissa cocktail sauce / lemon / greens
GREENS
- HARVEST CHICKEN BOWL $26.00
sweet potato / goat cheese / quinoa / pumpkin seeds / honeycrisp apple / cauliflower / maple balsamic vinaigrette
- Chopped Wedge Salad $18.00
baby gem / marinated cherry tomatoes / pickled onions / black forest bacon chips / roast garlic blue cheese dressing
- Halloumi Hummus Bowl $24.00
cucumber / chickpeas / cherry tomatoes / red onion / quinoa tabbouleh / baby leaves / tahini dressing
MAIN
- Chicken Schnitzel $29.00
miso mustard cream / baby leaves / marinated tomatoes / Grana Padano
- NY STEAK FRITES $45.00
demi glace / roast wild mushrooms / chives
- Faroe Island Salmon $36.00
roast garlic mash potatoes / asparagus / sherry pickled cherry tomato / roasted baby carrots / grilled lemon / carrot beurre monte
- Lemon Herb Campanelle $25.00
asparagus / cherry tomatoes / basil / parmigiano / lemon ricotta
HANDHELDS
- ANGUS PRIME RIB BURGER $24.00
white cheddar / beefsteak tomato / bacon onion jam / garlic aioli / brioche bun
- BLACKENED SALMON $25.00
avocado salsa / tomato / microgreens / cajun remoulade / ciabatta
- BUTTERMILK FRIED CHICKEN SANDWICH $23.00
classic caesar dressing / baby gem / bacon / Grana Padano / brioche bun
- BOURBON BARBECUE SHRIMP TACOS $20.00
sweet corn pico de gallo / cabbage / avocado / chipotle crema
- Roast Cauliflower Al Pastor Tacos $18.00
heirloom cauliflower / pineapple / guajillo / radish / pickled onion / cotija / cilantro
- B.L.T. $18.00
smoked black forest bacon / baby gem / marinated tomatoes / lemon aioli / thick cut sourdough
SIDES
- Smashed Cucumber Salad $12.00
sesame / scallion / ginger / chili flake / white soy
- French Fries $14.00
rosemary / calabrian chiles / maldon salt / garlic aioli
- Grilled Asparagus $17.00
lemon butter / chive
- Cheesy Cauliflower $13.00
heirloom cauliflower / white cheese sauce
SWEET TOOTH
Seasonal sweets
- BUTTER TOFFEE CAKE $12.00
vanilla bean ice cream / salted caramel
- Basque Cheesecake $12.00
balsamic strawberries / whipped cream / mint
Weekly Food Specials
- Faroe Island Salmon $36.00
roast garlic mash potatoes / asparagus / sherry pickled cherry tomato / roasted baby carrots / grilled lemon / carrot beurre monte
- Smashed Cucumber Salad $12.00
sesame / scallion / ginger / chili flake / white soy
- Cheesy Cauliflower $16.00
heirloom cauliflower / white cheese sauce
- Grilled Asparagus $14.00
lemon butter / chive
- French Fries $12.00
rosemary / calabrian chiles / maldon salt / garlic aioli
Cocktail Specials
- Juicy Fruit $17.00
Tito's / peach schnapps / pineapple juice / club soda
- St. Germain Margarita $17.00
tequila / St-Germain / lime
- $10 Martini Mondays $10.00
Every Monday, enjoy $10 martinis with gin or vodka!
Combos
- THE NEW YORK HAPPY MEAL $19.00
classic gin or vodka martini with fries
- Burger & An Old Fashioned $25.00
lettuce / tomato (available only Monday to Friday from 5pm 'til the kitchen closes)
- BURGER & ANY DRAUGHT BEER $20.00
lettuce / tomato (available weekends only)
LATE NIGHT MENU
Late night menu is available Thursday through Saturday from 9 pm to midnight.
- HALLOUMI FRIES $16.00
harissa crema / pomegranate / za'atar / mint. dairy, gluten free, sesame
- STICKY TOFU $16.00
hoisin ginger glaze / sesame / scallions / bird's eye chili
- BURRATA $20.00
balsamic strawberries / pistachio / mint / olive oil / focaccia
- Warm Cheddar Pull-Apart Brioche $12.00
Vermont Cheddar / cultured butter / Maldon Salt
- MARGHERITA PINSA $18.00
fermented sourdough / fresh mozzarella / roasted tomatoes / basil pesto
- Shrimp Mac & Cheese $21.00
campanelle / truffle white cheese sauce / chive
- CHILE CRISP CHICKEN WINGS $18.00
scallion / dill pickle ranch. egg, gluten, soy
- Fried Calamari $21.00
cilantro tartar sauce / blistered cherry tomatoes / basil chips
- Mortadella Sliders $16.00
pistachio pesto / lemon ricotta / basil / focaccia
- Tuna Tartare $23.00
avocado / pineapple pico de gallo / cucumber / rice paper crisp
- CRISPY CHICKEN BAO BUNS $18.00
cucumber / red onion / cilantro / sesame / gochujang
- Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail $22.00
harissa cocktail sauce / lemon / greens
- ANGUS PRIME RIB BURGER $24.00
white cheddar / beefsteak tomato / bacon onion jam / garlic aioli / brioche bun
- Smashed Cucumber Salad $12.00
sesame / scallion / ginger / chili flake / white soy
- French Fries $12.00
rosemary / calabrian chiles / maldon salt / garlic aioli
- Grilled Asparagus $14.00
lemon butter / chive
- Cheesy Cauliflower $16.00
heirloom cauliflower / white cheese sauce
- BUTTER TOFFEE CAKE $12.00
vanilla bean ice cream / salted caramel
- Basque Cheesecake $12.00
balsamic strawberries / whipped cream / mint
HANDCRAFTED COCKTAILS
Please alert your server of any food allergies, as some of our cocktails contain nuts, raw egg and gelatin. Our signature cocktails are also available zero proof—ask your server to make them as a mocktail
- LONGACRE SQUARE $18.00
mezcal / tequila / lime / blackberry / charred
- INDO OLD FASHIONED $18.00
bourbon / simple syrup / Angostura bitters
- HARVEST MULE $18.00
vodka / caramel / apple cider / ginger beer
- ALTER EGO $18.00
empress gin / velvet falernum / lime
- RAT RACE $18.00
mezcal / reposado tequila / giffards banana liquor / lemon / agave
- BROWN SUGAR ESPRESSO $18.00
vanilla vodka / Kahlúa / maple / espresso
- NUTTY SOUR $18.00
bourbon / Frangelico / ginger agave / lemon / orange peel
- LIBERTY BELL $18.00
vodka / barrows ginger / lime / simple / lemongrass-habanero foam
- HIGH LINE $18.00
gold rum / cranberry / ginger / lemon
- SPOTLIGHT $18.00
rye / ginger beer / maple / lime
DRAUGHT BEER
Ask your server about our rotating beers.
- STELLA ARTOIS $9.50
Pilsner, Belgium 5%
- GUINNESS STOUT $10.00
Ireland 4.2%
- MONTAUK WAVE CHASER IPA $9.50
NY 6.4%
- OMMEGANG WITTE $9.50
Wheat, NY 5.2%
- BLUE POINT TOASTED LAGER $9.50
NY 5.5%
- KINGS COUNTY BREWING COMPANY (KCBC) $9.50
NY, Double IPA
- KEG & LANTERN GREEN EYES $9.50
IPA, NY 7%
- SINGLECUT FREQUENCY $9.50
Lager, NY 4.7%
- GUN HILL BREWERY IPA $9.50
NY 6.6%
- BROOKLYN SEASONAL $9.50
NY
- SLOOP JUICE BOMB $9.50
Hazy IPA, NY 6.5%
- FIVE BOROUGHS PILSNER $9.50
NY 5%
- CATSKILL BREWERY, DEVIL'S PATH IPA $9.50
NY 7.5%
BOTTLE/CAN BEER
- AMSTEL LIGHT $8.50
Netherlands 4%
- BUD LIGHT $8.50
MO 4.2%
- DAURA $9.00
Spain 5.4%. gluten free
- LAWSON'S SIP OF SUNSHINE $9.00
IPA, CT 8%
- MODELO ESPECIAL $9.00
Mexico 4.4%
- MONTAUK SEASONAL $9.00
Rotating, NY
- NÜTRL VODKA SELTZER $9.00
4.50%
- RADIANT PIG SAVE THE ROBOTS $10.00
IPA, NY 7%
- ROCKAWAY BREWING HAWAIIAN PIZZA $9.00
Hazy IPA, NY 6.8%
- SINGLECUT KIM HIBISCUS SOUR $9.00
NY, 4.2%
CIDER
- DOWNEAST CIDER $9.00
MA 5.1%
- MAGNERS CIDER $9.00
Ireland 4.5%
- STELLA ARTOIS CIDRE $9.50
Belgium 4.5%
- WÖLFFER DRY ROSÉ CIDER $10.00
NY 6.9%
WHITE WINE
- PINOT GRIGIO
ERA Organic / Italy
- CHARDONNAY
Mas la Chevalière / France 2020
- SAUVIGNON BLANC
Frenzy / New Zealand 2021
- ALBARINO
Bodegas la Cana / Spain
- CHENIN BLANC
The Winery of Good Hope / South Africa 2021
RED WINE
- PINOT NOIR
Terrebonne / Oregon 2020
- MALBEC
Escorihuela Gascon / Argentina 2019
- CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Cellier de Dauphins / France 2015
- COOTES DU RHOONE
Cellier des Dauphins / France 2019
ROSE
- ROSE
Source of Joy / France 2020
SPARKLING WINE
- PROSECCO
Mionetto / Italy
- ROSE
Mumm Napa Brut / California
- CHAMPAGNE
Schramsberg Mirabelle Brut / California
ZERO PROOF
- ATHLETIC LITE $9.00
non alcoholic
- ATHLETIC RUN WILD IPA $9.00
non alcoholic
- HEINEKEN 0.0 $8.50
non alcoholic
- GUINNESS 0 $9.00
non alcoholic
MOCKTAIL
- ORANGE YOU HAPPY $9.00
orange / ginger beer / mint leaves
- SHINE BRIGHT $9.00
cranberry / sprite / cranberries / rosemary
- GINGER SPRITZ $9.00
apple cider / ginger beer / ginger agave / ginger candy
Debut (Choice of appetizer:)
- Grab an appetizer, entrée and dessert for just $45 per person.
The Indo’s Broadway Prix Fixe menu is your ticket to a delicious evening!
- Warm Cheddar Pull-Apart Brioche
Vermont Cheddar / cultured butter / Maldon Salt
- Sticky Tofu
hoisin ginger glaze / sesame / scallions / bird’s eye chili
- Halloumi Fries
harissa crema / pomegranate / za’atar / mint
- Mortadella Sliders
pistachio pesto / lemon ricotta / basil / focaccia
Headliner (Choice of main:)
- Chicken Schnitzel
miso mustard cream / baby leaves / marinated tomatoes / Grana Padano
- Faroe Island Salmon
roast garlic mash potatoes / asparagus / sherry pickled cherry tomato / roasted baby carrots / grilled lemon / carrot beurre monte
- NY Steak Frites $8.00
demi glace / roast wild mushrooms / chives
- Lemon Herb Campanelle
asparagus / cherry tomatoes / basil / parmigiano / lemon ricotta
Finale (Choice of dessert:)
- Butter Toffee Cake
vanilla bean ice cream
- Basque Cheesecake
balsamic strawberries / whipped cream / mint
The Independent Details
Service options
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Locals
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Parking
- Paid parking lot
- Parking
The Independent Photos










The Independent Location
The Independent
147 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018, USA
The Independent Reviews
bartendertimes squaredeviled eggssalmonchristmas decorationsshishito pepperstheatersespresso martinisteak friteshalloumi
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Hard to find a nice setting for lunch in Midtown that's reasonably priced with good food and isn't so noisy that you can't easily talk to your lunch partner. This was such a place. Shrimp tacos were excellent. Especially fine was our service. Thanks to Ciera for not rushing us as we talked, for always smiling and checking in that we had all we needed. You really made the lunch a notch above.
August 21 · Barry SchilmeisterNice atmosphere. I went there during restaurant week with 2 friends and 2 of us were late but they were still patient and nice. Steak frites were so good. I would definitely go there again! My server was also nice and other servers were constantly checking in. For some that might be a tad overwhelming but it was okay.
August 17 · Ashley EastmanA perfect hideaway from the chaos of Times Square. The interior leans stylish and dark with tufted benches and cozy lighting. Unfortunately, the menu changed just two weeks ago, so many of the most talked-about dishes were no longer available. But all is not lost—the chicken wings are fantastic: juicy, saucy, and balanced with just the right spice. Drinks were another highlight—generous, bright, and well mixed. A highly recommended spot to unwind with good cocktails and bar bites.Update: I find that I often order their burger for lunch, reasonably priced and absolutely flavorful.
May 30 · Yunong ShiThis place was pretty good for being right next to all the hustle and bustle! I will say, they were a bit slow for how many people were there. We waited a very long time for our food and we actually only got appetizers which should have come relatively quickly. For being in Times Square, you probably need to be more cognizant of people trying to get to their 8 o’clock shows- many tables around us were saying “can you please bring the check, we’re in a rush” and seemed impatient (as were we). The seating was a tad uncomfortable because I am short- my feet didn’t reach the chair bar at the bottom.On the other hand, my espresso martini was definitely a 10/10 and the butter cake for dessert was pretty good too! The crispy tofu was pretty amazing and the atmosphere was also really nice with candles and low-lighting! The servers were very nice and we were checked on by the manager (I think?) quite often! We will be back!
March 30 · Taylor Magda-MathisThis is my first time in New York, I’m celebrating my anniversary with my wife and came to The Independent on a whim. We were overwhelmed by how awesome the bartender Alex was. He made our night special. The live music was great too. 10/10
July 27 · Tony Thompson
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