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The Independent ico

The Independent
- 147 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018

American restaurant, Bar & grill ★4.0·$$

147 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018, USA

4.0
Hard 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. - Barry Schilmeister
The Independent Overview Intro Menu Detail Photos Location Reviews

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.

Location and Accessibility

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.

Services Offered
  • 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.
Features / Highlights
  • 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.
Contact Information

Address: 147 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018, USA
Phone: (917) 388-3727

What is Worth Choosing?

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 Picture 1The Independent Picture 2The Independent Picture 3The Independent Picture 4The Independent Picture 5The Independent Picture 6The Independent Picture 7The Independent Picture 8The Independent Picture 9The Independent Picture 10

The Independent Location

The Independent

147 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018, USA

The Independent Reviews

An average rating of ★4.5 from 737 user reviews.

bartendertimes squaredeviled eggssalmonchristmas decorationsshishito pepperstheatersespresso martinisteak friteshalloumi

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

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