“After a good dinner one can forgive anybody, even one’s own relations.”
― Oscar Wild
Wednesday night for Broadway! A friend and I had tickets to see the Broadway show “New York, New York”, but we wanted to head out for dinner before the show. My friend suggested this place, “John’s Pizzeria of Times Square”.
First off, I want to mention the absolute beauty of the interior of this place. It was once an abandoned church … an old Gospel Tabernacle Church. When you are inside, you cannot help but stare at the beauty of the stained glass ceiling. I personally couldn’t stop staring at the ceiling. When you first enter, there are pictures of the before and after of this place … very cool.
First – Appetizers and drinks. My friend and I both ordered the “Matinee” drink, (love the Broadway theme drinks!) This drink is Strawberry Lemonade with Tito Vodka, pink lemonade, and muddled strawberries served on the rocks. Not bad, but I honestly have tasted better. The fried Calamari with their homemade marinara sauce was next. Very good! Lightly breaded and seasoned very well! Not bland all and the breading did not fall apart. The calamari was tender and not at all rubbery. The sauce had a great taste and not at all heavy. I have to say this is one of the best calamari I ever had!
The pizza was also delicious! Exceptional thin crust, crispy with a nice char. Great toppings … the pepperoni had a nice kick and the onions were cooked well; not too burned or soggy. The sauce and cheese ratio was perfect! It also helps that the pizza is cooked in brick oven.? This pie was simple, but absolutely a show stopper in taste.
A great experience from the atmosphere to the food! No complaints! The staff was efficient and attentive. However, towards the end of our dinner, my friend and I felt a bit rushed when our server just dropped our check and did not offer dessert. However , I have to keep in mind that this place gets packed and at times and there is a long line out the door…so maybe our server was just trying to turn over the table quickly. By the time we were done, a wait had been forming. (we went early and it was during the week)
Overall, a very good experience and I certainly will be returning.