RE: "Memphis". It's OK. But not anywhere in the same league with "South Pacific" and "Next to Normal" (one of the best plays I've ever seen.)

Well you must be quick eaters. We usually have a glass of wine first (20 to 30 minutes) than at least an hour for dinner and some relaxed talking afterward. We also prefer not to sit through a show on a full stomach (like to take a walk after dinner unless the weather is really bad).

But it's certainly possible to eat before a show if you don;t dawdle - and tell the server in advance what your time frame is.

Well, considering we have nothing to compare "Memphis" to in our one horse world (our town doesn't even have a stoplight), and the reviews looked pretty good, I think we'll enjoy it. How could we not? The Schubert Theatre and it's history was interesting too. But, I do appreciate your thoughts. Now how about some suggestions of different choices for that pre-theatre light dinner? I did check out Chez Josephine. Looks good!

And, I can assure you that you can have a leisuraly dinner before the show! I might add that one of the great things about Chez Josephine is that it's an equally satisfying dinner experience whether before or after the show!

Thanks Howard!

Anybody eaten at Basso 56? It's TA #1 and the menu looks incredible. Ironically, because we live in such a small rural community, things like gas, groceries and restaurants are very expensive. So, when I look at all these menus and wine lists price wise, I am amazed at how relatively 'reasonable' they look. How about a great sushi place? Sushi Yasuda does look pretty pricey and very 'sushi only' centric...but with great reviews. And Sushi Samba looks fun, but so-so reviews.

Although we get a pretty complete buffet breakfast every morning included with our rooms, I am thinking Norma's for one of our breakfasts before Top of the Rock and MoMa. What do you think and how would I time that on a weekend day? Thanks!

PS. I am not talking about these restaurants for our pre-theatre dinner.

Forget Norma's. Way too pricey...even by my 'one horse town' standards.

If you are still considering hotels, we were very happy with a 2 bdrm/ 2 bath suite at the Affinia Gardens on the upper east side. And we hosted a birthday dinner for 12 people at the Sushi Samba 7, which was an excellent choice. They have special party menus that are very good and reasonable. It was a huge success.

Thank PeaceOut, But I think we are good with the deal we got at the Marriott Residency Inn Manhattan/Times Square. Glad you liked Sushi Samba. We are definitely considering it for one of the nights. What would you recommend ordering?