wantsomesun: Good to know! That's too bad. Their website is still up and running--this must have happened really recently. http://www.arkrestaurants.com/sectio...b_section_id=2

Thanks for letting me know!

We live in NY, and always take visitors with babies to Lombardi's pizza. Zagat's dubs it "best pizza on the planet." It IS literally the best pizza I've ever had-- even better than in Italy which is shocking to me as well.

In regards to suggesting older places for kids, I think it depends on how the kids act. Some three year olds that I know would sit at a table, while others need to run around. These were merely suggestions and I'm sure the parents know what's best. As long as their kids can semi sit down for a while I don't see what's wrong with Mars. That is as close to "chuck e cheese" that I think you're going to come. There are people walking around dressed up in costumes (much like the mouse) and there are balloons for the kids that are tied to many a chair. There's even a large TV screen with an alien moving around on it. I still feel it is a valid suggestion.

Ellen's I was less sure about, but only because it IS loud (which I mentioned) but again they have people walking around singing and most little kids that I know enjoy music and when people sing to them. Again there is a big TV screen, although maybe not with the most interesting things to watch, but it's a colorful and fun place.

I posted a trip report in April after a NYC trip with our kids, 7 and 2 1/2. I also hated Serendipity. I actually hated all non-highchair restaurants, because my girl is a squirmer. That said, we liked Virgil's BBQ in the Times Square area, and also John's Pizzeria. Brooklyn Diner was great, but no high chair. More expensive: Zoe in Soho (high chair) and Gallagher's Steaks (no high chair, but captain's chair that caged her in). Have fun!

isabellasmom: sfamylou's trip report is awesome! I highly recommend reading it before going with kids. Have fun!

isabellasmom, I'm topping my NYC trip report for you, we went with a 6 and an 8 year old, maybe some of the info will be helpful!

Just around the corner from the Courtyard is the Olive Tree deli on Broadway. This option might come in handy for a quick lunch or maybe to bring dinner back to the hotel. The hotel also has room service from several local restaurants. Avoid Giggle's across the street - it's not that good. The kids will enjoy Johns Pizzaria - you can easily walk there. Near John's is also Puleo's and Puleo's Two...decent Italian not too expensive. Take a look at menupages.com for menu ideas and prices.
Have you considered taking the train from Boston - it's very easy and the kids might enjoy it??

Wouldn't it be great if someone published a guidebook something like "Dining in NY with young children"?

I'm sure that your hotel concierge can assist, or perhaps someone at the front desk in the hotel?

Try www.timeoutnykids.com. They have an online newsletter plus they also publish guidebooks although I don't see any kid specific books on the website. Also try www.NewYorkkids.net.

I jist had an unbelievably inexpensive decent pre-theater meal on Friday night. Basilica on 9th av and 37th st. APpetizer, main course, dessert and a bottle of win (for each 2 adults) for $21. The regular menu is very inexpensive too. The food is you basic red sauce italian style, but good, and alrge portions. Make a reservation though, this place is tiny and fills up. My son, who is a picky eater, was delighted with their minestrone soup and $12 chicken parm w/ spag.

CHeck menupages, to view menus, check prices, etc.

In general, most chinese restaurants and many 'red sauce' style Italian are reasonable. For breakfast or lunch, diners/coffeeshops and delis are all over and inexpensive.

Mars 2112 is loud and hectic (it was years ago anyway when my son went to a party there). It may be a bit much for your toddler. I, personally am not crazy about chain or theme restaurants. Better food could be had elsewhere.

That's 47th not 37th.