I used opentable for the first time to make reservations at Maria Pia. We prefer to eat dinner before going to the Gershwin. I wanted 6 p.m. to be safe, but the time was unavailable. Are we at a risk for time if we reserve 6:30 p.m. or would that be the perfect time?

You'll be fine - all the theatre area restaurants know how to get you in and out - just tell your server - but they usually ask first thing.

thanks mp. Do you think 5:30 p.m. would be better?

Can you tell my trip is next week and I'm getting a little nervous? I'm seeing three plays, going on two tours, and am now making a couple of dinner reservations. My normal M.O. on vacation is to relax w/no real schedule prefereably in a national park. Of course, NYC is worth the extra planning.

How slowly do you eat? I mean really - are you planning a drink before, some appetizers, a main course, dessert then coffee - that could take 2 1/2 hours . . . but the restaurants in the theatre district aren't run that way - they are made to turn tables - you sit down at 5:30 you will be leaving before 6:45 and they can squeeze another cover in and out before an 8:00 curtain . . . if you have a pasta, a main course and split a dessert you'll have more than plenty of time to walk to the theatre . . .

Thanks mp. Our first trip to NY, we didn't make restaurant reservations. It took a long time to even get a seat. We ended up eating wherever we were if there wasn't a line, which was fine on our first trip since our emphasis wasn't on food. This time I want to plan a few of our meals.

you can always call the restaurant. they do not always give all their openings to opentable -
many times I have called and rec'd the time I wanted via phone when it was unvailable online -
may or may not work, but you can try.

they are all great at getting you out on time but for me 6:30 for an 8pm show make me have to eat faster than I want or leave dessert for after the show

We eat often at Maria Pia, Roberto Passon, Remi, many pre theater dinners and we usually start at 5:45 or 6pm and leave our table at 7:40 and the server knows we have theater and we are not rushed. Few weeks ago in the restaurant Marseilles almost the entire restaurant just about arrived between 5:30 and 6:15 and cleared out between 7:30 and 7:45 ! However, we do often hold dessert until after the show if we can't eat early enough to enjoy it all.

Also, I like to be able to walk comfortably for a good 15 minutes after my meal before sitting for a few hours - so while I think you can certainly do a 6:30, you likely aren't eating anything until at least 6:50 and personally I'd rather start earlier if I could.

all personal ops however.

You are right, escargot - I called and got a 6 pm reservation with no problem.

As you also say, it's uncomfortable to eat a large meal and then to go immediately sit for three hours. Dessert after the show is also a very good idea.

Thanks.