Message: Looking for a good place for pre-theater dinner around the holidays for husband's 30th birthday. Of the below, what would you choose and why? Any thoughts are much appreciated!!!

MARSEILLE
SEA GRILL
TUSCAN SQUARE
Maria Pia
FOLEY's RESTAURANT

We were very pleased with the Sea Grill, with views of the Rockefeller Center skating rink through the windows. You do pay extra for the location, but the food and service were excellent.

Sea Grill has the location and Rockefeller Center ice rink and glitz. I've never eaten there but it should be very pretty around the holidays.

I've been to Marseille and liked it very much. It's near the theater and has a very French brasserie vibe.

Tuscan Square is also around Rock Center but haven't been there. Haven't heard of Maria Pia or Foley's.

Suggest you do a search on Chowhound.com or Citysearch New York for these restaurants.

First of all, which block is the theater on? You will want to be within walking distance. Theaters range from 42nd St. to 53rd St. Second, how expensive do you want to go? Foley's is on the high end, and very touristy. Will be able to help you better once you have answer the questions.

Theater is 246 W. 44th Street. South side of 44th Street, west of Broadway almost to 8th Avenue. Does that help?

Absolutely. Chez Josephine on 42nd is excellent. Great food and atmosphere. That would be my first choice.

Forgot to add that Marseille might also be a good choice. Sea Grill is too far (49th between 5th & 6th)Tuscan Square is even further on 51st St., and Maria Pia I never heard of. Marseille participated in a tasting event that I attended and I remember that whatever they served, it was good enough for me to take their card for a future visit to the restaurant. But having never actually eaten there, I chose Chez Josephine as my first choice.

Sea Grill is very good, and the view over Rock Center is festive at Christmastime.

I'd also offer up for your consideration a Greek/seafood place callked Kyma. I really like it there.

Although it is a little further, how many minute walk would it be from the sea grill at 49 5th/6th to the Theater at South side of 44th Street, west of Broadway almost to 8th Avenue. it doesn't seem too bad...am I wrong?