My kids were younger, but we really liked John's Pizza and Virgil's BBQ. I think they may cost more than your budget, but it wouldn't be crazy. Over your budget but also family-friendly was Gallagher's Steakhouse, near Times Square, but I seem to remember locals thinking it was not great when I posted that before.

Ellen's Stardust will fit - just - within your budget for dinner (assuming you're ordering a meat loaf plate or chicken pot pie and soda for each person). If you go for more expensive entrees (turkey etc) or have more than one soda or want appetizer or dessert that will all be over the $75.

(It would be less if you do sandwiches at lunch but you were talking about dinner.)

O'Lunney's is actually very good but we spent more than the budget mentioned for lunch for 4. Isn't there an Applebees' or something right along there ? Pizza may be the way to go...nothing wrong w/a good pie...

MFNYC --

Please re-read my post -- there were only 3 of us, and DS ate a hamburger (not exactly a foodie, that one!!

please no applebees, or fridays, or chains in general. they are as expensive or more than a much bettre restaurant or even coffee shop in the same area.

Ok, i see. I know DS is referring to your son, but just out of curiousity what does the 'D' part of DH, DS, DD standfor?

Darling, dear, or any other naughty or nice adjective beginning with the letter "D"

Is that what it stood for?

So, it wasn't "Damn", after all.