I've been to Ciro's (on 8th, I think). It's an Italian restaurant with pretty good food and late hours.

Joe Allen's (Broadway buzz), Orso (good contemporary Italian fare and a few stars, we were next to Bernadette Peters), and Becco (all you can eat wonderful trio of pastas served from pans at your table) all of these are on 46th. For super casual there is Virgil's real BarBQ on 45th.

Il Mulino, it's not in the Theater District, it's near Greenwich Village (fairly short cab ride or subway from theater area). Possibly the best Italian I've ever eaten. If you don't believe me (no reason you should) check it out on Zagat's or any other NY restaurant review area.

Thank you Jackie, Patrick and David. My browser and Fodor's server are giving each other fits. My original post was sent with a message explaining that I'd narrowed down my choices to Becco, Joe Allen's, Le Madeleine and Langans based on previous searches in the forum. Need to narrow down to two for pre-theater meals on the 2 nights we have show tickets. Traveling with my husband and 16 YO daughter and we generally look for moderate and jacket/tie optional. I'm glad for additional suggestions as above - will add them to the list and head for the electronic reviews. Really appreciate your advice.

Forget Langan's. We went thinking it was tied in with the great Langan's in London which we love. There is no connection and it was one of the worst meals I've ever had in New York, also probably the worst service.

Becco is great! If you want an upscale pizza in a really nice space try Johns on 44th ? and eight ave

John (no not the pizza guy!)

From your list and the additional suggestions posted, I'd definitely stick with Becco. Reservations are a must for pre-theater dining.
You also might consider Sam's on West 45th between Broadway & 8th Ave. It's similar to Joe Allen's with a better menu IMO.

Broadway Joe's Steak House is good. My favorite is Carmine's Italian Restaurant. All meals are very generous served family style and you can't beat the price. If you want to Splurge try the "View" at the Marriot Marquis Hotel. It's a revolving restaurant 50 stories up with a panaramic view of New York City. They do have a pre-theatre menu which is $35.00 per person which is an excellent value for this restaurant