The 'Maybe Happy Ending' Broadway cast shares their favorite NYC date spots
The New York-premiere musical is a futuristic romantic comedy, centered on two humanoid robots (Darren Criss and Helen J. Shen) who unexpectedly fall in love.
There are hundreds of rom-coms out there on stage and screen, but have you ever seen one with robots? That's the premise of Maybe Happy Ending, a new Broadway musical starring Darren Criss and Helen J. Shen as Oliver and Claire, humanoid androids past their warranty — but who end up getting a second chance at life and love when they meet each other.
We don't yet know where Oliver and Claire will go on dates in this musical romance, but we do know that dinner and a show is a great date night option for us humans. We asked the Maybe Happy Ending cast and creative team what their favorite date spots are — check out their recommendations below, and get tickets for you and your own date to see this sweet, original love story.
Get Maybe Happy Ending tickets now.
Date night restaurants in NYC
Many of the Maybe Happy Ending team's favorite spots are located in the chic West Village neighborhood — which is a short 10-minute subway ride from the Theatre District!
L'Artusi
This chic, intimate Italian spot sports two floors and only 110 total seats, promising a cozy dining experience. L'Artusi offers modern takes on traditional Italian dishes — the restaurant is particularly known for its bolognese bianco.
Recommended by: Michael Arden (director)
Address: 228 W. 10th St.
Price: $$$
Joseph Leonard
No matter what time you're having your date, Joseph Leonard is there for you — this American bistro has breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner menus. At all meal times, the wide-ranging menu offers everything from small, shareable snacks to full-sized entrees. The restaurant is also located steps from Washington Square Park, a great place to hang out with your date before or afterward.
Recommended by: Helen J. Shen (Claire). "It's a date spot for sure, but one of our favorite waiters [...] you go there, and he's your best friend."
Address: 170 Waverly Pl.
Price: $$$
Minetta Tavern
Described as "Parisian steakhouse meets classic New York City tavern," Minetta Tavern has been an NYC institution since 1937. It's steps from the West 4 Street subway station, serviced by seven lines that can all get you to the Theatre District in a flash. Or, go there before seeing a show at the nearby Minetta Lane Theatre with your date!
Recommended by: Marcus Choi (James and others)
Address: 113 Macdougal St.
Price: $$$
Barcade
The name says it all: bar meets arcade. This franchise has various locations around the city, and all are great for combining grown-up libations with childlike fun. Have a contest with your date to see who can win the most games!
Recommended by: Christopher James Tamayo (understudy). "It's just the best plac to grab a drink and just have fun, too."
Address: Various locations
Price: $
Taureau
Your heart won't be the only thing melting on a date at this fondue spot downtown. The staples of the menu are fondue pots made for two, where you'll get to indulge in cheeses, meats, and/or sweets of your choice.
Recommended by: Steven Huynh (understudy). "My girlfriend and I spent our last two anniversaries there. It's just an hour and a half of fondue: any melted version of cheese, chocolate, and soup. It is the most romantic thing."
Address: 558 Broome St.
Price: $$$
Other date night ideas in NYC
Fort Tryon Park
If you're willing to travel uptown, Fort Tryon Park is a gorgeous spot for either a picnic in its many grassy areas or a museum date at the Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art located within the park.
Recommended by: Hannah Kevitt (understudy). "I love a good picnic in the park moment."
Address: Riverside Drive to Broadway, near 190th Street
Price: Free
Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park doubles as the quad of New York University, meaning that it's always teeming with life. But it's a hub for all kinds of New Yorkers to sit, walk, chat, and marvel at the famous Washington Square Arch and fountain. Plus, it's a small park, so you can't get lost in it.
Recommended by: Michael Arden. "I just love seeing how alive the city is. Every time I step foot into that park, I'm reminded why I love New York."
Address: Between Waverly Place (north), W. 4th Street (south), MacDougal Street (west), and University Place (east)
Price: Free
High Line
One of the city's most unique parks, the High Line was once an elevated train track that got refurbished into a public green space and walking path, complete with flora, rotating art installations, and snack stands. It stretches all the way from the 34th Street/Hudson Yards area to the Meatpacking District slightly further downtown near 12th Street.
Recommended by: Daniel May (understudy). "I love going to walk down the High Line and getting something to eat at the bottom in the Meatpacking District."
Address: Various entrances between West 12th and 30th Streets along 10th Avenue
Price: Free
Get Maybe Happy Ending tickets now.
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