The “beheaded” Six the Musical standout details her fave food spots for before or after a show.
Though we understand their circumstances may have been a bit different, like Oliver and his clan of orphan boys, we’ve all fallen into a daze dreaming of “food, glorious food” at one point or another.
After all, it’s been said that food is the great equalizer, connecting us and bringing us together, either with family or friends, colleagues or companions, or any others from all walks of life, to dine often at a communal table or gathering space wherein we share stories and reveal the most authentic parts of ourselves.
In our continued effort, however, to find our way into others’ hearts (and stomachs!), sometimes it helps to venture beyond our tables and into the kitchens of others — especially in a city with such a diversified abundance of eateries as New York.
And of course, you can’t spell “theatre” without “eat.”
So, in our food-based series, we continue to poll some of the Great Bright Way’s best to “dish” (get it?) on where they love to eat, drink, and take in the vibes either pre- or post-show, while also answering why they love to sup there, sharing a favorite dish or two, and more.
Today, we’re not losing our head over Broadway’s newest Anne Boleyn, Gianna Yanelli. The celebrated “temptress” returns to the Main Stem, having appeared in the original cast of Mean Girls the Musical, where she performed in the ensemble and understudied Janis. Regional work includes turns in Grease, Rocky, Saturday Night Fever and A Little Night Music, and notably, as Jojo in the world premiere production of Mystic Pizza. TV credits include Saturday Night Live and Law & Order: SVU.
But where does Gianna journey out to eat?
(255 W. 43rd St.)
“If I want something quick, healthy and nutritious in the Theater District – either pre-show, during a rehearsal lunch break, or simply just because – Green Symphony is definitely one of my go-to [spots],” shares Yanelli.
A cozy bodega just steps away from the Times Square bustle – outfitted with a juice and smoothie bar, to boot – “they have a wide variety of clean eats, and for [the amount] of food you’re getting, it’s so affordable.”
The health-conscious menu boasts sensible salads and soups, inventive new takes on wraps, organic açai bowls, delectable desserts, and other nourishing options, all churned out since 2003 at a pace befitting of a busy New York lifestyle.
“We are especially proud of our Mandoo bowls,” reads their mission statement, touting the titular fresh, steamed Korean-style dumplings that punctuate the popular menu item.
“I always order the New Yorker bowl,” says Yanelli, to that end, prepped with shredded free-range chicken, steamed vegetables, and the aforementioned dumplings on a bed of greens, drizzled with either a sesame-ginger tamari dressing or lemon-tahini sauce for an extra kick. “It always leaves me feeling more than satisfied,” she continues, “and keeps me energized, without hurting my stomach!” (The dish is assembled with vegetable dumplings, but can be substituted with a kale, chicken or shrimp & broccoli filling for an additional charge.)
Our queen is also quick to mention their wellness shots, which include a “hot shot” featuring lemon, ginger and cayenne, or the more intricate “Fire Cider Shot,” blending apple cider vinegar, honey, orange, lemon, onion, horseradish, ginger, garlic and turmeric with a dash of habanero pepper.
“And they have such good smoothies!” she exclaims, citing the Funky Monkey (non-dairy with soy milk, peanut butter & banana; she adds spinach), and the Specialty Almond Joy (with almond milk, almond butter, banana and coconut) as particular faves.
And though it caters more toward the grab-and-go crowd, says Yanelli: “There’s a small seating area in the front, so you can always eat in if you choose!”
Hailed as an “oasis for vegetarians” (but suitable for vegans and meat eaters alike), this place is steadfast in their promise: you can certainly “walk away feeling good about your food choices!” Talk about raising the roof ’til you hit the ceiling!
Green Symphony is open 7 days a week for both takeout and delivery from 7:30am-8pm.
(369 W. 51st St.)
Sorry, not sorry – “I’m a sucker for good Italian food,” Yanelli divulges, and when it comes to the best of the best, she states, “Aria does not disappoint!”
Whenever friends and family come in for the show, this place is a must-stop for our bun-bearing sovereign and her guests. “The atmosphere is rustic, cozy, and romantic,” she explains, noting the exposed brick lining the walls and the bar stacked with innumerable bottles of wine. Coupled with mahogany wood beams and pastoral slate floors, “it really completes the Sicilian flair of the restaurant.”
And while she insists “you really cannot miss” with any of the menu items – carefully curated by Chef Roberto Passon since 2010 – she’s partial to the pasta, which other diners concur is “pretty solid” and reasonably priced.
“I like variety,” Yanelli continues, “and always aim to try a different pasta each time I come in”; nonetheless, she maintains that the Fettucine Ai Funghi (served with wild mushrooms and truffle oil), Linguine Vongole (meaning buried beneath clams), and the Tagliatelle Bolognese (the traditionally hearty meat sauce) are among her favorites.
Rotating specials may vary depending on the season, but regulars state when it’s available, the grilled octopus salad – served warm with carrots, celery and sliced potatoes – and the Black Truffle Gnocchi, finished with mushrooms, are both musts!
Small bites, salads, and side dishes round out the offerings – try the customer-recommended lamb chops with balsamic vinegar & roasted potatoes, or the crab & shrimp cake served alongside capers and mushrooms – as do an assortment of fresh meats and cheeses.
Finish with a dessert, like the Tiramisu, with mascarpone and cocoa, or fresh Ricotta cheesecake with strawberries. “And to complete any Italian meal,” Yanelli asserts: “Don't forget to order a post-meal cappuccino!”
(Pro tip: Like most New York dining establishments, especially before showtime, make a reservation, or face a bit of a wait.)
To quote our queens, it’s a meal that’s one of a kind – no category!
Aria Hell’s Kitchen is open Sunday-Thursday from 11:30am-11pm, and Friday and Saturday from 11:30am-12am.
We’ll continue to present a new performer with new restaurants and new menus, so keep checking back to see who we poll and what’s on their mind at mealtime! Until next time, as always, bon appétit!
