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 turn to The Outsiders’ Dan Berry, currently “stuck between the role of a brother and a father” each night as the production’s Darrel Curtis. Prior to his portrayal of Darrel, Berry made his Broadway debut as Paul Holden in the original cast of the 2024 Tony winner. Regional credits include Elvis: A Musical Revolution at the North Shore Music Theater in Beverley, MA, while his original music is available on all streaming platforms.
But where does Dan like to dine?
(346 W. 46th Street)
With a name inspired by scandalous 19th century Irish actor-dancer Lola Montez, known for her “bold personality” and “dramatic presence,” the European-inspired Bar Lola has been blending the warmth of French bistros and the pizzazz of Spanish wine bars with the distinctly refined-and-rowdy energy of a classic New York bar since it opened in mid-March 2026.
”The vibes inside are immaculate,” Berry says, of the space, outfitted with couches, booth seating, and a rooftop bar area, all enriched by Art Nouveau prints, murals, and striking dark maroon tiles. “They also have a photo booth downstairs,” Berry adds, which is “always a plus when dining with friends.”
To boot, “the staff is always so lovely and they love when theatre people come for dinner.” And, he notes, some of the staff are even actors themselves, making it “fun to gab with them about the industry.”
As for the eats, “They have a House Burger with gorgonzola, Cabernet onion jam, and dijonaise,” Berry says. Served on a Brioche bun with shoestring fries, he dubs it “a nice upscale [option] that always hits the spot.”
“The flavor profile is also sweeter than your classic burger,” he goes on, “and the Gorgonzola adds a special creaminess to the bite that can’t be beat!”
Per customer reviews, the mac and cheese, made with Reggianato, Fontina and aged Gouda cheeses and sprinkled with Ritz Cracker breadcrumbs, is “non-negotiable” as are the Thai fried chicken bites, prepped with crispy garlic, Zabb spice and served atop a tangy Tom Yum mayo.
Though Berry prefers a Diet Coke or light beer, on the cocktail front, popular drinks include the Montez Martini (St. George Botanivore Gin or Grey Goose Vodka, lemon, fennel & saffron, served table side), the pistachio-forward City Hopper (their version of a grasshopper), and their signature Two Left Feet, described as an “adult cream soda” with whiskey, rhubarb & meringue. Non-alcoholic options are available for those who don’t drink.
“And the Steak Frites is also delicious!” Berry adds. A 12-ounce New York Strip topped with Black Garlic Au Poivre, the dish is admittedly “a little pricey, but so delicious and filling.”
Because “steakhouses weren’t on the menu when I was growing up,” Berry explains, "steak was something I didn’t really appreciate until I got this job. So, now when I get to splurge on a nice medium rare steak it brightens my day!”
Essentially, let it be known that Bar Lola – and its steak – got a hold on him!
Bar Lola is open Monday-Thursday from 4pm-2am, Friday from 4pm-3am, Saturday from 11am-3am & Sunday 11am-2am. The kitchen closes nightly at 12am. A sumptuous brunch is also served on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am-4pm.
(322 W. 50th Street)
Offering authentic Mexican cuisine in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, Dear Rufino Taquería & Bar is a cozy, no-frills restaurant where “a vibrant atmosphere meets a casual vibe,” making it perfect for everything from a relaxed lunch to a lively dinner with friends.
What’s more? In addition to the friendly service and flavorful dishes, the taquería offers a lively outdoor seating area, particularly popular in summer or early fall – “We love to go all in and sit out in the sun,” Berry gushes – the relaxed environment allowing conversations to linger while diners dive into their meals and soak in the vibrant energy of the city.
Praised by Berry for being “cheap and delicious,” the menu, courtesy of Chef Ivan Garcia, boasts a tempting mix of traditional Mexican dishes and classic comfort food, all prepared with the finest, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that “every bite is a tribute to the country’s rich culinary traditions.”
On Berry’s recommendation, start off with the traditional chips with salsa or guacamole, then go for either the al pastor tacos or burritos, chili-marinated and topped with onion, cilantro and grilled pineapple. “It’s sweet and juicy, but also salty and flavorful,” the actor notes, adding, “there’s something about the pineapple with the pork that is such a comfort for me.”
With its rich blend of Mexican flavors, spices, and textures, the Enchiladas Verdes are also popular among customers, as are the Camarones Al Chipotle, offering a smoky, slightly spicy kick that is sure to scintillate a seafood lover.
If you, like the Outsiders crew on their established Monday hangout night, don’t have a show after you dine, pair your meal with a refreshing, handcrafted cocktail, be it a Paloma (tequila, lime juice, syrup, grapefruit and soda water), Bloody Mary (lime juice, celery and carrot), or Berry’s favorite, a classic Margarita on the Rocks, with tequila, lime juice and simple syrup, served here with an optional fruit flavoring, such as watermelon, pineapple, tamarind, or strawberry, among others.
Finish it off with a slice of their tequila-infused Tres Leches cake (stuffed with strawberries and mango, to boot!) at Berry’s behest… and it’s easy to see why he ain’t throwing in the towel on this place!
Dear Rufino Taquería & Bar is open Monday-Thursday from 12pm-1opm, Friday from 12pm-11pm, Saturday from 11am-11pm, and Sunday from 11am-1opm. Brunch is available on Saturday & Sunday from 11am-4pm.
We’ll continue to present a new performer with a new restaurant and a new menu, so keep checking back to see who we poll and what’s on their mind at mealtime! Until next time, bon appétit!
