The dining scene of New York’s Theater District is quickly becoming one of the best of the city, and few people know it better than the actors who call the neighborhood their second home. In this installment of thEATer, we spoke to Gelsey Bell, who's making her Broadway debut as Princess Mary in Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812. Find out Gelsey's go-to spots for between-show bites below!
Favorite post-show hang out?
Beer Culture. This place has a great relaxed atmosphere and awesome selection of beers - I love trying out different stouts and porters - but it also has the added bonus of good memories since this is where we went after the show to celebrate the marriage of Comet accordionist/ensemble-extraordinaire Katrina Yaukey and Ed Wood, when they got married on stage during pre-show sound check. (I like to brag about having the first dance with the bride during Comet's Act One finale.)
Dinner with the family before a show?
Tolache. Lobster tacos. Need I say more?
Dinner with the whole cast?
Glasshouse Tavern. We have a big cast so we have to just take over the bar area. But with the crispy truffle risotto balls and the mac & cheese on the bar menu, I am pleased. It's also nice to head upstairs if your voice needs to go somewhere quieter.
Quick meal on a two show day?
Brooklyn Ball Factory. This is a no-brainer. Since this place opened in Hell's Kitchen, I have to make a concerted effort to not go everyday because it's so close and so good. Their bento box makes me feel like I'm back in Tokyo.
Sugar fix?
Doughnut Plant in City Kitchen. To be fair, I am more excited by dough and fat than sugar, so when I feel up for something sweet, I grab whatever doughnut is dripping with chocolate. This has happened after more than one Sunday matinee...
Place with a cool vibe to grab a drink?
Bar Centrale. It's so cool, it might take you a while to find the door.
Place where you always run into your friends?
Green Symphony. This deli is a diamond in the rough. It's full of food and juice (and its infamous fire cider) that makes your body feel good, so I run into other cast members and friends doing shows in the area almost every time I'm in there. A staple of a healthy Broadway diet.
