New York City has a funny way of making you feel small. You’re surrounded by skyscrapers, rushing through the neon chaos of 42nd Street, and suddenly you just want a giant bowl of pasta and a seat that doesn’t feel like a futuristic art installation. That is basically where Buca di Beppo Times Square New York NY comes in.
It’s tucked away at 1540 Broadway. If you’ve walked past the Planet Hollywood entrance, you’ve probably seen the sign. Honestly, it’s a bit of a basement sanctuary. The name "Buca di Beppo" literally translates to "Joe’s Basement," which is pretty spot on for the vibe they’re going for.
The Chaos of the Decor (and Why People Love It)
Most restaurants in Midtown try so hard to be "sleek." You know the type—lots of marble, dimmed lights, and waiters who look like they’ve never eaten a carb in their lives. Buca is the total opposite.
The walls are covered. I mean covered. There are thousands of vintage photos of Italian families, old movie posters, and random kitsch that looks like it was pulled from your eccentric Great-Aunt’s attic. It is intentionally tacky. Phil Roberts, the founder, once said he wanted a place where the guests felt superior to the restaurant. It’s a "sleeves-up" kind of joint.
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Specialty Tables You Won't Find Elsewhere
If you’re rolling with a big crew, you have to ask about the specific rooms. They have these weirdly iconic themed areas:
- The Pope Room: This is the big one. It seats about 12 to 18 people. There’s a bust of the Pope right in the middle of the table on a Lazy Susan. Yes, you spin the Pope to get the salad.
- The Kitchen Table: If you want to see the actual chaos of a New York kitchen, this table seats 6 to 10 people right where the action is.
- The Cardinal Room: Similar to the Pope room but with a bit more of a "religious vestment" decor vibe.
Eating at Buca di Beppo Times Square New York NY
Let’s talk about the food because that is why you’re actually there. The most important thing to remember? Everything is family-style. Do not walk in here expecting a dainty plate of three scallops.
They have two sizes: Buca Small (feeds 2-3) and Buca Large (feeds 5+). If you order a large pasta by yourself, the waiter will probably look at you with equal parts concern and respect.
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The Heavy Hitters on the Menu
- The Half-Pound Meatballs: They are famous for these. They’re massive, dense, and smothered in a marinara that tastes like it’s been simmering since 1994.
- Spicy Chicken Rigatoni: This is probably their most popular "modern" classic. It’s got a kick, plenty of garlic, and those tiny peas that somehow make it feel balanced.
- Apple Gorgonzola Salad: Kinda weird on paper, but the Granny Smith apples and spiced walnuts actually work against the heavy pasta.
- Chicken Parmigiana: It’s as big as a hubcap. If you like crispy breading and enough mozzarella to stop a heart, this is your dish.
The Reality of Pricing in 2026
Look, Times Square isn't cheap. You’re in the heart of Manhattan. A "Buca Small" pasta will usually run you somewhere between $25 and $35 depending on the protein. While that sounds pricey for spaghetti, you’re spliting it.
If you go with a group of four and share two smalls and a salad, you’ll probably walk out spending around $40-$50 per person including a drink. Compared to the $100-a-plate steakhouses next door, it’s a steal for the area.
Is It a Tourist Trap?
Sorta. But in a good way.
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Locals usually avoid Times Square like the plague, but even a cynical New Yorker ends up here for an office holiday party or a cousin’s birthday. It’s loud. It’s boisterous. It’s the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself talk because everyone else is also shouting over their Chianti.
The service is usually surprisingly fast given the volume they handle. Because they deal with Broadway crowds, they know how to get people in and out before their 8:00 PM curtain call.
How to Actually Get a Table
Don’t just wing it. Buca di Beppo Times Square New York NY gets slammed on weekends and during the holidays.
- Make a reservation online: Use their site or OpenTable.
- Aim for "Off-Peak": If you go at 4:30 PM, you’ll have the pick of the litter for rooms.
- Check the New Year's Eve packages: If you’re brave enough to be in the city for the ball drop, they do huge all-inclusive parties, but they cost a fortune.
If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic spot to propose, this probably isn't it. But if you want to celebrate a graduation or just eat your weight in garlic bread before hitting a show, it’s hard to beat.
Your Next Steps:
Check their current seasonal "Buca Bundles" on the official website before you go. They often run deals for groups of four that include an appetizer, salad, and pasta for a fixed price, which can save you about 20% over ordering a la carte. If you have a group larger than 15, call the restaurant directly at (212) 764-6527 to secure the Pope Room—it's the only way to guarantee that specific seating.