It was 18 degrees and freezing Monday night, and as I found myself in the theatre district, it was a good time to meet a friend at Junior’s restaurant to warm up. We considered dining at Joe Allen at 326 W 46th St, but it’s closed on Mondays like most Broadway theatres. Junior’s was nearby, open and serving hot specialties. It’s located at 1626 Broadway at 45th Street.

Junior’s original location is at 386 Flatbush Avenue Extension, at the corner of DeKalb Avenue in downtown Brooklyn. Today, there’s one in Times Square and in the lobby of the Fox Tower in the Foxwoods Resort in Ledyard, Connecticut. The restaurant was founded by Harry Rosen in 1950 after his family ran a diner in the location since 1929. Junior’s is named after Rosen’s two sons, Walter and Marvin, and is widely known for its iconic New York style cheesecake. It’s a favorite of tourists, locals, and celebrities alike.

Welcome to Junior’s in Times Square.

Having grown up in Brooklyn, I couldn’t bypass sharing some iconic images adorning the restaurant walls.

Down to business. What to order for a cold night from a great menu?

I don’t usually order soup, but something like their delicious pea soup comforts one on a cold wintry night.

Some hot coffee should work out nicely with the soup.

The soup was marvelously thick, hot, and delicious. A great accompaniment is the Single Potato Pancake.

The pancake is hearty and not light fare. The rich sour cream is marvelous and adds to the energy I need to get home on a cold night.

Don’t forget the famous cheesecake!

Junior’s is the spot when you’re in the theatre district area and desire a less formal restaurant experience with wide menu options. Enjoy!

Readers may also enjoy these reviews: Kurant Wine Bar, Balthazar, Hutong New York, and The Palm Midtown.