Race fans in NYC.

[GoIrish]

Hello. Does anyone know of a good spot to watch the Derby in Manhattan? Not an OTB, but maybe a pub or someplace that has a racing theme or crowd? The wife and I will be in the city that weekend for our anniversay and we're looking for a nice spot to catch the Derby. Thanks.

- Brett

[blackthroatedwind]

Just come out to Belmont for the day.

[gales0678]

if you can't get to Belmont and are in midtown

go to the ESPN zone (no wagering allowed there though)

[pointman]

I agree with Andy, just go to Belmont, you can take the train straight out there from Penn Station (I believe it will run that day even if it gets cut). If you can't, the Playwright Pub on 35th Street between 5th and 6th Avenue is a pretty good spot and you can wager there. I would reserve though as I think they get a big crowd Belmont Day, particularly if a triple crown is on the line.

[gales0678]

Originally Posted by pointman

I agree with Andy, just go to Belmont, you can take the train straight out there from Penn Station (I believe it will run that day even if it gets cut). If you can't, the Playwright Pub on 35th Street between 5th and 6th Avenue is a pretty good spot and you can wager there. I would reserve though as I think they get a big crowd Belmont Day, particularly if a triple crown is on the line.

he's going to be there on Derby Day not Belmont Day - would you still need a reservation for that day?

[pmacdaddy]

Originally Posted by gales0678

he's going to be there on Derby Day not Belmont Day - would you still need a reservation for that day?

Playwright is a nice spot if you want to stay in City.

Would think they will have a crowd Derby Day. Definitely would call and try to reserve a good table if you go. Certainly won't hurt.

[philcski]

Originally Posted by GoIrish

Hello. Does anyone know of a good spot to watch the Derby in Manhattan? Not an OTB, but maybe a pub or someplace that has a racing theme or crowd? The wife and I will be in the city that weekend for our anniversay and we're looking for a nice spot to catch the Derby. Thanks.

- Brett

If you can't make it out to Belmont as Blackthroatedwind suggested (best choice) try the Playwright, W 35th between 5th & 6th. It will be busy, however.

[gales0678]

The OTB's are an obvious stay away from for all the actors and side shows going on in there for a nice out of town couple , but, if you don't go to belmont and can't get in the playwright - the otb tele-thearters are not a bad back up plan

you would probably need a reservation but the food is good , there are plenty of windows and machines and you won't get the feeling that you are at an otb - they keep these places clean and charge $$$ to get in the door

there is one on 2nd ave in the 50's and another on 7th ave in the 30's

[philcski]

Originally Posted by gales0678

The OTB's are an obvious stay away from for all the actors and side shows going on in there for a nice out of town couple , but, if you don't go to belmont and can't get in the playwright - the otb tele-thearters are not a bad back up plan

you would probably need a reservation but the food is good , there are plenty of windows and machines and you won't get the feeling that you are at an otb - they keep these places clean and charge $$$ to get in the door

there is one on 2nd ave in the 50's and another on 7th ave in the 30's

That one is pleasant if you go upstairs. On-track prices. Downstairs is your typical cell block OTB hell.

[HaloWishingwell]

Originally Posted by blackthroatedwind

Just come out to Belmont for the day.

That's my plan

[GoIrish]

Thanks everyone. I'd love to be on-track somewhere, but going out to Belmont is a no-go.

The Playwright looks nice, we'll probably explore that. I appreciate the help.