Best Themed Restaurants in NYC

At Pietro Nolita, it’s all about the color pink, making every inch of this monochromatic eatery Instagram-worthy. The 50’s-inspired decor is meant to reflect a casual and welcoming attitude, and we we’re pretty sure that every shade of pink is represented in the tiny interior. Like all Manhattan restaurants worth its (pink Himalayan sea) salt, the food is also well-executed. Billed as ‘healthy Italian,’ patrons have praised the simple pastas and salads as well as the delicious cocktails--some of which are pink! (Hint: try the Violetta.)

Ever wonder what it's like to be in Tim Burton’s head? Just how does the creator of cult classics like Edward Scissorhands and Beetlejuice, and later on, fantasy remakes of Alice in Wonderland and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, come up with his quirky plots and supremely outlandish scenes?

Superfans and restaurateurs Zach Neil and Brian Link pay homage to him at their East Village Burton-themed eatery, Beetle House, where the decor and menu are all inspired by different movies from the iconic director. Enjoy dishes like ‘Sweeney Beef and The Butchers Stew’ and ‘Cheshire Mac ‘n Cheese,’ along with drinks such as ‘Alice’s Cup o’ Tea’ and the ‘Fleet Street Martini’. Los Angeles goth lovers are about to get their own Beetle House as well; Neil and Link have announced plans for a sister location in Hollywood, California, this summer.

Once a upon a time in Japan, ninjas roamed swiftly about and lived with their stealthy brethren in remote villages. We can only assume what life was like back then, but today’s curious travelers can visit the Koka Ninja Village in Koka City, not far from Kyoto. If a ticket to Japan is too much for your average week night, then make a reservation at this unique NYC restaurant located in the chic TriBeCa neighborhood.

Patrons are seated in secret rooms that are reached via a maze (to throw your enemies off your tail!), and enjoy menu items that might come with special effects, like the Strip Steak that's served flaming. Look out for ninja magicians who move undetected until they are just behind your chair, then surprise with a hearty “Hiii-yaaaa!”  One of Manhattan’s more unusual restaurants, Ninja is perfect for families looking for a side dish of fun with dinner.

Step inside Otto’s Shrunken Head, the darkened tiki bar on East 14th, and be transported to Bali by way of the East Village. A perfect mix of exotic-meets-grunge-mixed-with-tacky, this NYC dive has been drawing in thirsty locals to the bamboo bar for close to 2 decades.

Order up a colorful cocktail, served in a tumbler shaped like a tiki god and garnished with a bright paper umbrella, and transported to a tropical paradise. Check the bar’s event page for happenings nightly.

If your favorite theme revolves around comfort food and retro vibes, then maybe what you want is an old-school diner. Sure, there are plenty of classic restaurants in NYC, but one of our favorites is Waverly Diner, at the corner of 6th Avenue and Waverly Place.

This unassuming NYC mainstay has been serving locals for 30+ years on a 24/7 schedule. A full renovation in 2011 made the dining area slightly bigger, but you’ll still find all the trappings of a neighborhood diner--including dimpled vinyl booths, formica tables, a counter with round, backless stools, and a display case filled with delicious cakes and pies. Someone in our party always orders the eggs, because they’re delivered to the table in a beat-up skillet atop a wooden block.