Those days were great… but they’re gone the way of the 10 cent shave. If you want a wonderful little tour that works right now, try this one on for size.
Start at the North East corner of eight avenue and 45th street and walk east….there are so many theaters that you can only see a few, but here are some choice ones. Don’t worry when you get a bit weary — there are several classic watering holes to accommodate you. Up on 45th Street, stop in at the Imperial Theatre, big and beautiful. The Bernie Jacobs is right there too… it’s a newer version, but still a jewel in the Shubert crown…the Hirschfield is wonderful.
And a tiny gem right there on 45th is the Booth….now walk down to the middle of the block to the world famous Shubert Alley.
Shubert Alley was originally built in 1913 as a fire ally, or so they say. In reality it was built by the Shubert Brothers Lee and Jacob to park their cars when there were no other places in mid town to park. “When you got dough you got convenience.”
The alley was once gated and locked and it was a perfect place for the two millionaires to leave their limos. Shubert Alley runs between 45th and 44th Streets, 300 hundred feet long. As you leave the alley on 44th you will be staring at the world famous Sardi’s. The restaurant was opened in 1927 (234 West 44th) and everyone who is anyone has dined and drank at Sardi’s. Try one of their Martinis, you can’t go wrong…the food, well… maybe don’t eat there.
