Before going to a play in the Theater District, many people like to dine at a popular and moderately priced restaurant in the area. Joe Allen meets the purpose as the food and service are always dependable and it is a good spot to grab a quick meal before rushing on to catch your show. Brick walls and checkered tablecloths give the restaurant a casual and comfortable ambiance. The Caesar salad and black bean soup are popular and main courses as the La Scala Salad (with diced salami), sauteed sole with capers, and salmon with angel hair and pesto are satiating. Cheesecake is a favorite for dessert.