The Drama Book Shop

GORGEOUS! 🤩 Such a beautiful bookshop, definitely stop by if you’re in the area to check out the magnificent book art sculptures throughout the space & ceilings. Has an almost Harry Potter effect, like magical flying books! 📚 Will not disappoint!

It was my first time visiting the Drama Book Shop and I absolutely fell in love with it. The selection of plays and books for theatre lovers is amazing—so many playwrights and titles I hadn’t seen anywhere else. The space has such a great vibe, with cool merch, comfy seating, and really good coffee. I loved it so much I actually went back again the same day. Whether you’re into theatre or just want a unique NYC spot to hang out in, this place is a must-visit. I’ll definitely be coming back!

One of my favorite NYC bookstores and coffee shops. Books and gifts on all people, places, and works of theatre. Drinks and pastries are wonderful. Always have a specialty drink that relates to a current new Broadway show. Fun to get those! Highly recommend going and you never know who you might see there!

The book store has an amazing vibe.. the decor and collection is brilliant and so unique plus a nice in store cafe. You can spend ages in here.. a cozy nook at garment district another hidden gem of NYC..

This is place to go for all things script related, including books to improve your abilities. I enjoyed seeing the scores from musicals that were illustrated to match the title. Of course, the book instalation overhead is something wonderful to view.

A truly charming space with a cozy ambience, perfect for book lovers. Loved the seating areas for reading, the inviting coffee corner, and the wonderful aroma that filled the store. The selection was great, and the people were warm and welcoming—a fantastic place to spend time!

Hamilton pins- although very cute, are quite pricey ($15 each, and those are very small pins). And can we have Mean Girls related books please?? A broadway show with Tony nominations and is going on national tour, and there is not a single book here… I am so sad. (The staff did say the songbook is out of stock but please restock!)

It appeared that this bookshop was dearly beloved by many, and my first impression was exceedingly favourable. The moment we stepped inside, we were warmly greeted by a gentleman at the counter, whose booming voice and beaming smile set the tone most delightfully. As my companion wandered in search of a particular title, we took in our surroundings — each patron seemed to be enjoying the bookshop in their own unique manner. There was a young girl perched rather uncomfortably on a hard wooden chair tucked between the shelves, yet she looked determined to finish her book then and there. Nearby, a pair sat closely together on a leather couch nestled between the shelves, whispering animatedly about a book they held. Further in, beyond the main area — surprisingly spacious for a bookshop — a larger lounge welcomed even more visitors reading newspapers and novels in quiet contentment. Though I have visited many bookshops in my time, never before have I encountered one furnished with such an abundance of chairs and sofas. We, too, paused for a brief respite, allowed our minds a moment’s peace, and left with hearts lightened, ready for our next destination.

As a huge Broadway fan who takes the train up from Philly several times a year to catch a double show day on a Wednesday, I don't know how I only recently learned about this shop. It's the perfect place to browse and find a book I absolutely have to have when I'm in between the matinee and evening shows. The staff is incredibly friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, and the selection is perfectly curated for any aspect of the theater you may be interested in. There are display cases throughout the store where you can catch a glimpse of some theater memorabilia (a team was setting up a new Operation Mincemeat display in one of them when I was there). There's also a cafe to pick up a coffee beverage and a treat. Unfortunately, I didn't arrive in time to try out the cafe before it closed on my first visit (it closes an hour before the book shop), but I browsed through the menu and saw several sweet latte flavors I can't wait to try on a future visit. There's plenty of seating throughout the store, but nothing was open when I visited. I can imagine the seats don't turn over very quickly, so if you spot one being vacated when you're there and want to sit and stay awhile, jump on it!

For those looking for some great books all to do with their favorite playwright, biographies and piano sheet music, this is the place for you! A beautiful store with wonderful, and conversational employees, it had a great vibe! It felt like a family hanging out within this setting. Very different than most bustling bookstores, but I enjoyed!

Amazing selection of plays and other dramatic texts! Very friendly staff! I wish their design section was bigger (although, as a designer myself, I am biased).

What a gem! Loaded with scripts, books about the theater and all aspects of production. Even though it was in the heart of the city, prices were not marked up. They have a sweet cafe there too but we did not partake.

Very cute book shop in NYC centered around "drama," theater, music, etc. The coffee I had was good and I enjoyed it while perusing through books.

Love to stop by this place every time I am in nyc. So hard to find bookstores with a large selection of plays and this one has it ALL covered. They do a great job of recommendations on the back wall and I always grab at least one of those. Coffee spot is pretty good as well and decent amount of merch.

What a lovely little bookshop! I stopped in during my recent NYC trip. First off, the tornado of books is such a fun focal point when you first enter. It lends something whimsical to the space, and considering that it's devoted to selling and featuring theatrical works, that totally tracks. It contains a curated selection of plays and scripts as well as a selection of memoirs, which I personally loved, and a hopping coffee area. Patrons could be found throughout the space either reading through a manuscript or working on laptops, perhaps penning their own. Plus it was fun to be in a space with such a storied history. The Drama Book Shop has been around since the early 1900s and in its current spot since 2020, when Lin Manuel Miranda and Thomas Kail purchased the store and redesigned it. This is a community arts space, and even if you aren't in the market to buy a playscript, it's great to pop in.

A unique and amazing cafe + bookshop nested between Hell's Kitchen and Midtown. Popped in to get some work done and was blown away by their installation of books that wrapped around the shop. The barista was sweet and they have WiFi when purchasing something at the cafe.

I wandered in yesterday evening and it definitely has been spruced up since I was there last many years ago! Love the books spiraling overhead and the cozy couches & chairs. I would've loved to try the little cafe in it but they had already closed for the evening.

I've been to NYC three times now. This time around A was in charge. It was their birthday trip, and because they went to school in the city, they know the area a million times better than Jeremy or I do. Personally I don't buy books. I used to read all the time, but as I grow older I don't seem to have the necessary attention span. The entire time I'm trying to read, I'm thinking of all the other tasks that need doing. I can't relax. And I'd much rather be painting. However, A wanted to check out the new location and pick up a couple of plays. The book art that runs through the entire store near the ceiling is beautiful and impressive. The store is spacious and comforting. Apparently after hours it is also a gathering space for writers and other creatives. There's a delicious smelling coffee bar inside, too. No tables for lingering, but there are chairs scattered around to enjoy. There are several unisex bathrooms, but there was still a line. The one I used was a decent size. I could shut the door behind my chair and have some privacy like an average person which is more rare than you think. I'm not a theater person, so I didn't do any browsing, but the store is lovely and welcoming.

5 stars (Honestly, if I could give it 10, I would!) The Drama Book Shop is absolutely stunning. The decor is incredible - there's a giant tornado of books in the center of the shop that is just jaw-dropping. I could've spent hours just admiring everything. The staff was super friendly and welcoming, making the whole experience even better. I ended up buying a sticker for my scrapbook, which is just the perfect little souvenir from such a special place.

This book shop is a hidden gem! The moment I walked in, I was greeted by the cozy atmosphere and the comforting scent of books., The shelves were well-organized and filled with a great selection--everything from bestsellers and classics to rare finds and local authors.!

What an absolutely amazing store for fans of theatre arts! From the moment you enter, you know you're in a special place. The spiral book art swirling through the entrance and store are a dramatic and simple welcome for what is to come. The front section is books on actors, biographies, acting technique, theatre business, costumes, set building, you name it. If you need to learn something about acting or theatre arts, chances are, there is a book on it in the Drama Book shop. The middle area is where the coffee station is. We didn't have any coffee but it smelled great. The back part of the store was my favorite, with rows and rows of scripts, librettos it's a script lover's dream come true. They are in author last name alphabetical order, though I do wish they were by genre as well. There are lots of little nooks and seating areas to settle into if you want to write, study, read or just relax. The restrooms were also very tidy. Can't wait to return!

Drama Book Shop is tucked away on a stretch of 39th Street that I would never have a reason to walk down, but the store itself happened to be my destination, and it did not disappoint. It is such a unique and charming bookstore! I truly appreciated the thought and care that went into the overall layout and aesthetic, from the cascading books across the ceiling to the thoughtfully placed artwork/prints. There is also such a diverse representation of playwrights and content--so beyond what I've ever witnessed at any other bookstore. There's currently a display table full of books representing disability pride month. This store shouid be a destination for any book lover and/or theater enthusiast. It's truly a special experience.

If you love plays, this is your Mecca. I was worried when the had to move, but the new digs are super friendly. Let's keep this place alive at all costs! It's a real endangered species.

I can't tell you enough, how at home I felt in this bookstore. The stage and performing, are my second home. I LOVED being in this bookstore, the memories of the show's I've done thus far, were so nostalgic. The musical scores, the scripts from plays, etc. I couldn't get enough. If only we had something like this in my part of Texas, I'd be there often. Being in the midst of other thespians, warmed my heart. what we do.... "Is all, for the love of theatre"

Everything here went well! What a redo. Now understand, this is a bookstore first, and a great one at that (more on that later). I had an hour until my bus at Port Authority, and with few seats there, even if one buys food or a beverage, I focused on finding a cafe to bide my time. And so I came to this gem. The prices for coffees, teas & sweets are reasonable. The barista was more than pleasant, in fact, I had the "Squeaky Wheel" and her skills reflected more of a mixologist than a barista. This beverage included espresso, maple syrup tahini & milk of my choice. I chose to have it cold and was very happy. The coffee bar area is mid-store with a "cafe" seating area in front and scattered seating everywhere else. Even a green couch (yes, green room memories) along a rear side wall. People had beverages everywhere along with many scripts (hello Samuel French) and other theatre books. Now to the bookstore. I've been around a long time and have known this bookstore well over 50 years, and the redo is wonderful. Love the design, relaxed atmosphere and passion emanating from those scatteredabout. I was lucky to find a kind young woman, in the cafe section, willing to share her table (it is ok to ask) and proceeded to look for something to read as sipped my beverage. My eye found the Estelle Parsons biography by her daughter, Abbie Britton. I must say, "Uncharted Territory: Life Lessons from the Theatre", is worth the read, in addition to being short and having print that did not require my reading glasses. All said, it was an hour well spent and I will return for both the cafe & bookstore, and will take photos

I LOVE bookstores so I love checking new ones out pretty much everywhere I go. This place is ADORABLE, I love the decor. They had like 8-10 different latte flavors, I got the marshmallow and it was delicious. It's a great space if you're working remotely, I was probably there for 4 or 5 hours. Would definitely come back!

Was looking for coffee and was so excited to stumble across this cute and unique book shop. If you are a drama and/or theatre fan this is a must visit! Biographies, plays, souveniers and coffee all under one roof!

Midtown isn't so bad after all. After getting off the port authority, this quiet space is just a block away. Seating is cushioned in some places - creating nooks for reading or if you are just waiting for a friend. There's 3 areas of walled outlets and high chairs. A cute coffee and bakery inside and a small shelf of stationary. Every section has a display of NY's broadway theater. An actual quiet space to do work in midtown. I'd definitely come back.

Cute bookstore we popped into at the end of our trip. Mostly carried books concerning plays it seemed, but a nice spot nonetheless. Stopped by the coffee bar for a peppermint mocha, which was more milk and sugar than coffee, but the baristas were friendly. The entrance with the swirling bookshelf was the best part!

If you are a theatre kid.... Drop everything and go!!!!! There are so many plays! I want to buy everything! Lin Manuel Miranda bought it a few years ago and reopened it in its new location on 39th st. You can sit and write there all day. I also treated myself to a Spamalot themed coffee called the Lance-A-Latte. It was lovely. I sat an wrote for a few hours and it was perfect.

This is not a normal book store, only plays, music and poetry. If you want a bookstore to find normal novels, this isn't what you want.

It's a pretty special place that will be a regular stop on future NY visits. My wife and I felt so at peace there, enjoying our scone, perusing scripts, and listening to the happy conversations. Beautiful ambience, great selection.

Great little book shop with a nice coffee bar. Staff are friendly, vibe is chill and welcoming. Definitely a must stop if you love books.

Really magical new location with tons of money poured into it from Lin-Manuel Miranda, Jeffrey Seller and more. There's a swirl of books decoration on the ceiling that's very Disney, and the shop really is devoted to all theatrical art forms, which is such fun. Everyone in there, you know, is obsessed with theatre, might even work in it. It's comforting knowing you're surrounded by people like you. 5 stars!!!! PS. Great chocolate- chocolate cookie.

What is there to say about this bookstore that hasn't already been said? It truly is such a gem and was the last stop for my friend and I as we did a bookstore crawl across NYC. If you are looking for scripts, biographies or memoirs of your favorite actors, help with your craft (whether that's acting or writing), or just commentary on movies and film - this is a great store for you! It's quiet, has a coffee shop inside, and just has some of the cutest decorations! We love indie bookstores!

Adorable only in nyc kind of place- go pickup some plays and stick around to enjoy the cafe if you have time! The selection here is awesome, especially if you're looking to get your feet wet in theatre. The staff is very friendly and things are well organized so that you can find whatever you're looking for. There are a number of comfy chairs and tables where you can leaf though things while enjoying a nice drink and pastry. Come later in the day if you're looking for a discounted treat ;) Can't wait to come back!

This bookshop is a resource for all theatre makers and theatre observers. Filled with memoirs, scripts, librettos, monologues, and other theatrical necessities, this store has a charm unlike others. They have a cafe with a lounge for in-store scene reading. The staff was friendly and welcoming. The shop also showcased broadway memorabilia such as old costumes, props, and scripts on display. The layout and decor were designed by "Hamilton" scenic designer David Korins, which incorporates the style of a European cafe. The institution also strives for inclusivity for Black and Indigenous people, People of Color, LGBTQIA+, and disabled communities. The Drama Book Shop is truly a staple for all locals and tourists, alike. You must get a coffee, read some scripts, and give this place a visit!

The update to the Drama Book Shop is magnificent! The play caterpillar that stretches through the entire store makes the entire space feel filled with magic, and the way the store is organized makes it easy to find what you're looking for. I want to give the biggest shoutout to the staff! They were well organized, quick to assist with my questions in finding titles, and really seemed happy to be there in the celebratory spirit of this institution reopening. They made the experience for me, and I can't say enough about how wonderful every person I encountered was. The cafe area is stunning and filled with yummy pastries, an assortment of coffee drinks, and much more. There are areas to sit, read, and enjoy a cup of coffee if that is what you're feeling on any given day. There's a wall with staff picks, an entire Shakespeare section, a plays by author section, and then a number of titles dedicated to history, criticism, and more. Whatever your needs are, DBS probably has you covered. Happy reading!

For the first time in 36 years I took a vacation, after spending time with family, I took a solo trip to NYC. My goal was this Drama Book Shop in NYC. As a nurse post pandemic, I really needed this for my soul; that and I am a huge Lin Manuel Miranda fan. The Book Shop did not disappoint! I found the staff friendly, loving where they worked and very helpful to this California woman. They even for a small price shipped my books home, so I wouldn't worry. Needless to say my Christmas shopping is DONE! While I did not get to see Lin, I did ask the staff to give him a kiss for me! Mr Lin Manuel Miranda - please know you and your family are well loved and prayed for.

Adorable little bookstore close to Broadway with music and scripts to peruse. Coffee bar was helpful for grabbing a hot beverage on an otherwise cold and dreary day.

Review haiku ... Theater books galore Great little coffee bar too Thanks to Lin-Manuel

I am obsessed with this concept. What more could you ask for than a beautiful book store that focuses on theatre! Staff are so friendly, too!

Five star upgrade because their restrooms are now open for customers ! Still one of my favorite spots and love bringing people here when they're visiting from out of town!

This is a must see for theater lovers! You can get the scripts, scores and books for all your favorite people and plays. Staff is super helpful in finding specific items and making recommendations. There is a cafe in there too which serves pastries and coffee. You can spend hours in there and no one will bother you.

theater kids (literally or at heart) rejoice...there's a shop stocked with plays, books on dramatics, and other theater related books for your playwright dreams. coffee bar situated in the center for caffeine needs as well as pockets of seating throughout the store for readers, laptoppers, lurkers, etc. a very whimsical art piece of actual books flying atop the ceiling decorated the store amongst other pieces of art from the theater. overall a pleasant quiet place from the din of the city as the show must go on!

If you find yourself having some time to kill in west side of midtown Manhattan, do try to stop by this place. The display of books on the ceiling alone is pretty cool, and they have generous amount of chairs and tables for you to read the movie scripts, or libretto of musicals. The best part is they have a cozy cafe counter that serves pretty good coffee. If you love live theater or movies; I highly recommend this unique bookstore!

Wonderful, cozy place to meet for coffee or while away some time. A bookstore that has coffee and snacks really has everything you need in life.

Founded 1917 this establishment is a must visit for both book worms and theatre buffs! Wear comfortable shoes however because you should expect to stand not sit. Yes, it's a book store not a library but I had hoped for a chair, sofa, even a box to sit on after walking all day. I stood while drinking my coffee purchased at the counter and thumbed through my stack of books. Very good selection, they will order in about anything you are wanting to read, and offer delivery too. Check their online site for Special Events they sell out quickly.

Like a public library. They seem to have every play ever written. They had Purlie victorious though it was unavailable on Amazon and EBay. Great vibes. All the hungry actors and directors are soaking it up here.

Loved perusing the store and admiring the unique decor of books! If you love drama, this is your store. Even if you don't, it's worth a stop!

This is a beautiful bookstore. It is easy to lose track of time in its quiet and comfortable atmosphere. If you are a fan of music, Broadway, or television and love autobiographies and history, this place is your nirvana.

This place is the real deal! BROADWAY & BOOK LOVERS, UNITE! The vibe is nice and cozy. You can grab a coffee and check out a script or a theater book and just curl up for a good read. Or, you can chat up other guests about the best of Broadway. It's lovely! The staff is incredibly friendly and eager to help! The decor is magical - almost like you are visiting Hogwarts! The offerings - THE BEST. Name a script and they likely have it. I also love that they do signings and have lots of signed books in stock even after the signings. How special! Do not miss this place on your next trip to New York! Especially if you love Broadway!

Love this place!! Incredible plays to read and the people who work there are so knowledgeable and friendly. SO many audition pieces to choose from and Ashley made my drink just right! Thanks Ashley!

This was my first time in their new space. So much larger and includes a cafe. It's great to have space to browse. Also, some of the shelves have motion-sensor lights to illuminate the books. But yes, many things that you would want around theater are there. If you're visiting, they have a display of currently running theater shows. Pick up the libretto or some sheet music. They also have a small but mighty history and criticism section with many of the big titles in musical and theater studies. They might not have everything, but I would guess you could order through them (but not sure about them?) Staff are friendly, knowledgable, and pretty great.

What a cool bookstore - live the decor and history. Has a little cafe and leather couches to relax. Make a free reservation online so you're not disappointed!

For a shop claiming drama, the atmosphere of this spot was fairly tame--especially compared to the chaos right outside. The design of the store made it hard to find what you were looking for, but easy to discover something you weren't. Belly wandered around the short scripts and comedy section for dialogue. Beare looked at the autobiography section and dramatic plays. This shop is a mix of Harry Potter meets yassified scholastic book fair. For the most part, just a regular bookstore with a little bit more personality.

Yeah I miss the nostalgia of the old place. I used to love picking out my plays while fantasizing about Lin cranking out In the Heights in the basement--but whatever. The new place in absolutely amazing! This is hands down my favorite hang in the City, and now I fantasize about giving Lin and the other owners all my money. The only possible thing I can bitch about is the baristas don't know how to make espresso yet, but I'm sure they will get there. Absolutely love it here, and thank you to Lin and others for saving this special place.