25 Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC
In the city that never sleeps, you’ll always find incredible dining options. From $1 dumplings to the best pizza slices in the world, New York has always captivated foodies' hearts. And of course, the city doesn’t fall behind when talking about elegant, fancy, cool, modern, and romantic restaurants.
The city has a bit of everything for everyone: from boat bars to opulent Michelin-starred restaurants and fashionable eateries, you’ll always find a place to romanticize life either with your significant other, new friends, or even by yourself (because love always starts from within).
So here’s our complete and updated list of the most romantic restaurants in New York City, from two New Yorkers in love.
The Most Romantic Restaurants NYC
One if by Land Two if by Sea
This place is known to be one of the most romantic restaurants in Manhattan, but don’t let its popularity turn you off! This is one of the most popular date spots in the city for a reason: the ornate candelabras and candle-lit vibe makes this the perfect place to get cozy with that special someone on a winter night.
While dining in the old carriage house restaurant, you’ll find plenty of original exposed brick and gorgeous dark hardwood floors. It certainly sets the mood for a truly special meal! The fixed menus offer a nice diversity of flavors and dishes, usually with a strong focus on seafood. There’s an in house pastry chef/ restaurant owner as well, so you know you’ll be in great hands for dessert.
Le Coucou
It’s hard to pick a favorite time of the day to visit Le Coucou. From breakfast to dinner, this French restaurant with floor to ceiling windows and French inspired decor always delivers an elegant, upscale, and fine dining experience.
With one of the most beautiful dining room interiors of any restaurant in the the United States, Le Coucou has plenty to admire during your romantic meal: huge windows, magical lighting, an incredibly detailed bar area, and gorgeous food.
Whether you are curious about trying a truly classic French menu or you already have tons of experience with the cuisine but want something new, this is a great place to come with your loved ones. You’ll get to enjoy a range of dishes from all over France, all prepared with the complex but perfect technique that defines French cooking.
Silver Apricot
We’ll continue the list strong with a great option for elevated Chinese-American food. Silver Apricot may have some of your favorite flavors from classic Chinese dishes, but the idea behind this restaurant is more to continue the evolution of the cuisine and explore new boundaries than to play a list of the greatest hits. There’s nothing wrong with the classics, but the team here wants to push the boundaries and have the city open up to some of the more unique and lesser known types of dishes.
The chef, Simone Tong, is the genius previously behind one of the most beloved cult restaurants in NYC, Little Tong Noodle Shop. While Little Tong has sadly closed for now, we can continue to enjoy the amazing dishes and ideas of Chef Tong at Silver Apricot.
Little Prince
Healthy, light and unique with a certain Parisian vibe, Little Prince is one of in-the-know New Yorkers’ favorite restaurants to go for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Self described as a bistro non-classique, this place retains all of the charm and amazing food of a picturesque Parisian bistro, but without the unapproachable air that can often accompany classical French restaurants.
If you stop by for a romantic brunch, definitely order one or two of the amazing cocktails to enjoy with your meal. You’ll find some of everyone’s favorite brunch dishes as well as some more unique options. One of our go-to eateries in this list of the most romantic restaurants in NYC for sure!
Freeman’s
While this place’s location is somewhat out of the way and hidden (it’s found at the back of an otherwise empty alleyway), Freeman’s is definitely a popular destination for those looking for a fun and intimate restaurant in NYC. Everyone will enjoy the charming approach to the restaurant and its whimsical decorations.
Freeman’s takes its inspiration from old American taverns, and this rustic but welcoming feeling definitely makes it a restaurant that you won’t want to miss. Some of the dishes are simple in concept, but all are cooked with such skill and flavor that you’ll be transported to a unique and delicious world. The duck fat potatoes with lemon and garlic are incredible!
Looking for the best romantic restaurants in NYC with a view?
Grand Banks
Without a doubt one of the most unique restaurants on this list (and indeed in the entire city!) is Grand Banks. This restaurant is actually an old wooden fishing ship that docks seasonally at Manhattan and opens its doors to oyster lovers. This restaurant is ideal for those warm summer nights when all you want is a nice breeze and outdoor seating.
The fact that Grand Banks is literally a boat means that you won’t find closer waterfront seating anywhere, you’re on top of the water! It’s not all about oysters either, the boat offers a range of seafood and other dishes. The focus is definitely on the sustainably harvested oysters, but you’ll also find ceviche, lobster rolls, and summer salads in addition to a brunch menu, amazing cocktails, and a refreshing wine list. For the Brooklyners, they also have a sister boat…
Pilot
A little less crowded but just as magical as Grand Banks, Pilot is the ideal restaurant to go see the sunset with your significant other. It’s in Brooklyn, so expect great views of the Manhattan skyline! Like its counterpart Grand Banks, Pilot is a seasonal oyster bar located on a historic sailing vessel. In its glory days the ship was considered one of the world’s fastest sailboats, and it sailed completely around the globe twice.
The food menu is the same on Grand Banks: an ingredient driven small plates affair with a focus on oysters and seafood. Despite their similarities, the location difference makes it absolutely worth going to both Pilot and Grand Banks… you can never have enough boats in your life!
Vinegar Hill House
This Brooklyn waterfront restaurant is located in an old house on Hudson Avenue, and offers a range of romantic dining areas. From a beautiful indoor space to a garden featuring a cherry tree and even a sidewalk area that welcomes well-mannered pooches, Vinegar Hill House has something to charm everyone.
The menu is small and curated, with an emphasis on fresh and local ingredients prepared in a way that truly brings out the best of the natural flavor. There’s also a weekend brunch menu that diverges from the usual eggs-Benedict-and-French-toast that dominates the city… head here instead and order a cheddar and asparagus sandwich or delicious olive oil cake! Some unique yummy cocktails and craft beers round out the awesome menu offerings.
Sfoglia
Many people think New York City is synonymous with Italian food, and it’s true that there are tons of restaurants in the city where you can order good pasta.
Finding the perfect Italian restaurant for you is a bit of an art, but Sfoglia in the Upper East is a good place to start your search. Taking its inspiration from rustic Italian farmhouses and welcoming trattorias, the restaurant sucks you right in with a cozy and romantic vibe that will make you want to stay for hours. Not only does it look good, it tastes amazing as well.
With a seasonal menu focused on local ingredients and handmade pastas, Sfoglia is an Italian food lover’s dream. Definitely try the pappardelle bolognese if you like a richer flavor, or the chicken al mattone for big fans of poultry.
Merakia
Merakia food might not always come to the top of your mind when thinking about great food to eat in NYC, but there are actually a ton of authentic options besides a quick gyro. Merakia is definitely one of the best! With an artistic interior that seems to blend old wood and almost New Age vibes, this West 21st street restaurant is a great place either for a date night or a larger group of couples and friends.
The a la carte menu includes some Greek favorites like grilled octopus as well as a featured selection of steaks and lamb dishes. Make sure to try a Greek wine while you’re here, they have some pretty unique options and everyone loves the smooth and refreshing taste.
The Skylark
This elevated cocktail lounge is one of the city’s best for enjoying a romantic evening with an incredible view. The lounge offers plenty of comfortable seating options both inside and outside, and is the perfect place to watch the sunset and appreciate those Manhattan skyscraper views.
The Skylark offers a selection of shareable dishes from mini fried chicken sandwiches to mushroom arancini, so you’ll definitely find one or two things to keep you full. The focus is definitely on the cocktails, with a number of innovative signature drinks in addition to the classics done really well. The cocktails can all be ordered as a large pitcher if you want to share with a group of friends, making this a fun and social place in addition to an intimate date night spot.
Olio e Più
This West Village trattoria and pizzeria is all about the vibes: from its flower covered facade to the artfully decorated bar, you won’t want to leave this magical place once you enter. The simple but delicious Neapolitan Italian fare includes classics like thin-crusted pizza and amazing seafood, as well as weekly specials that you won’t want to miss! This is a super fun place to do some sidewalk dining when the weather is nice.
The restaurant’s brick oven means the pizza will be amazing, and you will definitely love pretty much everything on the menu. The food is very authentic and uses well-sourced ingredients, often straight from Italy. Finish off with some of the amazing house-made gelato!
Balzem
In the heart of one of the coolest neighborhoods of New York City, NoLita, you’ll find the awesome Mediterranean restaurant Balzem. With a large open fronted space that makes for the perfect indoor-outdoor dining space, this place serves up some of the best food in the city.
Try the delicious tavern chicken with rice, or be more adventurous with a branzino ceviche. Savory sides like orzo chicken soup complete this menu of traditional and amazing foods. You’ll find a nicely arranged wine list to accompany the food, organized in a way that’s approachable and well explained. Whenever you find yourself on Mott Street, looking for a restaurant to take your date, definitely stop by Balzem!
Rooftop Reds Vineyard & Wine Bar
Okay, this one isn’t strictly a restaurant per se, but it’s such a cool and unique place that it deserves a spot on this list of the most romantic restaurants in NYC. After all, how often do you get to visit a vineyard, in a city, on a building rooftop? It’s amazing! Located in Brooklyn within the Navy Yard area, Rooftop Reds is the kind of relaxed and picturesque place that makes you feel at home.
Whether you’re wandering along the vines, playing cornhole with your friends, or relaxing on a hammock with your significant other, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. The wine list is obviously excellent, and the vineyard’s own wine can be sampled and purchased.
Light bites are offered, but it’s more like snacks. If you want food with your wine, however, you’re in luck! The nearby pizzeria Il Porto will deliver your pie directly to the rooftop, giving you the perfect way to complete a relaxed romantic afternoon or evening.
Cuba Restaurant and Rum Bar
For another unique and lively restaurant in NYC, head over to Cuba Restaurant and Rum Bar in Greenwich Village. If you’ve never had Cuban food, this is a great place to try some authentic and high quality cuisine.
You’ll find all of the classics here: ropa vieja, arroz con pollo, maduros, yuca, and live music. And you can get a great mojito to accompany the food, of course. The restaurant itself has a bit of an Old Havana vibe, and overall it’s a great place to spend a fun evening with a special someone.
Antique Garage Restaurant
If eclectic was personified into a restaurant, it would be Antique Garage. Most people would never look at an old auto mechanic repair shop and see its potential for a restaurant, but that’s exactly what happened here in SoHo 20 years ago. The building is still filled with some fascinating antiques and collections, but it’s also home to some delicious Mediterranean food.
Coming here feels like a combination of visiting your grandparents’ house and dining in an antique shop: cozy and interesting, welcoming and diverse. The menu features lots of lamb, spices, refreshing salads, and seafood. After a long afternoon of walking with your partner around SoHo and exploring the neighborhood, make sure you head over to Mercer Street and stop in for a unique experience at Antique Garage.
Le Botaniste
For a laid-back lunch date Le Botaniste is a can’t-miss. Also in SoHo and not far from Antique Garage, Le Botaniste is the perfect NYC restaurant to visit if you and your significant other are health conscious but still fans of yummy food. It’s actually one of the best vegetarian restaurants in New York City! If you’re not a strict vegetarian, don’t let this turn you away from Le Botaniste.
Everyone can find something that they’ll love on the 100% organic plant based menu. The flavors are diverse and draw inspiration from all over the world: chile sin carne, Tibetan, vegetable tajine, sushi, and more. Honestly, you won’t even notice that you’re eating something vegetarian, making this the perfect way to try something new and healthy without feeling miserable.
The Musket Room
Heading back to NoLita, we come to one of the tastiest and most romantic restaurants in NYC: the Musket Room. Known for its New Zealand cuisine, which earned the restaurant a Michelin star, the team has recently added a new executive chef who takes the strong foundation and expands its views to create a more global experience. Some might think that changing a successful and already Michelin starred theme isn’t a good idea, but the clear vision and diverse mindset of the team has led to rave reviews.
You’ll want to make a reservation, and remember that on Friday and Saturday nights you’ll have to choose the set tasting menu. For a super high quality and gourmet focused restaurant in NYC, it’s actually pretty affordable: the set menu is priced at $99. Also note that there’s an equally delicious and fully vegan tasting menu available!
Aquavit
AquavitNordic cuisine is some of the most celebrated in the world, with the top level restaurants frequently winning awards and placing highly on best restaurant lists. It is well on its way to challenging some of the titans of this group, having already earned an incredible two Michelin stars.
A seasonal menu, creative dishes, and a bold vision that’s not afraid to take risks make this an amazing place for a romantic night. This one is pricier, but it’s definitely worth it if you’re seriously into food. There are two tasting menus available for dinner, plus a selection of lunch dishes. While you might not get the same food as someone who visits a few months before or after, the incredible elevated experience is a mainstay at all times.
Heidi’s House By the Side of the Road
This small hidden gem of a restaurant is found in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, where in the know diners can experience a romantic and intimate dining experience. What started as a simple place to eat and drink with friends has become a neighborhood hangout that’s in the vein of an Irish or English “local” pub.
A soothing jazz playlist and welcoming environment keeps the regulars coming back, and newcomers will feel right at home as well. The menu is small but delicious, and pretty much everyone will like something being served. The owners also run a small bar right next door called Ed’s Elbow Room, where you can wait and enjoy a drink until your table is available.
Pil Pil
No list of most romantic restaurants in NYC would be complete without some yummy tapas options, and the next restaurant definitely meets the criteria. Pil Pil is on my list of affordable romantic restaurants in NYC. It's a quintessential tapas bar, with cheap but good sangria and an extensive menu of small sharing plates.
If you’ve never had Spanish style tapas, you’ll want to order multiple things to share with the rest of your table. How much you order really depends on how hungry you are, but your waiter/waitress can explain sizes and make recommendations about what to get. The brilliance of tapas is that you can try a lot of different things, and the sharing aspect makes it the perfect way to spend some quality time in a romantic place.
Banzarbar
This is more of a bar than a restaurant, but it’s connected to one of the previous places on this list, Freeman’s. The upstairs is an old nautical themed cocktail den that’s the perfect place to hide away from the city and enjoy a romantic evening. The focus is on cocktails and other drinks, but there’s a food menu that offers surprisingly delicious choices.
From light bites such as oysters to a dry aged New York strip, you’ll have more than enough in the way of food. Make sure to read over the drinks and liquor menu, where you’ll find some rare and unique spirits. Definitely make a reservation, as the intimate upstairs space fills up very quickly.
Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels
This is one of the best romantic places in NYC, especially if you find yourself in Lower Manhattan and need somewhere to go for a date night. Their Happy hour deals are a must, and the wines and tapas selection are perfect for gourmet food and natural wine lovers. It’s a great place to get more into natural wines and orange wines, which are becoming more and more popular. Definitely worth mentioning are the Sommelier Short List for bottles, and the mystery glass of wine.
As a fun date activity, try to guess the mystery glass of wine…you’ll ll win the bottle if you’re right! For another super fun activity, they also offer a “wine boot camp” where enthusiasts can go and learn about different types and varieties of wine and the basics of tasting.
Cote
If you haven’t been to a Korean steakhouse before, you’re missing out! This is the perfect opportunity to try out this awesome genre of restaurant and enjoy an amazing romantic meal in NYC. Essentially, Cote combines the high quality of meats from a classic steakhouse with the interactive, entertaining aspects of Korean barbecue.
With a tableside grill for each party, you’ll get to control the cooking of your steak with the help of your server. You can be as involved (or uninvolved) as you like, and the 1200+ bottle wine list will keep you happy the whole time. Cote prides themselves on sourcing some of the best beef, including American Wagyu and in house dry aged cuts. Book your reservation in advance!
Icca
This charming and peaceful Japanese restaurant has warm welcoming colors and good vibes, making it an excellent choice for a romantic date night. High quality and careful tradition are the name of the game here, with incredible ingredients flown in weekly from Japan for use by the masterful executive chef Kazushige Suzuki. Everything is fresh, so seasonal ingredients play a large role in the evolving menu at icca.
Whether you’re obsessed with sushi or you’re still looking for that special experience to make you fall in love with it, this is definitely one of the best places to get truly traditional sushi in NYC. There is a lot of detail in the preparation and the presentation, with even the pottery being carefully sourced from various artisan producers in Japan.
That’s it, this is our list of the most romantic restaurants in NYC. If you liked this article, share it, pin it and save it to your New York City boards on Pinterest so you have it for later!
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I hope you enjoy your visit to one of these restaurants! If you have tried any of the places we shared, let us know in the comments which was your favorite one!
Besitos from New York,
Laura
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