New York
The Best Restaurants for a Date Night in New York
Looking for a cozy dinner spot in New York City? Check out our list of the best romantic restaurants for a memorable date night.
Known for its endless dining options, New York City doesn't disappoint when it comes to romantic spots that offer both an intimate setting as well as culinary excellence. Whether it's your first date or your fiftieth anniversary, you'll want to consider our carefully curated list of the most romantic restaurants in New York. From the enchanting Peruvian-Japanese fusion at Llama San to the plant-based wonders of abcV, and the Italian-Japanese crossover at Kimika, each restaurant offers a great experience. This list is not just our opinion but is based on recommendations from World of Mouth experts such as Will Guidara, Robert Dentice, and Mimi Lan. Keep reading to discover the restaurants in New York City for a date night that will leave a lasting impression.
Llama San is a restaurant specializing in Peruvian fusion cuisine, known for its flavorful dishes and particularly its ceviche, which is highly recommended by customers. It's a spot often underrated, yet consistently delivers on taste and quality. They are open for dinner seven days a week from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Recommended by
This little place has big taste! Peruvian fusion dishes done well.
ABCV is a plant-based restaurant, offering a menu curated by renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. The establishment is known for its creative and forward-thinking dishes, tonics, and cocktails that highlight the best of nature's offerings, providing both vegan and gluten-free options. Regardless of dietary preferences, ABCV aims to serve, inform, and inspire a cultural shift towards plant-based dining through its delicious and innovative culinary creations.
Recommended by
Jean-Georges Vongerichten's trio of restaurants at the massive ABC Carpet & Home -store in Chelsea, NYC, are worth the visit just for the amazing decor (as one could imagine). Of the three, ABCv is a plant-based restaurant with fantastic, dishes that are not trying to push a point. The food is great whether you are a vegetarian or not.
Win Son is a Taiwanese-American restaurant run by the chef-owner duo, Trigg Brown and Josh Ku. The place is known for its relaxed vibe and delicious food that won't disappoint. Be prepared for a bit of a wait due to its popularity, making it a great spot for a date with a budget of $40-60 per person.
Recommended by
This is a Taiwanese American restaurant that will not disappoint. Get here early to put your names down as there is always a little wait. Great for date. $40-60 per person.
Llama Inn is a vibrant spot where Chef Erik Ramirez showcases his take on Peruvian cuisine. The restaurant offers an elevated dining experience, featuring an open kitchen and a centrally located bar, contributing to its lively ambiance. It's an ideal place for a date, promising a memorable Peruvian culinary journey.
Recommended by
This is a highend Peruvian experience that will impress any date! Open kitchen on display and a bar in the center of the room really does create a worthwhile ambiance.
Kimika is a restaurant that serves inventive Japanese-Italian dishes, complemented by a selection of creative cocktails. The menu is a blend of Italian and Japanese culinary traditions, with standout dishes like the soy butter bigoli and the cavatelli pork ragu. The restaurant also features an all-female-led kitchen staff, outdoor seating, and a rooftop with a panoramic view, offering a diverse dining experience.
Recommended by
Usually hotel restaurant food is nothing to write home about. But not Kimika, located at the bottom of a modern boutique Nolita hotel. It doesn’t get listed in Michelin Guide for nothing. The menu inventive, a mashup of “Italian” and “meshi,” Japanese slang for meal. The two pasta dishes we had were super delicious, each with distinctive taste: a thick spaghetti soy butter bigoli doused in butter emulsified with soy sauce, topped with three types of chives, marinated tomatoes and a fried shallot gremolata. The pasta itself was so good, so al dente that made it satisfying to eat, with its umami flavors. I was supposed to share it with a friend and felt guilty for eating most of it. The other pasta was equally super yummy but with totally different flavors: Cavatelli pork ragu with fava beans and ricotta. Next time I would love to try their fried pizzette topped with shiso-sunflower pesto, squash shavings and chili oil, sound yummy. Just don’t order the Crispy Rice Cakes Lasagna, unless you like excessive melted cheese on too little crispy rice pasta. Nice idea to bring that Asian element into lasagna though.But I haven’t even got to the desserts yet, which were the superstars of the meal. I would return just to have their desserts. I regret not taking better pix of them. Everything was so creative and scrumptious. Their outdoor seatings give guests a nice view of the busy city. They just opened the rooftop too with a spectacular panoramic view of the city and a fun, equally inventive bar menu. And love the fact that it’s an all female-led kitchen staff.
Ume is a serene sushi restaurant in Williamsburg, offering an artistic and culinary concept that's all its own. Patrons can enjoy a deconstructed meal experience, choosing their preferred salt to accompany exceptional sushi, all while soaking in the tranquil surroundings of a zen garden. The menu, inspired by the founder's travels, changes frequently and features a prix fixe sushi set.
Recommended by
This place is a like a hidden gem tucked in the middle of the hustle bustle of NYC. The moment you walk inside, you instantly feel calm by its zen surroundings. You’re sitting on the floor cushions and tatami mat, soaking in the view of its zen garden. The tray of omakase array of sushi is like a work of art, so beautiful and so delicious. Loved the concept of a deconstructed meal where I got to pick which salt I wanted to accompany each piece of exceptionally beautiful sushi, and place it on top of sushi rice that I got to scoop onto a piece of precut nori. How fun was that!
Marea is an Italian seafood restaurant known for its housemade pastas and vibrant Central Park setting. The eatery is recognized for its excellent food, particularly the golden uovo and rib eye, along with top-notch, friendly service. With its award-winning culinary reputation, Marea offers a blend of authentic coastal Italian flavors and a modern New York dining atmosphere.
Recommended by
The food is excellent. Top notch, friendly and intuitive service.Happy to see that Marea NYC lives up to its sterling reputation. The bustling dining room is elegant without being overly fussy, boasting a well-curated soundtrack that is eventually drowned out by the hearty discussions being had at the tables around us as the evening wears on. The food is excellent - we really can’t fault the dishes we tried, from the golden uovo to the rib eye. We were lucky enough to catch the end of corn season - if you’re a corn lover, order everything corn related on the menu, you won’t be disappointed. Above all else, however, the service is what stands out. Truly top notch, friendly and intuitive - and no doubt the reason why Marea has plenty of regulars. A slice of the finer life in NYC.
Sushi Yasuda is a classic destination for sushi lovers, particularly known for its top-tier omakase. Drawing on high-quality ingredients and perfectly cooked rice, the restaurant offers a gastronomic journey that many customers consider a trip to sushi heaven. The restaurant carries a significant reputation, with some even referring to it as the best sushi restaurant.
Recommended by
Sushi heaven!Yasuda is known for being the best sushi restaurant in New York. My husband worked at his restaurant when he was just a young boy, Yasuda san was his teacher. So when we went there my expectations were high but I also didn't know what to expect. My husband's Omakase is a gastronomic journey in every sense and Yasuda's was totally a trip to heaven, it was a mixture of feelings, very high-quality products and perfect rice.
Buvette Gastrotheque is a part restaurant, part bar, part café, inspired by European traditions that honor a history of craft and design. The restaurant offers a short list of classic French dishes made from top-notch ingredients, including divine scrambled eggs for breakfast and dishes like tartare, coq au vin, and tartiflette for dinner. The ambiance of Buvette Gastrotheque is reminiscent of an old-world café, providing a casual neighborhood eatery experience, perfect for an early morning espresso, a long lunch of shared dishes, or a late-night digestif.
Recommended by
Bloody sensational. My favourite restaurant in New York. Quaint, familiar, pretty, considered and consistent - Buvette is the real deal. First up, go for breakfast and order their eggs, they're scrambled in a milk frother and are the most divine eggs you will ever try. Return for dinner and fall in love with the lights and romance of Grove St. You'll be treated to a short list of classic French dishes made using top notch ingredients. We had the tartare, coq au vin, and the most luscious tartiflette, along with a few little starters. I couldn't fault this place. It's everything I love and want in a restaurant. My only complaint is that I don't live nearby.
Lusardi's is a charming, old-school Northern Italian restaurant located on the Upper East Side, known for its authentic cuisine and cozy atmosphere. It is highly recommended by locals for its excellent Italian dishes and an impressive list of Italian and US wines. Remember to book in advance to secure a table at this popular spot.
Recommended by
Upper East Italian ClassicA very charming quality Italian favourite of the Upper East Side locals. It does not get much more Italian than this. Very good cuisine, lovely atmosphere and a pretty good list of Italian and US wines. Book in advance.
Lilia is a modern Italian restaurant in Williamsburg, popular for its innovative, casual cuisine. The place is known for its wood-fired seafood, handcrafted pastas, and classic Italian cocktails, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. The restaurant's ambiance is vibrant, often filled with a creative crowd and good music, providing a casual dining experience.
Recommended by
Brooklyn’s most wanted. Modern Italian gem in Williamsburg.My New Yorker foodie friend says it’s the best Italian in the whole of New York. A lot said but anyways we love it. Fantastic innovative, casual cuisine. Organic, close produced. Expect good music, young hipsters and a creative crowd. Sit inside or outside on Williamsburg’s charming ”main street”. You will fall in love - unless you are very formal. They accept reservations 30 days in advance, and the place is always full. So reserve well in advance or pop by to try the bar table.
Pastis is a beloved French bistro in the heart of the Meatpacking district, known for its fantastic food and incredible atmosphere. Open from breakfast to dinner, it's the perfect spot to start or end your exploration of nearby attractions like the High Line and Chelsea Market. Despite a brief closure, Pastis has made a triumphant return to the district, now located just 200 meters from its original spot.
Recommended by
Favourite iconic bistro of Meatpacking district. From breakfast to dinner.Pastis was the heart of Meatpacking district when the area was renewed early 2000’s. During Trump and Covid it closed its doors when the whole area became temporarily more silent. Last year, it fortunately reopened, just 200 meters from the original location. Fantastic French casual bistro that is always full. Great bistro food, but the point is the amazing atmosphere. Both outside and inside . The best place to start or end your walk in the High Line, Whitney, Chelsea market or the gallery district.
JoJo by Jean-Georges is an elegant restaurant situated in a charming townhouse in the Upper East Side. The cuisine, crafted by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, is characterized by its light, innovative French style, and is complemented by a well-curated wine list. The restaurant offers dinner every day from 5pm to 9:30pm, and brunch on weekends from 12pm to 3pm.
Recommended by
Elegant and innovative, by Jean-Georges Vongerichten in an Upper East Side charming townhouseVery elegant and cool restaurant in a charming townhouse in the Upper East side. Vongerichten’s cuisine is light, innovative, French, very good. Nice wine list.
Rezdôra is a rustic Italian restaurant that specializes in the cuisine of Emilia Romagna. It is highly recommended for its well-executed, delicious pasta and an impressive wine list. With a focus on simplicity and authenticity, Rezdôra ensures a memorable dining experience with its service that matches the quality of its food.
Recommended by
Some of the best pasta in NYC. Truly one of the best.Some of the best pasta in NYC - simple, but incredibly well executed and absolutely delicious. And it has service and a wine list to match. Truly one of the best.
Yoshino in New York offers high-end omakase, meticulously crafted by the renowned Japanese Master Sushi Chef Tadashi "Edowan" Yoshida. The restaurant stands out for its fusion of traditional Japanese omakase and French techniques, providing an exceptional culinary experience. Despite its high-end offerings, Yoshino maintains a comforting and relaxed atmosphere, making it a top choice for those seeking an unparalleled sushi experience.
Recommended by
YOSHINO - A true master arrives in NYC Welcome Yoshino to the NYC stage! Chef Yoshida has seemingly spent a lifetime studying traditional Japanese Omakase while also adding French techniques preparing to open Yoshino New York. What struck us was the combination of the highest level Japanese cuisine and the comforting, at ease atmosphere. Yoshino is already in the top echelon of high-end Japanese Omakase in the U.S. and the world. One of the most soulful meals I have ever experienced and will be returning as soon as I can.
Llama San is a restaurant specializing in Peruvian fusion cuisine, known for its flavorful dishes and particularly its ceviche, which is highly recommended by customers. It's a spot often underrated, yet consistently delivers on taste and quality. They are open for dinner seven days a week from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
ABCV is a plant-based restaurant, offering a menu curated by renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. The establishment is known for its creative and forward-thinking dishes, tonics, and cocktails that highlight the best of nature's offerings, providing both vegan and gluten-free options. Regardless of dietary preferences, ABCV aims to serve, inform, and inspire a cultural shift towards plant-based dining through its delicious and innovative culinary creations.
Recommended by
Jean-Georges Vongerichten's trio of restaurants at the massive ABC Carpet & Home -store in Chelsea, NYC, are worth the visit just for the amazing decor (as one could imagine). Of the three, ABCv is a plant-based restaurant with fantastic, dishes that are not trying to push a point. The food is great whether you are a vegetarian or not.
Win Son is a Taiwanese-American restaurant run by the chef-owner duo, Trigg Brown and Josh Ku. The place is known for its relaxed vibe and delicious food that won't disappoint. Be prepared for a bit of a wait due to its popularity, making it a great spot for a date with a budget of $40-60 per person.
Recommended by
This is a Taiwanese American restaurant that will not disappoint. Get here early to put your names down as there is always a little wait. Great for date. $40-60 per person.
Llama Inn is a vibrant spot where Chef Erik Ramirez showcases his take on Peruvian cuisine. The restaurant offers an elevated dining experience, featuring an open kitchen and a centrally located bar, contributing to its lively ambiance. It's an ideal place for a date, promising a memorable Peruvian culinary journey.
Recommended by
This is a highend Peruvian experience that will impress any date! Open kitchen on display and a bar in the center of the room really does create a worthwhile ambiance.
Kimika is a restaurant that serves inventive Japanese-Italian dishes, complemented by a selection of creative cocktails. The menu is a blend of Italian and Japanese culinary traditions, with standout dishes like the soy butter bigoli and the cavatelli pork ragu. The restaurant also features an all-female-led kitchen staff, outdoor seating, and a rooftop with a panoramic view, offering a diverse dining experience.
Recommended by
Usually hotel restaurant food is nothing to write home about. But not Kimika, located at the bottom of a modern boutique Nolita hotel. It doesn’t get listed in Michelin Guide for nothing. The menu inventive, a mashup of “Italian” and “meshi,” Japanese slang for meal. The two pasta dishes we had were super delicious, each with distinctive taste: a thick spaghetti soy butter bigoli doused in butter emulsified with soy sauce, topped with three types of chives, marinated tomatoes and a fried shallot gremolata. The pasta itself was so good, so al dente that made it satisfying to eat, with its umami flavors. I was supposed to share it with a friend and felt guilty for eating most of it. The other pasta was equally super yummy but with totally different flavors: Cavatelli pork ragu with fava beans and ricotta. Next time I would love to try their fried pizzette topped with shiso-sunflower pesto, squash shavings and chili oil, sound yummy. Just don’t order the Crispy Rice Cakes Lasagna, unless you like excessive melted cheese on too little crispy rice pasta. Nice idea to bring that Asian element into lasagna though.But I haven’t even got to the desserts yet, which were the superstars of the meal. I would return just to have their desserts. I regret not taking better pix of them. Everything was so creative and scrumptious. Their outdoor seatings give guests a nice view of the busy city. They just opened the rooftop too with a spectacular panoramic view of the city and a fun, equally inventive bar menu. And love the fact that it’s an all female-led kitchen staff.
Ume is a serene sushi restaurant in Williamsburg, offering an artistic and culinary concept that's all its own. Patrons can enjoy a deconstructed meal experience, choosing their preferred salt to accompany exceptional sushi, all while soaking in the tranquil surroundings of a zen garden. The menu, inspired by the founder's travels, changes frequently and features a prix fixe sushi set.
Recommended by
This place is a like a hidden gem tucked in the middle of the hustle bustle of NYC. The moment you walk inside, you instantly feel calm by its zen surroundings. You’re sitting on the floor cushions and tatami mat, soaking in the view of its zen garden. The tray of omakase array of sushi is like a work of art, so beautiful and so delicious. Loved the concept of a deconstructed meal where I got to pick which salt I wanted to accompany each piece of exceptionally beautiful sushi, and place it on top of sushi rice that I got to scoop onto a piece of precut nori. How fun was that!
Marea is an Italian seafood restaurant known for its housemade pastas and vibrant Central Park setting. The eatery is recognized for its excellent food, particularly the golden uovo and rib eye, along with top-notch, friendly service. With its award-winning culinary reputation, Marea offers a blend of authentic coastal Italian flavors and a modern New York dining atmosphere.
Recommended by
The food is excellent. Top notch, friendly and intuitive service.Happy to see that Marea NYC lives up to its sterling reputation. The bustling dining room is elegant without being overly fussy, boasting a well-curated soundtrack that is eventually drowned out by the hearty discussions being had at the tables around us as the evening wears on. The food is excellent - we really can’t fault the dishes we tried, from the golden uovo to the rib eye. We were lucky enough to catch the end of corn season - if you’re a corn lover, order everything corn related on the menu, you won’t be disappointed. Above all else, however, the service is what stands out. Truly top notch, friendly and intuitive - and no doubt the reason why Marea has plenty of regulars. A slice of the finer life in NYC.
Sushi Yasuda is a classic destination for sushi lovers, particularly known for its top-tier omakase. Drawing on high-quality ingredients and perfectly cooked rice, the restaurant offers a gastronomic journey that many customers consider a trip to sushi heaven. The restaurant carries a significant reputation, with some even referring to it as the best sushi restaurant.
Recommended by
Sushi heaven!Yasuda is known for being the best sushi restaurant in New York. My husband worked at his restaurant when he was just a young boy, Yasuda san was his teacher. So when we went there my expectations were high but I also didn't know what to expect. My husband's Omakase is a gastronomic journey in every sense and Yasuda's was totally a trip to heaven, it was a mixture of feelings, very high-quality products and perfect rice.
Buvette Gastrotheque is a part restaurant, part bar, part café, inspired by European traditions that honor a history of craft and design. The restaurant offers a short list of classic French dishes made from top-notch ingredients, including divine scrambled eggs for breakfast and dishes like tartare, coq au vin, and tartiflette for dinner. The ambiance of Buvette Gastrotheque is reminiscent of an old-world café, providing a casual neighborhood eatery experience, perfect for an early morning espresso, a long lunch of shared dishes, or a late-night digestif.
Recommended by
Bloody sensational. My favourite restaurant in New York. Quaint, familiar, pretty, considered and consistent - Buvette is the real deal. First up, go for breakfast and order their eggs, they're scrambled in a milk frother and are the most divine eggs you will ever try. Return for dinner and fall in love with the lights and romance of Grove St. You'll be treated to a short list of classic French dishes made using top notch ingredients. We had the tartare, coq au vin, and the most luscious tartiflette, along with a few little starters. I couldn't fault this place. It's everything I love and want in a restaurant. My only complaint is that I don't live nearby.
Lusardi's is a charming, old-school Northern Italian restaurant located on the Upper East Side, known for its authentic cuisine and cozy atmosphere. It is highly recommended by locals for its excellent Italian dishes and an impressive list of Italian and US wines. Remember to book in advance to secure a table at this popular spot.
Recommended by
Upper East Italian ClassicA very charming quality Italian favourite of the Upper East Side locals. It does not get much more Italian than this. Very good cuisine, lovely atmosphere and a pretty good list of Italian and US wines. Book in advance.
Lilia is a modern Italian restaurant in Williamsburg, popular for its innovative, casual cuisine. The place is known for its wood-fired seafood, handcrafted pastas, and classic Italian cocktails, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. The restaurant's ambiance is vibrant, often filled with a creative crowd and good music, providing a casual dining experience.
Recommended by
Brooklyn’s most wanted. Modern Italian gem in Williamsburg.My New Yorker foodie friend says it’s the best Italian in the whole of New York. A lot said but anyways we love it. Fantastic innovative, casual cuisine. Organic, close produced. Expect good music, young hipsters and a creative crowd. Sit inside or outside on Williamsburg’s charming ”main street”. You will fall in love - unless you are very formal. They accept reservations 30 days in advance, and the place is always full. So reserve well in advance or pop by to try the bar table.
Pastis is a beloved French bistro in the heart of the Meatpacking district, known for its fantastic food and incredible atmosphere. Open from breakfast to dinner, it's the perfect spot to start or end your exploration of nearby attractions like the High Line and Chelsea Market. Despite a brief closure, Pastis has made a triumphant return to the district, now located just 200 meters from its original spot.
Recommended by
Favourite iconic bistro of Meatpacking district. From breakfast to dinner.Pastis was the heart of Meatpacking district when the area was renewed early 2000’s. During Trump and Covid it closed its doors when the whole area became temporarily more silent. Last year, it fortunately reopened, just 200 meters from the original location. Fantastic French casual bistro that is always full. Great bistro food, but the point is the amazing atmosphere. Both outside and inside . The best place to start or end your walk in the High Line, Whitney, Chelsea market or the gallery district.
JoJo by Jean-Georges is an elegant restaurant situated in a charming townhouse in the Upper East Side. The cuisine, crafted by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, is characterized by its light, innovative French style, and is complemented by a well-curated wine list. The restaurant offers dinner every day from 5pm to 9:30pm, and brunch on weekends from 12pm to 3pm.
Recommended by
Elegant and innovative, by Jean-Georges Vongerichten in an Upper East Side charming townhouseVery elegant and cool restaurant in a charming townhouse in the Upper East side. Vongerichten’s cuisine is light, innovative, French, very good. Nice wine list.
Rezdôra is a rustic Italian restaurant that specializes in the cuisine of Emilia Romagna. It is highly recommended for its well-executed, delicious pasta and an impressive wine list. With a focus on simplicity and authenticity, Rezdôra ensures a memorable dining experience with its service that matches the quality of its food.
Recommended by
Some of the best pasta in NYC. Truly one of the best.Some of the best pasta in NYC - simple, but incredibly well executed and absolutely delicious. And it has service and a wine list to match. Truly one of the best.
Yoshino in New York offers high-end omakase, meticulously crafted by the renowned Japanese Master Sushi Chef Tadashi "Edowan" Yoshida. The restaurant stands out for its fusion of traditional Japanese omakase and French techniques, providing an exceptional culinary experience. Despite its high-end offerings, Yoshino maintains a comforting and relaxed atmosphere, making it a top choice for those seeking an unparalleled sushi experience.
Recommended by
YOSHINO - A true master arrives in NYC Welcome Yoshino to the NYC stage! Chef Yoshida has seemingly spent a lifetime studying traditional Japanese Omakase while also adding French techniques preparing to open Yoshino New York. What struck us was the combination of the highest level Japanese cuisine and the comforting, at ease atmosphere. Yoshino is already in the top echelon of high-end Japanese Omakase in the U.S. and the world. One of the most soulful meals I have ever experienced and will be returning as soon as I can.
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