In a city where dining out is counted among the top things to do (if not the top thing to do), finding a spot to enjoy a meal in New York City is about as easy as sourcing a Chianti in a wine shop. But if your culinary pursuits tend to happen mostly around date night, take note of the most romantic restaurants in NYC outlined below.
While a discerning wine list and note-perfect dishes are always key when selecting a restaurant for an intimate dinner, the ambience is also paramount. Dim lighting, moody music, elegant decor, and an element of mystery are the prevailing requisites for a romantic table for two—and the 26 destinations ahead (both established and newly opened) deliver that in spades. Continue scrolling to discover where you should snag a reservation for your next evening out.
Photo: Courtesy of Raoul’s
One of those rare New York City institutions that remains unchanged despite operating throughout several decades, Raoul’s is a French bistro that’s been a SoHo staple since 1975. Menu favorites include the steak au poivre and oysters, but the real quest is to secure their elusive and much-beloved burger, of which only about a dozen are served each weekday and only at the bar. It’s impressive, it’s delicious, and it’s definitely one of the most romantic spots for dinner in the city.
Nestled on a peaceful corner in Park Slope, Al Di La Trattoria has been serving up handcrafted, simple Italian cuisine since the 1990s. It’s a classic mom-and-pop operation run by a husband and wife duo and is under the helm of chef Anna Klinger. Expect comforting dishes like large pasta loops with heritage pork shoulder ragu and wines ranging from acidic Etna Bianco to complex Nebbiolo. The space is small and snug but full of heart and a nod to old-world dining.
One of the most exciting recent openings in New York, this East Village basement restaurant from Joshua Pinsky and Chase Sinzer is the perfect destination for romance-fueled plate sharing. Begin with the red shrimp delivered in a sumptuous bed of oil and garlic, followed by the mushroom mille-feuille, topped off by the pork chop with smoked onion jus. Might as well order the devil’s food cake for two while you’re at it.
Eschewing the typical dinner format, this intimate restaurant in Bed-Stuy operates more like a communal supper series, with 6 and 8:30 p.m. seatings on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Couples who are lucky enough to snag seats are served Nigerian food by owner-chef Ayo Balogun, set to the tunes of a record player spinning 1970s Afrobeats. Chat with each other, make new friends, and relish in this uniquely romantic experience.
Photo: Courtesy of Minetta Tavern
