Paris might be known as the world’s most romantic city, but New York is no slouch for showing the love. Its dining scene is filled with date night options to satisfy any palate. Searching for the perfect spot, however, can be overwhelming, with an abundance of French, Italian, American, Greek, Mediterranean, and every other ethnicity serving fine cuisine. We’ve covered all the bases regarding the best options for Valentine’s Day. Here are a few of our favorites—guaranteed to impress for a romantic night.
AMALI NYC
There’s a reason so many visit the Mediterranean for a relaxing getaway: the region has provided the backdrop for some of history’s most iconic love stories. Discover the same ambiance at Amali NYC for its sumptuous Mediterranean cuisine consisting of a sustainable menu. Chef Alex Tubero’s Valentine’s Day Prix-Fixe menu will feature Stracciatella with shaved truffle, Colorado Lamb Chops, and Wagyu with Lobster and Caviar. With an extensive wine list, you’ll find the perfect bottle. Info: amalinyc.com
ONE IF BY LAND, TWO IF BY SEA
Set in the 1767 carriage house once owned by Aaron Burr, this West Village favorite exudes romance: candlelit tables, fireplace, live piano music, and decadent Prix-Fixe menus are just the start. This culinary gem has earned its place among the city’s most romantic hotspots. Renowned for its timeless menu and exquisite decor, this establishment stands out as the epitome of romance in NYC. Info: oneifbyland.com
LIMANI NEW YORK
Embark on a sensory journey at Limani New York, a culinary haven among New York romantics. Revel in the essence of clean Mediterranean flavors, featuring daily arrivals of whole fish from the Mediterranean Sea. Immerse yourself in an ambiance adorned with white marble, displaying two open kitchens and a mesmerizing blue infinity pool. The restaurant invites you to a world of flavors and elegance, where every moment is a romantic celebration of the finest of Mediterranean cuisine. Info: limani.com
LOULOU
Loulou is a stunning French Bistro and Speakeasy in the heart of Chelsea. It’s also one of the most photographed restaurants in town due to its colorful, floral-laced exterior and gorgeous dining room and bar. Signature menu items from Executive Chef Carl Alioto include Duck Leg Confit, or a Loulou Burger made with grass-fed beef, cheddar, and caramelized onions. Start your romantic evening with one of the signature cocktails to get in the mood. Try The World is Yours served in a globe-like vessel, a Menage a Trois, or French Kiss made with Mezcal Joven, tarragon, Butterfly Pea Tea Infused St Germain, Lillet Blanc and extra dry vermouth, which you can indulge in Loulou’s sexy main dining room or by entering the restaurant’s Speakeasy via a vintage Coca-Cola vending machine door.
Info: loulounyc.com
L’ARTUSI
This two-story restaurant features a cheese bar, a traditional bar, and a walk-in wine cellar where you can dine privately to celebrate a special someone. This two-story restaurant features a cheese bar, a traditional bar, and a walk-in wine cellar where you can dine privately to celebrate a special someone.
A definite must is The Roasted Mushrooms, which is incredible—you may order a second helping! For the main event, we recommend the Roasted Chicken. The skin is crispy, the meat is juicy, and the simple buttery sauce it comes with is sinfully delicious. Order the famous Olive Oil Cake with golden raisin marmellata, madeira, and crème fraiche to end your romantic dinner. This slice of heaven is so popular it is now shipped nationwide. Info: lartusi.com
LE BERNARDIN
Eric Ripert has won over discriminating diners for over two decades with his creative skills in preparing seafood. The main dining room at Le Bernardin focuses on a formal experience with an impressive 15,000-bottle collection. Embark on an exquisite evening at known as one of the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. This Valentine’s Day, immerse yourself in a world of culinary sophistication and create unforgettable memories with your loved one. Info: le-bernadin.com
HORTUS NYC
Step into a culinary realm that transcends expectations at Hortus NYC. It is a romantic restaurant with a bold vision to reinvent modern Asian cuisine. This is more than a meal. It is a journey through a melting pot of cuisines expertly combined into a fresh, unparalleled menu. Its design-forward atmosphere and menu that pushes the boundaries of culinary creativity are welcomed by diners who indulge in flavors of China, Thailand, Korea, and beyond. Hortus’ commitment extends beyond the plate, embracing sustainability and seasonal ingredients. This ensures every bite is an adventure in taste and an ode to culinary innovation.
Info: hortusnyc.com
AVRA ESTIATORIO ROCKEFELLER CENTER
This new Rockefeller Center restaurant joins its Madison Avenue and Midtown locations and is inspired by the glamour of the Greek Isles; it’s the epitome of a dazzling date spot, and the location is incredibly convenient if you’re catching a Broadway show or concert at Radio City. Located in the former Time-Life Building, it delivers fresh seafood, which means you and your date can select from an abundance of East Coast oysters, grilled octopus, and fresh fish by the pound. All their dishes are made for sharing, and with more than 30 options of wines by the glass and an extensive dessert list (hello, chocolate yogurt cheesecake), Avra is a perfect restaurant for celebrating love. Info: theavragroup.com
LE COUCOU
Le Coucou is a little sliver of Paris located here in NYC. This chic, brick-walled restaurant’s comfortable setting boasts grand chandeliers, white tablecloths, and candlelit tables. It hums romance.
Try Le Coucou’s most admired rabbit dish, Tout le Lapin, a rustic delicacy where the rabbit is prepared three ways: legs gently braised in a meat and vegetable stock, elegantly prepared roulade, and pan-roasted with a delicious mustard sauce. All three preparations bring you the incredible essence of traditional French cuisine. Leave room for dessert. The La Poire—poached pears with nutmeg cream and vanilla meringue—is terrific. Info: lecoucou.com