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The 16 Best Date Night Restaurants in New York

Looking for the perfect date night restaurant in the bustling city of New York? Whether you're looking for a romantic ambiance, delicious cuisine, or top-notch service, this list has got you covered. With so many options to choose from, finding the ideal spot for your next date night has never been easier.

From cozy, intimate eateries to trendy, upscale dining establishments, New York City offers a diverse array of restaurants to suit every couple's taste. Whether you're a foodie looking to impress your date with a unique culinary experience or simply searching for a cozy spot to enjoy some quality time together, the Big Apple has something for everyone.

Ready to plan the perfect date night in New York City? Check out our curated list of The 16 Best Date Night Restaurants in New York to find the ideal spot for your next romantic outing.

How this guide is ordered

Chosen by our New York editors from places across the five boroughs, giving weight to a long track record with locals, current opening details and how well each one delivers on what it promises. Lists are revisited often; tell us when a spot closes or moves.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

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Compare 16 local options

Gramercy Tavern#1
What stands out
  • Excellent service with knowledgeable staff and allergy accommodations

  • Delicious desserts and innovative dishes

  • Great experience with tasting menu and wine pairing

  • Professional and friendly staff contributing to an enjoyable dining experience

Gramercy Tavern

4.63,841 reviews
42 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003, United States

Gramercy Tavern is a renowned restaurant located in New York. The establishment offers various services and features that cater to different preferences and needs. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, dine-in options, and a diverse range of beverages including great beer selection, cocktails, coffee, tea, and an impressive wine list.

The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it an ideal spot for a casual meal or a special occasion. Accessibility is a priority with wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating. The atmosphere is described as cosy, historic, romantic, trendy, and upmarket, appealing to a wide range of diners.

Customers have rated Gramercy Tavern highly, with an impressive 4.6 rating. Out of 3841 reviews, here are some key points:

The Modern#2
What stands out
  • The food was truly outstanding. The pea soup with truffle gnocchi was incredibly flavorful. However, the service fell short, but some service improvements are needed.

  • My favorite New York restaurant. The service is excellent, food is excellent, and the atmosphere is great too. Highly recommended.

  • The service was wonderful, and the staff tries to personalize the experience for you. The atmosphere is good, and the food was delicious as well.

  • The Kitchen Table experience was hands down the greatest dining experience of a lifetime. Every dish was amazing, and speaking to the chefs made it a special experience.

The Modern

4.62,171 reviews
9 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019, United States

The Modern: Nestled in the heart of New York City, The Modern is a renowned restaurant that offers a myriad of exquisite dining experiences. Customers can indulge in outdoor seating, dine-in options, and a selection of great cocktails, coffee, desserts, and an extensive wine list. The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it an ideal destination for solo diners or groups.

L'Artusi#3
What stands out
  • Scallops and steak dishes are amazing

  • Seafood pasta is exceptional

  • Value for food quality exceeds expectations

  • Must-try dishes include spaghetti, bucatini, cacio e pepe, and olive oil cake

L'Artusi

4.61,856 reviews
228 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014, United States

L'Artusi is a renowned Italian restaurant located in New York. The restaurant offers a variety of service options including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. With highlights like great coffee and dessert, L'Artusi is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. The restaurant is also known for its accessible entrance and seating, making it a comfortable dining experience for all. Customers enjoy a wide range of offerings from alcohol to vegetarian options, along with a selection of dining options like brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert.

The atmosphere at L'Artusi is cozy, romantic, trendy, and upmarket, catering to a diverse crowd including groups and tourists. The restaurant recommends reservations for lunch and dinner, and accepts reservations for a seamless dining experience. Accepted payments include credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Customers have raved about their experiences at L'Artusi, praising the amazing atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious dishes. Some key points from customer reviews include:

These reviews reflect the high rating of 4.6 that L'Artusi has earned, making it a top choice for Italian cuisine in New York. Visit L'Artusi for a memorable dining experience filled with delectable dishes and a warm ambiance.

Marea#4
What stands out
  • Wonderful Christmas dinner experience with friendly service and delicious food.

  • Excellent house-made pasta, though the spacing between tables can feel tight on weekends.

  • Exquisite care taken with every flavor and detail, perfect for a special occasion with amazing wine selection.

  • An unforgettable dining experience with smooth cocktails, divine appetizers, and generous portions of delicious pasta and seafood dishes.

Marea

4.52,597 reviews
240 Central Park S, New York, NY 10019, United States

Marea is a renowned restaurant located in New York City. This upscale establishment offers a variety of services to its customers such as outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is popular for its great cocktails, coffee, dessert, and wine list. It is an ideal spot for lunch, dinner, or solo dining.

Customer reviews consistently praise Marea for its exceptional food, service, and atmosphere. Here are some key points summarized from customer feedback:

Per Se#5
What stands out
  • The staff at Per Se made a couple's honeymoon celebration very special with attentive service and top-notch dishes.

  • Some dishes were exceptionally good while others could have been better, but the overall experience was sublime.

  • Customers had a great view during their dinner experience and enjoyed the extraordinary spread of about 20 dishes.

  • Although the service was incredible, some customers felt that the food and wine pairings could have been better for a Thomas Keller restaurant.

Per Se

4.51,718 reviews
10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019, United States

Per Se is a renowned French restaurant located in New York. They offer a range of service options including dine-in with some incredible highlights such as a fireplace and a great selection of coffee and tea. Customers rave about the romantic atmosphere and upmarket feel of the restaurant.

Le Coucou#6
What stands out
  • The atmosphere is great and all servers are extremely professional.

  • The food, although not mind-blowing, is reasonably priced for Michelin standards.

  • The restaurant itself is beautiful, with high ceilings and a romantic chandelier, perfect for special occasions.

  • The service is attentive and warm, providing immediate help when needed and capturing memorable moments.

Le Coucou

4.51,632 reviews
138 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10013, United States

Le Coucou is a renowned restaurant located in New York City. Offering a range of service options like dine-in, this establishment is known for its great cocktails and a wonderful atmosphere that is both cosy and upmarket.

Customers have praised Le Coucou for various reasons:

One customer highlighted the restaurant's elegance and charm, praising the exceptional service and the delightful dining experience offered by Chef Daniel Rose's creations. The guest especially enjoyed the duck dish. Despite some mixed opinions, Le Coucou stands out for its memorable experiences and exquisite culinary offerings.

1803 NYC#7
What stands out
  • The food was amazing, the cocktails were really good, the service was friendly, and it had a nice vibe.

  • The restaurant has a beautiful quaint ambiance with delicious food and drinks. The wait staff is nice and respectful.

  • With super yummy food and excellent service, this restaurant offers a delightful dining experience, including live music during jazz brunch.

  • Customers appreciated the flavorful Catfish Sandwich and the friendly staff, making it a great lunch spot.

1803 NYC

4.51,585 reviews
82 Reade St, New York, NY 10007, United States

1803 NYC is a renowned Creole restaurant located in New York, offering a diverse range of service options such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. This restaurant is popular for its fast service and live music, making it a favorite spot for many customers.

Customers have shared positive feedback about their experiences at 1803 NYC:

These reviews highlight the overall positive dining experience at 1803 NYC, making it a highly recommended choice for lovers of Creole cuisine.

Gotham Restaurant#8
What stands out
  • Outstanding live jazz band on Wednesday nights

  • Extensive wine selection

  • Fresh ingredients and large portion sizes

  • Exceptional food, drinks, and service for special occasions

Gotham Restaurant

4.51,352 reviews
12 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003, United States

Gotham Restaurant is a top destination for those looking to experience the best of New American cuisine in the heart of New York City. Offering an array of service options like delivery and dine-in, Gotham caters to every customer's needs.

The restaurant is known for its Great coffee, desserts, and tea selection, making it the ideal spot for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. With the added bonus of live music, Gotham creates a memorable dining experience for all.

Customers rave about the exceptional service and delicious food at Gotham Restaurant. Some key highlights from their reviews include:

Whether you're looking to enjoy a cozy meal with family or a romantic evening out, Gotham Restaurant checks all the boxes. Don't miss out on this upmarket gem in the bustling city!

Le Crocodile#9
What stands out
  • The ambience is amazing, the food and drinks were incredible, and the service was professional and faultless.

  • The dishes are interesting and complex, with well-balanced flavors that highlight seasonal produce.

  • Classy cocktails, great food, impeccable service, and mean cocktails make every item on the menu a treat.

  • Although the vibe is good, one reviewer found the food underwhelming, with some dishes being overdone or too salty.

Le Crocodile

4.6750 reviews
80 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249, United States

Le Crocodile is a charming French restaurant located in Brooklyn, NY. They offer a range of services and features that make dining with them a delightful experience. From their outdoor seating to their great coffee, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Customer reviews rave about Le Crocodile's exquisite food and impeccable service. Here are some key points from reviewers:

With a rating of 4.6 based on 750 reviews, Le Crocodile is a must-visit spot for French cuisine enthusiasts in the Brooklyn area. Don't miss out on this exceptional dining experience!

Scalini Fedeli#10
What stands out
  • Exceptional food and excellent service. Highly recommend the vodka pasta and sorbet.

  • Great environment, service, and food. Lobster pasta, egg yolk ravioli, and salmon entree are top picks.

  • Outstanding service, delicious food, and fantastic wine selection.

  • Amazing food, superior service, and flawless dining experience for large parties.

Scalini Fedeli

4.7436 reviews
165 Duane St, New York, NY 10013, United States

Scalini Fedeli is an Italian restaurant located in New York, offering a range of services and features that make it a standout dining experience. From their exceptional dine-in service to their great selection of wines, this restaurant is a must-visit for Italian cuisine enthusiasts. Customers have raved about their vodka pasta, sorbet, lobster head-on shrimp pasta, and signature egg yolk ravioli with black truffle.

Here are some summarized reviews from satisfied customers:

il Buco#11

il Buco

4.4978 reviews
47 Bond St, New York, NY 10012, United States

Il Buco is a charming Italian restaurant located in New York. They offer a variety of services, including outdoor seating and dining options like brunch and dinner. Customers appreciate the cosy atmosphere and the upmarket feel of the place.

If you're looking for a place with a variety of options like beer, cocktails, and wine, as well as comfort food and healthy options, Il Buco is the place to be. With a rating of 4.4 and many positive reviews, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

La Grenouille#12
What stands out
  • Incomparable ambiance for a special occasion or date

  • Amazing live jazz performance

  • Exceptional service and attention to detail

  • Outstanding food quality and presentation

La Grenouille

4.4616 reviews
3 E 52nd St, New York, NY 10022, United States

La Grenouille is a luxurious Haute French restaurant located in the heart of New York City. With a rating of 4.4 stars from 616 reviews, this restaurant offers a top-notch dining experience. Customers rave about the impeccable service, elegant ambiance, and exquisite French cuisine. Some key points from customer reviews include:

If you're looking for a romantic, upscale dining experience with delicious French dishes, La Grenouille is the perfect choice. Make a reservation and treat yourself to an unforgettable evening!

Peasant#13
What stands out
  • The food was excellent, especially the unique and delicious rosette cooked in the wood-fired oven.

  • The ambiance was cozy and romantic, perfect for a special evening out.

  • Standout dishes included the stuffed wood-fired calamari, wood-fired oysters, and the succulent short-rib pasta dinner.

  • The staff was warm and friendly, providing meticulous attention to detail for a memorable dining experience.

Peasant

4.4565 reviews
194 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10012, United States

Peasant is a charming Italian restaurant located in the heart of New York City. Known for its outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, this restaurant offers a variety of services to cater to every customer's needs. The establishment is popular for its great coffee and great dessert, making it a go-to spot for those looking to indulge in a sweet treat.

Customer reviews rave about the exceptional service and delicious food at Peasant. Some key points from the reviews include:

With a rating of 4.4 based on 565 reviews, Peasant continues to impress customers with its delectable offerings and inviting atmosphere. Experience a culinary journey like no other at Peasant in New York City.

Charlie Bird#14
What stands out
  • Phenomenal experience with attentive and knowledgeable servers

  • The ultimate NYC restaurant with a diverse menu and excellent music

  • Good food with highs and lows, small portions perfect for trying a variety

  • Extraordinary food paired with exceptional service, making it a top dining experience

Charlie Bird

4.3850 reviews
5 King St, New York, NY 10012, United States

Charlie Bird is a top-rated Italian restaurant located in New York, NY. This charming eatery offers a variety of services and features to ensure a memorable dining experience. Some of the standout services include outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Customers rave about the delectable food and impeccable service at Charlie Bird. Here are some key points from recent reviews:

So, whether you're seeking a romantic dinner, a casual lunch, or a trendy spot for drinks, Charlie Bird has something for everyone. Visit their website for more information and to make reservations for your next dining adventure.

One if by Land, Two if by Sea#15
What stands out
  • The impeccable service provided by the staff, with special mention of Nick who went above and beyond to make celebrations memorable.

  • The exquisite and well-balanced flavors of the dishes, showcasing the culinary expertise of the chef.

  • The romantic ambiance and historic charm of the restaurant, perfect for intimate gatherings.

  • The exceptional quality of food, from the perfectly seasoned meals to complimentary desserts that add a sweet touch to the dining experience.

One if by Land, Two if by Sea

4.21,126 reviews
17 Barrow St, New York, NY 10014, United States

One if by Land, Two if by Sea is an enchanting American restaurant located in New York, NY. This establishment is renowned for its romantic atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for special occasions. The highlights of One if by Land, Two if by Sea include a cozy fireplace, great coffee, delectable desserts, and live music.

Customers rave about their exceptional dining experience at One if by Land, Two if by Sea. Some of the key points highlighted in the reviews are:

If you are looking for a top-notch dining experience in a sophisticated setting, One if by Land, Two if by Sea is the perfect choice. Don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in a memorable culinary journey at this renowned American restaurant.

Bacaro#16
What stands out
  • Chic, intimate atmosphere

  • Great food and cocktails

  • Attentive and friendly staff

  • Unique ambiance and dining nooks

Bacaro

4.4339 reviews
136 Division St, New York, NY 10002, United States

Bacaro is an Italian restaurant nestled on Division Street in New York, offering a plethora of dining options and amenities. The ambiance is casual, cosy, and romantic, making it perfect for a variety of occasions. With service options like outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, Bacaro caters to various preferences.

Customers have raved about their experiences at Bacaro, highlighting several key points:

From the Fast service to the Great coffee, Bacaro aims to provide a memorable dining experience for all patrons. Whether you're looking for a spot for a solo dining experience or a cozy dinner with friends, Bacaro has something to offer. So why not stop by and indulge in some delectable Italian cuisine in a charming setting?

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Gramercy Tavern 4.63,841
#2The Modern 4.62,171
#3L'Artusi 4.61,856
#4Marea 4.52,597
#5Per Se 4.51,718
#6Le Coucou 4.51,632
#71803 NYC 4.51,585
#8Gotham Restaurant 4.51,352
#9Le Crocodile 4.6750
#10Scalini Fedeli 4.7436
#11il Buco 4.4978
#12La Grenouille 4.4616
#13Peasant 4.4565
#14Charlie Bird 4.3850
#15One if by Land, Two if by Sea 4.21,126
#16Bacaro 4.4339

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Map of Date Night Restaurants in New York

Looking for the perfect spot for a romantic date night in New York City? Look no further! Our comprehensive map showcases all the best date night restaurants in the city, from cozy cafes to upscale fine dining establishments. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary or just want some quality time together, these restaurants are sure to impress.

How to choose Date Night Restaurants in New York City

  1. Location.
  2. Ambiance.
  3. Cuisine.
  4. Service.
  5. Price point.
  6. Reservation availability.

Frequently asked questions

What are some romantic date night restaurants in New York?

For a romantic evening, consider dining at Gramercy Tavern in Manhattan, known for its elegant atmosphere and seasonal American cuisine. Another popular choice is One if by Land, Two if by Sea in the West Village, which offers a cozy setting with candlelit tables and live piano music. If you prefer Italian cuisine, try Carbone in Greenwich Village, a classic spot with a retro vibe and exceptional service. For a taste of France, Le Bernardin in Midtown East is a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exquisite seafood dishes and upscale ambiance.

Which New York restaurants are best for a casual date night?

If you're looking for a more casual dining experience, consider heading to Joe's Pizza in Greenwich Village for a slice of New York-style pizza or Shake Shack in Madison Square Park for delicious burgers and shakes. For a laid-back evening, check out The Spotted Pig in the West Village, a gastropub known for its cozy atmosphere and seasonal British-inspired menu. Another great choice is Roberta's in Brooklyn, a trendy pizzeria with outdoor seating and a hip vibe.

What are some date night restaurants in New York with outdoor seating?

If you enjoy dining al fresco, consider visiting Loring Place in Greenwich Village, which offers a charming outdoor patio surrounded by greenery. Another option is Celestine in Brooklyn Bridge Park, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline while dining on Mediterranean-inspired dishes. For a relaxed outdoor experience, try Industry Kitchen in South Street Seaport, a waterfront restaurant with a spacious outdoor terrace overlooking the East River. If you prefer a rooftop setting, check out 230 Fifth in Midtown, known for its heated rooftop bar and panoramic views of the city.

What are some affordable date night restaurants in New York?

If you're looking to enjoy a budget-friendly date night, consider dining at Xi'an Famous Foods, a casual spot known for its delicious hand-pulled noodles and flavorful dishes at affordable prices. Another option is Superiority Burger in the East Village, a vegetarian fast-food spot with a focus on sustainable ingredients. For a more traditional dining experience, check out Katz's Delicatessen on the Lower East Side, a famous deli serving up classic New York sandwiches and Jewish comfort food at reasonable prices. If you're in the mood for Mexican cuisine, head to Los Tacos No. 1 in Chelsea Market for authentic tacos and quesadillas that won't break the bank.

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