NYC's Most Romantic Restaurants

New York during the holidays is one of the most romantic places in the world. And with many occasions to celebrate this month, you might find yourself looking for a good place to enjoy the ambiance over some food. Check out our list of NYC’s most romantic restaurants. And while you’re at it, remember that many of these places fill up early for Valentine’s!

One If By Land, Two If By Sea

The king of all romantic New York restaurants, One If By Land is known as the place to impress the ladies. Located in the old carriage house of third American vice-president Aaron Burr, the building itself has an old-world feel. But step inside and you’ll feel transported: the tapestries, the dozens of candles, the live piano music all take you back to another era. The pricey food rarely draws raves, but is solid new American fare. Plus, you’ll probably be too busy gazing into each others’ eyes (or at the display of pistols that Burr used to shoot Alexander Hamilton) to notice.

17 Barrow St, Manhattan; (212) 255-8649

Café Charbon

If French is the language of love, what could be more romantic than a cozy bistro? This Lower East Side gem is divided in two: the front half is a hip bar where singles go to be seen, while the back is a homey restaurant where couples split a tarte tatin. The room is decorated like a French general store, with international spices and picturesque packages lining the walls. The food gets high marks, although it is standard bistro fare with few culinary surprises. Enjoy a medium-rare steak or a chicken roasted to perfection, and end the night with a (French) kiss.

170 Orchard St, Manhattan; (212) 420-7520

River Café

We’re not sure why, but there’s something about those skyline views that makes an evening one to remember. That’s why River Café is a perennial favorite on lists of top romantic restaurants. That, and the food is really, really good. The upscale American cuisine is offered in a $100 prix fixe menu, so save this one for special occasions. But when you have something to celebrate, enjoy the food and the expansive views of Manhattan from right across the water. As a kitschy touch, you can get a chocolate model of the Brooklyn Bridge for dessert.

1 Water St, Brooklyn; (718) 522-5200
Apizz

This abandoned corner on Manhattan’s Lower East Side may not seem like the most romantic place to spend a Saturday night, but a flickering neon sign reading “Apizz” means you’re in the right place. Enter, and you’ll find yourself in a wood-paneled, cozy room filled with aromas from the kitchen. The reinvented Italian fare here is the star of the show; creamy lobster risotto and crispy pizza appetizers are some of the house specialties.

217 Eldridge St, Manhattan; (212) 253-9199

El Quinto Pino

This Spanish tapas bar delivers in both food and flirty fun. The menu of small plates ranges from cod croquettes to Japanese-influenced sea urchin panini. The wine menu, even more extensive, offers you a selection of individual glasses at very reasonable prices, so you can feel free to indulge. Although the space is small and can be cramped (or should we say, “intimate”?), sharing a few plates and a few drinks over a first date is a great way to try new things in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

401 W 24th St, Manhattan; (212) 206-6900