Discover unparalleled romance in the heart of the city with our meticulously curated selection: The 19 Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. As #ValentinesDay approaches, friends and family seek the ideal setting for celebration. From intimate gems to upscale favorites. Explore a range of enchanting choices for a fabulous Valentine’s night out, or plan for a future date night filled with love.
In a city brimming with dining options, our guide simplifies the task of choosing the perfect romantic experience. Immerse yourself in the magic of these exquisite restaurants, setting the stage for unforgettable moments in the city that never sleeps.
ONE IF BY LAND, TWO IF BY SEA
American
Indulge in a truly enchanting dining experience at One if by Land, Two if by Sea crowned as one of the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. This culinary gem has not only earned its place among the city’s most romantic hotspots but has also globally clinched the prestigious fifth position. Renowned for its timeless menu, rich history, and exquisite decor, this establishment consistently stands out as the epitome of romance in the heart of New York. Prepare to be swept away by the charm and allure of this iconic restaurant.
17 Barrow Street—West Village
LE BERNARDIN
French
Embark on an exquisite evening at Le Bernardin. It is a distinguished entry among the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. Elevate your dining experience at this Michelin-starred haven. It is where the philosophy revolves around letting “the fish be the star of the plate.” This Valentine’s Day, indulge in a truly elevated experience with Le Bernardin’s multi-course prix-fixe menu in the intimate salon. Or savor the culinary masterpiece of a Chef’s Tasting Menu in the main dining room. Immerse yourself in a world of culinary sophistication and create unforgettable memories with your loved one.
155 West 51 Street—Theater District
MADRE
American
Nestled within the charming confines of Franklin Guesthouse, a boutique hotel, Madre emerges as an unparalleled dining experience. And a standout among one of the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. Indulge in the allure of an exceptional wine list, artisanal craft cocktails, and vibrant, shareable meals that elevate your culinary journey. The ambiance is nothing short of extraordinary, as Madre seamlessly blends old-world charm, contemporary flair, and natural elements to create an atmosphere that exudes sophistication.
Immerse yourself in a haven where design meets culinary excellence at Madre, promising a memorable and elevated escape.
214 Franklin Street—Greenpoint
HORTUS NYC
Asian
Step into a culinary realm that transcends expectations at Hortus NYC. It stands out as one of the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC with a bold vision to reinvent modern Asian cuisine. Prepare for an extraordinary dining experience that defies the ordinary and a welcoming and open kitchen. A design-forward atmosphere and a menu that pushes the boundaries of culinary creativity. Hortus introduces carefully crafted dishes that redefine your palate. It showcases a fusion of flavors from China, Thailand, Korea, and beyond.
This is more than a meal. It is a journey through a melting pot of cuisines expertly combined into a fresh, unparalleled menu. 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. Embark on a gastronomic escapade that goes beyond the expected only at Hortus NYC.
271 Fifth Avenue—Nomad
LAFAYETTE
French
Experience culinary excellence at Lafayette, recognized as one of the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. It is where the artistry of a market-driven bistro menu transcends boundaries. It draws inspiration from regions like Provence, Normandy, and the neighboring Mediterranean coasts. Revel in the re-mastery of beloved traditional dishes alongside enticing signatures that promise to captivate your palate.
This Valentine’s Day, indulge in an enchanting experience with a specially curated 3-Course Prix Fixe menu, meticulously crafted for romance. Immerse yourself in the intimate charm of the dining room or bask in the cozy allure of private, heated winter chalets at Le Village de Lafayette. Elevate your celebration of love with a culinary affair that harmonizes tradition and innovation, creating an unforgettable experience for you and your special someone.
380 Lafayette Street—Noho
BOUCHERIE
French
Indulge in a romantic rendezvous at the heart of the West Village in the iconic French restaurant, BOUCHERIE. Housed in the former Circle Repertory Theater, this culinary haven offers a captivating experience within its 320-seat space. Immerse yourself in diverse dining options, whether in the spacious dining room, at the butcher counter, or in the intimate second-floor gallery with private dining. Or at the charming outdoor cafe.
Since its grand opening, BOUCHERIE has emerged as one of the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. Its charm, culinary excellence, and glowing reviews captivate patrons, making it a beloved gem in the city’s vibrant dining scene.
99 Seventh Avenue South—West Village
OLEA
Mediterranean
Embark on a captivating journey at Olea Mediterranean Taverna. It is an integral part of Fort Greene, Brooklyn’s cultural tapestry since 2005. Situated at the charming intersection of Adelphi and Lafayette Avenue, this neighborhood restaurant beckons families, infants, and grandparents alike to come together in a warm and inviting ambiance. At the heart of Olea, the bar serves as a vibrant gathering spot where friends convene to savor sangria, indulge in shared tapas, exchange local news, and connect with neighbors.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere, where community and culinary delights intertwine, making Olea one of the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. It weaves a rich tapestry of shared moments and delightful flavors.
171 Lafayette Avenue—Fort Greene/Clinton Hill
AI FIORI
Italian
Immerse yourself in the romantic ambiance of Ai Fiori, meaning ‘Among the Flowers’ in Italian. It is where modern interpretations of French and Italian Riviera cuisine take center stage. Elevate your dining experience with a menu that celebrates signature hand-made pasta, seasonal ingredients, and traditional regional dishes inspired by both land and sea.
Nestled on the Second Floor of the Langham Hotel on Fifth Avenue, Ai Fiori beckons with its Grand Award-winning wine list boasting over 1000 selections. Beyond the main dining room, Bar Fiori and its inviting lounge provide a more casual setting, inviting guests to relish craft cocktails, delightful snacks, or a full-fledged meal.
Ai Fiori is more than just a restaurant. It is a canvas for creating unforgettable memories. From elegant private events to intimate gatherings, they offer versatile setups tailored to your needs and the size of your party. Join Ai Fiori for an enchanting journey, ‘Among the Flowers’, in the heart of New York City.
400 Fifth Avenue—Midtown West
LA GRENOUILLE
French
Reopens on February 11th
Embark on a timeless journey to one of the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC, where the enchanting tale of La Grenouille unfolds. In 1962, amidst a dream and a Double Bourbon Manhattan, Gisèle Masson wired her husband, Charles, with congratulations and a newfound ownership of 3 East 52nd Street. Thus, La Grenouille was born on December 19th, 1962, amidst a blizzard and a newspaper strike.
Since that magical day, a devoted following blossomed, with a constellation of stars gracing La Grenouille with their glamour. And add to the restaurant’s rich legacy. Celebrate a history as captivating as the city at La Grenouille, where each visit is a journey back in time to the heart of elegance and romance.
3 East 52 Street—Midtown East
SAINT THEO’S
Italian
Indulge in an enchanting dining experience at SAINT THEO’S, the Coastal Italian-inspired upscale bistro nestled in the heart of the West Village. Revered for its inviting bar, stylish lounge, and exquisite restaurant. This establishment has become a beacon for those seeking the pinnacle of romance and culinary excellence in NYC. Led by Executive Chef Ashley Rath, SAINT THEO’S is celebrated for its mastery of traditional house-made pasta, crisp salads, and an array of fresh seafood dishes.
Immerse yourself in a symphony of flavors and sophistication. It is where each visit is a celebration of the finest in Coastal Italian-inspired cuisine.
340 Bleecker Street—West Village
BAR BLONDEAU
French “Wine Bar”
Elevate your romantic experience at Bar Blondeau, perched on the sixth floor of the Wythe Hotel, making it one of the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. This French-style bar in Williamsburg boasts a breathtaking view of New York City’s skyline. And sets the stage for an unforgettable evening. Sip on signature cocktails, relish frozen delights, explore zero-proof beverages, and savor a seafood-forward menu that adds a touch of sophistication to your night out.
This Valentine’s Day, Bar Blondeau invites you to indulge in a culinary affair with a specially curated three-course, prix-fixe menu priced at $90 per person. Immerse yourself in an ambiance that combines skyline romance with culinary excellence, creating a memorable celebration of love and indulgence high above the city lights.
80 Wythe Avenue—Williamsburg
PALMA
Italian
Immerse yourself in the essence of romance at Palma, a jewel among the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. It is where the freshest organic and biodynamic produce arrives from local open-air Farmers’ Markets. Palma and Pierre passionately believe in nourishing the body with the cravings of every season, celebrating the love and beauty of life daily.
In their homage to Italian culture, Palma’s dream is to craft unforgettable memories for all who step through the doors, now with their eldest daughter, Chloerose, as a partner. With the soulful sounds of Amber Mark’s music filling the air, the restaurant becomes a living tapestry of familial warmth and cultural richness.
This Valentine’s Day, let Palma be the backdrop for your celebration of love. Indulge in a four-course Chef’s tasting menu priced at $125 per person, curated to enhance your romantic journey with flavors as vibrant and diverse as the love that fills the air at Palma.
20 Cornelia Street—West Village
THYME BAR
Cocktail Lounge
Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of THYME BAR, a hidden gem beneath 23rd Street in a historic pre-war cellar. It ranks high among the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. The dimly-lit, intimate interior sets the stage for a truly romantic evening. Recently unveiled, the Lounge introduces the “Thyme Bar Experience,” an exquisite five-course apéritif and winter selection meticulously crafted to transport guests on a sensory journey, showcasing the true artistry of mixology.
Join Thyme Bar for an unforgettable evening where each sip and bite is a celebration of romance and the finer things in life.
20 West 23rd Street—Flatiron
ATLANTIC GRILL
Seafood
Embark on a captivating culinary journey at the newly reopened Atlantic Grill in Lincoln Center, now curated by the acclaimed Monte Carlo Hospitality Group and Michelin-starred Chef Antonio Salvatore. It is a beacon among the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. Atlantic Grill invites both loyal patrons and newcomers to savor its rejuvenated ambiance, contemporary aesthetic, and innovative menu.
Dedicated to culinary excellence, the restaurant continues its tradition of celebrating the freshest seafood from the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea alongside the finest cuts of meat and local seasonal produce.
Chef Antonio infuses his creations with a signature Mediterranean flair, offering a nod to global water bodies for a truly international culinary experience. Rediscover Atlantic Grill, where each dish tells a tale of craftsmanship and indulgence in the heart of Lincoln Center.
West 56 Street—Upper West Side
DOWLING’S AT THE CARLYLE
American
Embark on a culinary revolution as Dowling’s debuts at The Carlyle, marking a new era of dining sophistication. Executive Chef Sylvain Delpique, formerly of the esteemed 21 Club, takes the helm, crafting a menu that breathes new life into timeless New York favorites and nostalgic dishes from bygone eras.
Complemented by an extensive redesign, Dowling’s stylish new dining room beckons for indulgent experiences from breakfast to dinner and weekend brunch. Join DOWLING’s redefine elegance and culinary excellence in one of the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. It is where each dish tells a story of tradition and innovation in the heart of the city.
35 East 76 Street—Upper East Side
BIJAN’S
American
Enter the enchanting world of Bijan’s, a hidden gem that graced Brooklyn’s hip Boerum Hill Neighborhood in early October 2011. It swiftly earning its place among the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. This creative and artsy haven, adorned with a cozy ambiance, has captivated hearts and become a cherished favorite. Attracting a diverse mix of patrons from all corners of the city, Bijan’s beckons you to experience a culinary journey where every moment is as unique and vibrant as the neighborhood it calls home.
81 Hoyt Street—Boerum Hill
TASCA
Spanish-Latin-Caribbean fusion
Embark on a culinary journey rooted in passion and authenticity with restaurateurs Jay Espinal and Norisa. Years ago, their quest for elevated expressions of Latin-Caribbean cuisines led to the creation of the critically acclaimed Don Pedro’s on the Upper East Side. For over 15 years, it stood as a beloved haven, earning accolades such as Zagat’s Top Latin Restaurant in Manhattan.
Now, with a wealth of New York City’s culinary experience, Jay and Norisa bring you Tasca, their latest venture in the heart of the Upper West Side. Positioned among the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC, Tasca invites locals and food enthusiasts to revel in extraordinary cuisine, exquisite wines, and crafted cocktails within a sophisticated yet convivial environment. Conveniently nestled within walking distance of cultural landmarks like Central Park, Lincoln Center, and The Beacon Theater. Tasca promises an immersive dining experience where every moment is a celebration of flavor and ambiance.
505 Columbus Avenue—Upper West Side
LIMANI NEW YORK
Seafood Mediterranean
Embark on a sensory journey at Limani New York, a culinary haven among the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC. Revel in the essence of clean Mediterranean flavors, featuring daily arrivals of whole fish from the azure Mediterranean Sea. Immerse yourself in an ambiance adorned with white marble, showcasing two open kitchens and a mesmerizing blue infinity pool.
As you dine, indulge in a curated selection of global wines, sip on specialty cocktails, and savor an abundance of seafood that transcends imagination. Limani invites you to a symphony of flavors and elegance, where every moment is a celebration of the finest in Mediterranean cuisine.
45 Rockefeller Plaza—Midtown
CITROËN
French
Step into the enchanting world of CITROËN, a standout among the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC, making its mark in the vibrant Greenpoint dining scene. This French bistro and cocktail bar take pride in crafting exquisite French cuisine, with a focus on delectable steak and seafood plates. Elevate your Valentine’s Day experience with a delightful array of menu options that promise to add a touch of romance to your celebration. Join CITROËN for an unforgettable dining experience where every dish is a testament to the artistry of French culinary excellence.
931 Manhattan Avenue—Greenpoint
Share your Valentine’s Day plans, and let the anticipation of romance unfold. Whether indulging in a captivating evening at one of the Most Romantic Restaurants in NYC, crafting a cozy at-home celebration, or embarking on an adventurous outing, we would love to hear about the unique ways you express love on this special day. Please feel free to drop your plans below and join the conversation as we collectively celebrate the joy of love and connection.
