With over 15,000 restaurants in Manhattan, choosing the perfect spot for a romantic evening can be a difficult feat. Here’s the breakdown on the best food and the most breathtaking views by neighborhood.
Upper East Side
Daniel, 60 east 65th St., is known for its fine French food and traditional dining room.
Cafe Boulad, 20 East 76th St., a sister restaurant of Daniel, provides a romantic ambiance and top-notch cuisine at a fair price suited for the current economic times. Known for its cocktails and elaborate decor, you’re sure to earn points by bringing your date here.
Upper West Side
Jean Gorges, 1 Central Park West at Columbus Cir., has one of the best views of Central Park in the entire city. Look out over the green acres as you dine on some of New York’s finest French food with a modern twist.
Midtown
Becco, 355 West 46th St., is a classic among theater-goers. It is located in Midtown West, and the location is convenient for a pre-show feast. Their never-ending pasta option is always a safe-bet. The staff will re-fill your plate with three scrumptious pasta varieties as often as you’d like.
Greenwich Village
OTTO, One 5th Ave. at 8th St., is intimate in that its often crowded, loud, dark and lit with candles – something about the place gives off even more of a romantic vibe than a less-crowded, quiet spot. Order up a bottle of red wine and some very reasonably-priced pasta. OTTO is especially popular in the winter, when you can cozy up with your loved one.
Union Square
Blue Water Grill, 31 Union Sq W. A, will wow you with dishes like its seasonal watermelon gazpacho or sushi (among the best in town), but its interior is what will really impress your date. Each of its levels offer something spectacular, but the most romantic spot is undoubtedly in the Jazz Lounge. Seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis as the restaurant does not accept reservations for the room, but the often short wait is worth it. The music and atmosphere are truly unmatchable.
Soho
Balthazar, 80 Spring St., is a Soho celebrity hot spot that will do just fine if you can’t whisk your date off to Paris on short-notice. Often compared to a busy Parisian cafe, the popular restaurant also has a bakery for you to pick up some baguettes and croissants for your own romantic evening (or brunch, even) at home.
Gramercy
Gramercy Tavern, 42 E. 20th St., is romantic in a very different, charming way. Its delicious American food is comforting; its interior cozy. Bring your date here for dinner and drinks or sit in the tavern area for lower prices.
Brooklyn
If you’re feeling daring, take a short subway ride to Williamsburg, Brooklyn and get a taste of something outside Manhattan for a change. Just one stop away from Manhattan’s East Village, Williamsburg is home to Sea, 114 N 6th St., made famous by Garden State and Sex and the City. Its food is Thai, its prices are cheap and its decor is indescribably amazing.
