Ive been through the reunite after weeks apart in a long distance relationship dates, awkward tinder first dates that end in a how did I get this drunk, and the best first date of my life (and many more) with my now husband. Its pricey, but if you want someone to look at you and think of a meadow with birds that dont poop, this place is worth it. If youre looking for a cool, underground scene and some reliable Mexican food and cocktails, La Esquina Brasserie is just the place. The atmosphere is cozy and cool, the cocktails are creative, and they have a menu with classic shareable American comfort food dishes. Yefsi does a good plate of octopus, and were down with their meatballs and kebabs. To get to the hidden downstairs restaurant, you go through the kitchen and find yourself in another world downstairs. 
The menu boasts Korean cooking with French and Spanish influences and the cocktails are edgy and cool. I used to suggest Westville as a reliable place to dine out with someone Im still getting to know. You might feel like youre in France here, and thats usually a good feeling for date night. My trendy dairy-eating people (usually the two dont go together, but Im hoping for the best here,) Caf Select is the date spot for you. 
I think it will be bad if I plan to go there and can't get a table. Its also a great brunch spot for the morning after, if you just cant get enough of each other. The menu here is Southern soul food-inspired, and they also serve barrel-aged cocktails and craft beers for a well-rounded, fun dining experience that you ant really get anywhere else! But I highly recommend going authentic Ukranian if you come to Veselka. If traditional Ukranian food isnt your scene, they do have pancakes and mac n cheese. FYI: The Penrose is in the Upper East Side, for anyone who lives on the higher side of the island. Please also note, I have been to the majority of these places on actual dates, and I typically dont take pictures on my dates bc its rude AF. 
Theres nothing like a flowers and red sauce Italian food to bring the romance and fun! Punny chalk art covers the walls, adding some charming character to the ambiance. Bobo offers both, but I do recommend coming here for dinner. 
If you are really picky and if you feel any urge to blame me for a date gone wrong, please double check my recommendations to make sure its the right fit for you! Just like The East Pole, you can get a macro bowl here, but you can also have a burger or a pork chop. While definitely known for the beers on tap, the cocktail list is pretty inventive, with one menu section wholly devoted to flavored Mules and another to flavored gin/vodka tonics. The bar is cute and the restaurant is also adorable with 28 seats and an intimate setting. Also, there are two frozen yogurt shops on 2nd between 81st and 82nd if you want to wander and get something sweet later. Birds that dont poop. Now that Ive prefaced that. If youre on a date, you will probably be seated at a communal table, which I find to be really fun and an additional element to the experience! Not sure what to do for your next date night? Or, if your date isnt impressed by awesome things, go for the brisket or lobster ones. Please note, there is also another location, but Ive only been to the Gramercy spot. If youre trying to impress your date with your elevated taste and a special upscale speakeasy experience, Dear Irving is the spot. A romantic, delicious meal can be found at Flex Mussels, serving you bivalves shipped straight from the sea (of Prince Edward Island). Jones Wood Foundry. The food at Uva is also pretty good. Balon is a nice little wine bar on 81st near 2nd that's nice and intimate. Theres a lot more than meets the eye when it comes to UES nightlife, and there are spots for every kind of couple. If youre still hungry, go get a fun ice cream! I once went on a third date here and it felt like the perfect place. While I havent been here in a few years, I remember their meatball sliders to be the best Ive ever had, and their burger is lights out. Happy hour is literally just an hour at this place, so to avoid crowds, you might want to head here directly post-work. Casual bar for wine and small plates? Come here less for the food, and more for the comedy show. Good gastropub food, nice atmosphere and a cool garden area. You cant live in NYC and not go to Veselka. So, keep that in mind when youre reading! Thats what youll find at Iggys, so if belting tunes onstage in front of strangers isnt your thing, you might want to turn around. Nom Wah has been open since 1920, so it is old school, but its not like what you get in Hong Kong.
Ok, theres nothing really outstanding about Pierre Loti, but it is very reliable. Yes, I am embarrassing and one time got pancakes. If its still early-in-the-game, try The Milton. I still am an adventurous dater, and my husband and I still to go on adventures together. This Ukranian diner is a classic, and the old school, no-frills vibe is oddly romantic in a fun way. And if youre looking for a full-day date, go to the Bontanical Garden beforehand! Sfoglia looks like it was built for a wedding reception. They have a good beer and wine selection, they make some serious cocktails, and they serve stuff like fish tacos and sliders. Yes, we just quoted Willy Wonka, and heres why. Come here when you want to show someone how much knowledge you have. And its not over there. Cheap, Fun, and something very NYC, Wine + park = open container summons? Whats the 2019 version of dinner and a movie? During the day, this place is a cafe. And if you hit it off over dinner, you can forever relive your special night by ordering Up Thai when youre home watching Netflix (after you put your seven children to sleep). Inside the bright pink ice cream parlor of UES, youll find, well yes, an ice cream parlor but theres more than meets the eye. Sort of like something youd find in Nolita. Dinner and drinks served directly to you as you recline on your leather movie theater throne ~ahem~ we mean seat. Enough that we dont really care that it looks like a generic upscale Greek place from the late 90s. Great for anyone visiting the city and trying to find a place to go on a date. If you squint, this place looks like a brick house in the Italian countryside - and if you really squint, it look looks like your eyelids. This is a casual Swiss spot with a good old shareable fondue pot and a good drink selection. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Which seems like something a French person would do. On a broader note, The Little Owl is known for having American-Mediterranean cuisine and its in the heart of the West Village. The decor is both rustic, with dark, wooden furniture and historic, with Yiddish theater posters hanging on the walls. The vibes are so chill that it will feel like youre in your living room enjoying each others company and great food. I know a couple people who have gotten ticketed :(. So take someone here when you want to look like youre trying, but not too hard. Walk into Ethyls with your boo by your side, and believe us, itll feel like youve just walked into Studio 54 at its prime, and in the best way possible. For first dates, I used to prefer lively vibes instead of awkwardly intimate spots. Its also open late night, so you can also do a full dinner, then dessert after if youre feeling very adventurous and money is no object. Eastfields is from the same people behind The East Pole, but it feels younger. Do yourself a favor and consult our fool-proof list. These places are fancier than your average weeknight dinner spot, but they arent so formal that youll freak out your date. This place is an experience. Need we say more? An oldie but a goodie! Define casual Somewhere that I don't feel like I am under dressed wearing jeans and a button down shirt. Up Thai is romantic in its own way. Its the perfect balance between exotic and playing it safe, because the menu really does have something for everyone. Dante is that nice balance of refined and casual, with a hip and busy geographic location. If its nice out, sit on the outdoor patio. You can even get pancakes. Check. Palma is romantic, hip, cozy and cute, with good Italian food. Its obvious, but I had to throw it in here. But you dont come here for the plants and lanterns - you come for the the best Thai food in the area. I try to keep date night casual, because I think fine dining is meant for special occasions. Heres my suggested order: soup dumplings at one place, hot pot at another place, then pork buns at Mei Li Wah Bakery. A fun place thats in-between casual and fancy is The Penrose , I live nearby and usually take my first dates there since the prices are reasonable and they have excellent drinks. Its usually crowded, but not overly so. I have divided this article into two different sections: drinks-forward, and food-forward. All rights reserved. Unless youre in a serious relationship with someone, dont take them somewhere super fancy. Subscribe and well let you know when weve found yet another must-do experience. Spot Dessert bar isnt just giving scoops of ice cream and slices of cake, they have unique sweet creations that make dining fun and an experience. Pil Pil is a good tapas place on 78th near 2nd, again pretty small and intimate. Ive been here for a few dates, the best one obviously being with my husband, who wanted to share a fried chicken sandwich and mac n cheese with me. I have only been to the Gramercy location, which I recommend and have linked above. I went here for light bites and negronis with a fellow foodie. In addition to the unique cocktails, you also get access to an entire absinthe menu, if youre into that. The other dates Ive been on here were strictly in the drinks zone. Think: alcoholic glow in the dark Capri Suns. Your waiter will probably have a French accent, there are outdoor cafe tables, and you can eat an entre-sized portion of steak tartare. There are a lot of good tacos in the city these days, but this upscale Mexican restaurant still makes for good date. No matter if you are on your first date, third date, or 23940803284th date, it has lively vibes, a fun American-comfort food menu, and a reliable drink selection. As for drinks, the names alone will give you a chuckle, but we suggest the Man-O-Manischewitz or the Icarus Parachute, which essentially tastes like an Early Grey Creamsicle dipped in Gin. Sebastian and I went to the East Village location this past weekend and had the best time! Yes, this place is shuckin awesome. I love going to fun restaurants or bars with unique cuisines, and authentic experiences. If you want a pre/post-dinner activity, there's the Comic Strip Live comedy club on 2nd between 81st and 82nd. While deemed a bourbon bar, Bondurants obviously offers a long list of craft beers, cocktails and a large selection of whiskey. But, that doesnt change my opinion that I think it would have been a great romantic date spot! NYC Restaurant Week Deals Perfect for Date Night, Add your number and we'll text you a link to. Its fast-paced, but intimate, with servers rolling carts with different dishes around the room, and diners stopping them to put in their order. Whether you go for brunch or dinner, Pig & Khao is an experience in a hot Lower East Side location, which makes it great for the possibility of going out for drinks or dancing after. The menu is American-influenced and the artichoke dip is supposed to be stellar. This East Village restaurant is full of fun fun dishes, drinks and vibes. Now, before I get to my date spot rec list, I want to preface the kind of dater I am. Check. Not the very best Italian on the Upper East Side, but also not the most expensive. The choice is yours. You can have some gnocchi in truffle sauce while you drink a little too much wine and ask what your dates insecurities are. You can get a little table in back and eat some seared salmon or a kale salad thats better than it needs to be. This speakeasy is for the swanky cocktail lovers out there in the world. For example, first dates for me (except when I met my husband!) On the menu, there are lots of exotic cocktails. I do not want to end relationships and receive death threat DMs for this sh*t. Im here to offer my opinions and advice. Okay, The Smith is like the basic betch of date spots, but I like it because its really just a reliable restaurant where you always will have a great time. I once broke-up with someone here, but that doesnt mean its not a great date spot! As the name suggests, this is a dessert restaurant. This quintessential neighborhood bar will make the perfect setting for your date night. The only catch is, this place is is pretty small - theres a bar, a few communal tables, and some stools at the window. Dim sum is a fun and interactive meal, and as someone who studied Cantonese cuisine in Hong Kong, I will say this isnt the most authentic (a little bit westernized), but its a solid choice with trendier vibes. Go to the Gramercy location for drinks and if the date is going well, head out to Petes Tavern across the street and get a late night bite! All the spots for when you need to eat with someone youre into. Everything about the bar, from the wittily-named menu items to the wall paintings, is NYC-themed. Maybe this is a second date, maybe its the fifth, or maybe its the 25th. Sign me up. Although that would be a good story for your kids. Unless you serve me gluten-free bread and alcohol-less wine, I will most likely have a great time. I think theres something fun about grabbing a taco on the street for dinner, and then heading to a full blown dessert restaurant for a date. Theres no lack of delicious eateries, crowded bars, and interesting folk. Also, this is a great late night date spot if you want to have a sit down meal instead of a dollar slice. This speakeasy aint cheap, but its certainly memorable. The Infatuation shit all over this restaurant, but I love it and I stand by it and its burger. But, I do think The Nomads sexy chicken dish brings romance to any date. Sebastian and I went to a burlesque show here one time and it was a lot of fun! If youre looking for a casual spot on the UES where you can sip on some craft beers and play your favorite board games, Workshop is a must. On the flip side, if you want bustling loud bar/restaurant vibes, this is not your place. No matter what stage of the relationship youre in, these places make for great date spots. . The road is more of a street and the house is more a wine bar, but you probably didnt take that name literally. The Best Date Night Restaurants On The Upper East Side. I would say 90th-110th in between 5th-Lexington would be a good range. There are no houses or roads. Press J to jump to the feed. The reason I like Amelie as a first date spot is because it has solid romantic-ish/hip vibes, its very busy, and it s reliable for wine lovers who may want to eat, if the date is going well. I also want to preface that these are my opinions, and I am a relatively happy diner and drinker. (They will if they like good food.) But, I will say, I do think there are different dates for different stages of relationships. The point is, youve both decided that you might not dislike each other, and now you need somewhere to sit down and eat while you figure out how many more times you want to do this. Having been in NYC for 8+ years, Ive done my fair share of dating here. This is a local spot, with relaxed vibes. It was a good choice. You can get pancakes and mac n cheese anywhere. If you want a lively bar to enjoy a drink with a first date and assess the potential of the relationship, this is definitely the place. Granted, I havent been here since 2014, but the reviews Im reading on the Internet seem to agree with my stance. used to require a ton of alcohol and the just right vibe of having something to offer for anyone. So, Im just going to give you the whole rundown on different spots and why I think they are great. Its an intimate place with an outdoor garden for those warmer months. With all the plants and hanging lanterns, it feels sort of like an indoor garden. Go here for a Georgian food adventure. Im an adventurous dater. Use your judgement on what you like. Also, the prices are right for date night - not so low that you seem cheap, but not so expensive that youll be forced to dine-and-dash on your potential future spouse. Once upon a time, on our third date, Sebastian and I went to the Bronx Little Italy and enjoyed a delicious Italian meal and wine tasting. After 10PM, it does get a little rowdy and loud, but I think thats fun. In addition to the khachapuri, we ordered the cornish hen and some dumplings. Order some duck that was raised within biking distance (probably) and have an heirloom something-or-other. Just know that this place is very small and that this only enhances its charm. So, I had to include this place. From my dating history, I found that the food-forward date spots were more for the third-fifth date. You can come here for brunch, lunch or dinner, but since its naturally dark inside, I recommend going at night.
Not life-changing, but if you and a date have been lost in Central Park for three-plus hours, its one of your best last-minute date options on the east side. I also love going on full blown adventures that have nothing to do with food. Lillies is a busy bar-restaurant, thats very popular for after work drinks and dinner, plus it gets even more packed on weekends. I love the idea of trying new things together. I think you need to see the menu for yourself to fully understand what Im saying. This filipino spot is hip, lively and the food is authentic, creative and delicious. If theyre empty, grab two of those and see if your dates pupils dilate when they look at the menu and read pigs in a blanket. Thats a good sign. You also can order comfort foods like a pickle tasting or a grilled cheese. If youre trying to impress someone, have some grasshopper tacos. I know this isnt a set restaurant, but just go to Chinatown and eat things. Let me just say this: the food is overpriced for what it is, but I went here with Sebastian and we had a good time because it was just a fun experience! I am regular visitor, how are you everybody? Come with me and you'll be in a world of pure imagination. What do you think? Hopefully your date will agree. Great cocktails, great comfort food, and fun vibes. Dip strawberries in chocolate fondue, and sip on some hot toddies. Like!! Or just have drinks and share some fries. Also primely located for going out afterwards. Behind a door lined with empty ice cream cartons is the shops secret bar. There are a few Westville locations around the city, but each of them is pretty small with a casual, cozy vibe. With a nondescript exterior and cozy, dimly-lit interior, this is the kind of place youll stay for hours without realizing 10 minutes have passed. This place is like an elevated pub, and its open until 4AM for those very successful dates that go too long.
You must get the chicken.
Okay okay, if you desperately dont want to just mosey around Chinatown then heres a trendy dim sum place for you. Chinatown is cheap, so this will not break the bank and its a fun adventure! This intimate Lower East Side spot opened back in 2014(ish) and was super famous on Instagram for its chicken and waffle sliders. This is the place for an efficient drinks-based first date, with a side of light bites. We like Yefsi. This is an adventurous first date spot its a hidden, intimate speakeasy located above a restaurant in the East Village. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. Ive been on a date here, and also have come here with girl friends. The TVs are almost always playing Saturday Night Fever, Soul Train episodes are projected onto the back wall and go-go dancers strut across the bar throughout the night. But thats why this place is great theyve got something for everyone, and the vibes are great. Copyright 2022 Dining With Skyler. On the flip side, if your date is going well, its a super fun place to knock back some beers and eat some comfort pub food. Its cozy and candle lit in this basement restaurant on W 10th st., and they offer a seasonal menu with locally grown ingredients. Why? For those happy hour and IPA lovers, Bua Bar is the place for your date. You can get a lamb tagine, or you can get a chicken kebab. Its the perfect spot for when youre feeling too antisocial to do the whole bar scene, but not lazy enough to Netflix and Chill, CMX Cinebistro might be the perfect fit. At DTUT, cozy up on some couches and make eyes at your lover as you roast marshmallows and try to perfect that golden crisp.
This is a true AF Hong Kong dim sum experience. If you havent been to Bronx Little Italy yet, I highly recommend checking it out. I went here with Sebastian early on in our relationship, and I honestly forget if there is food. Why don't you get a bottle of wine, some cheese, chips and guac/salsa and have a picnic in the park. Your email address will not be published. But, we highly suggest you nom over the homemade tater tots. Cherry on topthey serve delicious $5 burgers all night long. Anyone have any suggestions? If youve been to Nitehawk or Alamo Drafthouse, youre well aware of this kind of setup. The vibes are fun and it is almost always crowded on the weekend. All mussels are served in a pot, soaked in flavors ranging from sake and pickled ginger (The Geisha Girl) to spicy chorizo, olives and red wine (The Spaniard). In Hong Kong, dim sum brunch (AKA yum-cha) is a traditional Chinese meal where families get together to enjoy a multitude of dishes and tea. If you dont get the chicken, you are doing it wrong. If youre coming here, make sure youre in the mood primarily for drinks, and you can grab a bite after. This place is cozy, with leather seats, a few chandeliers, and some outdoor seating when its warm. The food menu is just as youd expect with an inventive twist: pastrami popcorn, gefilte croquettes and vodka, and dill lox. Theres also a hidden late-night spot in the back for you edgy night owls. There are two locations, and Ive been to the Union Square location. Karaoke night, every night. Its a great spot to go after work, for dinner, or even for lunch its almost always bustling. If you like private dining, this is not the date for you. Iggys is a great spot for breaking up the normal date-night routine or for couples who just dont give a f*ck and simply want to belt out a duet to Aint No Mountain High Enough. I mean, we brown bagged a wine bottle in an uber and went to a party. If you like a good dining and drinking adventure, Thursday Kitchen is the place. This article posted at this web site is in fact pleasant. There are also multiple locations. Eating with someone can be more intimate and more of a time commitment, so I think its natural to go from drinks-forward to food-forward after a few dates. Its a pub, but a nice one. Cute, romantic atmosphere, delicious food, and prime location? How far upper and how far east? For example, my husband and I went to a medieval festival for our 3rd date. I love this place for a good late lunch because you miss the crowds. Theyll think youre going to propose or ask them for a kidney or something. Let this guide help pave the way for your Upper East exploration. Overall, this is just a nice little bistro. The restaurant is authentically Georgian (we had it verified by one of our Georgian friends) with delicious comforting dishes and a Georgian wine selection. But if it is, youre in for an incredible night. There are two locations, but Ive been to the West Village location, which I highly recommend!
The menu boasts Korean cooking with French and Spanish influences and the cocktails are edgy and cool. I used to suggest Westville as a reliable place to dine out with someone Im still getting to know. You might feel like youre in France here, and thats usually a good feeling for date night. My trendy dairy-eating people (usually the two dont go together, but Im hoping for the best here,) Caf Select is the date spot for you. I think it will be bad if I plan to go there and can't get a table. Its also a great brunch spot for the morning after, if you just cant get enough of each other. The menu here is Southern soul food-inspired, and they also serve barrel-aged cocktails and craft beers for a well-rounded, fun dining experience that you ant really get anywhere else! But I highly recommend going authentic Ukranian if you come to Veselka. If traditional Ukranian food isnt your scene, they do have pancakes and mac n cheese. FYI: The Penrose is in the Upper East Side, for anyone who lives on the higher side of the island. Please also note, I have been to the majority of these places on actual dates, and I typically dont take pictures on my dates bc its rude AF. Theres nothing like a flowers and red sauce Italian food to bring the romance and fun! Punny chalk art covers the walls, adding some charming character to the ambiance. Bobo offers both, but I do recommend coming here for dinner. If you are really picky and if you feel any urge to blame me for a date gone wrong, please double check my recommendations to make sure its the right fit for you! Just like The East Pole, you can get a macro bowl here, but you can also have a burger or a pork chop. While definitely known for the beers on tap, the cocktail list is pretty inventive, with one menu section wholly devoted to flavored Mules and another to flavored gin/vodka tonics. The bar is cute and the restaurant is also adorable with 28 seats and an intimate setting. Also, there are two frozen yogurt shops on 2nd between 81st and 82nd if you want to wander and get something sweet later. Birds that dont poop. Now that Ive prefaced that. If youre on a date, you will probably be seated at a communal table, which I find to be really fun and an additional element to the experience! Not sure what to do for your next date night? Or, if your date isnt impressed by awesome things, go for the brisket or lobster ones. Please note, there is also another location, but Ive only been to the Gramercy spot. If youre trying to impress your date with your elevated taste and a special upscale speakeasy experience, Dear Irving is the spot. A romantic, delicious meal can be found at Flex Mussels, serving you bivalves shipped straight from the sea (of Prince Edward Island). Jones Wood Foundry. The food at Uva is also pretty good. Balon is a nice little wine bar on 81st near 2nd that's nice and intimate. Theres a lot more than meets the eye when it comes to UES nightlife, and there are spots for every kind of couple. If youre still hungry, go get a fun ice cream! I once went on a third date here and it felt like the perfect place. While I havent been here in a few years, I remember their meatball sliders to be the best Ive ever had, and their burger is lights out. Happy hour is literally just an hour at this place, so to avoid crowds, you might want to head here directly post-work. Casual bar for wine and small plates? Come here less for the food, and more for the comedy show. Good gastropub food, nice atmosphere and a cool garden area. You cant live in NYC and not go to Veselka. So, keep that in mind when youre reading! Thats what youll find at Iggys, so if belting tunes onstage in front of strangers isnt your thing, you might want to turn around. Nom Wah has been open since 1920, so it is old school, but its not like what you get in Hong Kong. Ok, theres nothing really outstanding about Pierre Loti, but it is very reliable. Yes, I am embarrassing and one time got pancakes. If its still early-in-the-game, try The Milton. I still am an adventurous dater, and my husband and I still to go on adventures together. This Ukranian diner is a classic, and the old school, no-frills vibe is oddly romantic in a fun way. And if youre looking for a full-day date, go to the Bontanical Garden beforehand! Sfoglia looks like it was built for a wedding reception. They have a good beer and wine selection, they make some serious cocktails, and they serve stuff like fish tacos and sliders. Yes, we just quoted Willy Wonka, and heres why. Come here when you want to show someone how much knowledge you have. And its not over there. Cheap, Fun, and something very NYC, Wine + park = open container summons? Whats the 2019 version of dinner and a movie? During the day, this place is a cafe. And if you hit it off over dinner, you can forever relive your special night by ordering Up Thai when youre home watching Netflix (after you put your seven children to sleep). Inside the bright pink ice cream parlor of UES, youll find, well yes, an ice cream parlor but theres more than meets the eye. Sort of like something youd find in Nolita. Dinner and drinks served directly to you as you recline on your leather movie theater throne ~ahem~ we mean seat. Enough that we dont really care that it looks like a generic upscale Greek place from the late 90s. Great for anyone visiting the city and trying to find a place to go on a date. If you squint, this place looks like a brick house in the Italian countryside - and if you really squint, it look looks like your eyelids. This is a casual Swiss spot with a good old shareable fondue pot and a good drink selection. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Which seems like something a French person would do. On a broader note, The Little Owl is known for having American-Mediterranean cuisine and its in the heart of the West Village. The decor is both rustic, with dark, wooden furniture and historic, with Yiddish theater posters hanging on the walls. The vibes are so chill that it will feel like youre in your living room enjoying each others company and great food. I know a couple people who have gotten ticketed :(. So take someone here when you want to look like youre trying, but not too hard. Walk into Ethyls with your boo by your side, and believe us, itll feel like youve just walked into Studio 54 at its prime, and in the best way possible. For first dates, I used to prefer lively vibes instead of awkwardly intimate spots. Its also open late night, so you can also do a full dinner, then dessert after if youre feeling very adventurous and money is no object. Eastfields is from the same people behind The East Pole, but it feels younger. Do yourself a favor and consult our fool-proof list. These places are fancier than your average weeknight dinner spot, but they arent so formal that youll freak out your date. This place is an experience. Need we say more? An oldie but a goodie! Define casual Somewhere that I don't feel like I am under dressed wearing jeans and a button down shirt. Up Thai is romantic in its own way. Its the perfect balance between exotic and playing it safe, because the menu really does have something for everyone. Dante is that nice balance of refined and casual, with a hip and busy geographic location. If its nice out, sit on the outdoor patio. You can even get pancakes. Check. Palma is romantic, hip, cozy and cute, with good Italian food. Its obvious, but I had to throw it in here. But you dont come here for the plants and lanterns - you come for the the best Thai food in the area. I try to keep date night casual, because I think fine dining is meant for special occasions. Heres my suggested order: soup dumplings at one place, hot pot at another place, then pork buns at Mei Li Wah Bakery. A fun place thats in-between casual and fancy is The Penrose , I live nearby and usually take my first dates there since the prices are reasonable and they have excellent drinks. Its usually crowded, but not overly so. I have divided this article into two different sections: drinks-forward, and food-forward. All rights reserved. Unless youre in a serious relationship with someone, dont take them somewhere super fancy. Subscribe and well let you know when weve found yet another must-do experience. Spot Dessert bar isnt just giving scoops of ice cream and slices of cake, they have unique sweet creations that make dining fun and an experience. Pil Pil is a good tapas place on 78th near 2nd, again pretty small and intimate. Ive been here for a few dates, the best one obviously being with my husband, who wanted to share a fried chicken sandwich and mac n cheese with me. I have only been to the Gramercy location, which I recommend and have linked above. I went here for light bites and negronis with a fellow foodie. In addition to the unique cocktails, you also get access to an entire absinthe menu, if youre into that. The other dates Ive been on here were strictly in the drinks zone. Think: alcoholic glow in the dark Capri Suns. Your waiter will probably have a French accent, there are outdoor cafe tables, and you can eat an entre-sized portion of steak tartare. There are a lot of good tacos in the city these days, but this upscale Mexican restaurant still makes for good date. No matter if you are on your first date, third date, or 23940803284th date, it has lively vibes, a fun American-comfort food menu, and a reliable drink selection. As for drinks, the names alone will give you a chuckle, but we suggest the Man-O-Manischewitz or the Icarus Parachute, which essentially tastes like an Early Grey Creamsicle dipped in Gin. Sebastian and I went to the East Village location this past weekend and had the best time! Yes, this place is shuckin awesome. I love going to fun restaurants or bars with unique cuisines, and authentic experiences. If you want a pre/post-dinner activity, there's the Comic Strip Live comedy club on 2nd between 81st and 82nd. While deemed a bourbon bar, Bondurants obviously offers a long list of craft beers, cocktails and a large selection of whiskey. But, that doesnt change my opinion that I think it would have been a great romantic date spot! NYC Restaurant Week Deals Perfect for Date Night, Add your number and we'll text you a link to. Its fast-paced, but intimate, with servers rolling carts with different dishes around the room, and diners stopping them to put in their order. Whether you go for brunch or dinner, Pig & Khao is an experience in a hot Lower East Side location, which makes it great for the possibility of going out for drinks or dancing after. The menu is American-influenced and the artichoke dip is supposed to be stellar. This East Village restaurant is full of fun fun dishes, drinks and vibes. Now, before I get to my date spot rec list, I want to preface the kind of dater I am. Check. Not the very best Italian on the Upper East Side, but also not the most expensive. The choice is yours. You can have some gnocchi in truffle sauce while you drink a little too much wine and ask what your dates insecurities are. You can get a little table in back and eat some seared salmon or a kale salad thats better than it needs to be. This speakeasy is for the swanky cocktail lovers out there in the world. For example, first dates for me (except when I met my husband!) On the menu, there are lots of exotic cocktails. I do not want to end relationships and receive death threat DMs for this sh*t. Im here to offer my opinions and advice. Okay, The Smith is like the basic betch of date spots, but I like it because its really just a reliable restaurant where you always will have a great time. I once broke-up with someone here, but that doesnt mean its not a great date spot! As the name suggests, this is a dessert restaurant. This quintessential neighborhood bar will make the perfect setting for your date night. The only catch is, this place is is pretty small - theres a bar, a few communal tables, and some stools at the window. Dim sum is a fun and interactive meal, and as someone who studied Cantonese cuisine in Hong Kong, I will say this isnt the most authentic (a little bit westernized), but its a solid choice with trendier vibes. Go to the Gramercy location for drinks and if the date is going well, head out to Petes Tavern across the street and get a late night bite! All the spots for when you need to eat with someone youre into. Everything about the bar, from the wittily-named menu items to the wall paintings, is NYC-themed. Maybe this is a second date, maybe its the fifth, or maybe its the 25th. Sign me up. Although that would be a good story for your kids. Unless you serve me gluten-free bread and alcohol-less wine, I will most likely have a great time. I think theres something fun about grabbing a taco on the street for dinner, and then heading to a full blown dessert restaurant for a date. Theres no lack of delicious eateries, crowded bars, and interesting folk. Also, this is a great late night date spot if you want to have a sit down meal instead of a dollar slice. This speakeasy aint cheap, but its certainly memorable. The Infatuation shit all over this restaurant, but I love it and I stand by it and its burger. But, I do think The Nomads sexy chicken dish brings romance to any date. Sebastian and I went to a burlesque show here one time and it was a lot of fun! If youre looking for a casual spot on the UES where you can sip on some craft beers and play your favorite board games, Workshop is a must. On the flip side, if you want bustling loud bar/restaurant vibes, this is not your place. No matter what stage of the relationship youre in, these places make for great date spots. . The road is more of a street and the house is more a wine bar, but you probably didnt take that name literally. The Best Date Night Restaurants On The Upper East Side. I would say 90th-110th in between 5th-Lexington would be a good range. There are no houses or roads. Press J to jump to the feed. The reason I like Amelie as a first date spot is because it has solid romantic-ish/hip vibes, its very busy, and it s reliable for wine lovers who may want to eat, if the date is going well. I also want to preface that these are my opinions, and I am a relatively happy diner and drinker. (They will if they like good food.) But, I will say, I do think there are different dates for different stages of relationships. The point is, youve both decided that you might not dislike each other, and now you need somewhere to sit down and eat while you figure out how many more times you want to do this. Having been in NYC for 8+ years, Ive done my fair share of dating here. This is a local spot, with relaxed vibes. It was a good choice. You can get pancakes and mac n cheese anywhere. If you want a lively bar to enjoy a drink with a first date and assess the potential of the relationship, this is definitely the place. Granted, I havent been here since 2014, but the reviews Im reading on the Internet seem to agree with my stance. used to require a ton of alcohol and the just right vibe of having something to offer for anyone. So, Im just going to give you the whole rundown on different spots and why I think they are great. Its an intimate place with an outdoor garden for those warmer months. With all the plants and hanging lanterns, it feels sort of like an indoor garden. Go here for a Georgian food adventure. Im an adventurous dater. Use your judgement on what you like. Also, the prices are right for date night - not so low that you seem cheap, but not so expensive that youll be forced to dine-and-dash on your potential future spouse. Once upon a time, on our third date, Sebastian and I went to the Bronx Little Italy and enjoyed a delicious Italian meal and wine tasting. After 10PM, it does get a little rowdy and loud, but I think thats fun. In addition to the khachapuri, we ordered the cornish hen and some dumplings. Order some duck that was raised within biking distance (probably) and have an heirloom something-or-other. Just know that this place is very small and that this only enhances its charm. So, I had to include this place. From my dating history, I found that the food-forward date spots were more for the third-fifth date. You can come here for brunch, lunch or dinner, but since its naturally dark inside, I recommend going at night.
Not life-changing, but if you and a date have been lost in Central Park for three-plus hours, its one of your best last-minute date options on the east side. I also love going on full blown adventures that have nothing to do with food. Lillies is a busy bar-restaurant, thats very popular for after work drinks and dinner, plus it gets even more packed on weekends. I love the idea of trying new things together. I think you need to see the menu for yourself to fully understand what Im saying. This filipino spot is hip, lively and the food is authentic, creative and delicious. If theyre empty, grab two of those and see if your dates pupils dilate when they look at the menu and read pigs in a blanket. Thats a good sign. You also can order comfort foods like a pickle tasting or a grilled cheese. If youre trying to impress someone, have some grasshopper tacos. I know this isnt a set restaurant, but just go to Chinatown and eat things. Let me just say this: the food is overpriced for what it is, but I went here with Sebastian and we had a good time because it was just a fun experience! I am regular visitor, how are you everybody? Come with me and you'll be in a world of pure imagination. What do you think? Hopefully your date will agree. Great cocktails, great comfort food, and fun vibes. Dip strawberries in chocolate fondue, and sip on some hot toddies. Like!! Or just have drinks and share some fries. Also primely located for going out afterwards. Behind a door lined with empty ice cream cartons is the shops secret bar. There are a few Westville locations around the city, but each of them is pretty small with a casual, cozy vibe. With a nondescript exterior and cozy, dimly-lit interior, this is the kind of place youll stay for hours without realizing 10 minutes have passed. This place is like an elevated pub, and its open until 4AM for those very successful dates that go too long.
You must get the chicken.
Okay okay, if you desperately dont want to just mosey around Chinatown then heres a trendy dim sum place for you. Chinatown is cheap, so this will not break the bank and its a fun adventure! This intimate Lower East Side spot opened back in 2014(ish) and was super famous on Instagram for its chicken and waffle sliders. This is the place for an efficient drinks-based first date, with a side of light bites. We like Yefsi. This is an adventurous first date spot its a hidden, intimate speakeasy located above a restaurant in the East Village. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. Ive been on a date here, and also have come here with girl friends. The TVs are almost always playing Saturday Night Fever, Soul Train episodes are projected onto the back wall and go-go dancers strut across the bar throughout the night. But thats why this place is great theyve got something for everyone, and the vibes are great. Copyright 2022 Dining With Skyler. On the flip side, if your date is going well, its a super fun place to knock back some beers and eat some comfort pub food. Its cozy and candle lit in this basement restaurant on W 10th st., and they offer a seasonal menu with locally grown ingredients. Why? For those happy hour and IPA lovers, Bua Bar is the place for your date. You can get a lamb tagine, or you can get a chicken kebab. Its the perfect spot for when youre feeling too antisocial to do the whole bar scene, but not lazy enough to Netflix and Chill, CMX Cinebistro might be the perfect fit. At DTUT, cozy up on some couches and make eyes at your lover as you roast marshmallows and try to perfect that golden crisp.
This is a true AF Hong Kong dim sum experience. If you havent been to Bronx Little Italy yet, I highly recommend checking it out. I went here with Sebastian early on in our relationship, and I honestly forget if there is food. Why don't you get a bottle of wine, some cheese, chips and guac/salsa and have a picnic in the park. Your email address will not be published. But, we highly suggest you nom over the homemade tater tots. Cherry on topthey serve delicious $5 burgers all night long. Anyone have any suggestions? If youve been to Nitehawk or Alamo Drafthouse, youre well aware of this kind of setup. The vibes are fun and it is almost always crowded on the weekend. All mussels are served in a pot, soaked in flavors ranging from sake and pickled ginger (The Geisha Girl) to spicy chorizo, olives and red wine (The Spaniard). In Hong Kong, dim sum brunch (AKA yum-cha) is a traditional Chinese meal where families get together to enjoy a multitude of dishes and tea. If you dont get the chicken, you are doing it wrong. If youre coming here, make sure youre in the mood primarily for drinks, and you can grab a bite after. This place is cozy, with leather seats, a few chandeliers, and some outdoor seating when its warm. The food menu is just as youd expect with an inventive twist: pastrami popcorn, gefilte croquettes and vodka, and dill lox. Theres also a hidden late-night spot in the back for you edgy night owls. There are two locations, and Ive been to the Union Square location. Karaoke night, every night. Its a great spot to go after work, for dinner, or even for lunch its almost always bustling. If you like private dining, this is not the date for you. Iggys is a great spot for breaking up the normal date-night routine or for couples who just dont give a f*ck and simply want to belt out a duet to Aint No Mountain High Enough. I mean, we brown bagged a wine bottle in an uber and went to a party. If you like a good dining and drinking adventure, Thursday Kitchen is the place. This article posted at this web site is in fact pleasant. There are also multiple locations. Eating with someone can be more intimate and more of a time commitment, so I think its natural to go from drinks-forward to food-forward after a few dates. Its a pub, but a nice one. Cute, romantic atmosphere, delicious food, and prime location? How far upper and how far east? For example, my husband and I went to a medieval festival for our 3rd date. I love this place for a good late lunch because you miss the crowds. Theyll think youre going to propose or ask them for a kidney or something. Let this guide help pave the way for your Upper East exploration. Overall, this is just a nice little bistro. The restaurant is authentically Georgian (we had it verified by one of our Georgian friends) with delicious comforting dishes and a Georgian wine selection. But if it is, youre in for an incredible night. There are two locations, but Ive been to the West Village location, which I highly recommend!