The Golden Swan, From the Daisies
When the city lights start to glow and the craving for a cozy, candlelit dinner sets in, few places deliver romance quite like New York City. Whether you're planning a special anniversary or simply want to linger over a bottle of wine with someone special, the right restaurant can turn a night out into something unforgettable. From moody jazz-club corners to riverfront views and timeless French charm, these twelve restaurants deliver romance, ambiance, and standout dishes—perfect for your next date night.
Le Coucou
Few places in the city do romance like Le Coucou. Located in SoHo, the elegant French menu, warm candlelight, and white tablecloths set the tone for a refined, intimate evening. It’s ideal for special occasions—or just reminding someone how much they mean to you, no excuse needed.
The Nines
An opulent piano lounge and supper club all in one, The Nines on Great Jones Street in Manhattan feels like a sultry secret. With plush velvet seating, vintage lighting, and a menu that’s as elevated as the mood, it’s the kind of place where time slows down and everything feels a little more decadent—especially when the live piano music kicks in.
Quarters
A vintage interiors haven by day, a buzzing bar by night, Quarters is a new cozy, design-forward spot tucked inside a 19th-century Tribeca loft. Styled like our dream mid-century apartment, Quarters blends a curated vintage vibe, ambient lighting, and an intimate atmosphere perfect for a date night. From Thursday to Saturday, the bar serves natural wines and seasonal small plates, with the occasional dinner party or live music set adding to the charm. It’s part showroom, part neighborhood secret—warm, unexpected, and ideal for couples looking for something a little different.
Quarters
Photography: William Jess Laird
Pearl Box
Hidden atop a historic SoHo building, Pearl Box is a sultry, Studio 54-inspired cocktail lounge that exudes vintage glamour. With its deep red interiors, mirrored accents, and plush velvet seating, the ambiance is both intimate and electrifying. The menu offers playful yet refined bar snacks that promise a date night both nostalgic and unforgettable.
The Waverly Inn
Hidden behind a red door in the West Village, The Waverly Inn is cozy, eclectic, and full of charm. A crackling fireplace, low lighting, and mismatched vintage decor create a sense of being somewhere private and far from the city—even when you're in the heart of it.
Estela
Don’t let Estela’s discreet exterior and unassuming dining room fool you—this Michelin-starred spot sets the stage for a low-fuss, high-flavor evening. The menu is made for sharing, with dishes like ricotta dumplings and steak tartare that feel indulgent without being fussy. It’s ideal for couples who love a buzzy, downtown vibe.
The Golden Swan
A modern take on a French brasserie, The Golden Swan is as chic as it is romantic. The interiors of this tavern in the West Village are thoughtfully designed, the service is polished, and the food—classic with a twist—feels celebratory. Come for a candlelit dinner, stay for the perfect crème brûlée.
Gage & Tollner
This landmarked Brooklyn gem offers a time-travel kind of romance. With its wood-paneled walls, gas lamps, and grand chandeliers, Gage & Tollner evokes the golden age of dining. The menu is rooted in tradition, but it’s the sense of occasion that makes it unforgettable.
Le Crocodile
Tucked inside the Wythe Hotel, Le Crocodile is effortlessly cool with a Parisian touch. The light-filled space in Williamsburg, complete with tiled floors and marble tables, transitions beautifully into evening with flickering candles and a warm buzz. The rotisserie chicken is a must.
Fleming by Le Bilboquet
Fleming by Le Bilboquet brings the romantic allure of its iconic sister restaurant to a more intimate, fine dining setting. With artful plating, impeccable wine pairings, and Upper East Side charm, it’s perfect for couples who love dressing up for dinner and savoring a truly elevated experience.
Sailor
Chef April Bloomfield’s Sailor is a cozy neighborhood bistro that feels like a well-kept secret. The wood-accented interiors, warm lighting, and unfussy yet elevated food make it perfect for a low-key but romantic night in Brooklyn.
Monkey Bar
A New York classic with old-school glamour, Monkey Bar offers the kind of dimly lit, moody ambiance that turns a regular dinner into a cinematic experience. The red leather banquettes, illustrated murals, and live jazz make it perfect for whispered conversations over martinis and steak tartare.
The River Café
With sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge, The River Café is practically made for romance. A popular destination for weddings and events, the location alone is enough to make it special, but the seasonal menu and white-tablecloth service take it over the top. Ask for a window seat and don't hesitate to linger.
The River Café
Photography: The River Café, Rachel Leiner
