Are you tired of the same old dinner and a movie for a first date? Do you want to up the ante and impress your date with a culinary experience they won't forget? New York City is filled with incredible restaurants that will make your first date unforgettable. According to the CEO of Bloc, Joshua Wood, Restaurants can add to the experience of a first date and make people more comfortable during the encounter.
So, without further ado, let's dive into the best restaurants in New York for a first date.
1. L'Artusi: Looking for a spot to impress your date without breaking the bank? Look no further than this cozy West Village eatery! The charming atmosphere, top-notch vino, and mouth-watering Italian cuisine make for a primo first-date combo. And don't even get us started on their famous pasta dish—we're talking seriously spicy spaghetti with a crispy breadcrumb twist. Now that's amore!
2. La Mercerie: Wanna get cozy? Head over to La Mercerie in SoHo! French café vibes that'll have you feeling like you're strolling through the streets of Paris. They've got the goods too—pastries, coffee, and light bites. It's the perfect spot for a low-key date or grabbing a midday pick-me-up. Oui, oui, c'est magnifique!
3. Le Coucou: Looking for a fancy dinner spot? Check out Le Coucou in cool Tribeca. This Michelin-starred joint has chic decor, swanky service, and French cuisine that'll blow your socks off! Make sure to get the classic chicken for two, cooked to perfection with foie gras and black truffle. Bon appétit!
4. Goodfellas: Looking for a cozy spot to take someone on a first date? Look no further than Goodfellas, the Italian restaurant in Staten Island. Not only is the food delicious (trust us, you won't regret ordering the meatballs), but the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Plus, you won't have to empty your wallet to impress your date—the prices are totally affordable. So grab a table, sip on some Chianti, and let the good times roll. Who knows, your date might just end up being a made man (or woman).
5. Peter Luger Steak House: So, you wanna knock the socks off your date with the ultimate New York nosh-up? Look no further than Peter Luger! This joint in Brooklyn has got the best dry-aged steaks and classic German sides, all served up with an old-school vibe. It ain't cheap, but hey, you gotta treat yo' self on those special occasions, am I right? Trust us, your taste buds (and your date) will thank you.
6. Carbone: Looking for a classic New York experience? Check out Carbone in Greenwich Village—it's the Italian-American joint with all the old-school charm you could want. Their meatballs are a must-try, and their pasta dishes will have you licking the plate. Just make sure to bring your earplugs—this place is rocking and rolling every night!
7. Nur: Feeling a little adventurous? Add a Middle Eastern twist to your dining game with Nur in Flatiron! Their interiors will make your jaw drop, their mezze dishes will make your taste buds dance, and their cocktails will leave you feeling like a mixologist. And hey, it's also a perfect spot for a laid-back and out-of-the-ordinary first date. Give it a go!
8. Charlie Bird: Fancy a trendy yet intimate joint? Head over to Charlie Bird in SoHo! This stylish eatery has got it all - fabulous vino, mouth-watering small plates, and a seriously cool industrial vibe. It's the perfect spot for a chilled out yet chic first date. So grab your better half and let's wine and dine!
9. Casa Mono: Love Spanish food? Get your taste buds to Casa Mono in Gramercy ASAP! They've got mouth-watering seafood tapas, a wine list as long as your arm, and a vibe that'll make you feel like you're lounging in your own living room. Pro-tip: the bar area is the ideal spot for a chill first date that won't leave you feeling awkward!
10. Lilia: If you want to impress your date with an authentic Italian feast, hit up Lilia in Williamsburg. This joint boasts a killer ambiance, house-made pasta that will make your taste buds sing, and wood-fired pizzas that will knock your socks off. Yeah, it's a bit out of the way, but trust us - the journey is worth it for a romantic evening that will be etched in your memory for years to come.
11. Hello Donuts: Hey there, lovebirds! First dates can be nerve-wracking, but don't sweat it - Hello Donuts in Queens has got your back. Swing by this joint for some of the tastiest donuts around. They've got all the classic flavors and some funky ones too, like matcha and coconut - yum! It's the perfect place for a fun, laid-back date. So go ahead, indulge in something sweet and get to know each other with a donut in hand.
When it comes to first date restaurants in New York, the options are truly endless. Whether you're looking for a casual coffee shop, a fine-dining experience, or something in between, there's something for every taste and budget. Just remember that the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the company of your date. As Joshua Wood said, The most romantic part of dining is companionship, so the environment should accentuate and amplify that.
So, pick a restaurant that feels right to you and have a great time!