7 Romantic Restaurants in NYC Where You Can Take Your Partner

For a while, dining out in New York City just wasn’t an option. In order to combat the pandemic, it was crucial for us to stay inside and keep our distance from each other. There’s no doubt that this was tough for the thousands of New Yorkers who adored the vibrant nightlife and unmatchable energy the city offered. But their efforts paid off, as restaurants are able to open again. What better way to celebrate this than by organizing a romantic date with your significant other? From upscale eateries to casual cafes, New York City offers an abundance of exciting options.

Is there a special someone in your life who you want to treat? Give them a virtual GiftYa card! GiftYa cards can be applied to a number of restaurants around NYC, including the ones featured below! Because they are completely virtual, you won’t have to worry about your friend misplacing them. Wherever they carry their cell phone, their GiftYa card will accompany them. 

1. Blue Hill

Vibrant restaurant serving delicious dishes made from seasonal ingredients

75 Washington Pl, Avenue of the Americas | Greenwich Village | bluehillfarm.com/dine/new-york‍

The second you walk inside Blue Hill, you are greeted with a unique and vibrant atmosphere. Professional staff are ready to provide an enjoyable experience for you while the lit candles add a romantic atmosphere to the elegant restaurant. On the menu, you will find savory options such as the Murasaki Sweet Potato and the Parsnip Raviolo. Along with the full menu, you will find a comprehensive wine list featuring sparkling, white, rose, and red wines. Because it is an upscale restaurant, an elegant casual dress code is encouraged. 

“The dishes presented here benefit from not only incredible flavors and the freshest-imaginable high-quality ingredients, but thoughtful conceptions of texture, temperature, and presentation. These often overlooked details allowed us to experience dining - and even foods' taste - in different ways and from different perspectives.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Blue Hill. 

2. Marea

Upscale restaurant in NYC perfect for date night

240 Central Park S | Midtown West | marea-nyc.com‍

Starting September 30th, you will be able to make a reservation at Marea. At this elegant restaurant, you will find caviar, oyster, antipasti, fish and meat dishes, and more. Accompanying this extensive menu is a fine cocktail selection filled with delectable choices suitable for any taste. If you were able to save enough room for dessert, we recommend trying the Tiramisu or Panna Cotta. Before you go, make sure you schedule a reservation, as they are not accepting walk-ins at this time. 

“Fantastic dining! From the decor to the service and down to the food. The outdoor dining for COVID is very pretty and floral, and very well covered in case it rains. I love how our server thoroughly explained the menu and gave great recommendations as well as options we can do. They even automatically split the appetizers and such into two separate plates of our own.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Marea.

3. Shuko

Japanese restaurant known for its fresh and savory meals

47 E 12th St. | Greenwich Village | shukonyc.com‍

Located in Greenwich Village, Shuko serves as a top destination for delicious and creative Japanese cuisine. At Shuko, you will find everything from classic Spicy Tuna Hand Rolls to more exotic options like the Uni Roll, which is filled with sea urchin. 

If you and your partner both love sushi, you will enjoy the Sushi Rolls for 2 Special. This special includes 14 sushi pieces of the spicy trout roll and the shrimp tempura roll. Filling specials such as the Spicy Lobster and Whole Branzino can also be found on the menu. For dessert, Basil Ice Cream and Peanut Butter Ice Cream are on the menu. You can share a dish with your partner or order your own individually!

“Hidden gem. This is not in the rotation of omakase restaurants you hear people talking about in nyc. But it should be. Omakase is the only restaurant that serves you about 4 small dishes followed by 15 pieces of nigiri and dessert. The sushi set that is served is simple and amazing. It is as simple as toro brushed with soy sauce. But it is perfect.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Shuko.

4. Le Bernardin

Popular French restaurant serving upscale seafood

155 W 51st St. | Midtown West | le-bernardin.com

Since 1986, Le Bernardin has been a top choice for couples looking for a romantic retreat. This prestigious four star restaurant offers both a Dining Room and Lounge Menu. At the Dining Room, you can try the Le Bernardin Tasting Menu. Striped Bass, Halibut, Lobster, and more are featured on the menu. The Lounge Menu also offers great dishes, such as the Seafood Causa and Hamachi. Creative cocktails and wines are also available to accompany your dishes. You can even add a wine pairing to your dessert menu. 

“We went twice in the last several years. Once in 2015 and the second time was in 2019. Both time were amazing. Food was absolutely delicious and the service was impeccable as expected. They are one of the "more casual" Michelin restaurants we've been to in the city in our opinion. We really enjoyed the less business atmosphere yet elegant dining ambiance.” - Yelp Review 

Purchase a GiftYa card for Le Bernardin. 

5. One If By Land Two If By Sea

Popular restaurant in the West Village serving delicious and creative cuisine

17 Barrow St. | West Village | oneifbyland.com

Voted the #5 Most Romantic Restaurant in the World by Architectural Digest, it’s no wonder that NYC couples enjoy going to One If By Land Two If By Sea for special occasions. Inside this elegant restaurant, you will find stunning paintings, floral decorations, and table settings. Classic dishes such as their Organic Grilled Lemongrass Chicken Wrap and Beef Wellington Burger are sure to delight your taste buds. Cocktails, wine, and beer are also available for enjoying alongside your entree. 

“Weekday evening reservation and we were greeted and served throughout with a smile. Even after years in business, the experience delivered on its hype. We relished The Beef Wellington and all other gourmet dishes ordered. Get this NYC romantic restaurant check on your foodie list.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for One If By Land Two If By Sea. 

6. Buvette

Bustline French bistro open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner

42 Grove St. | West Village | ilovebuvette.com

Located in the West Village, Buvette can be considered part bar, part cafe, and part restaurant. This popular spot successfully mixes a casual atmosphere with world-class dining. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all offered. Classic dishes like the Coq Au Vin and the Steak Tartare are sure to leave you filled and satisfied. The Cassoulet and Pesto Di Parma are also popular items to try! 

“One of my absolute favorite places to eat breakfast in the city. I have been to Paris many times and eating at Buvette makes me feel like I've been transported back to Paris if it's just for an hour two. The staff is superb and the food is sublime. I highly recommend this establishment. They have outdoor seating due to COVID.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Buvette. 

7. Raoul’s

Sophisticated bistro offering a retro, Parisian atmosphere

180 Prince St. | South Village | raouls.com

Founded by two brothers from Alsace, France, Raouls is a popular restaurant located in the South Village. Since its start, publications from the New York Times to New York Eater have offered heaps of praise to the restaurant. 

While the restaurant is only open for dinner from Monday through Saturday, it’s definitely worth the wait until 5pm to enter. Delicious entrees like the Moules Frites “Bangs Island” Mussels and the Roast King Salmon are perfect for dining on while you spend a romantic night out. 

“I can't think of a more special place in New York City. It's the kind of place that makes you fall in love with New York. Raoul's is history, culture and impeccable (but also like I'm busy lets go) service. I came here the first night I moved to the city and it still makes me feel the same way today. This restaurant is wonderful. Order Steak au Poivre for two with a bottle of red and remember how special this moment is.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Raoul’s.  

Going out in New York City always makes for a fun and exciting adventure. What date night spots are you planning to hit up on your next date? Let us know in the comments!