From Candlelight to City Lights: NYC Date Night Gems

 

There's no shortage of things to do in New York City. Whether you're a local or just visiting, planning a special date night with your significant other can be a fun way to connect and enjoy the city together. 

If you're traveling there, I recommend checking in advance to see if these restaurants are still open - NYC is always changing, and the hustle and bustle of the city includes the constant turnover of shops and eateries. 

My husband and I lived in the city pre-pandemic, and these were some of our favorite date spots back then. They hold such sweet memories for us, and hopefully, they'll inspire your own memorable night out in the city. 

🍽 NAYA - Tucked away in Midtown East, this classic Lebanese spot was a true hidden gem. Don't confuse it with some counter-service NAYA locations around the city. This one was a cozy, full-service restaurant with an intimate vibe (so intimate, in fact, that they couldn't seat more than four people at a table). 

We were lucky enough to visit with one of our dear friends from Lebanon (shoutout to Rayan!) who guided us through the menu like a pro. The tabbouleh? Bright, fresh and the perfect way to kick things off. If you're a meat lover, do not skip the kibbe sayniye - it's rich, flavorful, and unforgettable. And the stuffed grape leaves? Whether you're vegetarian or just love good food, they're a standout. 

While writing this, I discovered that the original sit-down restaurant has since been replaced by the counter-service format. I’m sure the food still holds up—but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little heartbroken. That warm, tucked-away experience made it truly special.

🍽 Cosme - Just a short stroll from Madison Square Park, Cosme is an upscale Mexican restaurant that somehow manages to feel both sophisticated and like one of the city's best-kept secrets. Kick off the evening with one of their expertly crafted cocktails and an order of guacamole - perfect for setting the tone for a slow, romantic dinner. 

Yes, the prices are on the high side, but it is NYC - where everything worth experiencing is worth the price. If you're sharing a main, make it the duck carnitas. Rich, tender, and packed with depth, it's one of those dishes you'll be dreaming about long after the last bite.  

🍽 Pil Pil - Tucked away in the Upper East Side, Pil Pil is a cozy Spanish tapas spot with a super unique vibe - think colorful wine bottles lighting up the space. We love going the tapas route so we can try a little bit of everything (and share it all, of course). 

Some of our go-tos:

• Carne Adobada (grilled steak) 
• Albondigas de la Abuela (Spanish-style meatballs) 
• Patatas Bravas (because carbs don't count when you're on a date) 
• And any of their charcuterie boards 

Whatever you order, don't skip the sangria - red or white, it's the perfect pairing.

🍽 The Modern - If you're looking to dress up and treat yourselves, The Modern is your spot. This upscale restaurant is nestled inside the Museum of Modern Art and looks out onto the sculpture garden through floor-to-ceiling windows - its seriously beautiful. 

The food? Sophisticated (a.k.a small portions for this Midwestern girl). But don't let that fool you -everything on the menu is incredible, and you'll likely have room for dessert, which is a win in our book. 

We showed up early to our reservation and grabbed a drink at the bar. The bartender was super friendly and gave us a great tip: if you dine at The Modern, you get free admission into MoMA. So yes, dinner and a museum date. A total win.  

🍽 Del Frisco's - Just a short walk from Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall, this impressive three-story steakhouse feels like a rare find hiding in plain sight. With towering floor-to-ceiling windows, Del Frisco's offers a prime view of the vibrant energy along Sixth Avenue while enjoying a top-tier meal. 

They're known for their steaks - no surprise there - so you really can't go wrong with any cut or aged selection (plus, don't sleep on the sauces and enhancements). If you're not in a steak mood, their Chilean sea bass and tuna tartare are excellent choices too. And, of course, no meal is complete without a few of their family-style sides to share. Go hungry - you won't want to leave a single bite behind.

🍽 Little Italy - You really can't go wrong anywhere in this charming neighborhood - every corner smells like fresh pasta and garlic (a.k.a heaven). One of our go-to spots is Cafe Napoli, perfectly situated on a lively corner in the heart of it all. Whether you're craving classic pasta dishes or something a little more adventurous, the food never disappoints. 

Pro tip: no matter what you choose for your main course, always save room for dessert. Their cannolis and chocolate mousse are worth every bite. 

🍽 Top of the Rock - Perched atop Rockefeller Center, the Rainbow Room was the ultimate setting for a romantic dinner. With stunning views of the New York City skyline and unforgettable food, it was the perfect spot to celebrate our wedding anniversary - a night we will always treasure. 

Though the Rainbow Room is now reserved for private events only, visitors can still soak in those iconic views at the Weather Room. Whether you're in the mood for a coffee, cocktail or light bite, it's a beautiful place to pause and take in the city from above. 

🍽 Les Relais de Venice - Do you like steak? Do you like fries? Do you like steak with fries? Then this Midtown steakhouse is calling your name. The menu at Les Relais de Venice is simple: steak frites done right. The only real decision you have to make is how you want your steak cooked - everything else is taken care of. 

This no-fuss setup means less time stressing over a menu and more time enjoying good conversation. Bonus: your waiter will come around with second helpings. Yes, please. 

 

If you still have room for dessert, check out one of these spots for a sweet treat:

♡ Crepes - Looking for the perfect way to end a romantic evening? Bonjour Crepes & Wine is a cozy little spot offering sweet or savory homemade crepes in a charming, counter-service setting. Pair your pick with a glass of wine for the ultimate treat. Whether you're wrapping up a busy city day or just in the mood for something light and intimate, this spot serves up the right blend of charm and flavor. 

 
♡ Milkshake - Black Tap is home to the kind of milkshakes that go way beyond just ice cream. These legendary shakes are stacked high with cookies, candy, pieces of cakes - you name it. They're basically dessert masterpieces. 
          

One shake is more than enough to share with your date...unless you're both feeling ambitious (no judgement). 

With so much to do in the city, it's easy to get swept up in the hustle. That's why it's so important to slow down, savor a romantic evening, and truly enjoy each other's company. While this list is just a small sampling of what the city has to offer, sometimes having fewer options makes it easier to decide. 

In a city that never sleeps, at least make sure your date night dreams come true - one bite, one view, and one unforgettable moment at a time.