Spending Valentine’s Day in the Big Apple and dreaming of that perfect candlelit dinner with someone special? Then you’re in luck. Our picks of the best restaurants for Valentine’s Day in New York City will ensure the perfect evening for you and your date.
The Best Restaurants For Valentine’s Day In New York City
How do these rankings work?
1. Eleven Madison
Overlooking one of Manhattans most beautiful parks is Eleven Madison. Even on the rainiest of days, natural light fills the grand dining room, making for a classy and airy atmosphere. This American Fine Dining restaurant is sure to make for a delicious meal and a memorable evening.
Be sure to book in advance, and they are typically full. In addition to a great dining menu, they also boast an incredible wine list. Undoubtedly, you can’t go wrong with any bottle of bubbly on Valentine’s Day.
2. One if by Land, Two if by Sea
This West Village favourite is the epitome of romantic dining. Candlelit dining rooms with fireplaces and soft piano set the perfect mood for a special night. Set in a historic carriage house with an incredible menu, it’s not hard to see why it’s famous for its atmosphere. Since it is a historical restaurant, try Winston Churchill’s favourite, Beef Wellington.
3. II Buco
An influx of Italian immigrants and a city with a strong love for food has made New York a hub for great Italian bites that are flavourful and authentic. II Buco is a perfect example of this. It’s one of NYC’s most loved restaurants and offers traditional Italian dishes and a beautiful lake view.
Although the entire menu is great, we recommend the veal or seafood for a special Valentine’s evening. Afterwards, enjoy crisp champagne with dessert while overlooking the Hudson.
4. Zenkichi
This modern Japanese brasserie is perfect for you and your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day. Indulge in authentic Japanese flavours in the dimly lit dining area while sampling sake and toasting to the two of you. For the main course, we recommend their legendary winter omakase.
5. The River Cafe
The River Cafe is a Brooklyn favourite and is known around the world as being one of New York City’s finest romantic restaurants. Look out over an illuminated Manhattan and enjoy some of the best American eats the city has to offer. We recommend requesting a window table and opting for the lobster with a chardonnay.
6. Peasant
In 1999 when Chef Frank DeCarlo and his wife Dulcinea Benson opened Peasant, they brought Tuscany to New York City. Famous for their wood-fired dishes and traditional Italian plates, you really can’t go wrong with this one. Peasant prides itself in retaining a sort of rustic sophistication and is an ideal choice for Valentine’s Day.
For a starter, be sure to try the burrata salentina with a full-body red. After that, opt for any one of their incredible wood-fired dishes.
7. Le Coucou
Last but not least is a SoHo staple, Le Coucou. Known for French classics like rabbit, duck and foie gras Le Coucou is a great spot for an elegant Valentine’s dining experience. The food and atmosphere are simply breathtaking and is a shining example of fine French dining. We recommend the pike quenelle with lobster sauce followed by sorbet.