9 Romantic Restaurants in New York City

Danny Meyer's restaurants are renowned for impeccable service, and Gramercy Tavern is no different. Serving creative American fare, Gramercy Tavern is the perfect place for a perfect meal, from start to finish. Reservations suggested, though the tavern area has reduced prices and a no-reservation policy.

Gramercy Tavern Basics:
42 E. 20th St.
Between Broadway and Park Ave. So.
212-477-0777

Often considered the most romantic restaurant in New York City, One if By Land, TIBS is housed in a former carriage house that features nightly live piano music and working fireplaces. Exposed brick and dim lighting make this a great destination for a romantic evening.

One If By Land, Two If By Sea:
17 Barrow St.
Between 7th Ave. S. & W. 4th St.
212-228-0822

If it's the perfect view that makes you feel romantic, you can do no better than The River Cafe on Brooklyn's waterfront. Featuring delicious food combined with professional, attentive service, The River Cafe is well worth leaving Manhattan for the food alone, but the view of downtown Manhattan makes this an irresistible choice.

The River Cafe Basics:
1 Water Street, Brooklyn
718-522-5200

Another Danny Meyer destination, Union Square Cafe offers great service and delicious fare in a comfortable setting. Union Square Cafe is friendly to vegetarians. Reservations suggested, though the bar area offers you an in without a reservation.

Union Square Cafe Basics:
21 E. 16th St.
Between Fifth Ave. and Union Sq. West
212-243-4020

I must admit, I'm a bit prejudiced, since Balthazar is where I went for dinner after I got engaged, but if being transported to a bustling Parisian bistro is your idea of romance, this is the perfect destination. Steak frites are fabulous, as is the onion goat cheese tart.

Balthazar Basics:
80 Spring St.
Between Crosby & Broadway.
212-965-1785

If you really want to dazzle your date, Daniel is among New York City's most impressive restaurants, with prices to match. Decor reflects Daniel Boulud's appreciation for Italian Renaissance design, but the menu features creative French cuisine. 3 Course Prix-Fixe $125.

Daniel Basics:
60 E. 65th St.
Between Park and Madison Aves.
212-288-0033

With an annual Valentine's Day tradition of serving a "hands-free" meal, Blue Hill offers an off-beat take on your typical romantic evening. Serving American cuisine, Blue Hill builds a menu focused on seasonally available produce from the Hudson Valley.

Blue Hill Basics:
75 Washington Pl.
Between Sixth Ave. and MacDougal St.
212-539-1776.

Overlooking the ice rink at Rockefeller Center, The Sea Grill is a great choice for a romantic evening, assuming your date likes seafood. From oysters and clams to herb crusted skate, the menu offerings reflect a range of seafood options all well prepared and very fresh.

The Sea Grill Basics:
19 W. 49th St.
Between Fifth and Sixth Aves.
212-332-7610

This West Village restaurant offers all of the romance of New York's finest restaurants, but with a more affordable price tag. The menu features both American and pan-European cuisine.

The Place Basics:
310 W. 4th St.
Between Bank and W. 12th Sts.
212-924-2711