8 Romantic Restaurants in New York City

Enjoy a delicious meal in one of these romantic restaurants

By Heather Cross

Updated 01/24/18

The Sea Grill
••• Courtesy of The Sea Grill

If you want to impress someone special, choosing the right restaurant can make all the difference. These restaurants offer romantic atmospheres, as well as quality food and service that are sure to impress, whether it's Valentine's Day, an anniversary or another special occasion.

  • 01 of 08

    Gramercy Tavern

    Gramercy Tavern in New York City
    ••• Neville Elder / Getty Images

    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.

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

  • 02 of 08

    One If By Land, Two If By Sea

    One If By Land, Two If By Sea
    ••• Courtesy of One If By Land, Two If By Sea

    Often considered the most romantic restaurant in New York City, One if By Land, Two If By Sea 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.

    17 Barrow St.
    Between 7th Ave. S. & W. 4th St.
    212-228-0822

  • 03 of 08

    The River Cafe

    The River Cafe
    ••• Courtesy of The River Cafe

    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.

    1 Water Street, Brooklyn
    718-522-5200

  • 04 of 08

    Union Square Cafe

    Union Square Cafe
    ••• Courtesy of Union Square Cafe

    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 are suggested, though the bar area offers you an in without a reservation.

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

    Continue to 5 of 8 below.
  • 05 of 08

    Balthazar

    Balthazar Restaurant in Little Italy - New York City, New York
    ••• Angus Oborn / Getty Images

    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.

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

  • 06 of 08

    Daniel

    Daniel
    ••• Courtesy of Daniel

    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.

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

  • 07 of 08

    Blue Hill

    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.

    75 Washington Pl.
    Between Sixth Ave. and MacDougal St.
    212-539-1776.

  • 08 of 08

    The Sea Grill

    The Sea Grill
    ••• Courtesy of The Sea Grill

    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.

    19 W. 49th St.
    Between Fifth and Sixth Aves.
    212-332-7610