When it comes to dining out in New York, many people look for trendy new hotspots, but sometimes a romantic hideaway is necessary. The experts at Vogue.com have compiled a list of intimate, long-running restaurants in New York City that are perfect for celebrating special occasions or reconnecting with a loved one. These spots are chosen for their ambience, which includes dim lighting, elegant decor, moody music, and an element of mystery. Some of the highlights from their list include Raoul’s, a French bistro in SoHo known for their steak au poivre and oysters. The Waverly Inn, located in the West Village and set in an iconic townhouse with a romantic old-world feel, is also recommended. Minetta Tavern, located in Greenwich Village, is another favorite with its cozy red leather banquettes and old-school sensibilities.
Al Di La Trattoria, a Park Slope gem offering handcrafted, simple Italian cuisine since the 1990s, is another spot on the list. Cosme, a contemporary Mexican restaurant with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients, is praised as a memorable dining experience. Lupetto, a new Italian restaurant in Madison Square Park, offers a hearty menu of house-made pastas and wood-fired pizzas in a ruggedly sexy setting. Frenchette, a relatively new TriBeCa brasserie with a sleek design and top-notch food, is also recommended by Vogue for a romantic evening out.
For a truly intimate dining experience, bōm, a Michelin-starred Korean restaurant in Flatiron, offers an immersive dining experience at its chef’s counter. Olmsted, located in Prospect Heights, provides a tranquil backyard garden setting during the warmer months where guests can enjoy seasonal ingredients in a romantic atmosphere. Grand Central Oyster Bar, a legendary New York restaurant that has been open since 1913, is recommended for those who appreciate nostalgia. Whether it’s a cozy booth at Minetta Tavern or a romantic stroll beneath the Grand Central Terminal ceiling mural after dining at the Oyster Bar, these restaurants offer a special ambiance that is perfect for a romantic evening out.
These intimate restaurants in New York City offer a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a special moment with a loved one. From the classic French bistro Raoul’s to the contemporary Mexican cuisine at Cosme, these restaurants provide a variety of options for those looking for a memorable dining experience. Whether it’s a pre-dinner drink by the fireplace at The Waverly Inn or an order of black label burger with frites at Minetta Tavern, each restaurant on the list offers a unique dining experience that is perfect for a romantic date night. So next time you’re in New York and looking for a cozy spot to reconnect with your loved one, consider visiting one of these intimate dining establishments for a special evening out.
