The 19 Most Romantic Restaurants in New York for Valentine's Day

This blog post is all about the most romantic restaurants in New York for Valentine’s Day.

New York City does romance like nowhere else.

In fact, it’s where my own romance began, meeting my boyfriend in New York back in 2019 and having our own little New York love story.

Whether it’s candlelit tables tucked away on cobblestone streets, historic dining rooms soaked in old-school glamour, or waterfront restaurants with skyline views that feel straight out of a movie, the city offers endless options for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day dinner.

If you’re searching for the most romantic restaurants in New York, whether you’re planning a Valentine’s Day date, an anniversary dinner, or simply want a place that feels special, this guide brings together classic favourites, hidden gems, and atmospheric spots that truly set the mood.

From Manhattan to Brooklyn, these romantic NYC restaurants are perfect for lingering conversations, shared plates, and that quiet feeling that the rest of the city has melted away.

I’ve included date night spots that I’ve tried and enjoyed myself, as well as other spots that are high on my list to experience for a romantic night out.

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Most Romantic Restaurants in New York: Manhattan

Below is a guide to the most romantic restaurants in New York, located in the borough of Manhattan.

1. Malatesta Trattoria (Greenwich Village)

Malatesta Trattoria is the definition of effortlessly romantic, and a spot I find myself going back to each time I visit New York.

Located in Greenwich Village, this cozy Italian spot feels like it’s been frozen in time, with exposed brick walls, dim lighting, and tightly packed tables that make every dinner feel intimate.

What makes Malatesta Trattoria one of the most romantic restaurants in New York is its unpretentious charm. There’s no flashy decor or over-the-top Valentine’s gimmicks here.

Instead, romance comes from candlelit tables, handwritten specials, and comforting plates of classic Italian food.

Think rich pasta dishes, perfectly cooked chicken parmesan, and hearty portions that are clearly made with care.

On Valentine’s Day, Malatesta Trattoria is ideal for couples who value warmth, conversation, and a relaxed atmosphere over formal fine dining.

It’s the kind of place where you order a bottle of red wine, split a pasta dish, finish the night with tiramisu and forget how long you’ve been sitting there.

2. Butter (Midtown)

Butter offers a more modern, polished take on romance. We actually dined here during New York’s Restaurant Week, enjoying a little discount while we were interning in the city.

Located in Midtown, this stylish restaurant is known for its warm lighting, plush seating, and seasonal American menu that feels elevated without being intimidating.

The dining room strikes a perfect balance between lively and intimate, making it a great Valentine’s Day choice if you want something special but not overly hushed.

Butter in Midtown is particularly popular for its refined comfort food, with dishes that feel indulgent and celebratory, perfect for marking an occasion.

As one of the most romantic restaurants in New York, Butter shines for couples who enjoy excellent service, beautifully presented food, and a space that feels effortlessly chic.

It’s a great option if you’re planning a Broadway show or evening stroll afterward.

3. Le French Diner (Lower East Side)

Le French Diner is small, moody, and impossibly charming.

Tucked away on the Lower East Side, this tiny French restaurant feels like a secret you’re lucky to know about.

The room is intimate, the lighting low, and the atmosphere undeniably romantic.

What makes Le French Diner so perfect for Valentine’s Day is its simplicity. The menu focuses on classic French dishes done exceptionally well, paired with excellent wine.

There’s something deeply romantic about sharing a table in such a small space, where conversation flows easily and the outside world fades away.

If you’re looking for a low-key yet deeply atmospheric spot, Le French Diner absolutely earns its place among the most romantic restaurants in New York.

However, you won’t be able to make a reservation here due to its small size. If you’re ok with a walk-in on Valentine’s Day then this is a great spot to consider.

4. Keen’s Steakhouse (Midtown)

For couples who love tradition, history, and old-world charm, Keen’s Steakhouse delivers romance in a distinctly New York way.

Dating back to the 19th century, Keen’s is filled with dark wood paneling, historic memorabilia, and a sense of timeless elegance.

A Valentine’s Day dinner here feels grand without being stuffy. The lighting is warm, the service impeccable, and the menu built for indulgence.

Sharing a perfectly cooked steak, classic sides, and a bottle of wine in such a storied setting feels like stepping into another era.

Keen’s Steakhouse is one of the most romantic restaurants in New York for couples who appreciate a classic, refined dining experience that feels special simply because of where you are.

5. Tiny’s and the Bar Upstairs (TriBeCa)

Few restaurants in New York feel as charming as Tiny’s & the Bar Upstairs in TriBeCa.

Housed in a historic townhouse, Tiny’s offers multiple levels of dining, each more atmospheric than the last.

The Bar Upstairs is particularly romantic, with low ceilings, soft lighting, and an intimate, cozy feel that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day.

The menu blends American and Mediterranean influences, making it easy to share plates and linger over cocktails.

Tiny’s and the Bar Upstairs feels like a hidden escape from the city, making it one of the most romantic restaurants in New York for couples who love a warm, storybook setting.

6. Pardon My French (Lower East Side)

Pardon My French brings more Parisian charm to the Lower East Side (with reservations allowed).

With its velvet seating, warm lighting, and elegant decor, it’s easy to forget you’re in New York at all.

This restaurant is particularly well-suited to Valentine’s Day, offering classic French dishes that feel indulgent and celebratory.

The atmosphere is intimate without being overly formal, making it a great choice for couples who want romance without stiffness.

As one of the most romantic restaurants in New York, Pardon My French excels at transporting you somewhere else entirely, which is often the most romantic feeling of all.

7. Sushi Kai (West Village)

Sushi Kai offers a quieter, more refined kind of romance.

This intimate sushi restaurant focuses on craftsmanship, precision, and a calm dining experience that feels almost meditative.

For Valentine’s Day, Sushi Kai is perfect for couples who appreciate minimalism, exceptional food, and an atmosphere that encourages connection.

Sitting at the counter, watching the chefs work, and sharing an omakase experience can feel incredibly intimate.

If your idea of romance is subtle, thoughtful, and food-focused, Sushi Kai stands out as one of the most romantic restaurants in New York.

We actually dined here previously for New Year’s Eve, and it’s the perfect restaurant setting for a special occasion such as Valentine’s Day.

8. One If By Land, Two If By Sea (Greenwich Village)

Often cited as the most romantic restaurant in New York City, One If By Land, Two If By Sea feels like stepping into a period drama.

Housed in a historic carriage house, the restaurant is filled with fireplaces, chandeliers, and flickering candlelight that immediately sets the tone.

On Valentine’s Day, the atmosphere becomes even more magical. Live piano music, dim lighting, and a classic fine dining menu create an experience that feels unapologetically romantic.

This is the kind of place where proposals happen, anniversaries are celebrated, and memories are made.

If you’re searching for the most romantic restaurants in New York, this one is as iconic as it gets.

9. Balthazar (SoHo)

Balthazar offers a lively, Parisian-style romance that feels timeless.

While it’s more bustling than some Valentine’s Day spots, its classic French brasserie aesthetic, warm lighting, and elegant energy make it incredibly appealing.

Dining here feels cinematic, like you’re part of the city’s rhythm rather than removed from it.

For couples who enjoy people-watching, great wine, and classic French dishes, Balthazar delivers a romantic experience that feels quintessentially New York.

It earns its spot among the most romantic restaurants in New York for couples who love atmosphere, tradition, and a bit of buzz.

10. Il Buco (NoLIta)

Il Buco is rustic romance done perfectly. The dining room feels intimate and moody, with candlelit tables, warm wood tones, and an old-world Italian charm that’s ideal for Valentine’s Day.

The menu is designed for sharing, encouraging a slow, indulgent meal where conversation flows easily.

Everything about Il Buco feels intentional and warm, from the lighting to the attentive service.

As one of the most romantic restaurants in New York, Il Buco is perfect for couples who want an intimate, slightly hidden-away dining experience that feels deeply personal.

11. The Modern (Midtown)

For couples who appreciate contemporary elegance, The Modern offers a refined and sophisticated Valentine’s Day experience.

Located at the Museum of Modern Art, the restaurant combines sleek design with warm hospitality.

The dining room feels calm and luxurious, making it an excellent choice if you want romance without traditional candlelit clichés.

The menu is inventive and beautifully presented, perfect for a special occasion dinner.

The Modern stands out among the most romantic restaurants in New York for couples who love art, design, and elevated dining in a serene setting.

12. Manhatta (Financial District)

Manhatta takes romance to new heights, literally.

Located high above the city, this restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline that instantly make any Valentine’s Day dinner feel unforgettable.

As night falls, the city lights create a stunning backdrop for an elegant meal. The dining room feels modern yet intimate, and the menu is polished without feeling overly formal.

Manhatta is one of the most romantic restaurants in New York for couples who want a “wow” factor, especially if skyline views are part of your idea of romance.

Most Romantic Restaurants in New York: Brooklyn

Below is a guide to the most romantic restaurants in New York, located in the borough of Brooklyn.

1. Ammazzacaffè (Williamsburg)

Ammazzacaffè is a Brooklyn gem that feels deeply personal and heartfelt.

This small Italian restaurant offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere that’s ideal for Valentine’s Day.

The space is cozy and unfussy, letting the food and conversation take center stage. Handmade pasta, seasonal ingredients, and a relaxed pace make dining here feel like you’re being welcomed into someone’s home.

For couples seeking authenticity and warmth, Ammazzacaffè earns its place among the most romantic restaurants in New York, especially for a Brooklyn date night.

Ammazzacaffe is another spot we find ourselves revisiting each time we’re in New York City.

It’s the perfect blend of incredible value for money, great food and New-York-inspired dining with live jazz music on the weekend and for special occasions.

2. The River Cafe (DUMBO)

The River Café is often considered the gold standard of romance in New York City.

With breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, impeccable service, and an elegant dining room, it’s the ultimate special-occasion restaurant.

A Valentine’s Day dinner here is undeniably memorable. Every detail, from the piano music to the beautifully plated dishes, is designed to create an unforgettable experience.

If you’re searching for the most romantic restaurants in New York and want something truly iconic, The River Café is hard to beat if you want to pull out all the stops.

3. Cafe Mogador (Williamsburg)

Cafe Mogador brings warmth, colour, and spice to Brooklyn romance.

Known for its Moroccan-inspired dishes and vibrant atmosphere, this spot offers a slightly more lively take on Valentine’s Day dining.

The restaurant’s cozy interior, rich flavours, and shareable plates make it ideal for couples who enjoy relaxed, sensory dining experiences. It’s romantic without being formal, which makes it especially appealing.

Cafe Mogador stands out among the most romantic restaurants in New York for couples who value flavour, atmosphere, and ease.

4. Celestine (DUMBO)

Celestine is one of those rare New York restaurants where the setting alone does half the work.

Perched right on the Brooklyn waterfront, this Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offers sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the East River, all glowing beautifully after dark.

Inside, the space feels warm and elegant, with soft lighting, earthy tones, and a calm, intimate atmosphere that makes Valentine’s Day feel genuinely special rather than chaotic.

The menu is designed for sharing, which immediately lends itself to romance. Think vibrant mezze, perfectly grilled seafood, and fragrant spices that encourage slow dining and conversation.

Celestine earns its place among the most romantic restaurants in New York thanks to its balance of incredible views and relaxed sophistication.

It’s ideal for couples who want a memorable setting without the formality of fine dining, especially if you’re planning a sunset walk through DUMBO afterward.

5. Juliette (Williamsburg)

Juliette feels like a Parisian daydream tucked into Williamsburg.

With its charming French bistro interior, exposed brick walls, and soft candlelight, it’s romantic in a way that feels effortless and unforced.

What truly sets Juliette apart is its rooftop. Heated and enclosed during winter months, the rooftop becomes one of Brooklyn’s most intimate dining spaces, especially on Valentine’s Day.

Sitting above the city with a glass of wine, French comfort food on the table, and soft lighting all around feels undeniably romantic.

Juliette is one of the most romantic restaurants in New York for couples who love European charm, relaxed conversation, and a space that feels both cozy and special.

It’s perfect for a long Valentine’s dinner that naturally turns into drinks and dessert without feeling rushed.

6. Lilia (Williamsburg)

Lilia is romantic in a quieter, more understated way.

Known for its exceptional Italian food, particularly its handmade pasta, this Williamsburg favourite offers an intimate dining experience where the food truly takes centre stage.

The dining room is warm and softly lit, creating a calm, inviting atmosphere that feels ideal for a Valentine’s Day dinner focused on connection rather than spectacle.

Sharing plates of pasta, listening to the hum of the room, and lingering over wine makes the experience feel deeply personal.

As one of the most romantic restaurants in New York, Lilia is perfect for couples who appreciate craftsmanship, simplicity, and food that speaks for itself.

It’s not flashy, but it’s incredibly special.

7. Francie (Williamsburg)

Francie offers a refined, elegant take on romance without feeling stiff or intimidating.

The dining room is beautifully designed, with soft lighting, plush seating, and a sense of calm sophistication that makes it perfect for a Valentine’s Day celebration.

The menu is polished and seasonal, ideal for couples looking to mark an occasion with exceptional food and attentive service.

Every detail feels intentional, from the pacing of the meal to the atmosphere of the room.

Francie stands out among the most romantic restaurants in New York for couples who enjoy fine dining that still feels warm and approachable.

It’s a fantastic choice for anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, or any night you want to feel a little dressed up.

A Foodie’s Guide to the Most Romantic Restaurants in New York

Choosing from the most romantic restaurants in New York can feel overwhelming, but the beauty of dining in NYC is that romance comes in many forms.

Whether you prefer a candlelit Italian trattoria, a historic steakhouse, a minimalist sushi counter, or a skyline-view fine dining experience, there’s a perfect spot for every kind of couple.

Valentine’s Day in New York isn’t just about the food. It’s about atmosphere, connection, and those small moments that turn a dinner into a memory.

Book early, dress up a little, and let the city do what it does best.

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By Orlagh Shanks

Orlagh Shanks is the Editor of Orlagh Claire, an award-winning travel and lifestyle blog.
After working in the PR & Influencer Marketing industry, Orlagh quit her job to travel Asia for 12 months and moved to Sydney, Australia where she is now a full-time travel blogger and content creator sharing travel tips and recommendations for all 30 of the countries she’s visited so far.

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