Romance is always in the air in New York City, but we're especially romantic on Valentine's Day. Whether you're planning a date night with your significant other or simply hitting the town with friends, we’ve rounded up the best things to do around the Big Apple to make the most out of Cupid’s holiday.
When you're done perusing this list, check out how to celebrate Valentine's Day 2021 in our other markets: Aspen, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Orange County, Palm Beach, Philadelphia, San Diego, San Francisco, Scottsdale, Silicon Valley, and Washington D.C.
See also: 6 Thoughtful Valentine's Day Gifts For The Man In Your Life
Whether you order a luxurious meal prepared by NYC’s top chefs or cozy up with that special someone at the city’s most charming restaurants, here are some of the best dining options across town.
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181 Thompson St / Website
This famous eatery’s modern approach on the rustic Italian red sauce joint is larger than life both in atmosphere and portion sizes. There’s really not a meal to be eaten at Carbone that’s not over the top. Expect a romantic evening with a touch of old school style and plenty of Italian cuisine sophistication. Don’t skip the acclaimed rigatoni alla vodka, featuring exceptional house-made maccheroni drenched in sweet melted onions and spicy cream.
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53 Howard St / Website
Everything from La Mercerie’s velvety curtains and shabby-chic ceramics evokes the charms of classic French bistros. Chef Marie-Aude Rose’s boeuf bourguignon, fluffy crepes and tuna sandwiches rightfully introduce the Parisian street staple in Manhattan. The restaurant’s candle-lit, brick-walled outdoor dining space will render your magical evening unforgettable.
There is no greater love than that which you have for your girl gang. Head to one of these NYC spots to toast your bestie and have the ultimate girl’s night.
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47 Avenue B / Website
Calling all mermaids. This East Village seafood eatery is a vibrant underwater dream. With three themed decor levels and a raw bar, Lamia’s Fish Market serves quality coastal Mediterranean cuisine with a side of Insta-worthy moments.
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611 5th Ave / Website
Render your girls’ night out as stylish as possible by dining inside Saks Fifth Avenue. Upon finishing your French dessert, you can take a sneak peek at the restaurant's secret, chalet-inspired lounge that transports you to the Alps.
See also: 7 Gift Ideas For A Fun-Filled Galentine's Day
For a truly memorable celebration, surprise your sweetheart with one of these day trips and activities.
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Fly to upstate New York and chase the most powerful waterfalls in North America. The Journey Behind the Falls experience offers a breathtaking view of one-fifth of the world’s water tumbling down right in front of you.
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Water St &, State St / Website
Take a three-minute trip inside a color-changing, LED fiberglass fishbowl at the Battery Park SeaGlass Carousel. Or, simply sit on a bench and enjoy the best darn “sunset over the water” experience this city has to offer with the Staten Island Ferry and Lady Liberty as a silhouetted backdrop.
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113 Jane St / Website
Entering the Jane Hotel feels like stepping on to a movie set. Go back in time for a dance at the Jane Hotel's roaring 1908 old-fashioned party. Decorated with mismatched chairs and a cozy fireplace, the eccentric ballroom is ideal for a Valentine's night of fun, drinks and whimsy.
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99 Margaret Corbin Dr / Website
Set in a lovely park overlooking the Hudson River, The Cloisters houses the Met’s medieval architecture and art collections. A narrow trail leads to a castle where romance and tranquility prevail. Who said chivalry was dead?
Since you can’t hop on a plane to the nearest tropical destination, treat your loved one with an urban staycation at the city’s most glamorous hotels and fall in love with New York all over again.
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27 Barclay St / Website
To celebrate its fourth anniversary, Four Seasons NY Downtown reimagined its former Royal Suite and renamed it the Empire Suite to reflect NYC’s chic lifestyle. Featuring a living room, dining room, walk-in closet, two bathrooms, master bedroom and a full catering kitchen, the Empire Suite offers the ultimate sanctuary for your Valentine’s Day getaway.
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1170 Broadway / Website
Known for beaux-arts beauty that boasts romance and mystery, The NoMad’s V-Day season offers are truly tempting. Upon proof of residence, the hotel serves a local's rate starting from $305 plus tax per night.
See also: 9 Sweet Valentine's Day Gifts For Her
NYC is a concrete jungle, but it has some of the top talent in floral design. Say "I love you" with a flower arrangement from one of New York’s finest.
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447 W 16th St / Website
The Chelsea florist is known for orchids, both cuttings and plants, dealing particularly in the rare and unusual. Owner Banchet Jaigla creates contemporary arrangements using flowers from as far afield as Europe, South America and Asia.
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120 W 28th St / Website
This florist’s wide selections makes it easy to find the perfect arrangement for the best Valentine’s day gift. Their famous roses in a box are true showstoppers.
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Sourcing directly from the finest local farmers and global growers, Winston creates floral designs that are ever-loving and irresistibly charming.
If you're looking for truffles in heart-shaped gift boxes, these city chocolate shops do deliver.
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Various locations / Website
Better known as “Mr. Chocolate,” French-inspired Jacques Torres Chocolate and his signature truffles have earned his moniker, covering the full span from praline and caramel to nouveau tastes such as Earl Grey and saffron. Other goodies include chocolate-chip cookies and “wicked” spiced hot chocolate, which are truly heavenly.
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484 Broome St / Website
Dedicated to the belief that chocolate is art, Marie Belle’s rich Aztec hot chocolate and colorful bonbons are not only exquisitely ornate - they're delightfully delicious. The fancy chocolate boxes with the Marie Belle insignia are a sweet thought and the perfect V-day gift.
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225 E 60th St / Website
This NYC landmark has served decadent desserts since 1954, and it now accepts take-out orders. Don’t miss the chance to try the signature Frrrozen Hot Chocolate sipped by Andy Warhol, Grace Kelly and Marilyn Monroe. Served in a mountain of whipped cream sprinkled with chocolate shavings, what more could you ask for on Valentine's Day?
Photography by: Lead image by Natalie/Pexels.com
