By Melanie King and Chandler Presson By Melanie King and Chandler Presson | January 30, 2025 | Food & Drink, Feature, Guides,
Romance can be found around every corner in New York City. Whether you're looking for a candlelit dinner or stunning views of Central Park, we've rounded up the seven most romantic restaurants to visit in NYC.
See also: The 9 Best Restaurants With Fireplaces In NYC
17 Barrow St. / 212.255.8649 / Website
Often recognized as the most romantic restaurant in New York, it's no surprise One If By Land, Two If By Sea made the top of the list. With its beautiful chandeliers, brick fireplaces and candlelit tables, this Manhattan restaurant has a charm that can't be beat. Enjoy its traditional American cuisine while listening to the sounds of live piano and the chatter of love.
400 Fifth Ave., #2 / 212.613.8660 / Website
Located in the Langham Hotel, this charming eatery draws inspiration from the Italian and French Riviera. Enjoy a seven-course experience loaded with the chef's most-loved dishes while surrounded by fresh blooms and candlelight.
10 Columbus Circle / 212.823.9335 / Website
Overlooking Central Park sits this three-Michelin-starred French restaurant with an intimate and inviting environment. With a nine-course tasting menu, this New York favorite offers an incredible experience with even better eats. Be prepared to spend the evening here, because the tasting takes around three hours to enjoy.
88 Madison Ave. / 212.691.0555 / Website
What better way to spend date night than to visit the flagship restaurant of one of the world's most coveted Italian restaurants? Located in The James Hotel, this sophisticated restaurant dishes up traditional classics such as spaghetti and ravioli cacio e pepe, all with an original twist.
340 Bleecker St. / 212.969.8221 / Website
Whether you're looking for a cozy brunch spot or a dinner stop sure to impress, this West Village restaurant won't disappoint. With a beautiful retro-style interior and delicious Italian cuisine inspired by the Mediterranean coast, St. Theo's combines comfort and class for a perfect night out.
5 Madison Ave. / 212.413.4300 / Website
Located right next to Madison Square Park, this swanky New York staple transports guests to the delicious eats of London. A winner of the Wine Spectator's 2023 Best of Award of Excellence, this British-inspired spot is the perfect stop for a glass of wine—after all, there are 700 selections.
567 Union Ave. / 718.576.3095 / Website
Nestled in Williamsburg, this elegant eatery brings classic Italian eats to Brooklyn. From its traditional handcrafted pastas to soulful seafood and entrees, this is a perfect pick for a romantic evening. Explore Lilia's long list of Italian wines and grab a glass (or two) to pair.
194 Elizabeth St. / 212.965.9511 / Website
Located in Nolita, this ultra-cozy spot by chef Marc Forgione specializes in handmade pastas, wood-fired dishes and Italian wines. Plenty of candles, brick walls and vintage charm make this one of the warmest settings in all of New York City. The seasonal menu is full of hearty Italian food and delicious shareable dishes that have us coming back for more date night after date night.
16 Bank St. / 917.828.1154 / Website
This celebrity favorite might be sceney (it often hosts the likes of Taylor Swift, Madonna and Jay-Z thanks to its no-photographs policy) but that doesn't mean it's not romantic. Delicious and homey food, great cocktails and a functional fireplace make this spot undeniably romantic. Don’t skip dessert!
403 E. 12th St. / 646.602.1300 / Website
Warm, inviting interiors, a fantastic wine list, delicious, seasonally driven cuisine and fabulous cocktails are just a few of the things to love about Hearth. The team even mills their own flour and polenta from heirloom grains on a daily basis. There’s a reason this neighborhood favorite has thrived for 20 years, and we hope they never leave.
Photography by: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com