Couples looking for a romantic evening out can choose from a plethora of dining destinations that highlight cuisines and culinary experiences from around the world. Options range from traditional Japanese-style izakayas and full-service teahouses to French-influenced food halls and Israeli-fusion cafes. Elegant cocktail lounge spaces offer a romantic ambiance and unparalleled city skyline views, perfect for a special night out.
Top picks for:
- Fitness couples: trampoLEAN
- History fans: Bowling Green and the Charging Bull
- Photographers and walkers: Brooklyn Bridge Walk
1.Cha-An Teahouse
Savor handcrafted Japanese teas and admire peaceful décor on an easy afternoon trip.
Cha-An Teahouse is a serene Japanese-style teahouse in East Village that embodies the spirit of omotenashi—Japanese hospitality—through its warm ambiance, featuring tatami benches, washi-paper lamps, and seasonal floral arrangements.
Why Visit:
- Tea Culture: Enjoy a diverse selection of global teas, including matcha, sencha, Darjeeling, and Gongfu-style Tieguanyin oolong.
- Afternoon Tea Service: Relax with formal afternoon tea or sip throughout the day in a peaceful, authentic setting.
- Japanese Cuisine: Savor lunch donburi specials, kayu and chakura-style prix-fixe menus, and standout desserts like yukimi zenzai and hojicha anmitsu.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Experience refined Japanese aesthetics and traditions in the heart of NYC.
Address:
Cha-An Teahouse, 230 E 9th St Floor 2, New York, NY 10003
Phone: 212-228-8030
chaanteahouse.com
2.Ophelia Lounge NYC
Enjoy rooftop cocktails and admire skyline views during a romantic weekend escape.
Ophelia Lounge NYC is the exclusive rooftop lounge at Manhattan's Beekman Tower, offering stunning 360-degree views of the city skyline from a year-round greenhouse terrace. Located in the iconic Art Deco-style skyscraper originally built in 1928 as the Panhellenic Tower, this upscale destination blends historic charm with modern luxury.
Why Visit:
- Historic Setting: Housed in a landmark Art Deco tower with nearly a century of New York City history.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy sweeping skyline views from a glass-enclosed rooftop lounge.
- Gourmet Fare: Indulge in elevated small plates like Maine lobster spring rolls, grilled cheese, and beef sliders, plus entrees like prime beef tenderloin with Brooklyn bourbon.
- Craft Cocktails: Sip on creative drinks like the West Side Crusta with salted butter caramel tea or the elegant Purple Tuxedo with Empress gin and absinthe.
Address:
Ophelia Lounge NYC, 3 Mitchell Pl 26th Floor, New York, NY 10017
Phone: 212-980-4796
opheliany.com
3.The ELK
Grab artisan coffee and explore charming West Village streets on a quick morning outing.
The ELK is a cozy hybrid café and general store nestled in Manhattan’s charming West Village. This neighborhood gem blends rustic Pacific Northwest style with New York sophistication, creating a warm and inviting spot for coffee lovers and lifestyle shoppers alike.
Why Visit:
- Rustic Charm: Enjoy warm, wood-accented interiors designed by Saturday Surf NYC’s Ennis McIntosh.
- Craft Coffee: Sip sustainably-sourced single-origin pourovers, cortados, lattes, and more.
- All-Day Fare: Indulge in baked egg toasts, brûléed grapefruit, and other café favorites.
- Unique Shopping: Browse a curated selection of succulents, candles, pantry goods, and local gifts.
Address:
The ELK, 128 Charles St, New York, NY 10014
Phone: 212-933-4780
theelknyc.com
4.Lolo's Seafood Shack
Taste Caribbean street food and savor fresh seafood in this affordable Harlem gem.
Lolo's Seafood Shack is a vibrant Caribbean-inspired eatery near Morningside Park, helmed by executive chef Raymond Mohan since 2014. This lively spot fuses Cape Cod coastal favorites with bold island flavors, offering a flavorful escape in the heart of Harlem.
Why Visit:
- Island Vibes: Dive into Caribbean street food fused with classic New England seafood staples.
- Flavorful Menus: Enjoy conch fritters, jerk ribs, crawfish, shark bakes, and chef’s tasting menus.
- Signature Dishes: Savor fish fry baskets with house remoulade and smoky meat platters.
- Tropical Drinks: Sip tequila- and rum-based cocktails alongside beer and house wine selections.
Address:
Lolo's Seafood Shack, 303 W 116th St, New York, NY 10026
Phone: 646-649-3356
lolosseafoodshack.com
Map:
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents: