As New York City comes back to life after the long hard months of the coronavirus pandemic, we think it’s the perfect moment to think about romance. Remember that? When we could leave our homes and meet someone at a restaurant, or take a long walk along the Hudson, or ply the waters of the pond near the Boathouse in Central Park? Some things have changed in Gotham, but the enduring romance of the city is alive and well (if you know where to look). Our correspondent Abbie Martin Greenbaum has curated a list of the 11 most romantic and charming places for couples on a date to visit in New York City right now. Of course, if you’re with the right person, the supermarket can be really romantic. So choose your companion wisely, dear reader.
New York City has finally stretched its arms and opened its eyes. And now that the weather has hit its stride – not too hot, not too cold – we can’t wait to get out there and join in the fun. As we step out of our apartments and into the sun, we can feel it – love is in the air.
[white_box]Join our community
For access to insider ideas and information on the world of luxury, sign up for our Dandelion Chandelier newsletter. And see luxury in a new light.
sign up now >
[/white_box]
As you may already know, searches for dating apps are up 3,400% on Google. After a year of loneliness and isolation, people are looking to mingle, meet new people, and have a good time.
And if you happen to live in New York, here are some suggestions of where you might want to go for that good time. Whether you’re in a long-term relationship, or you’re planning a first date, here are the most romantic spots in the city right now – head to any of these, and you can’t go wrong.
1. Central Park
Central Park should be the go-to spot on everybody’s date list. The landmark’s many weddings and proposals should have already clued you in. Nothing’s quite as romantic as a sunset picnic in a park. And well, Central Park is the best we’ve got.
The most romantic and charming places for couples on a date to visit in New York City, including parks: Central Park.
And lucky for us, it’s pretty spectacular. Even among the tourists, the teenagers, and the zombie raccoons, Central Park still has a world of cozy nooks and crannies for you to discover. That’s part of its magic. No matter how much the park has going on, there’s always room for you and your love story.
[white_box]Related Post
10 immersive art installations sparking joy and wonder this Summer 2021
read more >
[/white_box]
2. Film Forum
Oh, how we’ve missed the movies. Not just watching movies (which we did plenty of over the last year), but going out to the movies. There’s nothing quite like the magic of sitting beside someone in a dark theater, and getting to share in the love of a Third Thing.
The most romantic and charming spots for couples to visit in New York City right now: Film Forum. Courtesy Photo.
And there’s no theater like Film Forum – open since the 1970’s, the New York icon screens a dependable roster of the best films, both new and old. If you’re looking to attempt the classic movie date, this is where you should go. And afterwards, you can head to any of tremendous restaurants nearby. Our suggestion? Nami Nori. Not only is it one of the best restaurants in New York, but according to Bustle, studies have shown that “eating sushi on a first date boosts the chance of a second one by 170%.” Those sound like pretty good odds to us.
3. Valentino Pier
Depending on where in the city you live, a trip to Red Hook may feel like something of an ordeal. Not accessible by subway, this Brooklyn neighborhood is the borough’s best kept secret. So, you may not know that Valentino Pier offers one of the best views of sunset in the entire city.
The most romantic and charming places for couples to visit in New York City: Valentino Pier, Red Hook, Brooklyn.
If you’re looking for a romantic spot that’s also an adventure, make a whole evening of it. Do a little record shopping, grab an early (or late) burger at the much-lauded Red Hook Tavern, and make sure to hit the water in time for sundown – you won’t regret it.
4. Lincoln Center
Lincoln Center has been hailed as a Manhattan romantic hotspot for decades – but this might be its most romantic moment yet.
The most romantic and charming places in New York City: Lincoln Center. Courtesy Photo.
The famous plaza has been reimagined as a public park, complete with an enormous green space, places to sit, food and drink, and even live pop-up performances. If this doesn’t sound like the perfect ready-made date, we don’t know what does.
[white_box]Related Post
10 beautiful gardens in America best for a visit in Summer 2021
read more >
[/white_box]
5. Attaboy
Sometimes, you just want to do drinks. But of course, you don’t want to go just do drinks. You want a place that’s atmospheric, and maybe a little bit special – you know, romantic. Head to New York’s favorite speakeasy, Attaboy.
The most romantic and charming places in New York City, including parks, restaurants and museums: Attaboy. Courtesy Photo.
Hidden on an unassuming Lower East Side side-street (knock on the door), this little gem holds the key to your – and your date’s – heart. But don’t expect a menu – simply tell the bartender the flavors that you enjoy, and they’ll make you the drink of your dreams.
6. Albertine
What is it about bookstores? Maybe it’s the way they’ve been featured in media (think You’ve Got Mail). Or maybe it’s the fact that they literally hold so much love inside of them. Especially if you’re going for a daytime date, there’s nothing like the right shelf to provide the right mood for your rendezvous. And for that, we highly recommend Albertine.
The most romantic places in New York City: Albertine. Courtesy Photo.
In a city full of first-rate bookstores, this French spot is the one that has the aesthetics to match your special day. And since its on 5th avenue, you can punctuate the afternoon with a museum, or a sit in the park.
7. Little Island
The latest secret spot for glorious views and private romantic moments with your paramour is Little Island, on the West Side at Pier 55. It won’t be secret for long, though. So hurry along and see it now. You’ll find gorgeous meadows filled with native flowers; beautifully landscaped trees, and almost always live music or entertainment.
The most romantic and charming places for couples on a date to visit in New York City: Little Island.
The brainchild of Barry Diller, Little Island is an extension of the Hudson River Park. Which means it provides spectacular views of the Freedom Tower and lower Manhattan. And some of the best sunset views in the city. Open until 1:00A, you can also just hang out and watch the stars come out. There’s food and drink available there, too.
8. Bar Blondeau
Bar Blondeau is so new, it doesn’t even have a website yet. Located on the roof of the Wythe Hotel, this luxurious spot in Williamsburg is already getting rave reviews.
The most romantic and charming places for couples on a date to visit in New York City: Bar Blondeau. Courtesy Photo.
From the same team behind the impeccable Le Crocodile, the brand-new bar boasts a delicious menu, an impressive list of natural wines, and best of all, a swoon-worthy view of the Manhattan skyline. Arrive in time to watch the sunset, and it’ll be a night to remember.
[white_box]Related Post
the most romantic luxury restaurants in the world right now
read more >
[/white_box]
9. Brooklyn Botanical Garden
Yes, we are enormous fans of the New York Botanical Garden. But for a date? We recommend trying Brooklyn.
The most romantic and charming places for couples on a date to visit in New York City: The Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
There’s something about this place, nestled in the northern side of Prospect Park, that effuses romance. It’s a little smaller, a little softer, and it lends itself to a lovely walk. Make a day of it. Especially in the spring during cherry blossom season. Or in the fall, as the leaves are all ablaze.
10. Tomi Jazz
Some nights call for dinner and a show, and Tomi Jazz has both. This excellent Japanese restaurant and bar also happens to host daily jazz shows in their intimate space. Can you imagine anything more romantic? Before you know it, you’ll be a regular.
The most romantic and charming places for couples on a date to visit in New York City: Tomi Jazz. Courtesy Photo.
11. Sleep No More
Sleep No More isn’t new. But after more than a year away, we cannot wait to return to the show on October 4th. And since the famous production of Macbeth is completely immersive, you’ll find that it’s always a little new.
The most romantic and charming places for couples on a date to visit in New York City: Sleep No More. Courtesy Photo.
If you’re looking to impress someone, take them to dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, Gallow Green, and then upstairs for the one-of-a-kind production. It’s romantic, it’s exciting, and there’s nothing else like it in all of New York.
the most romantic and charming places for couples in New York City right now
That’s our list of the most romantic and charming places for couples to visit in New York City right now, including parks, museums, restaurants and bars. Social distancing, begone! It’s time to bring back PDAs and public canoodling. And what better place than New York City as the backdrop for your marvelous romance?
join our community
For access to insider ideas and information on the world of luxury, sign up for our Dandelion Chandelier Newsletter here. And see luxury in a new light.
This article contains affiliate links to products independently selected by our editors. As an Amazon Associate, Dandelion Chandelier receives a commission for qualifying purchases made through these links.
Abbie Martin Greenbaum grew up in New York City and currently lives in Brooklyn, where she drinks a lot of coffee and matches roommates together for a living. At Oberlin College, she studied English and Cinema, which are still two of her favorite things, along with dessert and musical theater. She believes in magic.
