The most romantic restaurants in NYC, according to an ambience expert

Dining out in New York so often means clamoring to get into the most tightly-packed new hotspots.

But even here in go-go Gotham, there are times when only the most romantic hideaway will do.

They may not be the trendiest, but they don’t need to be — these often long-running retreats from the hurly-burly are where you go to reconnect, to celebrate a special occasion, or even just to be hidden from view (ahem).

The tastemakers at Vogue.com scoured the city to uncover most inspiring spots for an intimate tete-a-tete, citing the importance of ambience, “dim lighting, moody music, elegant decor and an element of mystery” as necessities when booking that very special table for two.

Here are ten highlights from their lengthy list — from well-established to new on the scene — that the experts felt fit the bill.

Raoul’s

“One of those rare New York City institutions that remains unchanged despite operating throughout several decades, Raoul’s is a French bistro that’s been a SoHo staple since 1975,” the author wrote, citing the steak au poivre and oysters as fine options.

The Waverly Inn

“The vibes are strong at this iconic West Village townhouse on the corner of Bank and Waverly,” the expert revealed, recommending a pre-dinner drink by the fireplace, followed by a meal of grilled oysters and roasted chicken in the garden.

“The building dates back to the late 1800s and was originally a tavern, giving the entire experience a romantic old world feel,” they said.

Al Di La

“Nestled on a peaceful corner in Park Slope, Al Di La Trattoria has been serving up handcrafted, simple Italian cuisine since the 1990s. It’s a classic mom-and-pop operation run by a husband and wife duo and is under the helm of chef Anna Klinger,” said the author, suggesting “comforting dishes” like large pasta loops with heritage pork shoulder ragu and a wide range of interesting Italian wines.

Cosme

“This contemporary Mexican restaurant (featured in the World’s 50 Best) celebrates its 10-year anniversary in 2024 and is acclaimed for use of local and seasonal ingredients from the Hudson Valley and the surrounding region, while paying tribute to Mexican flavors,” the author wrote, calling the restaurant a fitting stage for “a thoroughly memorable evening.”

bōm

“Shimmy up to the intimate chef’s counter at this Michelin-starred immersive Korean dining experience in Flatiron,” the author suggests.

“The menu begins with small bites (mostly seafood and vegetables) then progresses into multiple omakase-style courses offering various meats,” they saidi.

Lupetto

This Madison Square Park Italian newbie stole the listmakers heart — “you and your date can relish in a hearty menu of house-made pastas and wood-fired pizzas washed down by a Lupetto Negroni or Venetian Spritz,” they said, making note of the ruggedly sexy setting.

Minetta Tavern

The former haunt of Dylan Thomas and Ernest Hemingway was only recently one of the hottest tables in the city, after restaurateur Keith McNally breathed new life into the space. The restaurant “still attracts similarly magnetic personalities with its red leather banquettes and old-school sensibilities. Cozy up in a booth and order the black label burger with frites and a martini,” the author suggested.

Olmsted

“Snag a reservation at this Prospect Heights gem during the warmer months of the year, when you can enjoy seasonal ingredients in their tranquil backyard garden beneath leafy trees and cascading bistro lights,” the reporter recommended, talking up the tasting menu which reportedly includes includes dishes like “sunchoke falafel with whipped Calabrian honey and rutabaga tagliatelle served with black truffle and brown butter bits.”

Frenchette

This relatively new TriBeCa brasserie “oozes sleekness with its burgundy leather banquettes and marble floors,” the writer said. “The food is top-notch and the natural wine list is curated by industry legend, Jorge Riera. Booking a table (or bar seat) here will always be the right choice,” they noted.

Grand Central Oyster Bar

“If nostalgia is your aphrodisiac, book a table at this legendary New York restaurant, opened in 1913,” the expert said. “Better yet: grab a couple of stools at the bar for a round of oysters and a bottle of Chablis. It’s the kind of fuss-free place that after over a century still feels in-the-know, and can always be followed up with a romantic stroll beneath that gorgeous Grand Central Terminal ceiling mural,” they assured.