Best Restaurants for a First Date in NYC

You’ve been waiting for your crush to ask you out for months, and when the moment finally comes, the two of you can’t seem to settle on where to grab dinner. A fancy, candlelit meal is surely over-the-top for date #1, but on the other hand, Chipotle is a bit too casual. Sound familiar? Don’t fear, NYC lovebirds. These five romantic city spots are totally first date-worthy—you might just even snag a kiss by the time you’ve finished your spaghetti…


1. Haru
Share a variety of exotic sushi rolls with your BAE as you get to know each other. Asking whether he prefers salmon or tuna is the perfect place to start!

2. Rosa Mexicano
Quesadillas and enchiladas go hand-in-hand with your first date conversation. Bonus points for feeding her the first dip in the guac (prepared tableside)!

3. Pietro Nolita
This all-pink NYC hotspot is relatively small, making it a cozy first date location. Besides, you can never go wrong with a classic bowl of Spaghetti al Pomodoro—Lady in the Tramp style, anyone?

4. Jue Lan Club
Try to score a reservation in the outdoor garden courtyard at this trendy Chinese eatery—total #ambiencegoals. Not to mention, the chicken satays smothered in peanut sauce are to die for.

5. While We Were Young
Reminisce about your childhood over a plate of their famous truffle fries. Even if the night doesn’t go as you hoped, recall the restaurant’s slogan: “We were together—forget the rest.”