Ah, Valentine's Day in New York City—a time when love is in the air, and the pressure to plan the perfect date is as high as the Empire State Building. But fear not, lovebirds (and self-love enthusiasts), because I've (well actually, it was two of our amazing NY team members, Justin and Aanch) curated a list of five swoon-worthy spots that will make your heart (and Instagram feed) flutter. Whether you're aiming to impress a new flame, celebrate with a long-term partner, or treat yourself to a night of indulgence, these NYC locales have got you covered…

1. Tribeca – The Luxe Lover's Playground

Prepare for an evening where opulence knows no bounds. In Tribeca, the motto is simple: splurge now, question your life choices later.

• Start at Smith & Mills (@smithandmills) for an intimate, cozy cocktail moment in what feels like the love child of a vintage train car and a hidden speakeasy. The perfect way to set the tone before indulging in a full-blown Italian love affair.

• Dinner at: Locanda Verde (@locandaverdenyc) – Because nothing screams “romance” like a classic Italian date-night spot, dim lighting, and plates of house-made pasta that will have you low-key considering proposing to your meal.

• Nightcap at: Fouquet’s New York (@fouquets.newyork) – If you’re going to spend an ungodly amount on cocktails, you may as well do it on Valentines day, and might as well do it at one of NYC’s most stunning bars. Their innovative, top-shelf concoctions make the prices (almost) painless. 

2. West Village – The Quintessential NYC Romance

Experience a West Village evening so enchanting, your Instagram followers will be green with envy…

• Start the night by putting your name down at Via Carota (@viacarota) because, let’s be honest, you’re not getting a table right away. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

• Pre-dinner drinks at: West 10th West – A gorgeous cocktail and wine bar with a selection so good, you’ll forget you’re still waiting for that “table is ready” text.

• Dinner at: Via Carota – Once you finally get that text, settle in for one of the best meals of your life. Their Cacio e Pepe is basically foreplay.

• Nightcap at: For classic cash-only pub vibes, head to Corner Bistro (@cornerbistrony).
  For timeless, old-school charm, swing by Anton’s (@antonsnyc) and order a martini or two.

3. Upper East Side – The “Old School NYC Romance” Kind of Night

Live music, champagne, and a touch of old-money energy—this is your Valentine’s Day flex.

• Kick things off with Date Night at The MET (@metmuseum) where you can sip cocktails, listen to live music, and pretend you’re in the opening scene of a very classy rom-com.

• Dinner at: Pascalou – A tucked-away French bistro that feels like a little slice of Paris on the Upper East Side. Perfect for unwinding after the grandeur of The MET, with dishes that whisper, “I took you here because I have exceptional taste.”

• Nightcap at: Bemelmans Bar (📍@bemelmansbar) – If you haven’t been to Bemelmans, do you even live in NYC? Their martinis are legendary, and the live piano music makes you feel like you just stepped into a 1950s love story.

4. Lower East Side – The “Cooler Than Your Ex” Valentine’s Date

A little offbeat, a little unexpected—perfect for those who refuse to do the typical dinner-and-drinks routine. For those who crave a date that's a little off the beaten path, the LES offers surprises at every corner.

• Start at: Metrograph (@metrographnyc) – Like going to the movies, but make it effortlessly cool. Think classic films, vintage glamour, cocktails in the lobby, and hors d’oeuvres served right to your seat.

• Nightcap at: If you want to keep the old-world allure alive, head to The Back Room (@backroomnyc), one of NYC’s last true Prohibition-era speakeasies. If you’re in the mood for something sexy and sophisticated, check out Tigre (@tigre.nyc), where the caviar service and oysters will keep the luxe energy going.

5. Brooklyn – A Riverside Romance

Since Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday this year, take the excuse to cross the bridge and make a whole night of it.

• Start at: Jacques Torres Chocolate (@jacquestorres) – Because every great love story (and date night) starts with chocolate. Grab a box of truffles to-go—you’ll thank me later.

• Pre-dinner drinks at: Bar 56 (@bar56brooklyn) – A cozy, intimate spot with ridiculously good cocktails and the kind of dim lighting that makes everyone look good.

• Dinner at: The River Café (@therivercafe) – With its exquisite tasting menu and unbeatable views of the Manhattan skyline, The River Café is the kind of place where you fall in love—or at least pretend you have your life together long enough to enjoy it.

Remember, the true magic of Valentine's Day isn't just in the venues or the meticulously planned itineraries; it's in the shared moments, the laughter, and the connections you deepen along the way. So, choose the spot that speaks to your heart, raise a glass, and toast to love in all its beautiful forms. And if you’re still on the hunt for that special someone to toast to, we’ve got you covered. Download First Round’s On Me, use code “DATING” for a free month of our highest-level subscription, Terracotta, and let’s turn those maybes into let’s do this. Until next time, happy Valentine's Day, lovebirds! X