Celebrate your loved one this Valentine’s Day (with good food, and lots of champagne). From the inducted West Village bistro we all know as The Waverly Inn to Tribeca’s latest Japanese establishment, Tetsu, allow us to guide you through our favorite romantic restaurants in downtown Manhattan:

For the ultimate steak: Raoul’s

Raoul’s is a classic New York staple since the 1970’s. For years, the French bistro draws a creative crowd always down to have a good time. With a rich history, comes a rich menu filled with French classics. The steak au poivre and toffee dome, towering over a delectable crème brûlée, are must eats – truly the best in town.
180 Prince Street, New York NY 10012

For the best pasta: Via Carota

Nestled on the quaint stretch of West Village’s Grove Street, Via Carota is our go to spot for the most delicious bowl of pasta. The decor is very much inspired by the romantic hills of Tuscany, filled with wooden furniture and vintage accents. This neighborhood spot stems from the same people behind other favorites like I Sodi and Buvette, so you know the food is going to be good. Menu highlights include the Tonarelli Cacio Pepe and Pappardelle Wild Boar Ragu – perfect to share.
51 Grove Street, New York NY 10014

For a warm fireplace: The Waverly Inn

A pioneer in the downtown restaurant scene, The Waverly Inn is a historic dining institution luring Manhattan locals for years. The fireplace in the main dining room sets a cozy ambiance, while the menu is an ever-changing choice of classics. It’s a place to celebrate New York culture (or a romantic date!).
16 Bank Street, New York NY 10014

For just-opened Japanese: Tetsu

Sushi aficionado Masa Takayama brings his newest venture to lower Manhattan. Tetsu is the casual version of Masa’s other super pricy $500 omakase restaurants you’ll find in stuffy neighborhoods uptown. The menu focuses on robata-grilled Japanese specialties, like saucy baby back ribs and a notable lamb burger. The space boasts chic interiors and  the cocktail menu features ingredients with lots of Asian influence.
78 Leonard Street, New York NY 10013

For Uptown vibes, Downtown: Carbone

At Carbone, the waiters are dressed to the nines serving traditional Italian cuisine. Set in Greenwich Village, the white table cloth establishment features an upscale, dimly lit atmosphere perfect for a romantic evening for two. The go to order typically includes the spicy rigatoni vodka and double lamb chop.
181 Thompson Street, New York NY 10012

For something casual: Wildair

The more approachable sister of Michelin-star restaurant Contra, with a lively bar scene. Located in the heart of the Lower East Side, Wildair serves refined and inventive “bar food” paired with an extensive collection of natural wines and artisanal cocktails. The small space offers big flavor, and almost always has a long wait time. They do not accept reservations, so we recommend putting your name down early and getting a cocktail somewhere nearby.
142 Orchard Street, New York NY 10002

For a cozy dinner table: Club Room at Soho Grand

An iconic hotel bar to New York’s stylish downtown crowd. This Valentine’s Day enjoy a special 3-course $75 prix fixe menu at the Club Room at Soho Grand, featuring Chef’s chilled Maine lobster and Long Island crescent duck a l’orange. Sophisticated in style and distinct in design, Club Room is an artful blend of old and new where you can share a decadent dinner aside the toasty fireplace. Then, we suggest indulging in the espresso cake and strawberry sorbet champagne – a sweet Valentine’s Day touch. Click here for the full Valentine’s Day menu.
310 W Broadway, New York NY 10013