Just because Valentine’s Day is over doesn’t mean your perfect date night has to go out the window. New York City is chuck full of different spots to take your someone special, but it does take a little digging to find the right place to fit your mood, your budget, and your outfit, of course. After my time in NYC, I have developed a few all occasion date spots. Whether your friends created you a Tinder profile or you and your BF are tired of eating takeout on the couch every weekend, these spots won’t disappoint. See below for some of my must try places in NYC.

 

Buvette

This West Village staple reminds us why we all deep down wish we were French. The quaint, love is in the air atmosphere is perfect for a first date or for couples looking to try something new. Not only is the food incredible, but it’s also not incredibly pricey (for New York that is). The romantic vibe calls for a romantic look. Think deep reds and pinks.

Bonus: This restaurant is floor to ceiling Insta-friendly, so make sure your insta-boyfriend is prepared for to get some good shots of your outfit.

The Ellington 

The best way I can describe the Ellington is the local go-to. Located at 106th and Amsterdam, this cozy spot was only a two block walk from my old apartment. The menu is your classic American grub: burgers, nachos, salads etc. The staff is incredibly warm and the prices (New Yorker or not) are more than fair. This is the perfect date spot for those nights that your outfit is too cute for takeout, but your wallet is not prepared for the steakhouse.

Bonus: Free Wifi y’all!

Peasant:

What better place to show off a rustic look than a quintessential rustic Italian restaurant? The answer: nowhere. If you and your someone special want to check out this Nolita gem, make sure you are in the mood to share, because the menu holds too much deliciousness to only try one entree.

Bonus: Check out the cellar if there isn’t room upstairs.

Shake Shack 

I know what all of you are thinking. Shake Shack really? What is special about Shake Shack? Clearly those people haven’t been to Shake Shack. Listen this is my guide, so I make the rules. There’s few people I would turn a Shake Shack date down with, and I am confident many other females feel the same.

Bonus: If you don’t actually get a shake, what are you doing?

Apotheke

Number one first date rule in Manhattan: go for drinks not dinner. Number two first date rule in Manhattan: make sure the bar is cool enough to keep conversation going in case things go south. Okay maybe I made that second one up. Regardless, running out of things to talk about will be the least of your concerns at this unique spot. From the unusual drink menu to the even more unusual presentation, this place will keep both the cocktails and the conversation flowing.

Bonus: This place has a secret door, so keep your eyes peeled.