This post is all about romantic restaurants in the West Village.
New York is for the romantics. Some of the best rom-coms are set in NYC – When Harry Met Sally, You’ve Got Mail, and Serendipity, to name a few.
If you find yourself in NYC wanting to recreate a romantic day, you’ve got to start with the food. In my opinion, the West Village is one of the best neighborhoods to bring a date. In this charming neighborhood, you’ll find some of the city’s best restaurants – French, Italian, Indian, Asian – you name it. After your meal, enjoy a stroll along the quiet streets or the West Side Highway.
Whether it’s a first date, Valentine’s Day, or a special anniversary, your date will definitely be impressed if you bring them to one of these romantic restaurants in the West Village.
11 Romantic Restaurants in the West Village
1. Anton’s
The thing I love about Anton’s is that it’s perfect any time of day. Whether you’re sipping Aperol spritzes on the patio during the spring, or if you sit down for a full meal in the restaurant, it’s always a win. The menu is simple and unfussy, just fresh, seasonal ingredients. You’ll want to order lots of things to share.
2. The Lavaux
If you love an activity date, you need to go to The Lavaux for fondue. This Swiss restaurant is at the top of the game for fondue in NYC. You can get a cheese fondue for your entree, served with potatoes, bread, and pickles for dipping, or opt for a chocolate fondue for dessert, served with strawberries, bananas, and Belgian waffles. Or go for both 😉
3. King
For a sophisticated date, head to King. The menu changes daily but is French and Italian-inspired. I’m always impressed by how simple yet flavorful the food here is and how seasonal flavors are incorporated. This restaurant isn’t flashy – the interior is cozy and intimate, the music isn’t too loud – it’s a great spot for a romantic date!
4. Waverly Inn
Visit the historic Waverly Inn, which was once a tavern in the 1850s. Over the years, this hotspot has attracted writers, actors, and many celebrities (Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, Meg Ryan, Robert DeNiro, and Gwyneth Paltrow to name a few!). The cozy townhouse is full of charm, with leather banquettes and a mural covering an entire wall. Make sure to order their famous chicken pot pie!
5. Malatesta
Pasta is the way to anyone’s heart, right? Malatesta is a casual neighborhood Italian spot that feels like a trip to Italy. The servers are all Italian and bring a fun energy to the restaurant. Whether you sit inside or choose sidewalk seats, you’ll want to stay for hours.
6. Buvette
A French restaurant will always be romantic, and Buvette is my top pick in the West Village. In fact, they have a restaurant in Paris, and I can confirm that the menu and atmosphere are the same! The rustic cafe is known for its simple, small plates.
Go for brunch and try the fluffy steamed eggs and my favorite, pain perdu (French toast!). Or visit for dinner and share some salads, escargots, and steak.
7. St. Jardim
This local wine spot is the perfect spot to bring a date! If you snag one of the coveted outdoor tables, you’ll have a prime people-watching perch. This is a great place to linger for a while. St. Jardim has a fantastic natural wine menu and serves bites and snacks throughout the day.
8. Semma
If your date enjoys ethnic cuisine, Semma is a must! This South Indian spot highlights recipes you’d be served by a home cook. It’s a beautiful tribute to culture, flavor, and tradition. From cardamom spiced short rib to their biryanis and dosas, you’ll want to try it all.
9. Via Carota
Bar Pisellino
Via Carota
Via Carota is always a good choice for a date. Don’t sweat it if you don’t manage to get a reservation ahead of time, right across the street is Bar Pisellino (run by the same owners) where you can start your date with drinks while perched on one of the best people-watching corners in the West Village.
Via Carota is one of those places where you get a bunch of things to share, so prepare to fill your table (and stomach) with arancini, the famous big green salad, and pasta. Don’t forget to save room for dessert!
10. One If By Land, Two If By Sea
This is consistently rated one of the most romantic restaurants in all of New York City. If you want to pull out all of the stops for a special anniversary or occasion, this is the place to go. And fun history fact, the building dates back to the 1790’s when it was Aaron Burr’s carriage house.
Step foot into One If By Land, Two If By Sea, and you’ll find candlelit tables, a crackling brick fireplace, and live piano music. The menu includes classics like beef wellington and cornish game hen, and chocolate souffle.
11. 4 Charles Prime Rib
Get ready for what many New Yorkers argue is the best steakhouse in downtown Manhattan. Although 4 Charles Prime Rib is tucked away on a quiet street, it gets quite a bit of attention, so you definitely want to make sure you have a reservation. Whether you go for the prime rib or the wagyu burger served with a fried egg and thick-cut bacon, your date will be wowed.
That concludes this post about the most romantic restaurants in the West Village.
Armed with this list, I know your next date will be off to a great start!