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Valentine’s Day is only a few weeks away, and bookings for restaurants are quickly filling up. But, of course, not everyone celebrates their love in the same way. Some relationships are new and budding, while others lean more practical over being super romantic. So if you are looking something for a little different, here's a guide for where to eat and what to do this Valentine's Day based on your relationship status.
RECOMMENDED: The best things to do for Valentine’s Day in NYC
If it's your first Valentine’s Day together, reserve Rolo’s
It’s a new relationship, and the pressure to make the first V Day memorable is on. For a nice mix of romance without laying it on too thick, go to Rolo’s. It may be a neighborhood spot, but Rolo’s wood-fired, two-sheet lasagna and martinis with spears of peppers on top are sure enough to make it memorable.
If you are still defining the relationship, head to Jadis
First of all, pause. I dare you to open your messaging app and send that fateful text, “What are we?” Because let’s face it—it’s 2025 and life is too short to be living in limbo. But, if don't mind keeping it chill or if you are only on date three anyway, then Jadis is a good place to be. This low-lit subterranean wine bar has cheese and charcuterie, plus plenty of wine and cushiony couches pushed against brick walls for casual canoodles.
If you are a sucker for romance, reserve The Ellington
The cards, the flowers, the oversized bears—Valentine’s Day is a day on the calendar that actually matters to you. A night out that is guaranteed to bring the heart-eyed emoji to life is a night at The Ellington. The evening starts with a three-course prix fixe dinner for two, priced at $180, plus two cocktails for the taking. Alongside scallops and short rib ravioli, the restaurant will feature tunes from Harlem-born jazz pianist, Danny Mixon. If whispering sweet nothings over molten lava chocolate cake is in the stars, you can find it at The Ellington.
If you are ready to take the next step, reserve Winona’s
All of your friends already know about them. You have tentative plans to go upstate this summer. You finally removed “from Hinge” from their name in your phone. Let’s face it—you’re hooked and aren’t afraid to show it. Make it official at Winona’s. The neighborhood restaurant is just as thoughtful as you are with seasonally-driven dishes and a natural wine list, 300 bottles deep. Plus its exposed wooden beams with live greenery hanging above the dining room gives us all the good vibes. Post an IG story of Winona’s blood orange mackerel crudo and crab tagliatelle this V Day, and don’t forget to tag your boo.
If you are planning on popping the question, reserve Linden’s
The ring is bought and currently sitting in your underwear drawer. Now, you just have to pick the perfect place to propose. Linden’s is a good spot to do it. Not only are they offering a five-course $85 prix-fixe dinner this Valentine’s Day, but you can make it even more special by reserving their Cabin Experience. Priced at $180 per person, this private and cozy cabin comes with a bottle of red, white or sparkling wine, sure to be popped when they say yes.
If your love language is your shared introversion, order from Fornino’s
If catching up after a long day on the couch is the best way you know how to say "I love you, "Greenpoint’s Fornino’s has a deal just for you. Priced at $110, the Pizza Love Kit package includes everything you could ever need for a night in: a snacking plate with imported cheese and fruit, a large salad, two heart-shaped pizzas, tiramisu, chocolates, strawberries and your choice of a bottle, be it red, white, or sparkling. But if the call to go out there this VDay hits you after all, you can also head to the Greenpoint or Dumbo location in Time Out Market New York.
If Galentine’s Day > Valentine’s Day, head to Bar Bonobo
Thanks to the patron saint Leslie Knope, we have Galentine’s Day. Celebrated on February 13, Galentine’s Day is all about ladies celebrating ladies, and Bar Bonobo is throwing a soirée for you and your favorite pals. Held on the day before V Day, the Galentine's Day party will include tarot readings, a DJ and specialty cocktails to cheers with your favorite posse.
If you are dating me, myself and I, head to BABA on Withers
For the rest of us, V Day is just another day. But instead of moping inside, BABA on Withers is inviting all the singles to come out this holiday—be it ladies, men or they/thems. Vibe out at this natural wine bar in Williamsburg over tunes spun by DJ HunnyBunny, backyard wine flip cup and flash tattoos. And if you still want to look for your future someone, sign up for a matchmaking experience hosted by two local matchmakers. Admission is $10 and includes a complimentary jello shot.