I Heart NYC

All the hot date spots are perpetually booked in this town every night of the week as it is, making February 14 a veritable nightmare for an ill-prepared lover. Every year I see ladies racing to nail salons while the gentlemen scurry about trying to snag a fresh bouquet for their sweetheart. Valentine’s Day is upon us. This year we want you to be prepared.

Raoul’s

80 Prince Street (Sullivan & Thompson Streets) 212-966-3518

Try to snag a table in the back garden, but any seat will do at this staple Soho den of French romance. Raoul’s was the first hip place on Prince Street and will most likely be the last. If my date takes me here he get points just for having good taste in restaurants… and women.

The River Café

1 Water Street, Brooklyn  212-522-5200
This gem is located under the Brooklyn bridge lending patrons the most breathtaking views of Manhattan’s skyline short of flying past it via jet. I find it nearly impossible not to fall in love any time I dine here. Floor-to-ceiling windows, a grand piano and delicious fare are the recipe for a Valentine’s Day never to be forgotten.

Savoy

70 Prince Street (Crosby & Lafayette Streets)  212-219-8570
The fireplace crackles. The lights are dim. You can even reserve the chef’s special menu in advance, which will surely make an impression on your date.

Gramercy Tavern

42 East 20th Street (Park Avenue South & Broadway)  212-477-0777
Find sanctuary in NYC’s classiest tavern. The décor has a rustic charm providing a welcome escape from concrete Manhattan. The fine American cuisine will take your taste buds on a little trip as well, to lovers-land.

One If By Land, Two If By Sea

17 Barrow Street (7th Avenue South & W. 4th Street)  212-228-0822
One of New York’s most renowned romantic restaurants. This former carriage house features mood lighting, fire places, live piano and exposed brick walls. It is the perfect platform for a superb Valentine’s dinner.

Just because it is Valentine’s Day does not mean you have to break the bank. The following love-adept restaurants will have your date swooning, while keeping your wallet a little heavier:

Vespa

1625 2nd Avenue at 84th Street  212-472-2050
My favorite out-door garden in New York. A visit to Vespa is like being momentarily whisked off to Italy without the worry of jetlag or the bloody Euro. Don’t think just because it’s February the garden closes. Dozens of heat lamps keep you and your main squeeze warm while hearty pastas warm the belly and the heart. If it rains, not to worry, the inner décor is endearing and cozy. It is imperative not to miss the squash blossoms with goat cheese and citrus batter. They melt in your mouth like the kiss you’ll be having for desert.

Casimir

103 Avenue B. (6th & 7th Streets)  212-358-9683
This East Village French brasserie oozes with romance. It’s dimly lit with antique mirrors and old records lining the walls. There is a lounge area in the back if you want to sit back with a cocktail. I send everyone in need of a date spot here for some of the most superior mussels in Manhattan. At these prices, even the scattered service won’t deter you from getting romance-ready.

Cucina Italiana Paprika

110 St. Mark’s Place (1st Avenue & Avenue A)  212-677-6563
Prices are so reasonable at this cute comfort Italian on the always-exciting St. Mark’s Place that you might be able to splurge on extra roses.

Le Pere Pinard

175 Ludlow Street (Houston & Stanton Streets)  212-777-4917
This charming Lower East Side locale has all the appeal of a Paris bistro. Make sure to order the steak tartar, which is prepared tableside for a little entertainment followed by mouth-watering flavors.

Bar Jamon

125 East 17th Street @ Irving Place  212-253-2773
Snack on Spanish small plates at affordable prices created by the infamous chef Mario Batalli. If you and your honey enjoy ham, olives and wine then this place was made for you two.

Sarah Polonsky is a native New Yorker and journalist who has contributed to The New York Post, The National Enquirer, Life & Style and OK! Magazine. She happily shares her savoir faire and joie de vivre as an editor of My Urban Sherpa.