The Ultimate NYC COVID Date Spot Guide
photo c/o citizens of
If you’re dating during COVID, it seems like quite the feat to find a restaurant that is a good date spot, especially now that we are in the middle of winter and indoor dining is still a no-go in NYC. It may seem overwhelming to find a spot to get to know someone that 1) is a cool enough spot to go on your first date (or third), 2) has any availability with limited capacity 3) is equipped to keep you and your date warm enough to where you can actually enjoy the date. We’ve done our research to bring you the ultimate NYC covid-date guide, so buckle up and browse through our recs to ease all of your worries for your next date in the city.
Olio E Piu
Head over to West Village and enjoy some of the best Italian food in lower Manhattan. Olio Piu is a remarkable restaurant that has everything you need to enjoy a fantastic meal and stay six feet apart, safe, and warm in these cold temperatures. Head over to their Instagram to browse some of their drool-worthy dishes.
Rosemary’s
photo c/o @rosemarysnyc
Rosemary’s in the West Village on Greenwich Avenue is another incredible Italian spot in lower Manhattan (and a personal fave of your virtual BFF). You can always swing in Rosemary’s with (usually!) no wait time which is amazing. They offer a heated private patio and they’re open for weekday lunch and dinner 4-10pm.
Cookshop
Cookshop is a Chelsea favorite, offering exquisite American food that will never leave you disappointed. They are also on Resy - a reservation app where you can check availability and reserve a spot so you’re not stuck waiting in the cold for a table.
Quality Eats
photo c/o @quality_eats
Quality Eats is the place to go if you’re on the hunt for a nice steak dinner in lower Manhattan. Quality Eats is offering two options for anyone wishing to dine with them — you can either choose a form of traditional outdoor dining with open air and propane heaters, or you can get a cabin that is covered and heating, accommodating 4-6 guests. While the cabins are limited and high in demand, you can book ahead on Resy by selecting the table type “cabin outside” if you’re wanting to get out of the cold completely.
La Pecora Bianca
photo c/o @lapecorabianca
La Pecora Bianca is a marvelous Italian restaurant with locations in SoHo, NoMad, and Midtown, serving the most delicious, fresh, wonderful italian food that you’ve ever experienced. La Pecora Bianca means “the white sheep” in Italian which is totally cool. You can easily make a reservation over on Resy at any three of their locations. And the real reason you should go on a date here? They have MEGA heat lamps. Yes, we said mega. That’s all.
The Garret Bars
photo c/o @thegarretbars
The Garret Bars in West and East Village are a really fun spot to spend a date this winter (or any time of year), not only because of the amazing atmosphere but because you have your own individual pod dedicated to your entire date experience, amazing drinks, and a fun night for whoever is lucky enough to join you on your night out.
Westlight
photo c/o @westlightnyc
Head to the William Vale hotel in Williamsburg, hop on the elevator and head to the 22nd floor to find Westlight, the most amazing rooftop restaurant overlooking all of Manhattan from Brooklyn. They have remarkable drinks here and who doesn’t want to spend a date marveling at the view of the Manhattan skyline? The outdoor area is completely enclosed but is transparent so you can still enjoy the view while being covered from the wind, rain, and anything else that could interfere with your date. You can book a reservation online here.
photo c/o @taodowntown
TAO Downtown is nestled in the heart of Chelsea, rightfully reserving the title of a New York City staple for Subterranean food. While the interior of TAO is quite the experience (and you should definitely go experience it when indoor dining reopens), they’ve just unveiled their outdoor dining in the middle of January, meaning that you should get a reservation ASAP.
Pinto
photo c/o @pinto_nyc
Pinto is a Thai restaurant located right off of sixth avenue in West Village, a place that should be at the top of your list for several reasons. With classic Thai recipes and seasonal New York ingredients, you’re sure to have a Thai experience that won’t disappoint you or your date (which is what you came here for, right?!). Reserve a table for Pinto garden through the Resy app.
CItizens Of
If you’re looking for the perfect brunch date spot, head to Citizens of in Bleeker, Chelsea, or Gramercy. Citizens Of is fully equipped to help you manifest all of your brunch dreams under their covered and heated outdoor pergolas. They have a bottomless brunch available and you’re just a few taps away from securing a reservation on the Resy app. Chase your brunch dreams. We’re here for it.
Sunday in Brooklyn
photo c/o @sundaysinbrooklyn
Sundays in Brooklyn is one of the best-known spots in Williamsburg and the ultimate spot for an Instagram-worthy brunch moment. Whether you’re looking for a bloody mary or a grain bowl, Sundays in Brooklyn has a menu with something for everyone. You can enjoy brunch or dinner in their outdoor pergola, You can make a reservation online through their website here.
Hanoi House
photo c/o @hanoi.house
If you’re looking for the perfect Asian spot, Hanoi house in East Village is a wonderful spot if you’re in the mood for some delicious Asian food and drinks that will keep the conversation going. Grab some noodles and enjoy a cozy and fun date in their outdoor dining pods. Make a reservation online through the Resy app.
Bath House
photo c/o @abathhouse
Perhaps one of the most impressive outdoor dining setups in all of New York, if you’re wanting the ultimate experience, book a reservation at Bath House in Williamsburg. You’ll forget we’re in the middle of a global pandemic (even if for just a minute) and the menu is full of drinks and plates that will make your evening one to remember, regardless of how the date goes (that’s a win for everyone). Book your reservation online here.
