My friend Maria came to me excitedly asking for romantic restaurants in Brooklyn for date night as commendations for her anniversary dinner with Giovanni.
She wanted a place with an atmosphere – somewhere they could relax over fine food and drinks but still feel transported from the chaos of city life.
I thought back to my own favorite intimate evenings out and knew just where to send them.
From the haunting jazz playing at one to the twinkling waterfront views at another, it’s impossible not to get lost in romance surrounded by their enchanting ambiance and devoted staff.
7. Frankies 457 Spuntino
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Tucked away in Carroll Gardens, Frankies 457 Spuntino is the perfect mix of rustic charm and Italian comfort. Known for its cozy brick-walled interiors and warm lighting, this beloved neighborhood restaurant makes you feel right at home the moment you step in.
The menu is centered around Italian-American classics with a modern twist. Their cavatelli with sausage and brown butter is a crowd favorite, but the meatballs are the real star — tender, flavorful, and absolutely worth fighting over. Pair your meal with a glass of red from their thoughtfully curated wine list.
But the real magic happens in their back garden. Surrounded by lush greenery and twinkling lights, it’s a setting straight out of a romantic movie. On cooler evenings, they even offer blankets to keep you cozy.
Frankies is the kind of place where you can linger over a bottle of wine, sharing stories and laughs, while the world fades away. It’s simple, heartfelt, and perfect for a no-fuss, truly memorable date night.
6. Maison Premiere
Maison Premiere already has a legacy in Brooklyn, but is it the best bar in America? http://t.co/9L7RpjuHZ4 #bknabe pic.twitter.com/wVvJbuQ1GJ
— Brooklyn Magazine (@brooklynmag) April 30, 2015
If oysters and absinthe whisper romance to you, Maison Premiere is the spot. This Williamsburg gem feels like stepping into a Parisian cafe of the 1920s, with its vintage decor, marble bar, and flickering gas lamps. It’s as if time slows down here, letting you soak in every detail.
Maison Premiere’s oyster selection is unparalleled, offering varieties from the East and West coasts, perfect for sharing. Pair them with one of their signature absinthe cocktails or a glass of champagne for the ultimate indulgence.
The garden patio is an oasis, especially in the warmer months, with ivy-covered walls and string lights adding a touch of magic. If you’re looking to escape into a dreamy, old-world atmosphere, this spot delivers romance in spades.
The service is as elegant as the ambiance, with knowledgeable staff who make every visit feel like a special occasion. Whether it’s your first date or your fiftieth, Maison Premiere is bound to leave a lasting impression.
5. June – Natural Wine Bar
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June was established in Summer 2015 as the first natural wine bar in Brooklyn. Owned by Henry Rich and The Oberon Group. Interior design by Home Studios.
Cobble Hill, the neighborhood in the northwestern portion of the New York City borough of Brooklyn, adores June for a number of reasons, among them the ever-solid small plates and a wine list that leans heavily into natural wines from around the world.
For a daytime brunch date, June is well-lit and inviting; and in the evening, the space oozes romance, with a vibe that’s never too loud and lighting that is assertively warm.
I visited this place in April of 2024 and everything was great including the ambiance, the service, the food, and obviously the wine.
Not a single bad thing. Would definitely recommend it as one of the better wine bars in the area.
4. L’Antagoniste
The menu at Bed-Stuy favorite L’Antagoniste focuses on French classics like steak tartare, seared foie, steak frites, roast duck breast, and poulet frites — and doing them expertly.
It’s popular among groups and parties of two alike, each likely to return for the fare and the welcoming service provided by the staff. The back patio is a dream on warmer days.
If all your date nights turn out to be successful and move to another level, the restaurant’s garden can be the perfect place for a small wedding celebration.
Just add a few Wedding Neon Signs, whether it’s the couple’s names, a cute message, or a simple “LOVE” sign, it creates a cozy, fun vibe.
Plus, they make a perfect spot for guests to take photos, giving everyone a cool backdrop to remember the day.
Whether you’re having a glass of Arbois from Jura at the bar while debating with a friend over the French antagonists on the wall, or enjoying a weeknight dinner with your family, we want you to feel like part of the community – as our guest, friend, and neighbor.
3. D’Antan – Vino naturale e cucina Italiana
D Antan – Vino Naturale e Cucina Italiana – is an authentic Italian Restaurant.
The menu is inspired by traditional recipes from Piedmont, like tajarin, the most popular homemade pasta of the Region, or beef Brasato in Barolo wine.
They serve Italian natural wines ALL BY THE GLASS. A consistent selection of “skin contact” wines (also called orange wines) makes our wine list even more special.
This place deserves 100 stars. The food is super delicious.
The servers are very nice and friendly. What makes it even greater is that it is never overpriced like some other pretentious eateries.
2. Olmsted
The food is fantastic here. Brace for a special meal at Greg Baxtrom’s Prospect Heights stunner which, although not that far from a fine-dining destination, feels utterly and completely of the neighborhood.
Indelible signature dishes like the carrot crepe and frozen yogurt desserts provide comfort to repeat diners.
Also not to be missed is Olmsted’s backyard garden — what may have started as a spillover space for guests waiting for a table has turned into one of the restaurant’s biggest draws. Get the s’mores out there.
When we talk about service – be prepared for a very slow experience. I recommend trying watermelon sushi.
The bathroom has its own window and air conditioner. Just be aware if you’re planning to go here in the summer – it’s hot, inside and out.
1. Terre
One of the reasons why people are choosing to live in Brooklyn is because of the place like this. Terre is at the top of my list of Romantic Restaurants in Brooklyn.
Nearly every neighborhood boasts a natural wine bar these days, but Park Slope’s version sticks out, especially to fans of orange wine.
Truly, if you love Italian food and wine, Terre is a must-visit. Daniele’s enthusiasm for the menu is contagious, you’ll be tempted to try everything he recommends.
My homemade pasta was incredible, so rich and filling, and the natural wine pairing was just right. Make a reservation because it gets busy!
Terre matches its picturesque dining room and outdoor patio with food and drink menus that warrant repeat visits; as many as it takes to try all of Terre’s memorable pastas.
Non-carby dish standouts include grilled octopus during dinner and a frittata during brunch.
Summary
Whether starting fresh or fanning faded flames, these five Brooklyn eateries are sure to set any date night ablaze. From intimate interiors and private terraces to libations and dishes made for lingering, each prioritizes atmosphere and service over all else.
It’s easy to see why loyal patrons return time and again to stoke fervor among period details, perfectly prepared plates, and passionate pours. In an urban jungle overrun by noise and hustle, these neighborhood stalwarts cultivate calm to nourish new beginnings or nourish long-standing loves.
For couples seeking a sumptuous setting to remember why they’re together, one meal within their special spaces will have hearts swelling and making memories last far beyond the final drop.
