All girls love the feeling…It’s finally the weekend and after 5 days of surviving endless classes, your boyfriend texts you that he’s on his way. He’s coming to visit and it’s date night for the two of you. Naturally, you’re panicking between whether you should play it safe with flats, or wear heels and pray your feet survive the night out. You’re standing at your closet wondering if it’s too much to wear a dress just to go to dinner, or if you should just wear jeans with a blouse. Since there will never be a magical formula to get rid of this sacred ritual every girl does in the hour leading up to his arrival, one thing, however, that can be solved, is what to do when he picks you up. NYC provides endless options for perfect romantic destinations, but these locations are tried and true, and guaranteed for a date to remember:
Where To Eat:
1. Galanga Thai
149 West 4th Street #2, New York, NY 10012 (Greenwich Village)
This place belongs in a romantic movie: The dark, sexy atmosphere and super cool village-vibe provides delicious Thai food and friendly service. With only a few tables, this place has an intimate atmosphere and always smells of exotic asian spices. There’s an extensive list of girly drinks for you (Each garnished with an edible flower), and a reasonably priced beer and liqour selection for him. If you’re a Thai fanatic like most of us collegiates are, you can’t go wrong with this hidden gem off the Christopher St/Sheridan Square stop on the 1 Train.
Recommendation: Order the Jeeb Dumplings to start, and Drunken Noodles for dinner!
2. P.J. Clarke’s On The Hudson
250 Vesey St, New York, NY 10281
On a beautiful autumn day, don’t pass up the opportunity to brunch it with your handsome guy on the outdoor patio of this chic, yet unpretentious NYC eatery. You’ll feel like a total celeb looking out at the Statue of Liberty while enjoying your Eggs Benny or Signature Clarke Burger. (He’ll definitely go for that.) Major plus: There’s SO much to do around the area when you guys are done, from shopping to sightseeing, and even visiting any of the 9/11 Memorials.
Recommendation: Ask for their special ketchup to go with your meal! (It’s like no other)
3. Beccofino
5704 Mosholu Ave, Bronx, NY 10471
In the mood to keep it local without dealing with the subway? Come early to this neighborhood Italian spot for homestyle pastas, meats, fish, and a variety of antipasto. Don’t be afraid to venture off the regular menu and order a special, especially if they are offering the chicken rollatini. You definitely feel at home with the food at Beccofino, and the kind wait staff is always willing to give suggestions if you’re unsure of what to eat. Portions are massive, so you and your boy will surely have a midnight snack to munch on later! Located about 5-10 minutes from MC, you might even want to bring Mom here the next time she visits for a lunch date.
Recommendation: There are no reservations, and very limited seating. Arrive sooner than later!
Where To Go:
1. One World Trade Center Observatory
285 Fulton St, New York, NY 10006
Not for those fearful of heights or elevators, you will 100% remember this experience for years to come. Experience the tallest point on the Western Hemisphere at the top of the new World Trade Center. You will see 360 degree breathtaking views of NYC, and you and your date will be sure to soon start naming landmarks and famous NYC bridges. If you’re a lover of the Big Apple, don’t miss an opportunity to “See Forever” at this famous building and symbol of freedom.
Recommendation: Come with a fully charged phone. Believe me when I say you will want to take photographs!
2. Comic Strip Live
1568 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028
Save this spot for a special occasion, like Valentine’s Day or your Anniversary. This famous NYC Comedy Club, which was actually feautred on Senifeld, makes for a special, one of a kind date night. Get ready to laugh until your stomach hurts with some of the most well-known comics in the business, all of which are very interactive with the audience. Enjoy a drink or bite to eat at the table while you’re there! You will definitely need to make a reservation ahead of time, because it fills up really fast.
Recommendation: For the cheapest tickets, head to Times Square and find one of the hundreds of guys shouting and wearing signs that read “Comedy Show Tonight!” They will always provide you with a discounted price compared to buying online.
3. The Bronx Zoo
2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460
Don’t worry…You are absolutely not too old for this. Relive your childhood with your babe, and take advantage of all this famous Zoo has to offer. (Yes, they still have wild peacocks roaming around!) Try to come in the morning to allow for enough time to see everything. As soon as you get passed the entrance, you and your guy are going to start racing from place to place, eager to see the different animals. If this date doesn’t get you in a good mood, nothing will.
Recommendation: Buy the extra ticket to go on the Wild Asia Monorail. It is beyoind worth it, and you will NOT regret shelling out the extra 10 bucks.