Parents’ night out? Yes, please! Call the babysitter, dust off your date-night outfit, and treat yourself to an evening of delicious food, crafted cocktails, and uninterrupted conversation. We’ve rounded up the best bars and restaurants in DUMBO, Brooklyn Heights, Downtown Brooklyn, BoCoCa, Fort Greene, Prospect Heights, Crown Heights, Park Slope, Gowanus, Red Hook, Columbia Street Waterfront District, Bed-Stuy, Bushwick Williamsburg, Greenpoint, Sunset Park, and Bay Ridge—so you can sip, savor, and steal a few hours just for the two of you.
Fort Greene & Clinton Hill
Aita | Clinton Hill | Aita is a homey Italian restaurant with seating both indoors and outdoors in their heated gazebo year-round. Aita has an aperitivo hour daily until 7pm with drinks served with cichetti, and on the dinner menu you’ll find burrata, oxtail ravioli, grilled octopus, and lemon sole.
Black Iris | Fort Greene | Black Iris is a Mediterranean restaurant on the border of Fort Greene & Clinton Hill that has been serving the neighborhood for over 30 years. The menu includes fresh pita, mezze, falafel, kebabs, slow-roasted lamb, plus wine and cocktails. You can dine indoors or on their sidewalk patio. Or, cozy up at their inviting bar!
Café Paulette | Fort Greene | Steps away from Fort Greene Park, Café Paulette is a charming French-inspired bistro with a curated selection of natural wines. The dinner menu features classics like steak tartare, mussels, and steak frites. Cozy up in their red leather booths or on their heated patio. They have live jazz on Tuesday nights overlooking the park during the warmer months.
Disco Birdies | Clinton Hill | For a more casual date night, Disco Birdies is a walk-in friendly fried chicken spot with Champagne.
Evelina | Fort Greene | Evelina is an upscale bistro in Fort Greene serving Italian and Mediterranean fare. The space is stylish and dimly lit, and the menu includes small plates, pasta, and wood-fired mains. They also serve great cocktails, beer, and wine.
Karasu | Fort Greene | In the back room of the restaurant Walter’s is Karasu, a Japanese izakaya and cocktail bar. It’s a hidden gem, serving not only uniquely crafted cocktails, but also fabulous food. Dishes include koji prime ribeye, tonkatsu, and their crowning achievement, fried chicken with a ponzu sauce. The space is small but sleek, with a beautiful bar and plenty of tables.
LaRina Pastificio & Vino | Fort Greene | This modern Italian eatery and handmade pasta shop is led by Chef Silvia Barban, a former Top Chef contestant. The menu combines traditional Italian flavors with creative twists, featuring dishes like smoked spaghetti with Calabrian chiles, garlic, and hazelnuts, along with various stuffed pastas. The cozy atmosphere and outdoor patio with live jazz in the warmer months make it a perfect spot for date nights. In addition to dining, LaRina also serves as a retail counter for cheeses, fresh pasta, and Italian products.
Mango Bay | Fort Greene | This Afro-Caribbean restaurant is located in a two-story brownstone, with outdoor seating on a balcony and in their courtyard in the warmer months. Highlights of the menu include ackee and saltfish egg rolls, pomegranate glazed pork ribs, panko-fried Cornish hen, braised oxtail, and mango curry. They also serve Caribbean-inspired cocktails with tropical flavors.
Ms. Ada | Fort Greene | Ms. Ada is a neighborhood gem, led by Israeli-born Chef/Owner Tomer Blechman. The restaurant showcases modern Mediterranean cuisine with a twist, using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The backyard garden supplies fresh herbs for both the dishes and cocktails, and is open year-round, complete with space heaters to keep you warm in the winter. Ms. Ada’s sister restaurant is neighboring Theodora, which specializes in open-fire cooking.
Place des Fêtes | Clinton Hill | This neighborhood wine bar with an open kitchen serves wines from Spain, southern France, and beyond. They also have a small menu of tapas, seafood dishes like their bone-in skate wing, and locally sourced vegetables. In addition to wine, you’ll also find a small selection of cocktails, plus beer and cider. Their menu is constantly changing, weekly and even daily!
Roman’s | Fort Greene | Roman’s serves seasonal Italian and American cuisine. The menu is constantly changing, including appetizers like arancini and an antipasti plate, vegetable dishes, yummy pastas, and a few entrees. One of the highlights is the bread, supplied by She Wolf Bakery. Great cocktails and wine as well!
Sailor | Fort Greene | This neighborhood bistro on a charming Fort Greene corner is led by Chef April Bloomfield, and the menu is centered mostly around seafood. There’s only about 10 seats in this intimate restaurant, and the food is excellent. Highlights include the smoked arctic char pâté, mussel toast, smoked pork shoulder, roasted chicken, and profiteroles for dessert.
Theodora | Fort Greene | Theodora specializes in open-fire cooking, with Mediterranean dishes like wood-fired pita, monkfish liver ‘nduja hummus, and plenty of seafood cooked over the flames. Theodora’s sister restaurant is the popular Mediterranean/Israeli restaurant Miss Ada in Fort Greene. Read more here!
Third Falcon | Fort Greene | Fort Greene’s newest fine dining destination Third Falcon serves French food inspired by the cuisine of Brittany and Normandy with ingredients coming from local NY farms. The chef Cali Faulkner previously cooked at Crown Shy, Oxalis, and Eleven Madison Park in NYC, and Verjus in Paris.
DUMBO & Vinegar Hill
AlMar | Located in the heart of DUMBO, AlMar serves Italian fare in a cozy setting. Their main menu includes favorites like whole roasted Branzino and mezzi rigatoni with crumbled pork sausage, peas, and a creamy tomato sauce. In addition, they always have a lengthy specials menu with new offerings, all sourced with the seasonal local and imported Italian ingredients. The service can’t be beat, and the wine and cocktails are excellent.
bar56 | bar56 is a stylish wine bar and restaurant located on Water Street in DUMBO, just steps from Brooklyn Bridge Park. Dine outdoors with views of the waterfront and Jane’s Carousel, or inside in their sleek space featuring exposed brick, wood beams, and a welcoming bar. The menu showcases seasonal Italian-inspired American dishes, paired with a rotating selection of 56 wines. Highlights include hiramasa crudo with pistachio and blood orange, grilled lettuce with artichoke and guanciale, lamb neck with baby carrot and anchovy, plus a variety of seasonal pastas and desserts. Right next door, taste56 offers wine tastings and a curated selection to purchase. Whether you’re looking for a casual al fresco drink outdoors or at the bar, a romantic dinner, or a wine tasting, Bar56 offers a refined dining experience Brooklyn waterfront.
Celestine | Celestine has spectacular views of the Brooklyn waterfront. Perched beneath the Manhattan Bridge, they serve wood-fired Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. Try the homemade za’atar flatbread, mezze platter, and fish dishes including fourth and branzino. They also serve excellent wine and cocktails. The dining room is beautiful, with floor to ceiling windows, and if you dine outdoors in the summer, you’re basically eating your meal in Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Kinjo | This 13-seat omakase bar steps from the waterfront is one of DUMBO’s newest restaurants. Led by a veteran chef of Masa, Kin Jo offers 11 courses of sushi and small plates for $95/person. They offer three seatings Tuesday through Thursday: 5:30pm, 7pm, and 8:30pm. On Friday and Saturday, seatings are at 5:30pm, 7pm, and 9pm. Reservations are required for omakase, but the bar and lounge is open daily at 5pm with cocktail service including flights of Japanese whiskeys, a Yuzu Negroni and Sour Plum Margarita.
Hildur | Hildur is a cozy Scandinavian-French bistro in DUMBO, serving seasonal dishes like Swedish meatballs and pickled herring alongside natural wines and Nordic-inspired cocktails. Created by the team behind Colonie and Pips, it offers a stylish, light-filled space with a charming backyard under the Brooklyn Bridge.
ippudo V | ippudo V makes for a perfect vegan date night destination, offering a plant-based twist on Japanese cuisine. They serve five different kinds of ramen, vegan sushi rolls, plus beer, wine, sake, and a variety of non-alcoholic drinks. The space is modern and sleek with an open kitchen and inviting bar.
The River Café | Well-known for its romantic atmosphere, classic fine dining menu, and unique position beneath the Brooklyn Bridge, The River Café has become a destination for those celebrating a special occasion in Brooklyn. Expect fancy food and excellent service, at a steep price. They offer a 3-course prix fixe menu with wagyu steak tartare, duck, and black sea bass.
Superfine | Tucked beneath the Manhattan Bridge, Superfine is a laid-back yet artsy spot perfect for a low-key date night. It’s located in an old industrial space and has been a landmark in the neighborhood since 2001, before DUMBO was truly on the map. Superfine serves sustainable farm-to-table food, plus wine, beer, and cocktails. They host jazz nights every other Wednesday, with free performances from 7-10pm. And you can also shoot a game of pool with your date!
Vinegar Hill House | Vinegar Hill House oozes romantic vibes. Tucked away on a peaceful cobblestone street in Vinegar, it’s cozy in the wintertime with a fireplace in the downstairs dining room, and the back yard can’t be beat during the summer months. The food, wine, and cocktails, are excellent, with standouts including the chicken liver mousse, seasonal pasta dishes, cast iron chicken, and pork chop. For dessert, don’t miss the famous Guinness chocolate cake!
Brooklyn Heights
Café Brume | Café Brume offers Alpine-inspired cuisine and wines, bringing a taste of the mountains to the neighborhood. There is a cozy dining room up front and a wine bar tucked away in the back, all styled to resemble a Swiss chalet. The menu includes Alpine classics such as charcuterie and cheese boards, schnitzel, beef tartare, and Wienerschnitzel.
Clover Hill | Clover Hill is a one-star Michelin restaurant located at 20 Columbia Place in Brooklyn Heights. The 20-seat dining room is small and intimate, with an open kitchen in the back. Chef Sam Rogers and grew up in Bolivia, Argentina, and Brazil and has cooked at Copehagen’s renowned Noma, Momofuku Ko, Jungsik, Per Se, and One White Street. The 10-course tasting menu is $245/person. It’s a fine dining experience fit for a special occasion.
Colonie | Colonie is on a tree-lined block of Atlantic Avenue, two blocks from the East River. They serve seasonal American food sourced from local farms. The menu includes crostini, small plates, pasta, and mains like halibut, steak, and steak. They have a large bar that’s a great spot to post up for a round of drinks, as well as cozy seating in their front windows.
Ingas Bar | This neighborhood spot on the corner of Hicks and Cranberry has a charming, cozy dining room and an equally inviting bar area. The food and drink selections are constantly rotating, but some not-to-be-missed favorites include the house-made ricotta, Celery Victor with anchovy and parmesan, plus a great cheeseburger. All of it pairs perfectly with their craft cocktails. Try the Ingas martini!
Jules | This pizzeria at 50 Henry Street serves salads, a large selection of pizzas with seasonal toppings, dessert, plus cocktails, wine and beer. If you love the romance of splitting a pie with your date, but craving the atmosphere and cocktail program of a more upscale restaurant, this is your spot. Open 5-10pm on weekdays, until 11pm on weekends, and until 9pm on Sundays. Walk-ins only!
Long Island Bar | For a burger, fried cheese curds, and one of Brooklyn’s best craft cocktails, Long Island Bar is your destination. Cozy up in a booth for a meal and a drink, or make this your last stop for a nightcap before relieving the babysitter. Either way, you’ll find retro diner decor, a buzzing atmosphere, and simple but perfectly-made cocktails. For a splurge, add a bottle of champagne to your burger order for $100. Walk-ins only!
Noodle Pudding | A neighborhood establishment, Noodle Pudding serves Italian comfort food. The menu is constantly changing, but there are some standout favorites: the burrata, fritto misto, and lasagne bolognese. Their glass of house red is just $5, and they will pour your martini tableside, then leave the shaker with you so you don’t miss a drop. Enjoy the red-checkered tablecloths, always seasonal holiday decorations, friendly service from servers in ties, and all-around old-school atmosphere. Cash only, and no reservations!
River Deli | River Deli serves Sardinian fare on a quiet corner of Joralemon Street. Their menu features a recipes passed down from the owners’ grandmothers, as well as a selection of classic cocktails. In the summertime, grab an outdoor table on cobblestoned Columbia Place and enjoy an Aperol spritz with your meal. Cash only!
Cobble Hill
Big Tiny | A charming French-inspired bistro that serves thoughtfully prepared food and a curated wine list in an intimate, welcoming setting. The cozy atmosphere makes it feel like a hidden gem in the neighborhood.
Clover Club | Clover Club is known for its top-notch cocktail program, under the leadership of mixologist Julie Reiner. Located on Smith Street, Clover Club recently opened an additional space directly next door, called The Saloon, which hosts pop ups, private events, cocktail classes, and more. The drinks at both spots are excellent, but Clover Club’s food is also great. There’s oysters, fried chicken, steak frites, and many more options beyond your typical bar snacks. Try Clover Club for a nightcap after dinner in the neighborhood. Its sister spot across the street, Leyenda, with its superb Latin American cocktail program, is sadly closing in March 2025. Stop in while you can!
Congress Bar | A relaxed neighborhood spot ideal with craft cocktails, wine, and small bites. The bar features both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a great choice year-round.
El Cedro | This Lebanese taqueria stands out for its unique blend of Middle Eastern flavors served in taco form. It’s a casual spot for a delicious meal!
Elsa | This beautifully designed bar is known for its creative cocktails served in a stylish, interior with a charming back garden. It’s a great place for a date night!
La Vara | La Vara is a modern Spanish restaurant, blending traditional flavors with Jewish and Moorish influences. Its menu includes tapas, stews, roasted meats, and seafood. The cozy, Mediterranean-inspired setting is perfect for a date night. They have a lengthy cocktail menu and Spanish and Portuguese wines. La Vara is on the pricey side, but you can’t beat the romantic atmosphere on this idyllic block of Cobble Hill. For your next Cobble Hill date, try their sister restaurant next door, Saint Julivert Fisherie.
June | A cozy natural wine bar that offers an impressive selection of wines in a stylish, minimalist space. In the warmer months, guests can enjoy a charming backyard oasis perfect for relaxing evenings.
Libertador | Libertador is a warm and inviting Argentinian steakhouse located on a quieter block of Henry Street, known for its flavorful grilled meats.
Nabila’s | Nabila’s on Court Street serves Lebanese cuisine: mezzes, entrees like baked beef dumplings, ground lamb and spinach stew, and roast chicken, plus lots of vegetarian options. All is served in a cozy ambiance with outdoor seating. They also serve wine, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks.
Saint Julivert Fisherie | Nestled right next to La Vara on Clinton Street and feet away from Cobble Hill Park, Saint Julivert offers a seafood-focused menu with a blend of Spanish and Japanese flavors. This cozy spot serves up small but exceptional dishes, and is known for its distinctive wine selection. Like its sister restaurant, Saint Julivert comes with a hefty price tag. Menu highlights include whipped mackerel, fluke ceviche, raw scallops, octopus carpaccio, and a Portuguese steak sandwich.
Lillo Cucina Italiana | For a unique dining experience, visit this tiny restaurant where owner Giampietro “Lillo” Remia will greet you, take your order, cook your meal and deliver to your table. There is no alcohol, no bathroom, no reservations, and the restaurant is cash-only, but you’ll feel transported to Rome by the homemade gnocchi, cacao e pepe, chicken Milanese, and branzino alla Lillo. Make your selection by perusing the handwritten menus taped to the walls, strike up a conversation with Lillo and fellow diners, and catch a glimpse of your meal coming together in the kitchen. Come prepared to wait, there are only 6 tables!
Carroll Gardens
6 Restaurant | This Carroll Gardens restaurant offers both tasting and à la carte menus. The open kitchen serves New American fare with inventive, seasonal dishes. The 6-course tasting menu is $195 and includes a photoshoot against a backdrop. Standout dishes include the pork schnitzel, picaña steak, or buckwheat tiger bread with cultured butter and confit garlic.
Barely Disfigured | Barely Disfigured is a cocktail bar with an intimate atmosphere inspired by a 1932 poem. The space blends vintage décor, including oversized mirrors and potion bottles, with a nod to its former history as a “house of ill-repute.” The bar serves inventive cocktails like the smoky Harlot’s Progress and offers a raw bar and shared plates. A favorite among locals and cocktail enthusiasts, it’s been named one of the Top 10 Best New Bars on the East Coast.
Frankies Sputino | Frankies 457 Spuntino serves classic Italian-American food in their cozy dining room and beautiful garden. The menu includes house-made pastas, tasting plates, and their famous meatballs.
F&F Restaurant and Bar | F&F Restaurant and Bar is the latest venture from chefs Frank Falcinelli and Frank Castronovo, expanding their beloved F&F pizzeria into a full-service dining experience. The menu features signature pizzas, Italian dishes like arancini and shrimp scampi, and a curated selection of wines and cocktails, including their popular olive oil-washed martini. With a cozy tavern vibe, it’s the perfect spot for a celebratory date night.
Gersi | Gersi serves Northern Italian food and homemade pasta in their enclosed heated garden in the winter, which is covered and cool in the spring and summer. Their chicken parm was voted best in Brooklyn, and they fly in burrata every week from Puglia. Great for a casual red-sauce date night!
Gus’s | Gus’s Chop House, a relatively new addition to Carroll Gardens, serves oysters, steaks, chops, whole chickens, plus wine and cocktails. The menu has lots of old-school offerings, and the dining room is elegant with a fireplace and round banquette tables, creating an intimate and cozy atmosphere.
Hungry Thirsty | Hungry Thirsty in Carroll Gardens is a Thai restaurant offering bold Southern Thai flavors in a cozy setting. Opened by former staff from the renowned Ugly Baby, the menu features standout dishes like Kua Kling (dry southern curry), Yum Pla Ka Pong (sardine salad), and crispy fried branzino, plus a selection of local craft beers.
Sal Tang’s | For a casual, retro dining experience, try this buzzy newcomer featuring Cantonese comfort food. Sal Tang’s serves classic Chinese American dishes, such as General Tso’s Chicken, beef and broccoli, and crispy orange beef. The interior has green and black vinyl floors, antique flower pots, and red-patterned dishes, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Sociale | This charming Italian restaurant serves modern takes on classics, from spaghetti carbonara and lasagne verde to organic roasted half chicken. They have great cocktails, Italian beer and wine, and tiramisu and affogato for dessert.
Spaghetti Cafe | This charming Italian spot has delicious homemade pasta made with fresh ingredients, with a cute back garden adorned with colorful umbrellas and a Vespa. The most simple spaghetti pomodoro is excellent, and more favorites include the cacio e pepe rice balls, the eggplant park, and Tony’s tiramisu for dessert.
Swoony’s | Sister restaurant to Spaghetti Cafe, Swoony’s is not your typical bar and grill, serving excellently prepared classics like their burger, clams casino, created spinach, and their standout short rib poivre. Their bar is bumping, cocktails are great, and their backyard is lovely.
Gowanus
Claro BK | This Michelin-starred Oaxacan restaurant serves Mexican cuisine rooted in tradition, with homemade masa as the star of several dishes. The handmade tortillas, locally sourced produce, and mezcal-forward cocktail list make for an elevated dining experience in an intimate space. With its lush backyard and open kitchen, Claro is perfect for a romantic evening.
Insa | Insa blends Korean BBQ with karaoke in a fun, funky space. The menu features grill-at-your-table classics like marinated short rib (galbi), pork belly, and spicy gochujang chicken, along with comforting small plates like kimchi pancakes and mandu (dumplings). The banchan (complimentary side dishes) are plentiful and constantly refilled. Great for a double date, you can enjoy your meal in their spacious dining rom and then belt out your favorite songs in a private karaoke room (pictured below)!
Liar Liar | A newcomer to the neighborhood, this natural wine bar in Gowanus was founded by a group of friends. It has a spacious bar and cozy booths, and a daily happy hour with bottles priced at $30. Food dishes include a fried chicken sandwich, steak frites, and fries. It’s the perfect date night spot with a dimly lit space, a curated list of wines, and even a martini menu.
Red Hook & Columbia Street Waterfront District
Bar Mario | This cozy little nook in Red Hook is a perfect date night spot. Serving Northern Italian and Tuscan fare, menu highlights include Mario’s Caesar, the “Spaghetti Hangover,” agnolotti, and more perfectly made pastas. Don’t miss the cheesecake for dessert! Come for outdoor seating in the summer.
Cafe Kestrel | Another tiny restaurant in Red Hook, Cafe Kestrel is a self-described “contemporary bistro with Southern European flourishes” with a rotating menu. It has just 20 seats, white lace curtains, and tablecloths. The atmosphere is that of a friendly neighborhood spot. You’ll find a selection of classic cocktails (such as the “V. Cold Martini”) wine, and beer.
The Good Fork Pub | The Good Fork is a neighborhood restaurant that feels like home. The husband-and-wife owners live just down the block. Chef and co-owner Sohui Kim cooks new American cuisine with an Asian flair, and her husband Benjamin Schneider designed and built the restaurant’s interior. Enjoy their innovative Korean-inspired pub menu and drinks in the dining room behind the main bar, or in the cozy back garden. High chairs available.
Lundy’s | A historic seafood restaurant in Sheepshead Bay dating to 1920, Lundy’s has a new home on Beard Street in Red Hook. “A reincarnation of a Brooklyn institution,” the restaurant continues to serve the famed “Shore Dinner,” a decadent prix fixe with a seafood appetizer and a choice of lobster, fish, or chicken, plus a butterscotch sundae for dessert. The menu features selections from the raw bar, seafood, steak, and more classics from the original Lundy’s. In the warmer months, diners are be treated to waterfront views.
Pitt’s | Red Hook’s newest restaurant comes from the team behind Agi’s Counter in Crown Heights, led by the James Beard nominated chef Jeremy Salamon. Pitt’s is a Southern-inspired bistro in the former space of Fort Defiance. Dishes include gouda pimento cheese, the cold meatloaf tea sandwich, Carolina grit rice with bottarga, and spiced fried chicken. Beers from nearby Strong Rope Brewery, whiskey from Red Hook’s Widow Jane, plus an assortment of cocktails.
Popina | This cozy spot located on the Columbia St. Waterfront serves Italian food: homemade pasta, delicious arancini, chicken Milanese, and more. They have an extensive wine list and even have a members-only wine club. ” Popina also has a heated patio, and a bocce court in the summertime!
Red Hook Tavern | If you and your date are craving a martini and a burger, Red Hook Tavern is your spot. The burgers are simple but perfectly made, with patties made by neighboring Hometown Bar-B-Que, with a pickle wedge and fries on the side. Try the shrimp cocktail as an appetizer, and for dessert, don’t miss out on their rainbow cookies.
Downtown Brooklyn & Boerum Hill
Gage & Tollner | You can’t beat Gage & Tollner for a romantic evening out, with classic Old New York vibes that are not manufactured. Gage & Tollner made it into The NY Times’ list of the top 100 best restaurants in NYC. Established in 1879, it is one of the oldest dining establishments in the city, originally serving as a classic oyster bar and steakhouse. The beautifully renovated space boasts intricate woodwork, mirrors lining the walls, and stunning lighting, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Treat yourself to oysters, clams casino, and some of the finest steaks and cocktails in the city. If you’re up for it, duck upstairs after dinner to Sunken Harbor Club—a totally different atmosphere, but also exceptional.
Sunken Harbor Club | Sunken Harbor Club is located on the second floor of Gage & Tollner. It has been lauded as one of the best cocktail spots in the city, specializing in rum and tiki drinks. You’re meant to feel as if you’ve been transported to a sunken ship, complete with theatrical lighting, and even some sound effects. The drinks are inspired, and they also have a menu of small bites. Make this your destination for the evening, or pair it with a meal at Gage & Tollner, but beware—the drinks are strong!
Grand Army Bar | Grand Army in Boerum Hill specializes in cocktails and seafood. It’s an intimate space with a little fireplace. There’s tons of seating at the bar, with some cozy tables as well. Try a seafood tower, or come for oyster happy hours on weekdays from 5-7pm and on weekends from 2-4pm.
Lele’s Roman at the Ace Hotel Brooklyn | The Ace Hotel’s new restaurant is opening in late May 2025, and will offer a stylish take on Roman cuisine. The menu features inventive seasonal dishes like bucatini cacio e pepe and radiatore with octopus mezcal ragu. Share a meal, and then linger at the Ace’s Lobby Bar, the perfect spot for a nightcap.
Rucola | Rucola is a small neighborhood Italian restaurant known for its seasonal, farm-to-table dishes and warm, welcoming atmosphere. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the menu offers a variety of flavorful pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and light antipasti.
Ruta Oaxaca Mexican | Ruta Oaxaca Mexican is a colorful, festive restaurant on Smith Street serving Oaxacan cuisine, including dishes mole dishes, plus mezcals, tequila, and margaritas. Enjoy outdoor seating in the warmer months.
Park Slope
Al Di Là Trattoria | This Park Slope spot has been a neighborhood institution since 1998, with some of Brooklyn’s favorite pasta dishes. The dining room is always packed but cozy. Food is served on charming mismatched plates, the room is adorned with a pressed tin ceiling and chandeliers, and the food is consistently excellent: try the calamari salad, tagliatelle al ragu, tortelli di piselli, spaghetti neri alla chitarra, or pork shank. There’s a great cocktail selection, with many takes on classics like negronis. They also have a wine bar just around the corner.
Bar Goto Niban | This outpost of Bar Goto on the Lower East Side serves Japanese cocktail and bites. Take a seat at the bar, which is adorned with a shimmering hand-painted depiction of a Japanese garden. The cocktails are made artfully and with precision. Try the sakura martini, served with a cherry blossom, or the hoji-cha fashioned made with rum, mole bitters, and roasted green tea. They also serve Japanese whisky, shochu and sake, and bar snacks including okonomiyaki and their famous miso wings.
Convivium Osteria | This Park Slope taverna wins for romantic atmosphere: it feels like you’ve been seated inside an Italian farmhouse. The menu includes burrata, cheese and salumi, tagliatelle with beef-and-veal ragù, and braised rabbit with olives, capers, prosciutto, and rosemary. There is also a garden and wine cellar.
Le Fleur Rouge | In the heart of Park Slope, Le Fleur Rouge is a French-Chinese fusion restaurant inspired by 1930s Shanghai and Parisian jazz culture. They serve French-Chinese cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and a French wine list—all in a moody, jazz-filled atmosphere. Menu highlights include soup dumplings, beef tartare, Mala cucumber cilantro salad, French onion spring roll and “Beef and Broccoli” au poivre. Open Wednesdays through Sundays for dinner with weekly live jazz performances are on Wednesday and Thursdays from 7-9pm.
Lore | Lore’s mission is to “unite cultures and stories from around the world through the art of food and community.” The global menu draws inspiration from South Asian and international cuisines, offering unique takes on familiar favorites. The menu changes frequently, but a few favorites remain: sea bream ssam, dosa with coconut chutney, fish & chips, and mushroom and Swiss chard lasagna. It’s a cozy, inviting space perfect for a casual yet refined dinner.
Palo Santo | Nestled in a charming Park Slope brownstone on Union Street, Palo Santo serves pan-Latin cuisine. The menu changes frequently and blends Latin American and Caribbean influences, with seasonal ingredients. The cozy, intimate setting is great for a date night. In the warmer months, enjoy the leafy backyard.
Sushi Katsuei | Sushi Katsuei offers an affordable omakase experience featuring some of the finest sushi in the borough—all for under $50 per person. While you won’t be blown away by the atmosphere, the impeccable sushi, including nine pieces and a rich toro handroll, makes it worth a date night!
Terre | Terre is an Italian farm-to-table restaurant in Park Slope. The menu features homemade pastas such as ravioli, tagliatelle, and gnocchi, crafted with seasonal ingredients sourced from small producers in Italy and the U.S. Complementing the food is an extensive selection of over 100 natural and biodynamic wines. The restaurant has a charming dining room adorned with five wood casks aging traditional balsamic vinegar, a “Tagliere” counter seating area, and a beautiful garden patio.
Prospect Heights & Crown Heights
Briscola Trattoria | Crown Heights | Briscola Trattoria describes itself as a “modern Italian trattoria with a retro heart.” The chef, Silvia Barban, competed on Top Chef and also owns LaRina Pastificio & Vino in Fort Greene. This spot has red checkered tablecloths and a laidback atmosphere, but still refined enough for a date night. Alongside standout dishes like squid ink spaghetti and pistachio cake from the dessert cart, they also serve free bread and delicious house wines that won’t break the bank.
Cafe Mado | Prospect Heights | Cafe Mado was listed by the New York Times as one of the Top 100 restaurants in NYC! Set in a sunlit atrium with lush greenery, it feels like a secret garden. The menu blends French, Italian, and California flavors, with standout seasonal dishes and a great wine list—ideal for a relaxed, memorable evening.
Leland Eating & Drinking House | Prospect Heights | Leland Eating & Drinking House is on a cozy corner off Washington Avenue, and is known for its seasonal, Mediterranean cuisine and natural wines. The menu features fresh seafood dishes including seafood chowder, whole fried fish, trout rillettes, and charred lemon mussels. You’ll also find vegetable-forward dishes and mains such as a half chicken.
Sofreh | Prospect Heights | This Persian restaurant is the project of chef owner Nasim Alikhani, who was a semi-finalist for the James Beard Foundation’s award for best chef in New York state. Sofreh is considered one of the best Persian spots in New York City, with dishes like smoky roasted eggplant, lamb shank in a dill and dried lime broth, and saffron rice. The space is bright and modern, with a beautiful bar to enjoy drinks or a meal. The NY Times listed Sofreh as one of the top 100 best restaurants in NYC; see the full list here!
Bed-Stuy & Bushwick
Daphne’s | Bed-Stuy | Daphne’s is a cozy, Italian-inspired restaurant that is a new addition to Bed Stuy. It comes from the team behind Decades Pizza. The small menu changes seasonally, and features swordfish, pastas, and beef tartare. Daphne’s serves a curated selection of natural wines and signature cocktails.
Eyval | Bushwick | Eyval is a contemporary Iranian restaurant on Bogart Street in Bushwick. Opened by chef Ali Saboor, formerly of Sofreh in Prospect Heights, Eyval offers a modern twist on traditional Iranian street food in a stylish, casual setting. The name “Eyval” translates to “right on!” in Persian, reflecting the restaurant’s vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Frog Wine Bar | Bushwick | Frog is a natural wine bar in Bushwick with a candlelit bar area, a pool table in the back, and a sprawling back yard. They also host a rotating series of dinner-pop ups, but make sure you come early before food sells out! With their new live music space Tadpole next door, you can have it all: dinner, drinks, and even music and dancing! Tadpole has live music Thursday and Sundays from 8pm-12am, and a DJ on Fridays and Saturdays from 10pm-2am.
Hart’s | Bed-Stuy | Hart’s is an tiny 30-seat restaurant on Franklin Avenue in Bed-Stuy serving coastal Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, with dishes like their signature clam toast with pancetta, a grass-fed lamb burger with anchovies, and milanese. They also serves natural wines and cocktails. Seating includes high tops, a long communal table, and bar seats.
Williamsburg
Aska | Aska is a two Michelin-starred Scandinavian restaurant led by Swedish chef Fredrik Berselius. Housed in a restored 1860s warehouse near the Williamsburg Bridge, Aska is an intimate dining experience with just ten tables per night. The tasting menus, ranging from 10 to 19 courses, showcase seasonal ingredients sourced from the Northeastern U.S. Aska made it into The NY Times’ list of the top 100 best restaurants in NYC; see the full list here!
Aurora | Combine garden dining with Italian comfort food and you have Aurora, located on Grand Street near Domino Park in Williamsburg. Every item is made with care, on-premises, from the bread to the pasta to the sausages with a majority of ingredients sourced locally or from Italy. To top off dinner, you can get a house made gelato as well.
Bang Bang Bangkok | This Thai restaurant with a tasting menu is one of the most unique dates you’ll go on this year! Bang Bang Bangkok is designed to look like the interior of a bus that “transports” diners between different markets in Bangkok. The illusion is brought to life with huge screens covering the bus windows. This creative dining experience is $155 per person for a 10-course tasting menu.
Bar Blondeau | Perched on the 6th floor of the Wythe Hotel, Bar Blondeau offers sweeping skyline views from its wraparound terrace. The seafood-forward menu by Chef Aidan O’Neal features seasonal French-inspired dishes, paired with natural wines and standout cocktails.
Bar Madonna | Bar Madonna was was inspired by a painting that hangs in the back of the space, showing a group of people drinking martinis. It’s an Italian-American cocktail bar that draws patrons for the food just as much as the drinks. The menu features dishes like smashed meatball parmigiana and oxtail croquettes. There is a selection of original cocktails including the Madonna Bellini—a mix of peach, plum, gin, and prosecco—and the Bialetti, combining vodka, coffee liqueur, Oloroso sherry, hazelnut, and coffee.
Deux Chats | This Williamsburg spot is known for its martinis and seafood towers, and the Art Nouveau decor is reminiscent of Parisian brasseries and bistros. There’s also plenty of small plates for you and your date to share!
Enso | Enso is a Japanese restaurant offering both a 12-course tasting menu ($95/person) and a 16-course omakase experience ($195/person), plus craft cocktails and Japanese whiskies. The chef and owner is Nick Wang, who also operates Amami and Ako Sushi.
The Four Horseman | The Four Horsemen is a Michelin-starred restaurant and wine bar in Williamsburg, co-founded by James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem. Known for its extensive natural wine selection and New American small plates, the restaurant won a James Beard Award for Outstanding Wine Program in 2022. It also made its way into The NY Times’ list of the Top 100 best restaurants in NYC. This is hard reservation to get, so plan ahead!
JR & Son | The same team behind Kellogg’s Diner opened this spot in Williamsburg. They restored JR & Son, a dive bar that dates back to the 1930s and closed during the pandemic. The kitchen is led by Chef Patricia Vega, alum of Thai Diner and a former Top Chef contestant. The menus includes Italian-American classics with a modern twist, like arancini salad, a spicy chicken Parm, branzino with brown butter carrot purée and salsa verde, and a rainbow cookie cake for dessert.
Laser Wolf | Located on the roof of The Hoxton Hotel, Williamsburg, Laser Wolf serves Israeli cuisine cooked over live coals, cocktails, and amazing views of the Manhattan skyline.
Lilia | Lilia is a renowned Italian restaurant in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, helmed by acclaimed chef Missy Robbins.Housed in a transformed auto body shop, the airy space features an open kitchen and wood-fired grill. The menu showcases handmade pastas, wood-fired seafood, and Italian cocktails. Another Williamsburg spot in the The NY Times’ list of the Top 100 best restaurants in NYC.
Little Fino | Little Fino offers a day-to-night menu in the William Vale hotel, and they have a beautiful courtyard space. For breakfast, they serve juices, and pastries, and sandwiches and burgers later in the day. They have inventive cocktails for grown-ups including a Root Beer Negroni and a Campari Creamsicle.
Fish Cheeks | Fish Cheeks, the Thai seafood spot in Noho, has opened a second location at 661 Driggs Avenue. The menu features favorites like Mama Tom Yum ramen, marinated raw blue crab, and a loaded seafood tower. Expect Thai-inspired cocktails, including the Prala-Tini—a martini with anchovy vinegar and tomato garnish.
Maison Premiere | Maison Premiere is a renowned oyster bar and cocktail lounge inspired by New Orleans absinthe cafés. It has a horseshoe-shaped bar, window seating, and a beautiful garden. The oysters and cocktails have even earned it a James Beard Award. They also have seafood towers, caviar service, small plates, wine and beer.
Misi | Misi is an Italian restaurant located in the Domino Sugar Refinery in South Williamsburg. Led by chef Missy Robbins, they serve simple but excellent pasta that is made fresh every morning. The menu includes ten house-made pastas and ten antipasti plates. Guests can sit at the bar, the kitchen counter, or the main dining room. For dessert, enjoy gelato. And check out Misipasta, their sister grocery and aperitivo bar also serving pasta dishes.
Montesacro | Roman inspired cuisine featuring a crowd pleaser—The Pinsa—a Roman-style pizza. Pinsa is a cloud like pizza, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Start off with one to share and then dive into the rest of their fresh and vibrant offerings; spaghetti al nero, fiori de zucca, spigola and the casal bertone Pinsa are some of the standouts.
Psaraki | Psaraki is a Greek seafood restaurant in Williamsburg near Domino Park, with beautiful views overlooking the East River and Manhattan. Their menu includes raw bar items, traditional Greek appetizers to share, whole fish, lobster pasta, and more.
Sauced | Sauced is a natural wine bar with a cute interior and a gorgeous backyard that is perfect for a summer date night. You can order wine by the glass at the counter, where servers will help you find the perfect pour for your mood. Then grab a pillow or cushion under the tree and cozy up with your date!
St. Mazie | St. Mazie has a Roaring ’20s feel, with live jazz most nights! You can dine in at their “Supper Club,” located in their cellar, or enjoy drinks and bites at high tops or at the bar on the main floor. There is also a beautiful backyard garden open in the warmer months. They serve great cocktails, oysters, and a full dinner menu.
The Residence of Mr. Moto | This sophisticated cocktail spot is a sister bar to the The Office of Mr. Moto in the East Village. Both locations are themed around a fictional Mr. Moto, with decor that includes artifacts from his travels, his art collection, even his favorite clothing and accessories. Guests are meant to feel that they’re sipping cocktails in his personal residence. Alongside drinks, the menu features upscale Japanese cuisine.
Greenpoint
Achilles Heel | At Achilles Heel, an Andrew Tarlow establishment, expect to have delicious and seasonal food with a spectacular selection of cocktails and wines. Once a dock workers bar, Achilles Heel maintains its laidback charm and seemingly original aesthetic. In warmer weather there is outdoor seating in the garden and on the sidewalk for dining al fresco.
Bernie’s | A nostalgic throwback to classic American diners, Bernie’s serves steaks, burgers, and wedge salads in a casual, retro setting. Its sidewalk seating is a hip place to eat outdoors in Greenpoint.
Cafe Alula | Located at 252 Franklin Street, Cafe Alula specializes in Lebanese cuisine, offering a variety of vegan and vegetarian options. Patrons can enjoy their meals in a cozy, plant-filled backyard patio.
Cecily | Cecily is a neighborhood wine bar and restaurant occupying a former art gallery space. The menu emphasizes seasonal, vegetable-forward dishes, featuring items like porcini “chicharrones” with egg yolk, mackerel toast, and butter beans with braised collards. Seafood offerings are particularly noteworthy, complemented by an extensive and thoughtfully curated international wine list.
Chez Ma Tante | This neighborhood bistro located on Calyer Street in Greenpoint is named after a Montreal hot dog shack. They serve European-inspired menu featuring dishes like chips with garlicky aioli, pig’s head terrine, kohlrabi and apple salad, and grilled pork shoulder with salsa verde and lentils. The food is simple but exceptionally made, like an elevated caesar salad or the juicy roasted chicken. The space features clean white-washed brick walls and a long wooden bar.
El Pinquino | El Pinquino is a Spanish tapas bar with emphasis on seafood tucked into the nook by Transmitter Park on Greenpoint Avenue. The seafood plateau is a standout along with a cold martini but all of the offerings are delicious. Their drink menu has lovely fortified wines, lots of amaro options and classic cocktails. They have a daily happy hour from 4-7 which includes half off oysters, $12 martinis and $12 glass of sherry.
Fulgurances Laundromat | Fulgurances is a French restaurant concept originating in Paris. Fulgurances Laundromat is located in a former laundromat space in Greenpoint, and the restaurant offers rising chefs the opportunity to lead a kitchen and craft their own seasonal tasting menus. Diners can choose between a six-course menu priced at $94 or an eight-course menu at $120, with optional wine pairings available. It’s a unique dining experience suited for a special occasion. There is also a limited à la carte menu is also available for walk-in guests.
Gator | Another beloved neighborhood spot, Gator took over the space from former inhabitant Le Fond. In the iteration of Gator, the food is contemporary American and the menu rotates to include seasonal ingredients. It is an intimate and comfortable space with divine food. The mac and cheese is a staple dish, ribboned pasta layers with brown butter and lemon topped with a delicious duo (trio?) of cheeses along with the homemade bread. There are too many favorites to name from the rest of the menu but any choice here is a good choice, and the plates are suggested to share—so order up.
Glasserie | Housed in a former glass factory, Glasserie offers inventive Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a focus on shared plates. Its lush courtyard provides a beautiful, tucked-away outdoor dining experience.
Ilis | For a very special occasion, or for the super-foodie, consider Ilis, from the co-founder of Copenhagen’s Noma. It’s very pricey: a $325 tasting menu, $225 five-course prix fixe, or a la carte option at the bar. The restaurant emphasizes sustainable cuisine and serves seasonal plants, seafood, and game of North America. Diners can choose between the “Market Menu,” allowing selection of individual dishes based on seasonal ingredients, or the “Field Guide Menu,” a surprise tasting curated by the chefs. The expansive space features a central open kitchen where chefs both prepare and serve meals, creating an immersive dining experience.
Lingo | This Japanese American restaurant serves exciting fusion dishes including smoked tamale sando, albacore tuna crudo, and beef and bone marrow pie. They also serve a wide array of seasonal cocktails made with Japanese spirits, as well as mocktails.
Milk & Roses | This romantic Italian-American eatery features a garden-like back patio perfect for al fresco dining. Known for its pasta and wine list, it’s a charming spot for dinner or brunch.
Naked Dog | This Italian spot in located near the waterfront serves top notch bruschetta, spaghetti, pappardelle with beef Bolognese’s, and bombolini for dessert. Naked Dog has both indoor and outdoor seating. Walk-ins only!
Nerina | A new addition to the waterfront on Commercial Street is the Greek restaurant Nerina. Their fresh and delicious mezze menu has something for everyone and an extensive Greek wine and cocktails list. Nerina has a welcoming and fun vibe, almost as if you have been transported to Mykonos for dinner.
Nura | The food at Nura is full of bold flavors, a menu infused with Indian, Mediterranean and Mexican inspiration. A Tandoori oven bakes their housemade naan and bread a must try with the dips. Housed in a former auto body shop, Nura is a plant filled restaurant with light filtering through skylights and high ceilings to set the stage for a beautiful dinner. The outdoor streetside patio is open for dining during warmer weather.
Oxomoco | This Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant on Greenpoint Avenue specializes in wood-fired cooking. The interior has large skylights and a long indoor bar, and there is plenty of outdoor seating on the front patio. Try the pollo a las brasas, a half-chicken that comes with housemade tortillas and crispy red rice. More highlights include the lamb barbacoa, the beet chorizo, and the masa tempura shrimp. Plus, don’t miss out on the margaritas, palomas, and more cocktails.
Rule of Thirds | Rule of Thirds is a beautiful modern Japanese restaurant described by its owners as, “a restaurant that combines Japanese home cooking styles and izakaya culture transported to New York via local ingredients and neighborhood inspiration.” An eclectic and exciting menu for food and cocktails await you in this zen and spacious locale. Outdoor dining is open during warmer months.
Sereneco | Sereneco offers New American cuisine with a healthy, seasonal focus, including grain bowls, fish dishes, and fresh vegetables. Its stylish sidewalk seating is a great warm-weather spot for dinner.
The Snail | Located just off McCarren Park, The Snail serves classics like steak frites, shrimp cocktail, and a standout double cheeseburger. The bistro is a great setting for a date night in Greenpoint.
U Omakase | U Omakase is Greenpoint’s only dedicated omakase restaurant, and breaks away from the traditional counter service. Instead, the restaurant has a 13-person U-shaped bar that feels more like communal dining. The omakase is $89 per person for at least 13 plates and sake. All seafood is flown in from Japan. Open Wednesdays through Sundays.
Sunset Park
Cafe Zona Sur | This local treasure in Sunset Park is the perfect place for a casual date night with friendly staff, delicious drinks, and an eclectic menu. Happy hour is all day on Thursdays.
Confidant | Industry City | Confidant is Industry City’s first and only fine dining restaurant. The owners are two alums from Roberta’s, and the rotating menu is inspired by seasonal ingredients. Within the industrial Sunset Park development, the co-owners (who are close friends) have created a cozy environment where they are serving dry-aged fish and meat, seafood, and natural wine. Many ingredients and beverages come from Industry City neighbors, including Fort Hamilton Distillery and Ends Meat.
Hainan Chicken House | For a foodie date night, opt for authentic Malaysian food at Hainan Chicken House in Sunset Park, rated by the New York Times as once of the top 100 best restaurants in NYC. Specializing in Malaysian-style poached chicken over fragrant rice.
L’Wren | L’Wren is a beautifully decorated space with a variety of seating. They offer happy hour or consider the 90 minute open bar option. Their inventive cocktail list and small bites are sure to please.
Bay Ridge
Bar Chuzo Latin Bistro | Bar Chuzo recently opened in Bay Ridge to rave reviews. With a lively vibe and beautiful decor, Bar Chuzo is perfect for a fun date night. Their menu includes favorites like chuzos (their signature skewers), brasa wings, and paella along with many options for diners who are gluten-free or vegetarian/vegan. They offer indoor and outdoor seating.
Cebu | This American bistro is a reliable neighborhood gem. Diners can choose between stylish indoor seating or beautifully decorated outdoor seating that is perfect for people watching. Menu standouts include their whipped ricotta, Cebu burger, margherita pizza, and classic steak skewers. The cocktail list is creative and extensive.
Delia’s Lounge | Dimly lit with couches, chairs, and other cozy seating, Delia’s offers a romantic setting to enjoy delicious drinks and dishes. There is often live music to further enhance the ambiance.
Piccante | Piccante offers Italian food in a beautiful new location. If you are looking for a cozy night of homemade comfort food, look no further. Menu highlights include their butternut squash ravioli, a variety of risottos, and mouthwatering desserts. Be sure to ask about their daily specials.
Tanoreen | Tanoreen is a neighborhood favorite for date nights and celebrations. Along with a warm ambiance, their Palestinian & Middle Eastern food is imaginative and flavorful. Their inspired drink list includes the Figtini, Pistachio Martini, and the Za’atar Mezcal Margarita.
Terina | Terina is a new modern Italian supper club in the neighborhood. This elegant spot provides an evening of exceptional food and cocktails. Menu highlights include the grilled baby lamb chops, deconstructed beef wellington, and the veal chop pizzaiola. Be sure to order an Espresso Martini or Terina Basil.
More ideas for a Brooklyn night out…
Looking for date night ideas beyond just dinner and drinks? We love these spots for live music, comedy shows, cabaret, dancing, bowling, roller skating, and even mechanical bull-riding!
Bell House | Gowanus | The Bell House is popular venue for comedy, live music, podcast recording, and more. Housed in a former warehouse, it has a spacious main room and also an intimate bar space. They also serve Table 87 pizza!
Public Records | Gowanus | This one’s for music-loving parents. A hybrid venue in Gowanus that combines a vegan restaurant and music lounge, a records store, a hi-fi listening room and cocktail bar, and a nightlife space, Public Records is a unique spot for a fun night out!
Brooklyn Bowl | Williamsburg | More than just a bowling alley, Brooklyn Bowl is a live music venue, serving food by Blue Ribbon. Bowl, have drinks, have dinner, and stay for a show!
Xanadu | Bushwick | Lace up your roller skates and take a spin around this new rink in Bushwick. Xanadu is also a concert venue and nightclub, check their calendar for themed nights, live music, and more special events!
Desert 5 Spot | Williamsburg | Desert 5 Spot is a honky tonk bar with country music, dancing, a mechanical bull, and Dolly Parton memorabilia decorating the walls. There are live music and DJ performances, plus two-stepping classes, cowboy karaoke, and more themed events.
Union Hall | Park Slope | Union Hall hosts a variety of events, including live music performances, and comedy shows. The space features a unique interior with exposed brick, chandeliers, and a parlor-style ambiance. It also has 2 bocce courts!
Cocktail Magique Theatre by Company XIV | Bushwick | This immersive, theatrical experience is a variety show that brings together cocktails, burlesque performances, and vaudeville acts in one-of-a-kind show.
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Updated: July 2025. Main Image: Gage & Tollner in Downtown Brooklyn.
