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Discovering NYC’s Hidden Gems
Explore New York City’s best-kept secrets for a unique adventure and uncover hidden treasures with this insider’s guide to off-the-beaten-path attractions that offer a new perspective. Today we’ll be diving into the local culture and find gems not on the typical tourist list, experiencing the charm of NYC’s lesser-known spots.
Bar Titsou
Tucked away in Tribeca at the Fouquet’s Hotel is Bar Titsou. Hidden behind a wooden wall, this speakeasy transports you to a romantic getaway through its plush and dimly lit ambience and truly the chicest take on velvet motives we have ever seen. Every single element of it’s interiors, including the table lamps, are pieces of art but enough about the ambience.
What Makes Bar Titsou Stand Out
This is truly a “if you know, you know” spot. Despite being the epitome of luxury and some of the best bartending the city has to offer, it’s stayed a well kept secret, frequented by it’s elite neighborhood audience. Hotel Fouquet’s is known for its standout location in Paris on Champs Elysées and there is no doubt that when they chose to expand to NYC as their second location in the whole world, the Fouquet Team wanted to make a statement – and honestly by the way they have transformed Parisian chic to NYC’s local culture, what a statement they have made.
Let’s talk drinks
If there’s one spot where the bartending and hospitality are both a 11/10, Bar Titsou would be that spot. This spot truly takes you back to the white glove service era. You can tell the bartenders exactly what you like and let them do something custom or you can pick a drink from their beautifully curated menu. We absolutely love Bar Titsou’s take on the espresso martini – it comes with a cute little bubble on top which you get to burst, for an Instagrammable moment. If you’d like to make a reservation for your Valentine’s Day plans, here’s a handy little link for you.
The River Café
The River Café, located in Brooklyn, offers a beautiful setting with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. This perfect place for a romantic dinner in NYC boasts a Michelin-starred menu focused on local and sustainable ingredients. The restaurant also features an extensive wine list and impeccable service, making it an ideal choice for a Valentine’s Day dinner date.
The Spectacular View
Nestled beneath the Brooklyn Bridge, The River Café offers a perfect place for a romantic dinner, with breathtaking views of the iconic lower Manhattan skyline. Located right on the waterfront, it’s the perfect place for a romantic dinner, offering a magical setting on the outdoor terrace, especially during sunset. The serene atmosphere, with the gentle sound of water lapping against the pier, creates an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re dining inside or on the elegant terrace, you can experience the unique and unforgettable qualities of The River Café – from the warm and inviting atmosphere to the impeccable service.
Our Favorite Menu Items at The River Café
The food here both tastes and feels like luxury with options such as the wagyu steak tartare, octopus and of course – their caviar service. From exquisite flavors to a perfect blend, each dish promises to make your visit to The River Café an unforgettable one. If you’d like to make a reservation, here’s a link for you.
One if By Land, Two if By Sea
When it comes to romance, no one does it better than this restaurant. One if By Land, Two if By Sea is located in the heart of the West Village and is adorned in hundreds of candles. Its historic charm, cozy atmosphere, and flickering candlelight make it the perfect place for a romantic Valentine’s Day date night. The exceptional service and attention to detail elevate every visit, also leaving a lasting impression and the glowing reviews and recommendations from delighted customers speak for themselves.
The Story Behind the Name
The history and origins of the restaurant’s name further solidifies it’s reputation as one of the most romantic restaurants in town. Steeped in tradition and mystery, the name itself – “One if By Land, Two if By Sea” originates from a line in Longfellow’s poem.
Signature Dishes at One if By Land, Two if By Sea
With its rich history and delectable dishes, this restaurant provides a truly unique and intimate dining experience. Their Valentine’s Day prefix menu has all the restaurant’s classic dishes on it, such as their tuna tartare, seared scallops and of course their renowned chocolate fondant. The restaurant’s extensive wine list complements its cozy and intimate ambiance, making it the perfect place for a memorable date night or special occasion. If you’d like to make a reservation here, here’s a link for you.
The Den at Azabu
Azabu, located in Tribeca, is an elevated Japanese restaurant. This restaurant focuses on unique and authentic Japanese menu items. Azabu definitely in and on its own is a lesser known restaurant, but also finds a rare balance, by still being a celebrity favorite with celebs like Bradley Cooper and Irina Shayk, visiting as patrons on their date nights. Hidden inside this beloved restaurant, is an even cooler and even lesser known speakeasy concept called The Den, a Michelin-starred, 8 seater Omakase counter.
A Truly Unique Omakase Seating
The Den offers 3 hour omakase seatings, Tuesday – Saturday, with two reservation times, one at 5:30 pm and another at 8:30 pm, with a cost of $320 per person for the Chef’s Omakase experience. Each course is thoughtfully curated by the chef with fresh sushi and immersive flavors.
A Traditional Sushi Experience at The Den
The Den uses the spirit of Omotenashi, an expression in the Japanese culture that describes providing the best service and hospitality despite receiving nothing in return, to guide its immersive encounters. The main attraction of the event is Chef Terado, a seasoned expert in the intricate skill of sushi preparation, with a rich history in the culinary world, including a stint at world renowned Sushi Saito in Hong Kong. The approach followed at The Den is firmly rooted in tradition, emphasizing the meticulous preparation of the fish. Unlike contemporary trends that incorporate various garnishes, wagyu and caviar, Chef Terado opts for a more traditional style focused on fish and seafood. If you’d like to make a reservation, you can do so here.
Le Pavillon
Located right next to Bryant Park, is the absolutely breathtaking – Le Pavillon. A new-ish Michelin starred concept by renowned chef, Daniel Boulud, Le Pavillon is one of the more elevated restaurant experiences NYC has to offer.
Let’s Talk Ambiance
If there’s one spot that is known for its ambiance, it is Le Pavillon. Guests are quite literally transformed to a green haven, with the indoor forest type vision, the restaurant has brought to life. There is nothing more mesmerizing or romantic than the beautiful backdrop Le Pavillon provides for its guests.
Locally Sourced, Fresh Food
The menu boasts locally sourced and seasonal vegetables and seafood. From the spaghetti langoustine to the grilled avocado, each ingredient shines on its own while harmonizing with the others on the plate. With a menu that changes with the seasons, guests can expect a culinary journey that reflects the best of what nature has to offer. If you’d like to make a reservation, you can do so here.
In conclusion, if you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day in NYC these romantic restaurants are sure to make your evening unforgettable. From the breathtaking view at The River Café to the plush, dimly lit speakeasy at Hotel Fouquet’s, each restaurant offers a unique dining experience that will set the perfect mood for romance. If you’d like more personalized recommendations with guaranteed reservations, feel free to use : web.thesceneny.com
