Photo by Lindsay Morris
When my husband and I have the rare chance to go out to dinner alone, sans children, we try to make it special. We have a short list of our favorite restaurants that we love to visit when given the opportunity to linger over dinner and dessert. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, we decided to focus on a romantic spot.
The more I thought about it, though, I realized, I’m not entirely sure what makes one restaurant more romantic than another. Is it the charming ambiance, a prime location or an exquisite menu?
Personally, I love intimate little restaurants with candlelit tables. Being able to sit across from my husband and have an uninterrupted conversation is priceless. When dining with kids, it’s amazing how many times one can be interrupted for more ketchup and bathroom breaks! This Valentine’s Day, I’m opting for great food and much needed adult conversation.
Nassau County
Plancha Tapas and Wine Bar
This is precisely my idea of a romantic restaurant—small, dark and intimate. Sharing tapas-style small plates is a fun way to try new dishes without the commitment of a main course. Each time my husband and I order, we always make sure we choose at least one item that is unique to us. The amazing charcuterie boards, pork belly bocadillo and patatas bravas should not be missed!
Plancha Tapas and Wine Bar, 931 Franklin Avenue, Garden City, NY 11520, (516) 246-9459, Open: Monday 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM, Tuesday – Friday 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM, Saturday 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM, Sunday 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
Limani
If getting glammed up for dinner is your idea of a great night out, Limani is the restaurant for you. Limani excels at romantic, fine dining in their beautiful, chic dining space. The Mediterranean cuisine is exceptional with favorites including the Kolokithi appetizer, Loup de Mer and the Spanakorizo. Be sure to leave room for their decadent Baklava.
Limani, 1043 Northern Blvd Roslyn, NY 11576, (516) 869-8989, Dinner Hours: Monday – Wednesday 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM, Thursday – Friday 4:30 PM – 11:00 PM, Saturday 4:30 PM – 12:00 AM, Sunday 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Wild Honey Dining & Wine
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Located in the heart of Oyster Bay, Wild Honey is situated in the historic building where Theodore Roosevelt once had his executive offices. Massive windows, high ceilings and exposed brick walls make this restaurant wildly attractive. Locals love the Crispy Calamari, Oven Roasted French Cut Chicken and Warm Georgia Peach Crisp for dessert.
Wild Honey Dining & Wine, 1 E Main Street, Oyster Bay, NY 11771, (516) 922-4690, Dinner Hours: Monday – Thursday 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Friday – Saturday 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Sunday 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Suffolk County
Bella Vie
Having just celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary at Bella Vie, this is our latest favorite romantic restaurant. Located on the South Shore, overlooking the beautiful Duck Pond, Bella Vie exudes romance. My recommendations include the Beet Salad, Gnocchi Alla Bava and the Crème Brule.
Bella Vie, 240 W Main St, Bay Shore, NY 11706, (631) 500-9045, Open: Tuesday – Thursday 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Friday & Saturday 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Le Soir
This quaint french restaurant is one of my all-time favorite places on Long Island. Quiet and charming with impeccable service, every occasion feels extra special. My reccommendations would include absolutely everything on the menu. This family owned restaurants never disappoints with incredible attention to detail. The Baked Onion Soup, Black Angus New York Steak au Poivre are among my favorites.
Le Soir, 825 Montauk Highway, Bayport, NY 11705, (631) 472-9090, Open Tuesday – Sunday 5:00 PM
Tellers
For Valentine’s Day, if you are looking for a romantic dinner with a lot of wow factor, Tellers is the place to be. Possibly one of the most impressive restaurants on Long Island, this chic Long Island steakhouse is located inside of a renovated stone bank from the 1920’s. The dining room is located under sky-high ceilings with impressive 25-foot windows. Plan to share the Duck Fat Fries, Porterhouse for Two and the NY Style Cheesecake.
Tellers, 605 Main Street, Islip, NY 11751, (631) 277-7070, Dinner Hours: Monday – Thursday 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Friday & Saturday 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Sunday 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
