ZipPicks Awards
Best Romantic Restaurants in Forest Hills
Master Critic Review
Cabana
8.3
A lively Nuevo Latino room that still works for romance if you lean into cocktails, shareable starters, and a paced entrée order. Best move is to treat it like a celebratory dinner—pick one classic plate, add one appetizer, and let the mojito-and-sangria rhythm do the rest.
Must-Try Dishes:
Churrasco, Ropa Vieja, Empanadas
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A high-energy Latin dinner spot that shines on classic plates and cocktails.
Who should go: Couples who like lively, shared-plate dinners
When to visit: Weeknights for easier seating and calmer noise
What to order: Churrasco, ropa vieja, empanadas
Insider tip: Arrive early for the best shot at a quieter table.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along 70th Road and nearby side streets; manageable on weeknights, more competitive after 7pm on weekends. No valet.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—nice jeans are fine, but heels, button-downs, or cocktail-ready outfits fit the room best.
Noise level: Moderate-to-loud—conversation is easy early in the night, but expect higher energy and music volume as dinner progresses.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or minimal wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several appetizers, sides, and vegetable-forward plates work well.
Vegan options: Limited—some sides and modified dishes, but not a dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—grilled meats and several plates are naturally gluten-free; staff can guide substitutions.
Best For
Better for: Lively date nights, group-friendly celebrations, and Latin classics paired with strong cocktails.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quiet, intimate romantic dinner or highly inventive, modern Latin cooking.