Best Date Night Restaurants in Upper West Side-Lincoln Square
10 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Kebab aur Sharab
Grilled kebabs and bold spice profiles meet crafted drinks.
Notable Picks
8.4
Kebab aur Sharab blends elevated Indian grill techniques with a curated beverage list, spotlighting tandoori meats and rich marinades in a stylish yet relaxed space. The menu’s kebabs and hearty mains pair well with inventive cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tandoori Lamb Chops, Chicken Seekh Kebab, Biryani
What Makes it Special: Grilled kebabs and bold spice profiles meet crafted drinks.
#2
Shalel
8.4
Shalel serves elevated Moroccan-leaning Middle Eastern cuisine in an intimate, candlelit space that feels ideal for date nights and special occasions. Rich spices and layered flavors define its mezze and tagines.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb Tagine, Spiced Carrot Salad, Preserved Lemon Chicken
What Makes it Special: Intricate Moroccan-inspired flavors in a warm, candlelit setting
8.4
An Upper West Side institution since 1998, Atlantic Grill serves refined seafood plates with a broad wine list and classic preparations that appeal to both locals and visitors. Its polished service and prime location near Lincoln Center make it a go‑to for pre‑show dinners.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Must-Try Dishes:
Pan‑Seared Sea Bass, Lobster Thermidor, Oysters on the Half Shell
What Makes it Special: Established seafood classic with broad appeal
8.3
A longstanding Upper West Side French bistro blending Parisian charm with classic bistro fare from onion soup to duck confit in a lively, elegant dining room. Locals appreciate the dependable quality and relaxed yet polished service. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Must-Try Dishes:
French Onion Soup, Duck Confit, Steak Frites
What Makes it Special: Reliable classic bistro fare with Parisian ambiance
8.3
Salumeria Rosi blends Northern Italian delicatessen heritage with a full restaurant menu featuring rich lasagna and handcrafted pastas in refined yet approachable surroundings. The cured meats, wine list, and Italian staples earn consistent praise from regulars. Portions and quality skew toward elevated Italian comfort.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lasagna al Forno, Handmade Tagliatelle, Prosciutto & Burrata
What Makes it Special: Delicatessen heritage with rich lasagna and artisanal pastas
8.2
A celebrated contemporary restaurant from James Beard Award‑winning chef Kwame Onwuachi, blending Afro‑Caribbean flavors with refined techniques in a sophisticated Lincoln Center locale. Standout dishes and inventive pairings make it memorable for special occasions.:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Must-Try Dishes:
Short Rib Pastrami Suya, Curried Goat Patties, Powdered Donut Ice Cream
What Makes it Special: Afro‑Caribbean fine dining with bold flavors
#7
Leyla
8
Leyla blends Turkish and Mediterranean influences into refined but approachable plates, with standout small plates that pair beautifully with its curated cocktail program. The setting feels stylish yet comfortable.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beetroot Carpaccio, Lahmacun, Freekeh Salad
What Makes it Special: Turkish-Mediterranean fusion with refined small plates
Worthy Picks
#8
Sushi Koya
7.9
A refined sushi bar with excellent sushi craftsmanship and elevated nigiri, lauded by reviewers for its precise technique and curated selections. Excellent for a special dinner without going full omakase price. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Must-Try Dishes:
Nigiri sampler, Chef’s special roll, Chutoro sashimi
What Makes it Special: Refined sushi with precise technique
7.9
A classic Upper West Side steakhouse with dry‑aged steaks and nostalgic 1960s decor, popular for special occasions and community diners alike. Reviewers praise the quality of the porterhouse and sides, with live piano enhancing the dining experience. Service can be inconsistent at times but generally friendly and welcoming. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Must-Try Dishes:
Porterhouse for Two, Filet Mignon, Popovers with Butter
What Makes it Special: Nostalgic steakhouse with live piano and dry‑aged steaks
7.7
Lilly’s Cocktail and Wine blends a curated list of craft cocktails with small plates in a cozy, intimate setting on 72nd Street, extending hours until around 1 a.m. on weekend nights. It’s a dependable spot for evening drinks and lighter fare after dinner, with a warm vibe and approachable menu. While not a full kitchen for late‑night meals, its wine and cocktail program keeps the nightlife going.
Must-Try Dishes:
Flatbread, Shrimp Bites, Seasonal Small Plates
What Makes it Special: Craft cocktails with small plates into the late night weekend hours