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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Hillcrest

Date spots with outdoor space

A quiet evening spent outside is the only way to make a date feel like a real escape.

Based on 776 Opinions
+773
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Updated May 2026
01
Rosemary & Thyme Cafe image 1
Rosemary & Thyme Cafe image 2
Rosemary & Thyme Cafe image 3
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Breakfast restaurant

Garden patio tucked away behind the building creates a calming atmosphere with lush tropical plants and shaded outdoor seating. The space feels warm and quiet, inviting relaxed breakfasts and brunches in a family-friendly setting.

Eggs Benedict stands out as a highlight here, praised for its quality and taste. The setting supports a wonderful experience for couples looking to enjoy a meal together.

An adorable, tucked away tropical patio offers a quiet, shady spot with lovely plants. The outdoor space welcomes dogs and features shaded garden seating for dining.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the chilaquiles."

"The outdoor space is a cute patio filled with lush plants."

"The food here is delicious; you have to try the potatoes."

Good to know

1

The cafe is only open on weekends.

2

Puppers are welcome in the patio.

3

Breakfast prices are very affordable.

02
Hillcrest House Bed & Breakfast image 1

Old California Bungalow style creates a warm, inviting atmosphere with a cozy, home-like vibe. Spacious, charming rooms feature comfortable beds and tasteful decor. Guests enjoy quiet, peaceful surroundings with easy access to a garden and amenities like a jacuzzi tub.

Hosts provide personalized attention that enhances the experience. Couples find the atmosphere comfortable and welcoming for a relaxed visit.

Rooms offer private patios or small decks with street views. Outdoor seating is available, enhancing the fresh air experience.

People are saying

"The host's warm welcome made my breakfast truly memorable."

"Ann's warm welcome makes this place feel like family."

"You can enjoy fresh air from your private patio or a small deck."

Good to know

1

Breakfast starts at 9 AM daily.

2

Off-street parking is available for guests.

3

The location is within walking distance to many restaurants and shops.

03
Cellar Hand image 1
Restaurant

Indoor and outdoor spaces blend seamlessly with a beautiful patio that welcomes dogs and enhances the setting. The atmosphere stays lively but low key, featuring live jazz and vinyl DJ sets during brunch. Warm lighting and cozy seating create an intimate, romantic vibe ideal for relaxed dining.

A super cute spot with a cozy vibe suits date nights well. It offers a setting that works for catching up with close friends or enjoying a meal with a partner.

An amazing patio offers a great outdoor spot. The bar blends indoor and outdoor seating, letting you watch the neighborhood while dining.

People are saying

"I found the wine here to be fantastic."

"The outdoor space here is amazing and feels so open."

"The food here is amazing, especially the seafood starter."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price wines by the glass.

2

Reservations are recommended for the three-course bar dinners on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

3

The happy hour extends into dinner service, providing great value.

04
Taste of Denmark image 1
Danish restaurant

Small indoor space with a street front patio offers a relaxed, friendly vibe. Danish classics play softly, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels like a piece of Denmark. The place draws those interested in authentic Scandinavian flavors and casual outdoor dining.

Terrific food and wonderful service create a great atmosphere for couples. The red sausage offers an explosion of delicious flavor that stands out on the menu.

Outdoor seating includes a street front patio ideal for people watching and shaded areas perfect for a lovely lunch.

People are saying

"The food, especially the rye bread and Danish pastries, is amazing."

"The Danish here are perfection, the best I've ever eaten."

"I enjoyed lunch outside in the shade on the patio."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult and requires payment.

2

Everything at Taste of Denmark is cooked to order.

3

You can buy the bread and take a huge loaf home.

05
Makai Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant with cozy indoor seating and a welcoming patio offers a laid-back Hawaiian vibe and fresh, high-quality sushi. Music adds a sophisticated touch while the atmosphere stays casual and inviting. The space feels simple but neat, focusing on authentic flavors and relaxed energy.

Outdoor seating offers a nice ambiance with great vibes both inside and outside.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be the freshest I've ever tasted."

"I loved the sushi here; it's the best in town."

"I loved our meal here; it's the best sushi I ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

The menu features a variety of poke bowls and sushi options.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can be limited during peak hours.

06
Maisa formerly Aladdin Hillcrest image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Large indoor space with quaint decor and a pleasant, low-key atmosphere creates a cozy, cafe-like vibe. Outdoor patio surrounded by beautiful palm trees offers a nice setting for dining. The place draws those seeking authentic Middle Eastern flavors in a relaxed environment.

Couples visit regularly, making it a consistent spot for dates. The atmosphere encourages repeat visits, showing its appeal as a reliable date spot.

Outdoor space includes a great patio that offers a very nice place to sit.

People are saying

"I found the chicken salad to be very fresh and delicious."

"You'll find amazing, healthy, and tasty food at these Date Spots."

"The outdoor space is great, especially the patio."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

2

Parking is available nearby for customers.

3

Expect smaller portion sizes than typical for the prices charged.

07
Parma Cucina Italiana image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian restaurant with intimate seating and a warm, family-friendly vibe. Small indoor space complements a dog-friendly outdoor patio. Staff create a welcoming atmosphere with authentic Italian charm.

Tuesday date night menu offers a great deal. The spot suits both casual visits and special occasions like cute date nights or dinners with friends.

Smaller venue with excellent ambiance offers outdoor seating that is dog-friendly. Sitting outside provides a pleasant experience with minimal street noise and good people watching.

People are saying

"The pasta here is amazing, truly the best I've ever had."

"The food here is delicious and authentic Italian."

"You can sit outside and enjoy the pleasant neighborhood buzz."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during busy dinner hours to secure a table.

2

On Wednesdays, enjoy 30% off a bottle of wine with dinner.

3

The Tuesday date night menu offers great value for couples.

08
Cork & Stem image 1
Wine bar

Wine bar combines minimalistic decor with interactive flower bar and custom bouquet workshops. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting, suited for quiet afternoons or lively gatherings. Space offers indoor and outdoor seating, encouraging mingling with vibrant floral displays throughout.

Offers a perfect setting for both romantic dates and group outings. Works well for pre or post date night plans with a fun and inviting atmosphere.

Pleasant outdoor seating appears when weather is mild. The layout encourages mingling with a patio for warmer days, but service outside is non-existent.

People are saying

"The staff helped me choose a wine and made me feel known."

"It's a great spot for wine flights and a charcuterie board."

"You can create your own flower bouquet in the Outdoor Space."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features unbeatable wine flights and runs from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Cork & Stem hosts regular events, including monthly flower arranging parties.

3

The venue is suitable for hosting events with a minimal space fee based on purchases.

09
Frenchy's Hideout image 1

Restaurant offers cozy, intimate atmosphere with live music and an upbeat vibe. Decor includes visible kitchen and playful signs, creating a special feel. Wine selection features top-notch French and Italian varieties, enhancing the dining experience.

A great date spot with a cozy atmosphere. The bathroom has a strong smell that might be off-putting.

People are saying

"The French food here is delicious, especially the steak frites."

"I loved the crispy fries and silky smooth bรฉchamel sauce."

"The duck confit here is tender with a unique flavor, perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because the restaurant fills up quickly.

2

The happy hour offers $10 glasses of Sancerre and Caymus.

3

Parking in Hillcrest requires circling around for street parking.

10
Cocina De Barrio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Modern Mexican restaurant offers spacious indoor and outdoor seating with a breezy patio elevated for people watching. Atmosphere feels high class yet welcoming, with artistic plating and a lively bar featuring fresh margaritas and unique cocktails. Crowd enjoys a comfortable, friendly vibe with generous portions and stylish design.

Short ribs in mole stand out for dinner, paired well with the pescado zarandeado. Drinks like the horchata mixed drink add a sweet touch, and French toast offers a tasty breakfast option.

Covered patio offers dog friendly outdoor seating with chill vibes. Staff keeps drinks and plates topped off even when the patio is crowded.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here delicious and full of flavor."

"The chilaquiles verdes were absolutely delicious, and the mole sauce was amazing."

"It's a cute spot with a relaxed outdoor seating area."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm most days with affordable prices.

2

Expect a busy crowd on weekends; arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

Parking can be limited with only street parking available.

11
NOLA on 5th image 1
American restaurant

Older building with New Orleans vibe and tiny interior creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Loud music and bar energy fill the space, especially near the bar area. Outdoor dog-friendly patio offers a relaxed spot for lunch or watching games on multiple TVs.

Quiet atmosphere during weekday lunches makes seating and service easy and fast. Dishes like creamy, spicy Cajun catfish pasta add satisfying flavors for date meals.

Stylish and clean patio area offers a relaxed New Orleans vibe. Outdoor space suits lunch with good people watching opportunities.

People are saying

"The jambalaya and poboy here are top notch."

"The Cajun shrimp pasta is creamy, spicy, and satisfying for date spots."

"It's nice to sit on the patio when the weather is great."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour at NOLA on 5th is from 3 to 6 pm.

2

The food price range is from $8 to $26.

3

NOLA on 5th offers limited vegetarian options, mainly two salads at $14 each.

12
Huapangos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with colorful decor and a dog-friendly patio creates a warm, festive atmosphere. Music ranges from loud and lively to cozy when lights dim and authentic tunes play. Outdoor seating offers an inviting space to enjoy the weather and vibrant surroundings.

Offers a relaxed setting for couples with options like chilaquiles without meat and chips and guacamole. Serves breakfast and lunch, welcoming for pairs including those with pets.

A charming patio sits right on the corner with vibrant colors and traditional Mexican decorations. The outdoor space is pet-friendly and covered, making it a popular spot to eat outside.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the mole."

"The food and specialty drinks here are fantastic."

"The food here is amazing, especially the mole."

Good to know

1

Huapangos offers bottomless mimosas for $18 with a meal on weekends.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers every weekday.

3

Expect long wait times during peak brunch hours on weekends.

13
Bread & Cie image 1

European bakery atmosphere combines with rustic wooden accents and cozy seating to create a welcoming vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating options include a great patio that invites people watching. The space feels like a comforting haven with charming artwork and thoughtful details throughout.

Weekend coffee dates happen here with a relaxed vibe. Brunch options support casual daytime meetups with fresh pastries and cozy seating.

A great outside patio offers a nice spot to sit and watch the world go by. Both indoor and outdoor seating options are available for flexibility.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, delicious bread here."

"It's a nice outdoor space with a great patio."

"The bread here is so delectable for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when lines can be long.

2

Expect a chaotic parking situation; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Prices are on the higher side, with some items costing up to $8 for small loaves.

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