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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Lower State

Cocktails for dates

Made for those who believe a well-mixed drink is the only way to break the ice on a first date.

Based on 616 Opinions
+613
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Updated May 2026
01
The Black Sheep Restaurant + Bar image 1
The Black Sheep Restaurant + Bar image 2
The Black Sheep Restaurant + Bar image 3
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Restaurant combines old-fashioned Parisian style with SoCal vibes in a space featuring high ceilings and arched windows. Atmosphere feels cozy and elegant, balancing intimacy with openness through semi-private layout. Music plays at a comfortable volume, enhancing a chic yet welcoming mood.

Creative wine cocktails stand out here, offering unique flavors beyond standard drinks. Non-alcoholic options are also tasty and thoughtfully crafted.

Offers a romantic atmosphere ideal for special dates and celebrations. Suitable for both intimate evenings and large gatherings.

People are saying

"The tasting menu offered great value and was plenty of food."

"The tasting menu here is plenty of food and amazing."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

The parking fee is $3 per hour after the first 75 minutes.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy nights.

3

Happy hour runs from 5 to 6 PM with special menu items.

02
Dusk Bar image 1

Small, modern bar with an open, airy design that shifts to an intimate, moody vibe at night. Live music on Tuesdays creates a relaxed, low-pressure atmosphere for conversation and drinks. The space feels inviting and packed, with no screens and a focus on expertly mixed cocktails and fresh seafood.

Cocktails here are balanced, bold, and beautifully crafted with a focus on mezcal. Bartenders create delicious craft cocktails that look great and taste complex, often available at reasonable prices during happy hours.

Low-key atmosphere suits intimate gatherings and dates. Offers alcohol-free drinks that work well as alternatives.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are masters and make great drinks."

"I love the wide variety of artisanal tequilas and mezcals they offer."

"The drinks here are like art, especially the peppermint espresso martini."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers BOGO oysters, providing good value on select days.

2

Live music occurs every Tuesday evening at Dusk Bar.

3

Expect a 5-minute wait during peak hours on Fridays around 6pm.

03
Aperitivo image 1
Wine bar

Small space with a polished, warm vibe feels like a cozy European spot. Friendly greetings create a welcoming, intimate atmosphere. Focus on fresh pasta, Italian DOCG wines, and rotating menus featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Fantastic cocktails come with a great wine list. They also offer delicious virgin cocktails for non-drinkers.

Smaller size creates an intimate setting for date nights or small groups. Staff show extreme attentiveness and adapt menu items for dietary needs like garlic allergies.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the Italian wine and delicious food."

"This place offers creative, delicious northern Italian-inspired food and spritz for a perfect date spot."

"The staff here are so accommodating with dietary needs."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

The menu features fresh pastas and locally sourced ingredients.

3

Expect a wait for a table during peak dining hours.

04
Brass Bear Funk Zone image 1

Outdoor seating with cozy patio, vegetation surroundings, and dog-friendly areas creates a relaxed vibe. Live music and mid-2000s rap and R&B add to the fun atmosphere. Family-friendly features include a supervised play area and games for all ages.

Mezcal margarita and paper plane stand out as signature cocktails. Drinks include mezcal and tequila options, with special and unique cocktails crafted on request.

Cocktails like the margarita and beers such as blood orange wheat ale and golden bear IPAs offer a nice variety. Skewers serve as a great snack to share during a date.

People are saying

"The beer here is always amazing, especially the IPAs."

"The specialty cocktails here were excellent and delicious."

"Emily was so responsive and flexible when planning our event."

Good to know

1

Public parking is available behind the brewery, but it may require a fee.

2

Brass Bear Funk Zone is family-friendly with a fenced area for kids' activities.

3

Reservations are recommended for hosting events, especially for larger groups.

05
Holdren's Steaks & Seafood image 1

Old-school steakhouse with dark leather decor and a dimly lit, tight interior featuring a large bar and booths. Atmosphere is vibrant and lively, often loud with TVs but no obnoxious music. Outdoor seating offers a comfortable patio ideal for people watching.

Perfect cocktails come with a mix of good flavors and balance. They pair well with appetizers and steaks, adding to the overall great atmosphere.

Outdoor seating sets a relaxed tone for anniversary dinners. The menu features sea bass, prawn linguini, and a 16 oz steak with shrimp combo that pairs well with sides and salads, all at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"I had a steak, and it was perfectly cooked."

"The steak combo options here are amazing for a date."

"The cocktails here were perfect."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 8pm daily.

2

Special entrees for $21 available during early bird seating from 4-6pm.

3

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

06
Rare Society image 1
Steak house

Steakhouse offers a beautifully decorated interior with a dog-friendly outdoor patio that brings lively energy. The atmosphere is loud and vibrant, not suited for quiet or intimate dining. Guests enjoy excellent steak and bourbon selections alongside creative cocktails.

Great recommendations and knowledgeable staff make the cocktails stand out. Drinks are super yummy and well crafted.

Happy Hour menu offers a great start for a date night. Denver wagyu cuts and dishes like shrimp scampi and miso glazed carrots add a sophisticated touch to the meal.

People are saying

"The steak here was cooked very well and tasted buttery."

"The cocktails here were excellent and solid."

"The cuts of meat here are insanely good for date spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Oysters are $1 each on Mondays, a great deal for seafood lovers.

07
Drift Santa Barbara image 1

Hotel combines upscale casual rooms with loud live music from an on-site bar that plays until early morning. Location places guests in the heart of downtown with easy access to local attractions. Amenities include a cocktail and oyster bar and complimentary bike rentals for exploring the city.

Craft cocktails focus on agave spirits beyond just tequila and mezcal. The bar offers a packed cocktail and oyster scene with a strong old fashioned presence.

Offers a cozy setting for couples with a relaxed atmosphere. Stays typically last a couple of nights, making it suitable for a short getaway.

People are saying

"This Hotel's location on State Street is perfect for walking to the beach and restaurants."

"The cocktails here are creative and delicious."

"It's a great spot for date nights, close to downtown bars and restaurants."

Good to know

1

The hotel has a partnership with Buttonwood Vineyard, offering a buy-one-get-one-free wine tasting.

2

The hotel is located within walking distance to the beach and downtown attractions.

3

Expect noise from weddings and events that may last until 1:00am.

08
Augie's of Santa Barbara image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open air patio overlooks a busy street with palm tree roof feature and beautiful bar. Atmosphere blends upscale fun with a local vibe, energized by music that evokes Mexico. Known for an exceptional tequila selection and handcrafted cocktails, it attracts those seeking a lively yet classy setting.

Handcrafted and artisanal cocktails stand out with a fantastic selection of tequila and mezcal. Drinks like the Beso de Verano deliver delicious flavors alongside a great atmosphere.

Large portions and appetizing presentation make meals here satisfying for sharing. The menu includes vegetarian options and the service respects preferences without pressing on price.

People are saying

"Hector was the best server for our Mexican food."

"I enjoyed the delicious, hand-crafted cocktails."

"The food and drinks here are amazing for date spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekends.

3

The restaurant opens at 11:00 AM daily, but check for holiday hours.

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Lower State, Santa Barbara

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