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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Thornton's best

Authentic date spots

You want a shared experience that feels genuine rather than staged for a night out.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
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Updated May 2026
01
El Lechon Kitchen image 1
El Lechon Kitchen image 2
El Lechon Kitchen image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Small space with limited seating focuses on takeout and quick lunches. Atmosphere feels welcoming but compact, with only a few tables inside and outside. Known for authentic Mexican tacos featuring unique sauces and high-quality ingredients.

Tacos deliver authentic Mexican flavors with a very tasty profile. The menu consistently offers high quality dishes that taste just like traditional Mexican cuisine.

Street tacos stand out with fresh flavors. The chicharron sope offers a rich, satisfying bite.

People are saying

"The carnitas and steak tacos here are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"I found the food to be authentic and very tasty."

"You have to try these tacos; they're heaven in your mouth."

Good to know

1

El Lechon Kitchen is primarily a pickup place but has 2 tables for dining in.

2

Expect limited seating with only four small tables available.

3

Street tacos cost $3.50 each, offering great value for quality food.

02
Tikka and grill (masala &wings) image 1

Restaurant occupies a renovated house in a quiet neighborhood with outdoor seating and flowering bushes at the entrance. Atmosphere feels intimate and authentic, featuring modern Indian music and a warm, hospitable vibe. Offers a large menu with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, creating a relaxed, local spot with small town energy.

Flavors burst with authentic spices that capture true Indian and Nepalese tastes. Dishes like tandoori chicken and lasuni gobi stand out for their genuine preparation and rich flavor.

Accommodates dietary needs like nut allergies with care. Offers a range of dishes from mild to extra hot spice, including flavorful options like lamb korma and paneer saag with garlic cheese naan.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The food here is wonderfully packed with flavor, perfect for Date Spots."

"I found the food to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

2

Dog-friendly patio seating is available for guests.

3

Prices are considered reasonable for the quality of food.

03
Tacos Los Nortenos image 1
Taco restaurant

Food truck offers friendly outdoor seating and a beeper system for waiting in cars. Atmosphere is casual with a mini trompa on the truck adding character. Known for authentic, affordable tacos that attract a steady crowd seeking quality Mexican street food.

Tacos and tortas deliver authentic Latin homecooked meals with exceptional Mexican flavors. The stand offers legit, unbeatable tastes that feel true to tradition.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be fresh and flavorful."

"These tacos are the best we've had, making it a great date spot."

"The tacos here are so authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

They are closed on Tuesdays.

2

Breakfast burritos are only available until 12 PM.

3

The price is $3 per taco.

04
Churreria Dulce Luna image 1

Cozy coffee shop with Mexican decor and relaxing music creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Small space features unique handmade mugs and bright colors that add charm. Regular crowd enjoys a calm vibe reflecting authentic cultural touches.

Cafe de olla offers a truly authentic taste. The horchata stands out as both authentic and delicious.

Filled churros and hot chocolate with cafe de olla create a sweet, cozy vibe. Options like churros, croissants, and horchata make it a solid spot for a coffee date or casual hangout.

People are saying

"I thought the churros here were the best I ever had."

"The authentic horchata here is absolutely delicious."

"You've got to try the delicious churros and hot chocolate here."

Good to know

1

The wait time for churros can be longer as they are made from scratch.

2

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early to find a spot.

3

The hours of operation can be inconsistent, so call ahead.

05
Phở 7 image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant offers a calm and cozy atmosphere with soft soothing music and beautiful photography on the walls. The space feels clean and well-maintained, creating a peaceful environment ideal for quiet meals. Regulars appreciate the authentic pho and relaxing vibe that sets it apart.

Broth stands out as most authentic and true to traditional Vietnamese flavors. Food consistently reflects authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.

Pho and spring rolls create a cozy dining experience for couples. This spot serves as a place for long-term memories and family bonding during dates.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, has an amazing broth."

"The pho here is liquid gold, perfect for Date Spots."

"The pho broth here is rich, flavorful, and so authentic."

Good to know

1

Phở 7 charges a 2.75% fee on top of the bill if not paid with cash.

2

Expect generous portions at Phở 7, making it great for sharing.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment every time you visit.

06
Barbacoa El Tun image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck with outdoor seating offers authentic Mexican tacos and barbacoa known for tender, flavorful meat. Atmosphere stays chill despite busy weekend lunchtime crowds. Prices remain good, attracting steady local interest.

Tacos deliver authentic Mexican flavors with a strong Juarez influence. The food stays true to traditional tastes and offers a very delicious experience.

Tacos and menudo bring a taste of Mexico to the table, sparking memories of travel. The spot feels casual and unplanned, perfect for a laid-back date with authentic flavors.

People are saying

"I considered this the best Mexican food in all of Denver."

"I found the tacos here to be amazing and delicious."

"The food here really hit the spot; it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of over 30 minutes during busy weekend lunch hours.

2

Montados with asadero and menudo are available on Saturdays and Sundays.

3

Tacos cost around $3.50 each.

07
TLAHUICAS MEXICAN RESTAURANT & BAR image 1

Large, spacious restaurant with live mariachi music and multiple big screens showing sports creates a lively yet comfortable atmosphere. Bright, clean interior supports a fun vibe without overwhelming noise. Authentic Mexican cuisine and a well-stocked bar with fresh-infused margaritas complement the experience.

Mexican dishes here deliver authentic, homemade flavor with generous seasoning and solid cooking technique. The food reflects true Mexican style, especially from Morelos, offering a satisfying and genuine taste experience.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The margaritas here are incredibly delicious for Date Spots."

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a large parking lot for easy access.

2

Kids meals are reasonably priced and include drinks.

3

Expect a DJ or live music on weekends for a lively atmosphere.

08
Mucho Bueno Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere and a crammed dining area offers house tequila margaritas and real Mexican draft beers on tap. The environment stays relaxing and inviting, with a focus on reasonably priced, large meals featuring unique items like stuffed sopapillas and crunchy chile rellenos.

Food shows authentic Mexican flavors with a menu that stays true to tradition. Dishes deliver reliable and satisfying tastes that feel genuine and well-prepared.

Authentic Mexican dishes like chuletas de puerco stand out here. The habanero salsa is flavorful enough to take home, making it a solid spot for a date with genuine tastes.

People are saying

"You have to try their Mexican Food, especially the enchiladas."

"The food here is bursting with amazing homemade flavors."

"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be reliable and satisfying."

Good to know

1

All menu items are marked up by 60 cents for card payments.

2

There is plenty of parking available.

3

The price of the smothered burrito deluxe is almost $20.

09
CA PHE, Vietnamese Coffee and Banh Mi image 1

Coffee shop with modern, chic decor and cozy, stylish atmosphere offers comfy seating and complimentary wifi. Energy stays relaxed with a warm, welcoming vibe that suits socializing or working. Frequented for its authentic Vietnamese coffee and bánh mì, it stands out as a local favorite.

Flavors stay true to traditional Vietnamese tastes without Americanized changes. Authentic Vietnamese coffee and dishes offer a genuine experience.

Grilled pork banh mi and bun bo hue banh mi with a side of soup offer tasty options for sharing. Coffee choices are diverse, making it easy to find a favorite drink for a relaxed date.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese coffee here is strong and flavorful."

"The Banh Mi here is so good, with perfectly crispy bread and flavorful meat."

"I found the Vietnamese coffee and food here to be authentic."

Good to know

1

Prices for premium sandwiches are around $12.

2

The internet connection is strong, suitable for video calls.

3

The cafe is family-owned and has a clean, nice interior.

10
Saigon Bowl-Thornton image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant with modern, elegant interior featuring fish tanks and plants that create a relaxing, welcoming atmosphere. The space feels spacious and clean, suitable for family dining. It draws people seeking authentic, highly praised pho and Vietnamese dishes.

Broth simmers for hours, creating a super comforting and authentic flavor. Fried rice and Pho deliver fresh, flavorful Vietnamese dishes with genuine taste.

Frequent visits show this spot works well for date nights with a romantic atmosphere created by nonchalant music. Shared meals like wonton soup add to the experience for couples.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and delicious."

"The pho broth here is rich, flavorful, and tastes like it simmered for hours."

"The pho here is amazing for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is kid and family friendly.

2

There is a 15% service fee and an additional 3% fee for card payments.

3

The total cost for two entrees, two drinks, and one appetizer is $78.

11
La Botana Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with authentic atmosphere and classic Hollywood decor offers a family-friendly, casual vibe with live mariachi music. Comfortable booths and updated interior create a warm, chill environment. The place draws a happy crowd enjoying homemade tortillas and delicious margaritas.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with a wholesome feel. The atmosphere matches the genuine vibe of the cuisine.

Dinner here suits couples looking for authentic Mexican flavors with dishes like carne adobada and pork chops and eggs. The chicken enchiladas lean salty but fit the overall hearty menu.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is fantastic, reminding me of LA."

"I found the Mexican food here to be truly authentic."

"The food here is really tasty, especially the fajitas."

Good to know

1

They charge extra for card payments and a kitchen fee.

2

Expect additional charges for sides and salsa refills.

3

Cash payments are preferred to avoid extra fees.

12
El Azteca Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy space with a simple, clean setup feels like home and welcomes dining in or takeout. Atmosphere carries a strong family diner vibe with amazing energy. Known for authentic recipes, homemade flour tortillas, and large, flavorful breakfast burritos that stand out in the area.

Recipes follow authentic Mexican traditions with tasty dishes that stay true to their roots. The food delivers a delicious and genuine experience.

Frequent visits with partners highlight a casual spot with friendly staff who share details about dishes like the green chili. Shared plates like Carne asada fries make it easy to enjoy together.

People are saying

"Their breakfast burritos are enormous and delicious."

"I thought the dishes were authentic and tasty."

"The food here is warm, flavorful, and fantastic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers generous portions for the price.

2

Delivery is available, expanding access to their food.

3

Breakfast smothered burritos are reasonably priced.

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