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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Long Island City

Interesting date spots

Somewhere to go on a date that sparks a real conversation instead of just providing a backdrop for one.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
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Updated May 2026
01
Culture Lab LIC image 1
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Art center

Large indoor and outdoor spaces combine art galleries with live music and community events. The atmosphere is welcoming and chill, attracting people of all ages, including dogs and children. Views of the Manhattan skyline add to the creative and relaxed vibe.

Offers a relaxed setting suitable for date night or family outings. The atmosphere feels welcoming and easygoing for spending quality time together.

Something interesting is always happening here. The venue offers a consistently engaging atmosphere that keeps the evenings lively.

People are saying

"I loved the art exhibitions, especially the one on stage combat."

"I loved the free live music overlooking Manhattan."

"It's a gorgeous space with a fun atmosphere for date spots."

Good to know

1

The event is free and runs from 5 PM to 9 PM Thursday to Sunday during the summer.

2

Restrooms are available in the back left area before the second art gallery room.

3

It is suggested to arrive early as the venue gets crowded very quickly.

02
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Québécois restaurant

Open space converted from an old gas station features eclectic decor with antique wallpaper and art deco fixtures. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting, with quiet music and plenty of space between tables. Offers a wide drink selection and a lovely patio area for relaxed dining.

Dishes show a genuine curiosity for making delicious and interesting food. The trout and Banh Mi stand out as very interesting and different from expectations.

People are saying

"The food here is so interesting and different, a real culinary masterpiece."

"The Date Spots here have dishes that melt in your mouth."

"I found the menu and dishes here really interesting and different."

03
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Chinese restaurant

Elegant interior channels old Hong Kong opulence with a modern touch, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere ideal for dates or family meals. A Baijiu Apothecary Bar offers uniquely crafted cocktails alongside a private dining room for larger groups or celebrations.

Gorgeous, retro interior creates a romantic atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. The ambiance suits a relaxed night out or a cute date night perfectly.

Baijiu cocktails and the Baijiu flight offer unique flavors that stand out. Vegetarian options and the dessert provide interesting variety.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be absolutely delicious and full of flavor."

"The service here is friendly and attentive, making it a great spot."

"The baiju cocktails here are interesting and tasty."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is highly recommended for dinner on the weekend.

2

Expect long wait times during peak evening hours.

3

Customers with reservations are told they can only eat for 60 minutes if someone is waiting for the table.

04
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Cocktail bar

Tiny cocktail bar channels Japanese city pop theme with meticulous decor and an immersive vibe. Music volume tends to be loud, creating a lively but noisy atmosphere. Seating is limited, often requiring reservations and featuring a strict time limit per seat.

Offers a great atmosphere for dates with a vibe that suits both couples and groups. Comfortable setting encourages relaxed conversation and connection.

Cocktail options stand out with interesting flavors and delicious drinks that offer variety beyond the usual.

People are saying

"The bar's vibe is super cute with a 90s Asian or J-pop theme."

"The city pop vibes and good drinks make it a great spot."

"The cocktails here have Japanese names, which is interesting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to get a table.

2

They put walk-in customers on a waitlist.

3

Small walk-in groups of 1-2 people might get in if they are lucky.

05
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Restaurant

Entrance through a Coca-Cola vending machine leads into a dark, moody speakeasy with live jazz and performances. The space features intimate two-person tables and a sexy, atmospheric vibe ideal for date nights.

Cozy ambiance sets the mood for a date night. Friendly service ensures all needs are met during celebrations or quiet dinners.

Small size combines with an interesting vibe and a secret entrance. The overall concept adds to the unique feel.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, with tempting options on the menu."

"The service here is attentive and memorable for date spots."

"Our waitress Claudia was energetic, thoughtful, and helpful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to enter the speakeasy.

2

Jazz night starts at 7 p.m. every Thursday.

3

The aerial show occurs at 7:20 p.m. on Thursdays.

06
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Korean restaurant

Small space with Korean traditional murals and artistic decor creates a vibrant, chic atmosphere. Music ranges from loud rave to K-pop hits, shaping a lively vibe. Seating includes bar and high tops, though some find it cramped and hard.

Atmosphere suits both dates and friends with a cute vibe. Staff contribute to a joyful date night experience.

Trying raw crabs offers an interesting new experience. The Soy Marinade Salmon bowl stands out but comes with too much rice.

People are saying

"You have to try the Korean food, especially the marinated raw crab."

"The seafood platters here are amazing, especially the crab and shrimp."

"Trying raw crab for the first time was an interesting experience."

Good to know

1

You should make a reservation if you plan to go, especially on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended due to the small size of the restaurant.

3

The restaurant has a limited reservation time of approximately 1.5 hours.

07
Jiang Nan LIC image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern Chinese restaurant with elegant yet welcoming décor and soft lighting creates a relaxed atmosphere suited for couples and business banquets. Spacious, comfortable seating offers privacy while maintaining a lively vibe. Live music on weekend evenings adds a cozy, romantic touch.

Tables have ample space between them, creating a relaxed vibe for dates. Four dishes for two cost around $100 to $120, fitting a casual date night or get-together.

People are saying

"The Peking Duck here is lovely and crisp."

"It's so cozy and welcoming, perfect for a dinner date."

"The sweet and sour fish here is a classic, with a nicely balanced flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially during busy times.

2

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday before 6:30 PM with drink specials.

3

Complimentary mooncakes are offered during the Mid-Autumn Festival.

08
Lately Café/Bistro/Bar image 1

Space combines spacious seating with calming decor featuring plants and big windows. Atmosphere feels cozy and undisturbed, with a quiet outdoor courtyard offering breaks from noise. Energy suits both study and casual gatherings, often busy but relaxed.

Coffee dates here feature gluten-free options and alternative milks at no extra cost. The cold brew offers cinnamon and chocolate notes, making it a cozy spot for couples to relax and catch up.

A wide range of interesting beverages stands out here. The spot also hosts pop-up events that bring in interesting people to meet and unwind with.

People are saying

"The coffee here is smooth, rich, and well made."

"The coffee here is delicious, especially the vanilla latte."

"Their creative drink choices, like the osmanthus matcha, are really interesting."

Good to know

1

The kitchen is open until 3 PM.

2

Seating is only for brunch and service on Sundays.

3

Customers must be seated and accept table service to stay at the cafe.

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