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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Nolita

Seafood date spots

Seafood that feels special enough for a date without the stiff, white-tablecloth formality.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Zutto Japanese Ramen Sushi Bar image 1
Zutto Japanese Ramen Sushi Bar image 2
Zutto Japanese Ramen Sushi Bar image 3
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Exposed brick and ramen-themed decor create a funky, clean interior with a hidden seating area that fills with phenomenal aromas. Loud music and TVs showing food preparation add to a sports bar vibe while a full bar and outdoor terrace offer diverse seating options. The atmosphere suits both solo diners and families, blending casual energy with unique design.

Cozy ambiance sets a cute tone for date nights. The spot works well for casual dining with friends or a date.

Seafood here features incredibly fresh fish like tuna, yellowtail, shrimp, scallops, salmon, and eel. Sushi and sashimi highlight perfectly balanced flavors with each piece crafted as a perfect bite.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be incredibly flavorful and seasoned well."

"The seafood here is so fresh and perfectly seasoned."

"The food and service here are amazing for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 12 PM to 6 PM with a $30 open bar.

2

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant offers a special promo of $8.99 meals and $1 cocktails.

02
Socarrat Paella Bar - Nolita image 1

Small Spanish restaurant offers an intimate setting with tight tables and indoor and outdoor seating. Calming atmosphere features perfect lighting and a live flamenco performance that adds vibrant energy. Known for flavorful paella and a well-curated selection of Spanish wines and cocktails.

Great for a date night with a great atmosphere and attentive service from the waiter and supervisor. The menu includes cava spritz, octopus with potato, and dates in bacon, offering a nice variety for sharing.

Seafood paella stands out with lobster, shrimp, and black rice versions loaded with fresh ingredients. Tapas include sea bass, shrimp, and chorizo appetizers that complement the main dishes well.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Spanish and absolutely delicious."

"The paella here has the perfect, crispy socarrat."

"The seafood paella here is exquisite and a big favorite."

Good to know

1

Flamenco night occurs every Tuesday, starting at 8pm.

2

Happy hour offers half off nearly all the tapas and discounted sangria from 4-6pm.

3

Reservations are highly recommended as tables fill up quickly.

03
Balzem image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Tiny Mediterranean restaurant offers romantic decor and live DJ music that fills the space loudly. Seating includes a community table and a cute outdoor patio, creating a vibey and intimate atmosphere. The place feels busy and cozy, best suited for couples rather than groups.

Cozy atmosphere suits dinner dates well. Space works for groups or intimate gatherings.

Grilled shrimp and octopus stand out with sizable portions and solid preparation. Seafood pasta includes mussels and shrimp with cheese that boosts flavor. Fresh oysters and a salad with octopus and shrimp add variety.

People are saying

"I really loved the delicious food here."

"It's a perfect spot for a cozy date night with a great vibe."

"The oysters here are 10/10, so fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Bottomless mimosas are available on weekends for $30 per person.

3

A complimentary drink and flatbread are offered during the anniversary celebration.

04
5ive Spice Tacos & Banh Mi image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant offers a vibrant chill vibe with both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels authentic and welcoming, often quiet on weeknights. Unique feature includes a hidden bathroom behind a bookshelf, adding a fun surprise to the clean, cute space.

Casual vibe suits date night well. Drinks add a relaxed touch for hanging out with friends.

Shrimp features in several dishes like the Green Mango Salad and vermicelli bowls. Fish appears in battered fish banh mi and fish tacos with orange sauce. Homemade pork and shrimp spring rolls add to the seafood options.

People are saying

"The pho here is amazing, clean, and well-seasoned."

"The pho here is top tier and genuinely delicious."

"The beer battered fish banh mi is delicious and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect a wait of 30-45 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred.

05
Momoya SoHo image 1
Japanese restaurant

Two levels of modern Tiffany blue decor surround windows with city views. Seating feels cramped and close, creating an intimate but sometimes intrusive atmosphere. Sake and cocktails receive strong attention, complementing the sophisticated vibe.

Bright and pretty space creates a great atmosphere for a date night. It suits both fancy dinners and casual meals, making it a reliable choice for impressing someone.

Fish comes with great quality and freshness. Sushi and sashimi feature expertly crafted rolls and decent prices for good Japanese seafood.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is amazing and fresh."

"The seafood here is so fresh and flavorful."

"Our server Nick made our Date Spots experience amazing and delightful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are advisable due to busy times, especially during Restaurant Week.

2

Happy hour runs from 5-6 PM with discounted drinks.

3

The restaurant offers a special menu during Restaurant Week.

06
Marcellino image 1
Italian restaurant

Giant wood-fired pizza oven behind the bar anchors a space with cozy Italian decor and beautiful outdoor patio views. Fantastic music sets a lively yet pleasant mood, making it ideal for conversation and relaxed dining.

Soft lighting and a warm vibe create a perfect ambiance for a date night. Food and service support a relaxed, intimate setting ideal for catching up or chilling with someone special.

Seafood dishes include shrimp fra diavolo, seafood pasta, and clams. Options like vodka sauce pizza with chicken and shrimp and fettuccini with pesto and shrimp are available and prepared on request.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, is delicious."

"The food here is extraordinary for Date Spots."

"The seafood here is great, and Nestor is a fantastic server."

Good to know

1

The restaurant was busy during the San Cerano festival.

2

The total cost for 2 people was $250.

3

The restaurant automatically charges 18% gratuity even for a party of 2.

07
Peasant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a romantic, dimly lit atmosphere with candles and dried flowers creating a cozy, intimate vibe. A downstairs wine bar provides a quiet space for conversation, while the wood-burning smoker adds unique flavor to dishes. Tables sit close together, giving a slightly cramped feel but enhancing the lively energy.

Candlelight creates a romantic atmosphere that feels cozy and intimate. The space suits a date night perfectly, offering a warm and inviting vibe.

Oysters served in bone marrow stand out with rich flavor, alongside roasted oysters that are consistently great. The whole branzino and seasonal shrimp appetizer bring strong umami and freshness to the table.

People are saying

"The rigatoni and carbonara are amazing Italian food."

"The oysters here are fresh, wood-roasted, and sublime."

"The oxtail starter at these Date Spots is a true dream."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly suggested for a romantic evening or special occasion.

2

Parking is available right out front on busy nights.

3

Expect to pay around $200 per person, including tip and wine.

08
Boni and Mott image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open layout with warm lighting and rustic details creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Music and decor set a chic, soulful vibe perfect for intimate dinners or casual gatherings. The space blends Mediterranean hospitality with a stylish, community-driven design.

Cozy lighting and decor create a warm atmosphere for a date night. Wine and snacks complement the setting, making it easy to relax and catch up.

Options include mussels, fish, and lamb chops suitable for gluten-free diets. Fish dishes come with a price around $36 and pair well with cauliflower and chicken in fish sauce preparations.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, with flavors and spices perfectly balanced."

"The Date Spots here have flavorful mussels and juicy chicken."

"The seafood here, like the mussels, is simply delicious."

Good to know

1

You can secure your table at Boni & Mott through Resy or OpenTable.

2

Reservations may be needed for a full dinner at Boni & Mott due to events.

3

The restaurant allows walk-in tables.

09
Ma•dé image 1
Indonesian restaurant

Small, intimate space with Tulum-inspired decor and a tiki bar vibe creates a cozy, tropical atmosphere. Balanced upbeat energy with unique cocktails and sophisticated beach-themed design transports diners away from the city. Tight seating encourages a close, lively dining experience.

Small plates create a shared dining experience ideal for couples. The setting supports a romantic atmosphere suited for date nights.

Seafood dishes highlight fresh flavors with a clean taste and a hint of spice. Razor clams, oysters, shrimp toast, and lobster dumplings stand out with complex textures and creamy dipping sauces.

People are saying

"The seafood, like the butterfish and oyster, was executed with care."

"You have to try the corn and lobster dumplings; they're like a dream."

"It's a cute spot perfect for a romantic date night."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.

2

Expect a 20% service charge for large parties, even for two people.

3

The restaurant has limited gluten-free options and cannot modify dishes for dietary needs.

10
La Pecora Bianca SoHo image 1
Italian restaurant

Corner location with seamless indoor and outdoor seating creates an airy, chic atmosphere. Large sidewalk patio with heated terrace offers comfortable al fresco dining. Wide open dining room with garage door style windows enhances the spacious, relaxed vibe.

Dim lighting and a chill vibe create a romantic atmosphere ideal for dates. The ambiance feels beautiful and relaxed, making it a solid choice for a weeknight date or meeting friends.

Shrimp stars in several dishes, especially the Campanelle with lemon and Parmesan and the linguine nere with squid ink. Seafood pairs with bold flavors like Calabrian chili and fennel, creating rich, generous plates.

People are saying

"I couldn't stop talking about how great the food was."

"The pasta here is amazing, truly rivaling Italy."

"The campanelle with shrimp and lemon is a must-try seafood pasta."

Good to know

1

The brunch-only menu ends at 1:45 PM on Saturdays.

2

It is a good idea to make reservations because the place is always full.

3

You need to have a reservation for dinner or try your luck at the bar.

11
Café Habana image 1
Cuban restaurant

Small space with cramped indoor seating contrasts with comfortable outdoor dining that offers more room. Latin music fills the air, creating a fun, eclectic atmosphere that feels lively and chaotic. The design blends vintage American diner style with Caribbean and Spanish influences.

Offers a casual vibe suitable for a quick stop or a chill night. Works well for both solo lunches and date nights.

Shrimp tacos stand out with a strong reputation for flavor and quality. The fish tacos and shrimp salad also deliver solid seafood options that satisfy cravings.

People are saying

"I thought the street corn was delicious."

"The shrimp and fish tacos here are delicious."

"It's a perfect spot for a solo date or a chill night."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM with 50% off all cocktails.

2

Reservations are not required, but be prepared to wait for a table.

3

A 20% tip is automatically added for parties of 2 or more.

12
Bondi sushi image 1
Restaurant

Small space with sushi bar seating and contemporary decor creates an intimate setting. Low lighting and good music set a relaxing atmosphere suited for quiet conversation. Chefs prepare food directly in front, adding to the engaging dining experience.

A beautiful spot with an upscale vibe suits a date or a quiet night. The setting feels perfect for a nice date.

Fish arrives incredibly fresh and tasty, making quality a clear focus. Seared wagyu and botan ebi nigiris stand out with their freshness and flavor.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is so fresh and tasty."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh."

"The lunch special is a great value for date spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for groups larger than two.

2

Happy hour offers $5 handrolls and free sake shots.

3

The restaurant allows outside cakes for celebrations.

13
The Wooly image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant blends old-world charm with modern sophistication in a beautiful, chic setting. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant option, while lively music and a top-tier sound system create an engaging atmosphere. The vibe balances cozy and stylish, suitable for romantic evenings or social gatherings.

Small groups and couples find a cozy spot here with shared dishes like strip steak cooked medium rare and a coronation chicken sandwich. The hostess may not greet immediately, but the food suits a quiet date.

Shrimp dishes like popcorn shrimp and garlic shrimp stand out with strong flavors. Fresh oysters and a variety of seafood options like fries and squash rings add to the selection.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are excellent."

"The sautéed garlic shrimp and popcorn shrimp were spot on."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour ends at 6:30 PM.

2

The happy hour menu includes sweet pea dip with pickled veggies and lavash.

3

The restaurant serves lunch and dinner.

14
Little Rascal image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Cozy Mediterranean restaurant with stained-glass windows and a rustic, chic vibe. Warm, intimate atmosphere with live DJ music and outdoor heated seating. Space feels inviting but can get crowded and noisy as more people arrive.

A perfect spot for a date with dishes like Wild salmon and Asparagus on the menu. The waitress actively suggests a certain IPA to pair with meals.

Shrimp and octopus stand out with rich flavors. Mains like shrimp with Muhamara and chicken brochette offer bold tastes. Oysters come with a less fresh accompaniment.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The drinks here are strong and beautifully decorated for Date Spots."

"The seafood dips here are mindblowing, especially the hummus and cauliflower."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 PM with discounted drinks.

2

Expect small portion sizes for the price.

3

Indoor seating is recommended due to limited outdoor space.

15
Little Ruby's SoHo image 1

Restaurant offers cramped interior with heated outdoor seating and a lively crowd. Music volume varies, sometimes too loud for conversation but occasionally features an amazing DJ. Seating includes stiff wooden chairs and tables close together, creating an intimate but tight space.

Cozy and cute atmosphere suits both day dates and brunch outings. Food options work well for any time of day, making it a solid spot for a casual date.

Shrimp dishes stand out with the shrimp pasta offering a perfect balance of noodle to sauce and the creamy chicken with shrimp delivering rich flavors. The shrimp pasta pairs well with other items like the Bronte Burger and avocado salad, making seafood a notable part of the menu.

People are saying

"I loved the fried chicken burger; it really hit the spot."

"The seafood pasta is creamy and the shrimp is cooked perfectly."

"The pasta here is amazing and tastes so fresh."

Good to know

1

Ruby's does not take reservations; it is first come first serve.

2

Expect a 45-minute wait for seating around noon.

3

The minimum tip selection is 20% by card.

16
Torrisi image 1
Italian restaurant

Space combines warm tones and vintage greens with high vaulted ceilings for a luxurious dining atmosphere. Music blends soul, jazz, and 70’s R&B, creating a lively yet refined vibe. Cocktails and Italian dishes feature bold, unique flavors that match the elegant setting.

Offers intimate dining with options like a steakhouse featuring high-end meals around $600. Reservations are available for special occasions, making it suitable for date nights.

Seafood shines in the Shrimp Ravioli and Lobster Pasta, both packed with rich flavors. The clam linguine offers a unique tang, while the charred clam boule comes loaded with generous, flavorful clams.

People are saying

"The tortellini here is probably the best I’ve ever had."

"The tortellini pomodoro is a must-try pasta for your date spot."

"The seafood pastas here are among the best I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Reservations open 30 days in advance but fill instantly.

2

Getting a reservation is super hard unless you want to wait in line right before they open at 5 PM.

3

If you can’t get a reservation, arrive before 5 PM to wait in line for walk-in seating at the bar.

17
Emporio image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers cozy decor with a backyard seating area featuring natural light from a glass panel roof. Atmosphere is chic and lively, often filled with great music that enhances the vibrant energy. Space accommodates larger groups comfortably, making it suitable for social gatherings.

Space offers amazing date night vibes with a setting ideal for catching up or intimate dinners. It suits both relaxed and slightly formal occasions like business meetings or hanging out with friends.

Spaghetti Squid Ink offers a pleasant seafood flavor with a balance of cherry tomatoes and chili. Seafood pasta and pizzas feature fresh ingredients and solid flavors.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is outstanding, with thoughtfully crafted dishes."

"The pizzas here are outstanding, with a light, fluffy crust."

"The squid ink spaghetti has a rich, pleasant seafood flavor."

Good to know

1

A reservation is definitely needed for dinner.

2

Without a reservation, it is very difficult to get a place on the weekend.

3

Finding parking can be difficult sometimes in New York.

18
Estela image 1
Restaurant

Stylish space with tiny tables packed closely together creates a tight, bustling atmosphere. Warm tones and elegant lighting add an intimate vibe, though noise levels run high. Exceptional food and wine selections stand out amid the compact setting.

Intimate space creates a great date vibe with a super nice environment. Scallop with dates adds a unique touch to the menu.

Dishes like oysters and tartare stand out for their quality. The seafood offerings earn recognition alongside other items like tuna and arros negro.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the oysters and tartare, was outstanding."

"The ricotta dumplings here are a must-have."

"The food here is incredible, especially the Arroz negro."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak hours due to popularity.

2

The reservation starts at 11:45, so plan accordingly.

3

Be prepared for a multi-course meal; 6-7 courses for two is common.

19
Tacombi image 1
Mexican restaurant

Garage-style space with high ceilings and open layout creates a street market feel. Atmosphere is lively and authentic, evoking a Mexican vibe with a chilled, spacious setting. Plenty of outdoor seating and casual dining make it kid-friendly.

Attentive service stands out with waitstaff guiding menu choices and accommodating dietary needs. The setting supports a relaxed dinner experience for couples.

Fish dishes stand out with excellent crispiness and freshness. Options like the Baja Crispy Fish and Sinaloa shrimp tacos offer light, tasty bites with seared and fried preparations.

People are saying

"The birria and seafood tacos here are amazing."

"The seafood tacos here are amazing, especially the crispy fish and shrimp."

"The tacos here are amazing, especially the cod."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays feature special deals on tacos.

2

Drink specials are available throughout the week.

3

Expect a 20-30 minute wait for takeout orders, even on slow days.

20
Fiat Cafe image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space with Fiat 500 model displays and Italian-style decor creates a cozy, welcoming vibe. Both indoor and outdoor seating offer pleasant spots to enjoy meals in a quiet, European-inspired atmosphere. The place operates on a cash-only basis with an ATM available downstairs.

Offers a versatile setting for dates, fitting early breakfast, casual lunch, or Sunday brunch. The atmosphere suits both friendly lunches and Italian dinner nights.

Linguini fini pasta comes with baby clams, bacon or pancetta, and garlic, often topped with breadcrumbs. Fish stew offers a flavorful and rich option.

People are saying

"The food at this Cafe is fresh and delicious."

"The service here is excellent and friendly."

"I loved the linguine with baby clams and pancetta."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash only; an ATM is available on-site.

2

Brunch is served daily, featuring popular dishes like Eggs Benedict.

3

Breakfast is available all day, catering to various cravings.

21
Thai Diner image 1
Thai restaurant

American diner setting blends with Thai-style decor featuring plants and art, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a cozy, multi-season space that welcomes dogs and service animals. Crowd tends to be cool and lively, with dim lighting and a mix of indoor and outdoor areas.

Cute atmosphere suits a date night or catching up with friends. The bar works well for a casual date or night out. It fits solo dining, groups, and first dates that aim to impress.

Seafood dishes blend Thai staples with a diner feel, featuring items like Crispy fish, shrimp in som tum salad, and Clams Nam Yaa.

People are saying

"The diner food here is flavorful, comforting, and perfectly executed."

"The seafood here, like the fried snapper and crab fried rice, is really great."

"The food here is amazing, flavorful, and well executed."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of 1.5 hours during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for breakfast to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant serves brunch items daily before 5pm.

22
Rubirosa image 1
Pizza restaurant

Narrow space with a NYC vibe and tight seating creates an intimate but sometimes cramped atmosphere. Calm music and great air conditioning balance the energy, making it comfortable despite the crowd. Frequent door traffic can cause temperature shifts, adding to the dynamic environment.

Interior suits intimate gatherings like dates or small groups. Fits well for a second date or casual occasions.

Black and white seafood pasta stands out with a fresh, packed seafood flavor. Large seafood spaghetti also features as a favorite, delivering an amazing taste.

People are saying

"The pizza here is thin-crust perfection with a flavorful, crispy crust."

"The tie-dye pizza is a must-try for your next date spot."

"I've never had pizza this good, especially the thin crust."

Good to know

1

Reservations should be made 1 or 2 days in advance.

2

The usual wait is 45-60 minutes, not 90+ minutes.

3

You need to be punctual as they mean it when they say you have ten minutes to get there after the text.

23
Wayan image 1
Indonesian restaurant

Indoor and outdoor spaces blend earthy decor with plant-filled design creating a cozy, spacious setting. Atmosphere shifts from laid-back Bali beach club vibes to intimate and trendy, suitable for groups or quiet dining. Cocktails stand out as fab and inventive, complementing a menu that fuses Indonesian and French flavors.

Beautiful ambiance and decor create a perfect setting for date night. The vibe suits special occasions and small gatherings well.

Fresh fish arrives steamed, grilled, or wrapped in banana leaf with sweet and sour sauce or herb-spiced satay. Grilled Bronzino comes juicy and deboned with tomato and broccolini.

People are saying

"The food here is beautifully presented and flavorful."

"The seafood here is so flavorful and perfectly cooked."

"The lobster pasta at these Date Spots is one of the tastiest dishes I've ever experienced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect long wait times during weekends, particularly for dinner.

3

Prices are considered expensive for the portion sizes offered.

24
Pasquale Jones image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers lively atmosphere with packed seating and beautiful outdoor dining. Bar area provides entertaining pizza-making views while indoor space feels energetic but often too loud for conversation.

Offers a good spot for date night with a setting suitable for couples or family. Reservations are fixed and cannot be changed once made.

Clam dishes stand out with diced clams on a pillowy soft yet crusty base and a balanced seasoning that complements the seafood well. Small seafood plates include raw fish paired with fennel and a tangy green sauce that adds a sharp contrast.

People are saying

"The pizzas here are crispy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced Italian food."

"The Little Neck Clam pizza is amazing, a must-try."

"You have to try the Little Neck Clam pizza with its creamy sauce."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect to pay around $30 for a personal-sized pizza.

3

A corkage fee of $65 applies if you bring your own bottle.

25
La Esquina Brasserie image 1
Mexican restaurant

Entrance through a hidden door in a taco stand leads to a century-old basement with stunning decor and candlelit ambiance. Loud Latin music and a lively downstairs dance floor create an energetic vibe. The place blends bar and restaurant elements, attracting those who enjoy vibrant nightlife and quality tacos.

An underground dining experience creates a unique and enticing atmosphere. It suits both date nights and casual outings with friends or family.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh, flavorful fish that pairs well with beer. Shrimp tacos also deliver strong seafood flavors alongside tasty sides like elote.

People are saying

"You have to try the chicken tinga tacos; they're the best Mexican food in New York."

"The tacos here are delicious, especially the carnitas."

"The fish tacos here are amazing and perfect for munchies."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential to secure a table at the restaurant.

2

The restaurant features live music on weekends, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Expect the music to get very loud around 7:30 pm.

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