It’s harder than ever to plan a date during these unprecedented times. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, the clock is ticking and it’s time to figure out what’s still open to the public and to get your hands on a reservation! As luck would have it, we did the research for you and got you covered: here are some date suggestions for day or night that are guaranteed to put a smile on your other half’s face!

Given the current state of the restaurant industry and the restrictions on indoor dining, we recommend leaning toward a lunch date. Grab your partner and pretend you’re tourists with an authentic, outdoor Italian lunch at Trattoria L’incontro. Be sure to make your reservation ahead of time! This restaurant has so many delectable dishes to choose from, and let’s be honest – who can say “no” to pasta? Reenact the classic Lady and the Tramp scene for a memorable selfie with your loved one while pairing your dish with a fine bottle of wine.

21-76 31st St.  |  718.721.3532

Once your bellies are full and satisfied, head on over to Astoria Bowl to burn some calories while you challenge your partner to a good, old-fashioned bowling match. Bonus points for you and yours if you wear white clothes to glow underneath the venue’s black lights! Reserve a lane and engage in some friendly competition where the loser pays for dessert (eh, calories don’t count on holidays anyway)!

19-45 49th St.  |  718.274.1910

Finally, conclude your romantic afternoon by warming up at Prince Tea House. Indulge in tasty desserts like their Fruit Toast drizzled in honey and condensed milk along with one of the hundreds of teas they offer! Don’t miss this picture-perfect opportunity to look glam on the ‘gram.

31-47 Steinway St.  |  917.285.2523

For our more nocturnal readers, we didn’t forget about you!

Make your partner feel like royalty by taking them to dinner at Anassa Taverna. Be sure to reserve your very own private greenhouse in their latest project, Anassa Village, guaranteeing you and that special someone “a cozy, warm and charming dining experience.” Their extensive menu of seafood and Greek-themed entrees will have you drooling, and you cannot forget about their mouth-watering cocktails. We recommend their Athena margarita, made with Espolon Reposado tequila, ginger, blood orange and fresh lime. Book your to-die for date night today at

28-10 Astoria Blvd.  |  718.721.5050

End the evening at The Collective Paper Factory. Originally a legitimate paper factory, this 100-year-old establishment turned into a community-inspired hotel in the heart of L.I.C. This amazing location is just begging you to book a room for the night. You can even have your whole Valentine’s Day date here if you wanted to, as they are now home to one of NYC’s most renown cheese shops, Murray’s Cheese. Reserve a gourmet wine and cheese pairing for two!

37-06 36th St.  |  718.392.7200

And don’t forget, Astoria, let’s spread love, not germs. Whichever activity you choose, make sure to mask up and ensure your own safety and everyone else’s around you. Happy exploring!