Dating in Manhattan can be frustrating. Commutes can be daunting and time-wasting, especially during the weekends. No bueno! Like I have said before, remember to date locally, or at least try to

Today, I am happy to make your life a tiny bit easier and give you my cheat sheet for setting up first dates in a neighborhood that is primarily residential, yet has a lot of admirers: the Upper West Side (UWS). The UWS is home to hidden gems that are waiting to be the stage for your next dating story. Here are my  top three places to date in the UWS:

1 . Cava Wine Bar

A true wine bar. It’s perfectly cozy to help initiate date conversations, and the ambiance is warm enough to rid the jitters. Worth the visit and perfect for a first or second date. Check out their reviews on Yelp.

Location: 80th St b/t Amsterdam & Columbus Ave (185 W 80th St)

Hours: Bar Mon-Sat until 2PM, Sun until 1AM; Dinner Mon-Thu 5.30-11PM, Fri-Sat until 12AM, Sun 6-9PM; Sun brunch: 1-6PM.

Call (212)724-2282 or visit Open Table to make a reservation.

Cava-Wine-Bar

2 . Cafe Tallulah

This venue has a Parisian vibe. The decor is dark yet sexy (no worries– still enough light to see your date!) The locals love it, so I’m pretty sure you will love it too! Conveniently located one venue away from the heart of Upper West Side. View their reviews on Yelp.

Location: Columbus Ave, b/t 72nd St & 71st St (240 Columbus Ave)
Hours: Weekdays Bar 11.30AM – 2AM, Kitchen: 11.30AM – 11PM; Weekends bar 10AM – 2AM, Kitchen 10AM – 12AM.

Call (212)209-1055 or visit Open Table to make a reservation.

Tallulah Cafe

3 . Shalel Lounge

Shalel offers a candlelit ambience that makes feels like you as if you have entered a (decorated) cave in a land far, far away. The food, drink and soft music playing in the background are Mediterranean-inspired, and give the UWS a sexy vibe. Don’t miss their chocolate covered dates filled with pistachio dessert plate. View their reviews on Yelp.

Location: 65 W. 70th St., nr. Columbus Ave
Hours: Sun-Thu, 5pm-1am; Fri-Sat, 5pm-3am

Call (212) 873-2300 to make a reservation.

Shalel-interior

Do you have other favorites? Tell us in the comments below!

 

Happy Dating!