25 Th11 First Date Bars in NYC
A first date will define a new relationship one way or the other: by opening up new doors, or shutting them entirely. There’s plenty of pressure to make a good impression, have a good time, and open up the possibility of future dates.
You can play a first date many different ways. One of our favorite ways is to make date night a journey. Start with an impressive first date bar in NYC, then move on to a fun or more intimate venue. If you and your date click, you’ll be in for a great date night.
First Date Bars in NYC
Nothing sets a first date’s mood like drinks on a rooftop lounge. Fortunately, NYC has no shortage of these venues! Start your night on the right foot by taking your date to one of these top-notch rooftop lounges.
- Monarch: A modern Scandinavian-NYC decor fusion sets the atmosphere at Monarch. Sit at unique wingchairs indoors, or step outside to enjoy some fresh air and great views of Manhattan. Light bites and sophisticated cocktails are sure to get your evening off to a great start.
- Hudson Terrace: Live music is always a great addition to any first date, and Hudson Terrace is your place to be if you’re in to this scene. The retractable rooftop makes this venue perfect no matter the time of year or the weather. Watch the sun set over the Hudson and enjoy your date’s company with a mixed drink or two!
- Gansevoort Park: Featuring three levels of drinking and dance space, Gansevoort Park’s rooftop lounge certainly gives you options! Each lounge has its own decor and vibe, so if you aren’t feeling one area, you can try another. Outdoor terraces offer spectacular views of the NYC skyline, and the perfect location for conversation.
If your date has gone well by this point, then it’s time to start on the next part of your date night journey. It’s time to…
Move Your Night Somewhere Intimate
The unavoidable awkwardness of first conversations and getting a feel for each other’s personalities is now hours behind you. Hop a cab and head somewhere intimate, where you can continue getting closer.
- The Griffin: Take your date on a trip through time and visit The Griffin. Inspired by the Gilded Age, you can enjoy handcrafted cocktails seated on plush velvet seats. There’s no light more intimate than chandelier lighting, and The Griffin has no shortage of chandeliers!
- Suite 36: Treat your date to a luxurious end to the night. Casual chic and sophisticated, Suite 36 offers the perfect location for enjoying beer, cocktails, and a unique gastro menu.
From here, you’re well on your way to future dates! With so many bars open in NYC until 2am or later, you can bar hop until the sun comes up!
First Date Tips
We’ve all heard advice about first date tips, whether it’s from moms, friends, siblings, or that online magazine you sometimes read. You’ve no doubt heard advice on being positive and being yourself, but there are many other ways to make an impression on your date!
- Treat the wait staff nicely. This can make a huge impression on your date, as being rude to your server can be a big turn-off.
- Ask leading questions. Yes/no questions can only get you so far, and will make any conversation flat and one sided. Dig deeper and find out what motivates your date to really get to know who they are.
- Be thoughtful about the atmosphere you choose. While this may seem obvious, there’s more to it than meets the eye. Create an experience. Don’t just go to one place and stay there until you close the place down. Start at one location and make your way to your next destinations so your date becomes a memorable journey.
And of course, don’t forget that the tried-and-true ‘be yourself’ is the best way to show who you are!
After Your Date…
The first date is an incredibly important date. As if the outfit, dinner, and conversation weren’t enough to think about, you’ve also got to find the perfect spot to party, have fun, and really get to know each other. Birthday Bottle Service can help with that!
We know all the best places in NYC, whether you’re looking for something upscale, something casual, or something in-between. Our VIP list ensures that the bouncer doesn’t turn you away from the door. Let us help make your first date the beginning of many to come!