Best Restaurants for Anniversaries in Washington Heights

Such an incredible dining experience for Valentine’s Day last night! The five course tasting menu was delicious. So happy we added on the wine pairing option as well which complemented the tasting menu perfectly! The decor was beautiful from the candles and roses for centerpieces and throughout restaurant, immaculate decor with a great pianist curating such a romantic ambiance. I had such a great time and will definitely return back! 💞

Loved Oceana and will definitely return, easily the best restaurant near(ish) the theater district. I booked for Valentine's Day based on the menu online, when they called me to confirm a few days before they made a point of letting me know there was a four-course prix fixe for V-Day. Considerate! Although I must say: there were 5-6 choices for each of the courses so it was hardly a skimpy menu. My wife got the wine pairing with her meal and the sommelier was really informative, explaining not just the wine but why he paired it (we love that kind of stuff). Not all the dishes were homeruns, but all were above average. My appetizer of scallop crudo topped with caviar was one of the homeruns, I'd return for that dish; and for the "smores budino" dessert (which was served in big bowl, I expected it in a glass) -- it was a huge portion, very much shareable. My wife's beet salad was very good. The chef seems to really prioritize contrasting textures in all the dishes, which I love. My cocktail was also good (a Penicillin but with tequila instead of whiskey), tasty, not too sweet -- and not too strong. Space is great, high ceilings, not jammed in next to everyone (but close enough that we did eavesdrop on some hilarious conversations). Wait staff was there when you wanted them, absent when you wanted space. Excellent all around.

Great dining experience! This is a classic old school authentic italian restaurant that brings one back to the 50’s or 60’s. The food was delicious and served piping hot. We went for the classics. My veal parmigiana was probably the best I have ever had; incredibly tender with a fabulous red sauce. My wife had eggplant parmigiana which was absolutely perfect. I had pasta fagioli soup to start which had wonderful flavor and texture. Our server, Albana? was very friendly and courteous and the service was outstanding! We will definitely be back here making sure to bring our friends!!

Our server, Yanet, remembered my sister and I from our last visit which was almost a year ago. She is so sweet and went out of her way to find the wine we wanted. The food was amazing as always, we had petite filets cooked to perfection, creamed spinach, and chipotle macaroni and cheese. We shared the gooey brownie and it was so delicious. We’ll be back for sure!

IL Carino is my favorite local place to dine in. I always come here for dinner dates with my partner and we're never disappointed. I love the food, decor, and staff treatment. We can't wait to try more of their cuisines and drinks.