The Hot List

The Hot List

We tried everything. Boycotting Hallmark. Petitioning Congress. Destroying every rose within a 50-mile radius. Still, Valentine’s Day is happening. And like it or not, you’re going to need a dinner reservation. Below, our absolute favorite tables. Only the finest for whatshername.

Table #38, King

Here’s What: A corner-tucked, white-tablecloth number in the mezzanine that’s bordered by an oversized leather banquette. Yes, it’s as comfortable as it sounds.

Here’s Why: It has an emergency champagne switch. Flip it and a waiter will rush you over some bubbly and a pair of coupes. Feel free to interpret the term “emergency” very loosely.

Table #54, The Darby

Here’s What: These chandelier-lit seats are located right at the foot of the Darby’s main stage. So you’re close enough to whisper sweet nothings into the trumpet player’s ear.

Here’s Why: Because your special someone deserves to be serenaded while delicately slicing into their brown-buttered lobster. Serenaded by the band, not you.

Table #25, Tiny’s & The Bar Upstairs

Here’s What: The coziest spot in the entire three-floor, salmon-colored town house, it’s located right next to the restaurant’s only wood-burning fireplace. Or—as it’s more commonly referred to—your comfort zone.

Here’s Why: Fresh housemade gnocchi and a crackling fire. It’s almost enough to make you believe in love. Almost.

Table #4, Hecho en Dumbo

Here’s What: A two-top with clear views into the open kitchen. Handy for keeping an eye on your bone marrow enchilada.

Here’s Why: After the four-course prix fixe, you’ll be invited into the salon for a gratis cocktail and the acoustic stylings of an all-female mariachi band. Barry White’s back catalog never sounded so… festive.

Any Table, Dans le Noir

Here’s What: Foie gras, French wine and decadent chocolates served in a pitch-black dining room. By a blind waiter.

Here’s Why: For the Valentine’s date with really sensitive retinas. And, you know, a really awesome personality.