By Danielle Andrews

There’s a reason why New York City is the backdrop of the best RomComs ever made. It always presents itself as another character in the film, pulling you in with its bright lights, towering skyscrapers and the non-stop electric buzz that is the Big Apple. For visitors it can be overwhelming and intimidating, but for lovers it can be a thrilling adventure, a way to get to know each other better in what is arguably the most dynamic and exciting city on the planet. Whether you’re a seasoned power couple or looking to impress a new flame on a first date, here’s a curated list of ideas that will elevate your date to the extraordinary in the dazzling realm of NYC’s upscale dating scene.

I was in love with New York. I do not mean “love” in any colloquial way, I mean that I was in love with the city, the way you love the first person who ever touches you and you never love anyone quite that way again.

Joan Didion

Morning Date Ideas from a Professional Matchmaker

Picture the perfect fall morning, a chill in the air. You grab your favorite scarves and head out for coffee/tea. One of our favorites is Kobricks, where the baristas are cross-trained as mixologists; elevating their crafty libations to works of art. Also, nothing says “I appreciate you” more than The Plaza’s Palm Court where you can sip tea and savor petit fours in the spirit of Eloise for afternoon tea. 

Local Attractions for Elite New York Singles

The museums of NY are epic centers of architectural beauty and you can spend all day getting lost in the halls of art and history. You can also learn a lot about a person by what they are drawn to and moved by. Museums are great catalysts for thoughtful conversation. Our obvious must-sees are the MoMA, the Guggenheim, The American Museum of Natural History and of course, The Met! For an intimate experience you can get a private tour for just the two of you.

Outdoor Date Ideas for New Yorkers

Enjoy the outdoors while finding love by visiting the following:   

Taking a walk in Central Park is a way to slow down, catch some street performers, people watch or see a concert. 

Visit Brooklyn. Brooklyn is also a lovely neighborhood to experience. A little less frantic, a little more mellow for boutique shopping or a visit to the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens.

If your relationship enjoys a competitive nature, Chelsea Piers offers many facilities to choose from including golf, tennis and of course pickleball! 

New York Restaurants Perfect for you and Your Perfect Match

All of this will certainly work up an appetite for dinner. Two NY restaurants that made the NY Times “The Restaurant List” this year, are: 

Torrisi: Helmed by acclaimed chef Rich Torrisi and housed in the iconic Puck Building in downtown Manhattan, offers up a singular approach to Italian cuisine, remixing old classics with Vietnamese, Chinese and Jewish influences of the outer neighborhoods.

Tatiana is the exciting new addition in David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center and is Top Chef alum, Kwame Onwuachi’s first New York Restaurant, serving up Afro-Caribbean cuisine inspired by his upbringing in the Bronx. This autobiographical restaurant is Kwame’s love letter to New York.

For many other options check out this list of the most romantic restaurants in NYC.  

Many of our clients are jet setters and have had the most epic, romantic dates in NYC. We keep them updated on all the best restaurants and current events in the city, just in case they want to take someone out on a really special date.

Amber Kelleher-Andrews

Exclusive NYC Bars For Serious Relationships

What if you just don’t want the night to end and are looking for a late-night club, maybe one that is a little on the hush-hush? Try one of these bars with secret entrances, or maybe you’ve found yourselves in the Flatiron district and want to shoot some pool? Head over to Society Billiards and Bar, the Flatirons’ best-kept secret for billiards, cocktails and noches into the wee hours.

An Enhanced Dating Experience in New York City

If there is a special occasion like a proposal or anniversary, you might want to think of doing something entirely unforgettable and spectacularly romantic like the following:

Private Helicopter Tour over Manhattan:

• Begin your elite date night with a breathtaking view of the city’s iconic skyline from a private helicopter. Several companies offer exclusive tours that take you over landmarks like the Empire State Building and Central Park. Soar above the city lights as you and your date share a once-in-a-lifetime experience, creating memories that will last forever.

Exclusive Broadway Show or Opera:

• Elevate your cultural experience with a private box at a Broadway show or opera. The dazzling lights of Broadway beckon, and with VIP access, you and your date can enjoy a performance in style, with an intimate and exclusive view. This adds a touch of sophistication to your night, making it a date to remember.

Luxury Yacht Cruise Around Manhattan:

• Sail the sparkling waters around Manhattan on a private yacht. Enjoy the city lights reflecting on the Hudson River as you sip champagne and revel in the exclusivity of a chartered cruise. This intimate setting allows you and your partner to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while basking in the luxury of a private yacht.

Art Gallery VIP Nights in NYC:

• Immerse yourselves in the world of art with a private tour of one of NYC’s prestigious galleries. Some galleries offer exclusive access after regular hours, providing an intimate atmosphere for you and your date to appreciate world-class art without the crowds. Discuss your favorite pieces while enjoying the ambiance of a refined cultural setting.

Limo Tour of NYC’s Architectural Marvels:

• Hire a chauffeured limousine for a private tour of NYC’s architectural wonders. Cruise past landmarks like the Chrysler Building, One World Trade Center, and the Flatiron Building, all while indulging in the luxury of a private car. This unique experience allows you to appreciate the city’s beauty while basking in the comfort and exclusivity of a limousine.

Exclusive Spa Retreats around New York City:

• Escape the city’s hustle and pamper yourselves with an exclusive spa retreat. NYC offers a range of high-end spas that provide personalized treatments, private suites, and luxurious amenities. Unwind together in a serene environment, allowing the stresses of the day to melt away and leaving you both refreshed and rejuvenated.

Elevate your relationship to new heights with these upscale date night ideas, and create moments that will be cherished for a lifetime in the glamorous heart of New York City.

Additional Dating Services in NYC

For some of these more complicated “event” dates you may want to enlist a high-end concierge such as Club Bookers New York to help you navigate all the details so that you can relax and enjoy your time with your love interest. 

And for the unlisted, uber-exclusive travel and entertainment experiences you can’t find on Google, reach out to Myria. You’ll be in good hands!

Professional Matchmaking Services in NYC

Kelleher International has provided exclusive, intimate matchmaking services to elite singles in major metro areas including New York City for over 30 years. Our powerful combination of best-in-class matchmaking, one-on-one coaching, and exclusive KI Social Club events, has made Kelleher International the #1 Ranked Global Matchmaking Service.

Still looking for that person to impress? Send us an inquiry. We’ll help identify potential matches and work with you in finding your soulmate.