To celebrate the launch of UrbanSitter in NYC, we’ve come up with a list of five date ideas, one per borough. From Manhattan and Brooklyn to The Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island — history, culture, great food, fashion, and all-around amazing-ness abound, so it’s okay to leave the kids with a sitter and treat yourself to a date once in awhile!
Manhattan
Top of the Standard
The Boom Boom Room or Top of the Standard (no one’s quite sure of the true name…the mystery adds to the allure) is a really gorgeous spot to have a sunset cocktail (or two or three). Most people think of this little oasis as an impenetrable hot spot where only celebs dare go. But it opens to the public from 5:30-8:30 each night (barring private events), and offers sprawling views of the Hudson River on one side, city sights on the other, a gold baby grand piano and waitresses who look as though they were plucked from the set of Mad Men. Sip to your heart’s content and nibble on appetizers.
Brooklyn
Char No. 4
A semi-new hot spot in Cobble Hill, Char No. 4 is a delectable way to have your whiskey and your southern fare, too. Named for the process of heating the oak to make bourbon barrels (No. 4 is the deepest or most charred), the restaurant is a kind of whiskey oasis where even the pickiest of drinkers is sure to find a bourbon she likes. But don’t despair–if whiskey just isn’t your style, wine is offered, too. Be sure to try the lamb pastrami, crispy cheese curds, and chile-marinated shrimp with hominy grits. You’ll end the night full and happy, and vow to come back for more. Brunch with the kids?
Queens
Spa Castle
Queens is THE borough for the diverse and interesting cultural experiences. Take advantage by starting your date with a soak at the Spa Castle in Whitestone Queens. This spa super center includes three outdoor heated pools, Japanese Hinoki bath, and swim up bar that serves cocktails. Afterwards, enjoy a casual bite at the Flushing Food Mall at Xian Famous Foods. Anthony Bourdain swears by the famous lamb burger. It will feel like you have left the country.
The Bronx
The New York Botanical Garden
The Bronx is home to the sprawling New York Botanical Garden, a 120-year old monument to plant conservation and research. The Orchid Show, now through April, opens up Saturday evenings for special events with live music and cocktails — flowers come included with this date! Return in the daylight with the kids for the Children’s Gardening Program offered throughout the year.
Staten Island
Beso Restaurant
For brunch or dinner, Beso Restaurant is an intimate spot with flavor and romance to spare. Traditional Tapas is their specialty and you won’t be disappointed with the Valencian paella, Beso chicken, and sopaipillas — an amazing Spanish dessert made of fried pastry topped with vanilla ice cream and spicy caramel-espresso sauce. The ambiance is lovely (if crowed — reservations are hard to come by) with a fireplace, hand-painted murals on the walls, and a warm vibe that is sure to give you the feeling of being far, far away…if only for the evening.
