Queens, New York is the most ethnically diverse urban area in the world. You read that right. In the entire world. So it only makes sense that our top 10 picks for your next Queens date night include a variety of neighborhoods, cuisines, atmospheres and price points. Queens is also over 100 square miles, making it by far the largest borough in New York. Next time you’re jonesing for someplace to explore with your date, look no further than our top picks.
01
Dutch Kills
27-24 Jackson Avenue, Long Island City
01
As with any speakeasy worth its salt, Dutch Kills is a bit hard to find the first time. A relatively unmarked door on a nondescript block in Long Island City hides a truly fantastic bar with craft cocktails to rival any downtown Manhattan spot. The Capital Gains is a boozy, cinnamon brandy delight that smells as good as it tastes. This cozy hideaway is really all about the cocktails, so we recommend getting dinner before and after. But if you’re enjoying the drinks too much to leave your wood-paneled booth, you can always order a sandwich from Hendu’s sandwiches, which is hidden within the bar. Who doesn’t love a secret sandwich shop inside a hidden bar?
02
The Queens Night Market
4701 111th Street, Corona
The Queens Night Market
The Queens Night Market is only open in the summer and autumn, but it is well worth a visit the next time you want to venture a bit further out for some truly incredible food and fantastic energy. This is our top pick for a slightly adventurous, but pretty safe-bet first date in Queens. With over 50 food vendors to choose from, you also don’t have to worry about picking one cuisine. Why not try a few, and wander around to catch a performance before grabbing a TwisterCake, aka a Romanian-Hungarian Chimney Cake.
03
SHI
4720 Center Boulevard, Long Island City
SHI
4720 Center Boulevard, Long Island City
If you’re looking for somewhere trendy, don’t skip SHI, an Asian fusion bar, and restaurant in Long Island City. The menu sports the usual suspects of any Asian fusion spot: Salmon Teriyaki, Vietnamese Noodles, and a thorough sushi menu, and throws in a few more unique options like Lychee Calamari and Prosciutto Shrimp Fried Rice. The real star at SHI is not the food, but the view. The breathtaking view of the Manhattan Skyline is romantic enough to make any date-night list.
04
Vite Vinosteria
31-05 34th Street, Astoria
04
Our most romantic pick is Vite Vinosteria, an authentic Italian restaurant in Astoria. The wine list is what you would expect from any truly good Italian spot, and the tiramisu is even better than you’d expect. The staff is really what puts VITE over the top. They are friendly and thoughtful, without being overly obtrusive. AKA they can read a vibe. The portions are reasonable, which is always appreciated if you want the romance to continue after a trip to an Italian restaurant.
05
The Keep
205 Cypress Avenue, Ridgewood
The Keep
Antique store meets psychic meets incredible club scene? The Keep in Ridgewood has it all. Stop by during the day for a supremely cozy and eclectic vibe. And then swing by at night for a truly wild night, tarot reading optional, but encouraged. Chill vibe, good cocktails, and a vibe that is definitely Queens meets Bushwick. The Keep is worth a visit whether you’re looking for good wifi and a cozy afternoon glass of wine after an autumn stroll, or you’re ready to really spice up your night and dance, dance, dance.
06
Akrotiri
29-20 30th Avenue, Astoria
Akrotiri
29-20 30th Avenue, Astoria
No list about date spots in Queens would be complete without a Greek restaurant. And if you’re looking for a Greek experience worth shouting “Opa!” over, look no further than Akrotiri. This sophisticated seafood tavern in Astoria is what your parents would call “worth writing home about.” Fresh food, gorgeous ambiance, and thoughtful, clever cocktails are all on the menu at this Astoria hotspot. We recommend reservations if you’re planning a weekend evening visit.
07
Aunt Ginny's
652 Woodward Avenue, Ridgewood
07
No list of top date spots in Queens would be complete without a dive bar. Our pick is Aunt Ginny’s in Ridgewood. This is definitely your neighborhood bar, complete with regulars, the standard Ridgewood/Bushwick beers, and a very chill vibe. If you’re a midwestern transplant and really just need a good place to get a PBR and a shot of whiskey, this is your place. No frills, no fuss, just community, reasonably priced drinks, and surprisingly good food. This Astoria favorite is an absolute must for anyone looking to have an authentic Queens dining experience.
08
Queens Comfort
36-18 30th Avenue, Astoria
Queens Comfort
Queens Comfort is no-nonsense, high-satisfaction American food. It’s cash only. And you are almost guaranteed to get sassed at the door. Which is why you show up in the first place. This place is 80% nostalgia and 110% fun. It’s also a great option for brunch if you want to keep date night going until Saturday morning.
09
Bantry Bay Publick House
33-01 Greenpoint Avenue, Long Island City
Bantry Bay Publick House
33-01 Greenpoint Avenue, Long Island City
If you thought we could complete this list without a classic Irish Pub, you must be feeling like an eejit. Never fear, if you’re in the mood for a well-poured pint, a great meal, and even better craic, head on over to Bantry Bay Publick House. And if you don’t know what craic is, google it, and then get on over to this fantastic Long Island City pub to experience it for yourself. And don’t just expect Irish food. Like any pub you might encounter in Ireland, Bantry Bay has an eclectic menu, from Yuca Chips to Eggplant Parm. Of course, you can always get Fish and Chips and a pint of Guinness. If you’re looking for unfussy, this is your stop.
10
Museum of the Moving Image
36-01 35th Avenue, Astoria
10
If you’re looking for a date night that doesn’t involve a bar but does involve an extra helping of culture, drop by the Museum of the Moving Image on a Friday. Friday evenings the museum stays open until 8pm, with free admission after 2pm. Not only will you seem very #cultured, but it’s also a great option if you’re wanting a special evening out without breaking the bank.
