While the whole world continues to adapt to the so-called "new normal" brought by COVID-19, New York restaurants are also gearing up to celebrate the most romantic time of the year while still observing social distancing.
From having a contactless menu, bubble blankets, glass dividers, to offering temperature-controlled tents, diners can now look forward to more dining spots that offer a coronavirus-safe environment.
Below are some New York dining spots where you can spend a romantic afternoon this coming Valentine's Day without worrying about your overall health.
Pisticci
The all-time Manhattan date spot levelled up their COVID-19-free space by setting up an outdoor tent that doesn't look cramped from the outside.
The owners created an intimate setting using a sky blue-painted repurposed lumper, crystal chandeliers, hanging greens, and crystal chandeliers. The outdoor setup can accommodate 12 tables while still observing social distancing.
As per New York Post, this coming Valentine's Day weekend, Pisticci will offer a special menu including a $12 Italian Wedding soup and a $12 passionfruit mousse.
Scarpetta
This New York restaurant located at Madison Avenue's heart does not just offer a lavish outdoor setting, but also a Swiss-inspired chalet-themed cottage. The romantic setup features mahogany chairs, lanterns, etched glass, and wintertime greenery. The airy layout with Plexiglas as division can accommodate at least 60 seats.
Scarpetta's COVID-19-safe setup is also perfect for an extended post-dinner walk at Madison Square Park.
On February 14th, this hot dining spot will have a $150-per-person fixed rate, which will avail a diner their famous classic spaghetti with tomato and basil, which they can pair with a glass of martini.
Cecil Steakhouse
If you miss going to your favorite band or artists' concert, then Cecil Steakhouse is the best Valentine's Day spot for you.Aside from a cozy outdoor setup, this New York restaurant at the 118th St also offers live entertainment diners to enjoy. T
here is no need to worry about contacting performers and fellow-diners as the restaurant set up a shield for each table with a view to the outside where performers can freely execute their number.
The famous Harlem spot features DJs on Fridays and jazz musicians on Sundays. Performers can also serenade your lovers through a mixer and router, which connects to a headset on each table, preventing them from coming near your table. Ultimate social distancing dining achieved.
Court Street Tavern
The coronavirus global pandemic brought this new New York restaurant on the dining scene. The place offers an alfresco setup with heavy-duty propane heaters between tables that can accommodate up to 64 seats.
Aside from the overflowing flower arrangements, Court Street Tavern's patio also features a small ice rink where children ages 15 and adobe can enjoy.
For only $25 per child, parents and companions can enjoy 45-minutes of private and quiet happy time while kids skate around.
Quality Bistro
This 55th Street Midtown spot features a well-lit and well-ventilated tent complete with a checkered tile floor and tiny fairy light, making the place extra romantic. It offers an airy space between tables, clearly following the COVID-19 safety protocol.
Couples could enjoy a wide array of menus in this French-inspired bistro including classic steak Frites and their creative cocktails with peppercorn bitters.
