Date night can (and should!) be any time of year, but February is the month when we get a little reminder. Experts say that keeping a regular night out with your partner improves communication, helps manage stress and deepens connections. Plus, it’s fun to get out of the house and do something new. Whether you’re looking to make plans for Valentine’s Day itself or just a way to spice up a Saturday evening, Jersey City has it all.
Romantic Dinners for Date Night in Jersey City
Going out for a quiet meal for two is a traditional and simple way to spend special evening. If you’re looking to enjoy some delicious food and drinks in the cold weather, check out these Jersey City spots.
- Liberty House – This Valentine’s Day go where you know the fare will be as impressive as the view. Liberty House is taking reservations for their prix fix meal offered February 14-16. Farm to table cuisine plus live music makes for a perfect evening.
- The Oak on Pine – For a Northern twist on classic soul and comfort food, bring your date here in the Bergen Lafayette neighborhood. BYOB means you can bring along your favorite bottle of wine to enjoy with dinner.
- Pasta Dal Cuore – Fresh, housemade pasta paired with the perfect wine? Yes, please. This cozy spot also offers a 5-course dinner and wine event, which is a great way to ensure a memorable night.
Best Small Bites and Cocktails for a Chilly Evening
Looking for the romantic spot to have a drink and a snack without committing to a multi-course meal? Bring your date along to one of these Jersey City locations. They’re especially ideal if you’re meeting someone for the first time or it’s a first stop on your way to a show.
- The Archer – A dimly lit romantic setting is a promising way to begin your date. Let the bartender make a recommendation for you to try something new.
- Dullboy – Signature cocktail are just one reason why Dullboy is so loved. The atmosphere and the food make this a place for thoughtful conversation and all that follows it.
- Third & Vine – Small plates, cheese boards and cocktails. This relaxed environment is the perfect place for a party of two.
For the Perfect Winter’s Day…
Anything that you and your partner enjoy doing could become your next date. It’s all about spending time together away from distractions like work, kids or chores. Here’s some more ideas how you can keep warm and have fun without zoning out to Netflix on the couch.
- Get a couples’ massage – Relax together while getting the ultimate relief from stress and tension. Being in the same room and having a chance to unwind afterwards while sipping wine or tea is a lovely gift to each other.
- Go ice skating – Haven’t been on ice skates in a while? You can re-learn with your other half at Pershing Field or Newport Skates Ice Rink. Enjoy some laughs while you keep each other moving forward.
- Drink something warm – Hot chocolate or the perfect coffee is a must after ice skating. But a mini-date at Tea NJ or Cafe Dolma is a wonderful evening or weekend escape.
- Pretend you’re a tourist – Choose a museum you’ve never been to and plan an afternoon. The Mana Contemporary and the Museum of Russian Art are right in the heart of Jersey City. Walk around Liberty State Park and enjoy the winter views, then walk to a restaurant for a bite.
Staying In
Of course, date night doesn’t have to be on the town. Stop by Jersey Wine & Spirits and ask for a recommendation. If you’re planning to cook a special meal, they can help you pair a wine or craft a wintery cocktail. Then, try out one of these ideas on your date:
- Power down – For an evening, pretend the power is out. Turn off your phones and only use candles at dinner, then break out the board games. Enjoy the time away from TV and social media, and focus on each other.
- Make fondue – Indulge in fruit-dipped chocolate without the need for a pot. In fact, all you need for this recipe is a microwave and the ingredients. Not your average night’s dessert.
- Host your own paint & sip – Stop by the craft store and buy a couple canvases and paint supplies. Choose your own picture to re-create yourselves. Your favorite beverages will help the creative juices flow, or your laughter.
- Interview each other – Look through a list of questions to ask each other to spark thought and conversation, or come up with your own. If your dinner conversation is usually rushed or focuses on money or chores, this could be especially cathartic. Take your time to let the conversation meander.
Time for You
Having a date on the calendar gives you something to look forward to, whether you’re in a committed relationship or you just met. It’s easy to fall into a slump during the winter months, and a little creativity will go a long way to spice things up. Downtown Jersey City will help you keep things exciting this February.
