Finding Romance in Harlem

Valentine's Day is all about romance, right? So why not take your date to some of the most intimate places the new 'it" neighborhood commonly referred to as 'new' Harlem has to offer? Here is a guide to just a handful of the hottest and trendiest spots that uptown has to offer.

Nectar Wine Bar

Start off by meeting your date at Nectar Wine Bar. Touted as Harlem's only wine bar, Nectar offers a choice of fabulous wines and tasty noshes. Why not order up a flight of wine and a savory plate of cheese to start your night off right. Be sure to pop across the street before meeting your date to pick up a lovely bouquet of flowers from Harlem Flo.

Nectar is located at 2235 Frederick Douglass Blvd. at 121st Street. They are open Monday through Sunday from 4PM to 1AM. www.nectarwinenyc.com

67 Orange Street

If old fashioned cocktails with a modern spin are more to your liking, then you should aim to slip into Harlem's sexiest speakeasy, 67 Orange Street. The space is about as intimate as you can find anywhere which guarantees that you will be getting close to your date. Order one of their bites to hold you over until dinner or head downstairs where you can share an after dinner dessert.

67 Orange Street is located at 2082 Frederick Douglass Blvd. They are open Wed-Thu,Sun 6pm-2am; Fri-Sat 6pm-4am. www.67orangestreet.com

Chocolat

If you prefer to have your dinner and drink all in one spot, then Harlem's newest gem is the place for you. Chocolat is the reborn sister restaurant to long-standing Moca (located right across the street). Chocolat is legendary for their chocolate martini, and we all know that chocolate is sexy! The food offerings are just as delicious as the drinks. Want to cozy up with your date? Ask to be seated in the hidden VIP corner tucked behind a curtain. Lean in and whisper sweet nothings into your lover's ear.

Chocolate is located at 2217 Frederick Douglass Blvd. at 120th Street. They are open Mon- Thu 5-11 PM; Fri 5 PM to 2 AM; Sun 11 AM - 10 PM.

Mojo

If you want an off the beaten path hide-a-way tucked slightly off of the busy Eighth Avenue corridor, then Mojo is the place for you. Sexy drinks, delicious food, and an exotic atmosphere are what you will find in this Moroccan inspired restaurant and lounge. The low lights and trendy music will have you entranced as you hold hands across the table.

Mojo is located at 185 Saint Nicholas Avenue at West 119th Street. They are open Mon - Thu: Dinner 6-11; Friday & Saturday: Dinner 6-12 - Drinks til 2 AM;
Sunday: Brunch: 11-3, Dinner 6-10.

Chez Lucienne

What's more romantic than French cuisine? Harlem's first and only French restaurant will have your date saying oui, oui by the end of the night. Try some of the French classics like Coq au Vin, but avoid the French onion soup and garlicky dishes if you expect to get a kiss at the end of the night. Bon Appetit!

Chez Lucienne is located at 308 Lenox Ave. at 125th Street. They are open Mon-Thu and Sun from 11 Am -11 PM. Fri-Sat 11 AM - 12 AM.