We're officially 30 days out from <span>Valentine's Day, the reservation lines are opening up, and if you're buying in, it's time to make a call or two. So here then, our list of the most romantic tables in town—think of them as the scant few square feet that can possibly play host to your irresistible charms.</span>
Thumb rule: The closer you can get to the wine, the better. Wind your way down a narrow staircase into the
low-slung wood-and-stone wine cellar where communal table C1 (it's dark enough that you'll feel alone) is
nestled in the corner.
Why
here? Edgar Allan Poe used to crash in this former basement brothel when he
couldn't pay his rent.
If you're going for grand Italian, you'll want to be at table 71, the only two-top table on the second level
overlooking the whole restaurant. Think of it as your little Italian throne, built for two.
Why
here? We hear Mario Batali fell in love with meatballs at this very
table.
So you're hedging your bet with a double date this year—where better to share a romantic meal for four
than a table set in a giant birdcage at a restaurant that serves anything from mini wedding cakes to
absinthe.
Why
Here? If you love something, set it free. Or put it in a cage and feed it absinthe.
This booth, usually reserved for parties of four, is open to couples on Valentine's Day, and it's tucked
back in the corner of the dimly lit dining room.
Why
Here? In a restaurant comprised entirely of private, romantic tables, table 35 is
just a little more private and a little more romantic.
Remember our rule of thumb about wine? Let's go ahead and throw fire in there as well. This round fireside
table at the West Village townhouse restaurant will feel like the romantic home meal you couldn't possibly
stage in your apartment.
Why
Here? So you can say "I hear Kings of Leon wrote ‘Sex on Fire' at
this table" to your date.
Hidden in the back corner of the front room is a small room, curtained off, with only one table for two.
Order some oysters and champagne mousse and hide the bell they give you for when you need your
waiter...
Why
Here? If the nook doesn't work out, we've got a little breaking news: They're
converting the back boiler room into a bar and hosting a singles party.
The best way to take things to the next level is to literally take things to the next level. Surrounded
by glass and perched above the classically appointed dining room, table 69 is the only table that says
"we're better than you."
Why
Here? The table name can't possibly be an accident.
