In the midst of all the bars and nightlife that encompass the East Village there a few cozy spots to take your date this Valentine’s Day. The following restaurants can be reached by taking the 6 train to Astor Pl., the L to First Ave, or the N or R train to 8th Street.
The Crooked Tree
This creperie is a local favorite, and offers a great opportunity to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a slightly quirky, unexpected way. In general, this place is a fantastic date spot. The space is small, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in ambiance. Under the Christmas lights that adorn the outside of the shop all year long, the dimly lit seating area feels cozy and intimate. It’s the type of environment where you can relax and have good conversation. The service is attentive and the food is excellent. If you’re starting off with an appetizer, consider ordering the Crostini with goat cheese and pesto ($8). The savory crepes, the tastiest of which (in my opinion) include the basil, tomato, mozzarella crepe and the brie, tomato and arugula with prosciutto, make a surprisingly filling meal. They also come with a side salad, which perfectly balances the meal with its freshness. Generally, these entrees cost under $15. If you’ve still got room for dessert, try a sweet crepe such as Dolce de Leche ($5). The Crooked Tree is located at 110 St. Marks and is open daily from 11am to midnight.
Pylos
From its décor to its menu and wine list, Pylos emanates rustic Greek cuisine. The ceiling is covered with hanging clay pots, making the space feel both authentic and intimate. The food is exceptional, and well worth the few extra dollars. The grilled octopus, Htapothi Scharas ($14), is a wonderful appetizer to start with. The portion is a bit small, but the flavors are huge. For the main course, try the lamb chops ($28), which are tender and flavorful. The wine list is extensive; ask your server for a recommendation that suits your personal taste. Pylos is located at 128 E7th street and is open from 5pm-12am Sun-Thurs and 5pm-1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Brunch hours are between 11:30am-4pm W Day. The following restaurants can be reached by taking the 6 train to Astor Pl., the L to First Ave, or the N or R train to 8th Street.
I Coppi
When you go to I Coppi, request a seat in the heated back garden, which is open all year round. The rustic décor and warm atmosphere make for a perfectly romantic, Tuscan-themed dinner. Personally, I recommend the Tagliatelle Alla Boscaiola ($16), which consists of homemade ribbon pasta and a creamy bolognese sauce. The cofaccini, particularly the Ai Carciofi ($14), is also tasty. I Coppi is located at 432 E9th street and is open from 5pm-10:30pm Sun-Thurs, 5pm-11:30pm on Fridays and 5pm-11pm on Saturdays. They are also open for brunch on weekends from 11:30am-3pm.
References:
http://thecrookedtreenyc.com/site/?page_id=5
http://www.menupages.com/restaurants/i-coppi/
http://www.pylosrestaurant.com/
http://www.menupages.com/restaurants/pylos/