good place for drinks, tapas, first date

[gselden]

Hi, I'm trying to find a place that isn't just a bar but isn't a sit down restaurant with a long meal either. I'd like to take a girl out for some fun evening drinks and have a good time together someplace where we can drink, have something to eat (though not a big dinner) and relax and get to know each other better. Any ideas? I know that's not the most detailed description but I hope it's helpful. We're both in our early to mid 20s if that helps.

[gselden]

Thank you for all your suggestions, they were very helpful. I ended up going to Sala 19 and had a great time. Thanks!

[lildiss73]

Try Buceo 95 - i went there last night on a date and it was PERFECT! Food was excellent...tapas! The chef is from Casa Mono. I am looking forward to going back soon!
www.buceo95.com

[crabby_cakes]

Alta is a good setup for a first date. It's not too loud so you can hear each other and it is not deathly quiet either. There is a bar in the front that gets crowded and noisy if you prefer that kind of atmosphere. It is not too expensive.

[Rmis32]

I 2nd Otto's bar, also Gottino's, Barrio Chino, Pranna & Toloache.

[tastyeating]

Oh yes, Gottino's. I second that too!

[Sugar]

Go to Otto...the bar there is perfect for this.

[bdurrett]

Just had a great meal at Txikito on 9th Ave @ 25h Street - from the Tia Pol couple. Same style minus the wait. Went last Wednesday at 7pm and got a table right away.

[MMRuth]

I was there for dinner on Satufday night. I though the bacalao croquetas and the suckling pig were excellent, as were the fries.

[tastyeating]

Lots of great restaurants around the city have a bar up front that also serves food. I think that's best if you just want to to there and chat and maybe order food.

[gselden]

You mean there are a lot of great restaurants with bars in front that would be good for having a drink and talking, flirting, and maybe ordering something to the bar? That makes sense, unfortunately I know more about halal carts than places like this. Thanks for the suggestions

[tastyeating]

Sorry, I just realized that I didn't give you any specific places. Try Bar Artisanal if you like cheese, DBGB for sausages, Uncle Nick's Ouzaria for Greek tapas, or Sala 19 for Spanish tapas and sangria. These all serve smaller bites, lots of drinks, and a younger crowd.

[kelea]

I like Pipa for a lively atmosphere and tapas. It's noisy but it's very romantically lit.

[dotybird]

There is also Bar Carrera - there is one on 6th Avenue and Houston and also one on 2nd Avenue and 12th Street. The one in the on 6th and Houston is more spacious.

[LeahBaila]

Try "N" in Soho: http://www.yelp.com/biz/n-new-york-2

www.thelunchbelle.com