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Top Five First-Date Bars

Private nooks, well-mixed cocktails, and moody lighting abound here.


The Dove Parlor  

The Auction House
300 E. 89th St., at Second Ave.; 718-388-3884
Red-velvet drapes and intimate tables for two make this Upper East Side bar standard stock for a romantic rendezvous.

Marlow & Sons
81 Broadway, nr. Berry St., Williamsburg, Brooklyn; 718-384-1441
This quirky Williamsburg canteen plies jittery couples with briny oysters and sharable plates in a dimly lit, wood-paneled space. The affordable wine list and retro cocktails are more reason to stick around and get to know each other.

B Flat
277 Church St., nr. White St.; 212-219-2970
Opened by the bartenders of classic first-date haven Angel’s Share, this place boasts a drink list full of highly concentrated, conversation-starting offerings that will loosen your tongues. A quiet pop soundtrack and muted lighting are added amorous touches.

The Dove Parlor
228 Thompson St., nr. 3rd St.; 212-254-1435
Red-velvet wallpaper, gold molding, and dim sconce lighting add up to an effective bordello-cum-speakeasy vibe. Get there early to snag the couch next to the fireplace or the window nook.

White Rabbit
145 E. Houston St., nr. Eldridge St.; 212-477-5005
A sleek, white room of cozy couches spotted with eucalyptus and fresh flower arrangements is soothing enough to calm nerves. Floral-tasting litchi martinis help too.


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