Three Romantic Restaurants to Transport You Around the World This Valentine’s Day
This Valentine’s Day, you don’t need to book a flight to experience the romance of far-off destinations. Three new restaurants in New York City are offering exotic flavors and intimate atmospheres that will make you feel like you’ve traveled the world—without leaving the city. From Malaysian street food to Korean delicacies and French bistro classics, these spots are perfect for a memorable date night.
Kancil: A Taste of Malaysia on the Upper West Side
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Simpson Wong, the culinary mastermind behind Chomp Chomp and Cafe Asean, has returned with a new venture that’s already delighting locals. Located on 81st and Amsterdam, Kancil—named after a Malaysian mouse-deer—brings the vibrant flavors of Wong’s hometown, Tanjung Malik, to the Upper West Side. The menu, divided into Street Snacks, Small Plates, Noodles and Rice, and Large Plates, features dishes like Pulut Panggang and Sarawak laksa. The family-style dining experience is as fun as it is delicious, making it a must-visit for couples seeking something unique.
Oncheon: Korean Elegance on Fifth Avenue
Glow seoul, known for its remarkable establishments in Korea, has brought its culinary expertise to New York City with Oncheon. Located on Fifth Avenue between 31st and 32nd streets, this restaurant has been packed since its opening in mid-November. Diners rave about the bulgogi Gujeolpan, a make-your-own Korean taco dish that’s both healthy and addictive.Other highlights include the egg and why Yukjeon and the Sukiyaki shabu shabu with Egyptian and sweet potato glass noodles. Pair your meal with the GAT fashioned cocktail for an unforgettable experience.As one diner, Candace Bushneel, put it, “the most amazing meal!”
Le Jardin: French Charm on the Lower East Side
For those craving a touch of Parisian romance, Le jardin has arrived on the Lower East Side. This classic bistro rivals the likes of Pastis and Balthazar,offering perfectly executed escargots,steak au poivre,and sublime French fries. The menu also features hearty dishes like bouillabaisse and cassoulet,all complemented by a carefully curated wine list. Whether you’re celebrating valentine’s Day or simply indulging in a romantic evening, Le Jardin delivers French elegance in the heart of New York.
Key Highlights at a Glance
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Location | Must-Try Dish |
|—————–|————-|————–|——————–|
| Kancil | Malaysian | Upper West Side | Pulut Panggang |
| Oncheon | Korean | Fifth Avenue | Bulgogi Gujeolpan |
| Le Jardin | French | Lower East Side | Steak au poivre |
This Valentine’s Day, let these three restaurants take you on a culinary journey around the world. Whether you’re savoring Malaysian street food, Korean-inspired creations, or French bistro classics, each spot promises a romantic and unforgettable dining experience.
Three Romantic Restaurants to Explore This Valentine’s Day: A Culinary Journey Through New York City
This Valentine’s Day, new York City’s dining scene offers a chance to experience the world’s most romantic cuisines without leaving the city. From Malaysian street food to Korean delicacies and French bistro classics, three new restaurants are redefining date night. We sat down with culinary expert Emma Laurent to discuss these standout spots and what makes them perfect for a memorable Valentine’s celebration.
kancil: Bringing Malaysian flavors to the Upper West Side
World Today News: Kancil, simpson Wong’s latest venture, has been turning heads on the Upper West Side. What makes this malaysian restaurant so special?
Emma Laurent: Kancil is a true celebration of Malaysian cuisine, and Simpson Wong has done an incredible job capturing the vibrant flavors of his hometown, Tanjung Malik. The menu is thoughtfully divided into categories like Street Snacks, Small Plates, Noodles and Rice, and Large Plates, which makes it easy to share and explore. Dishes like Pulut Panggang and Sarawak laksa are standouts—they’re authentic, flavorful, and perfect for family-style dining. The atmosphere is playful and inviting, making it a grate spot for couples looking for something unique.
Oncheon: Korean Elegance on Fifth Avenue
World Today News: Oncheon has been packed as its opening last November. What’s drawing diners to this Korean hotspot?
Emma Laurent: oncheon is a masterclass in Korean dining, brought to life by the renowned Glow Seoul group. The bulgogi Gujeolpan is a must-try—it’s interactive, healthy, and absolutely delicious. The restaurant also excels in dishes like egg Yukjeon and Sukiyaki shabu shabu, which showcase the depth and creativity of Korean cuisine. Pair your meal with their signature GAT fashioned cocktail, and you’ve got an unforgettable dining experience. It’s no wonder diners like Candace Bushneel are calling it “the most amazing meal!”
Le Jardin: French Charm on the Lower East Side
World Today News: Le jardin is being compared to iconic French bistros like Pastis and Balthazar. What sets it apart?
Emma Laurent: le Jardin is all about French elegance and impeccable execution. The menu features classics like escargots, steak au poivre, and bouillabaisse, all prepared to perfection. The wine list is carefully curated to complement the dishes, and the atmosphere is effortlessly romantic. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just indulging in a cozy evening,Le Jardin delivers a touch of Parisian charm in the heart of New York.
Key Highlights at a Glance
For those planning their Valentine’s Day outing, here’s a swift overview of what each restaurant offers:
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Location | must-Try Dish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kancil | Malaysian | Upper West Side | Pulut Panggang |
| Oncheon | Korean | Fifth Avenue | Bulgogi Gujeolpan |
| Le Jardin | French | lower East Side | Steak au poivre |
Conclusion: A World of Flavors Awaits
This Valentine’s Day, New York City offers a culinary journey like no other. Whether you’re savoring the vibrant flavors of Malaysia at Kancil, indulging in korean elegance at Oncheon, or enjoying French sophistication at Le Jardin, each restaurant promises a romantic and unforgettable experience. As Emma Laurent aptly put it, “These spots are more than just restaurants—they’re gateways to a world of flavor and romance.”