Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, but if you prefer to avoid the crowds this weekend, these seductive downtown spots can add a little romance to any night of the week. (Image: New York Times)
Broa
This charming BYOB was recently named one of New Jersey’s most romantic restaurants. Specializing in Portuguese cuisine, Broa’s hearty menu features entrees that are seasonal, sometimes exotic, and always delicious. If it’s a unique dining experience you’re after — Broa is impossible to beat. Broa, 297 Grove Street (Image: Broa)
Third & Vine
Classy, yet casual — Third & Vine is a tapas-style establishment tucked away on an otherwise unassuming side street of Jersey City’s village neighborhood. Its interior is a mix of warm wood and candle-lit tables, with a staff that’s remarkably knowledgeable, yet very down-to-earth. Cheese and wine pairings are an art form at Third & Vine and the decadent desserts — which can range from a maple bacon cheesecake to a smores souffle — are the perfect end to any night. Third & Vine, 353 Third Street (Image: Third & Vine)
Madame Claude Cafe
This studio-sized cafe brings a touch of Paris to downtown Jersey City. Cozy and intimate, seasonal entrees at Madame Claude can range from minced rabbit over linguini to traditional French bouillabaisse. As an added perk, this cash-only restaurant is also BYOB friendly.
Madame Claude Cafe, 364 1/2 Fourth Street (Image: Madame Claude Cafe)
Skinner’s Loft
While the street-level bar makes for a cozy first date, head to the second-floor dining room (or patio on warmer nights) where mix-matched furniture and exposed brick walls evoke the feeling of having stepped into a small, New England style restaurant. The seductive ambiance, scrumptious food, and attentive service at Skinner’s will make you forget you’re just steps away from the hustle and bustle of Newark Avenue. Skinner’s Loft, 146 Newark Avenue (Image: Skinner’s Loft)
15 Fox Place
15 Fox Place will make you and your date feel right at home. This house-turned-restaurant belongs to Richard and Kathryn Budinich, who lived at 15 Fox Place until converting it into a full-scale restaurant where former bedrooms have been redecorated into functioning dining rooms. But it’s the food and personal attention that will keep you coming back for a unique dining experience you’ll never forget. Although it’s technically outside the downtown vicinity, 15 Fox Place guarantees your date a night they won’t soon forget. 15 Fox Place, 15 Fox Place (Image: 15 Fox Place)
Battello
Sitting at the edge of Newport’s Yacht Club Pier, this waterfront restaurant delivers sweeping views of the New York skyline. But Battello offers more than just postcard-worthy views of the Hudson. This Italian restaurant places a strong emphasis on seafood — something few Jersey City restaurants do — with signature entrees like lobster risotto, pancetta-wrapped scallops, and tuna rollatini. Come for the food, stay for the view. Battello, 502 Washington Boulevard (Image: Battello)
