amNewYork recommends: Romantic spots

Belleville is has a certain je ne sais quoi. (Credit: Randi Alegre)

Like it or not, February 14th is nearly here.

Whether you’re a Valentine’s Day fan looking for the perfect date spot for the big day, or a boycotter who prefers to celebrate romance any day other than the 14th, our picks are worth a try.

Belleville
330-332 Fifth St., Brooklyn, 718-832-9777
This Michelin guide-recommended French bistro serves up simple but well-executed cuisine. The candle-lit dining room is lined with antique-looking mirrors, giving the restaurant a retro-hip, European feel.
Gotta have it: Sharing a chocolate mousse is a sweet start to after-dinner adventures.
Valentine’s Day offerings: From 5-11 p.m. on Sunday, the restaurant will offer a chef’s five-course tasting menu for $45, in addition to the a la carte menu. Live jazz will play in the lounge, where couples can eat, too.

Coppola’s West
206 W. 79th St., 212-877-3840
Coppola’s East
378 Third Ave., btwn 27th and 28th sts., 212-679-0070
With rich food and a warm, cozy atmosphere, Coppola’s is perfect for date night. A healthy wine selection complements an extensive menu with well-priced, generously portioned Italian delicacies.
Gotta have it: The hot antipasto, an appetizer for two, includes fried calamari, jumbo shrimp, baked clams, mussels and more ($28).
Valentine’s Day offerings: Both locations will offer a three-course prix-fixe menu for $49.95, which includes a glass of wine. And the restaurant will be open from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

D.O.C. Wine Bar
83 N. Seventh St.,
Brooklyn, 718-963-1925
It’s Sardinian. Tables are rustic. Wine is cheap. And plates are for sharing. Talk about romance. D.O.C. has been a candle-lit gem since opening several years ago, and a recent expansion has allowed for more couples to gather around wood tables for fresh salads, flatbreads and a killer cheese plate.
Gotta have it: Order a pesto crostini or prosciutto panini and let the sharing begin. Fortunately, the friendly staff encourages lingering.
Valentine’s Day offerings: The kitchen will be open from 6-11:30 p.m., but reservations will not be accepted.

Nectar Wine Bar
2235 Frederick Douglass Blvd., at 121st St., 212-961-9622
This swanky Harlem spot has low lighting and sleek and modern decor. The limited menu includes cheese, charcuterie, snacks and paninis — all perfect for sharing. Let the staff suggest a bottle to impress your date.
You might want to try: A serving of Jacques Torres chocolates — easy to share, and sure to get you in a romantic mood.
Valentine’s Day offerings: A free glass of sparkling wine with chocolate covered strawberries will be available while supplies last. (Open 3-11 p.m on Sunday.)

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