ZipPicks Awards
Best Romantic Restaurants in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Master Critic Review
Borgo
8.1
Borgo is a Mediterranean-leaning trattoria at the edge of NoMad where wood-fired cooking, low lighting, and a back garden make it feel tailor-made for a slow, wine-heavy date night. It’s less flashy than big-name Italian spots nearby but rewards couples who want a more intimate, grown-up room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Focaccia Borgo, Saffron arancini, Beef bolognese
Scores:
Value: 6.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Candlelit trattoria with hearth-cooked pastas and a leafy rear garden.
Who should go: Couples craving cozy Italian with a neighborhood feel.
When to visit: Weeknight or early weekend dinner for quieter conversation.
What to order: Focaccia Borgo, saffron arancini, beef bolognese.
Insider tip: Request the garden or back-room tables when reserving for a more secluded feel.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive, especially after 6pm; nearby paid garages are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — jeans are fine with a polished top, but most guests opt for date-night chic.
Noise level: Low to moderate — front room has some buzz, but the back garden and rear dining room are quiet and intimate.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer for the garden.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple vegetable-driven pastas, salads, and antipasti.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with modifications to pastas and small plates.
Gluten-free options: Limited — a few naturally gluten-free starters and salads, but no dedicated pasta alternatives.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s dim, warm, and romantic without feeling intimidating, making it ideal for relaxed conversation over wine.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weeknights if you arrive early, but weekend evenings almost always require a reservation, especially for the garden.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really — the mood, menu, and lighting cater more to adults and couples than families with young kids.
Best For
Better for: Cozy, candlelit intimacy and outdoor garden dining that feels hidden away from the NoMad crowd.
Skip if: You want a flashy scene, celebrity chef energy, or loud social dining — nearby spots offer more buzz.