1. Grocery Store. When women are shopping at the grocery store, we are there to get our groceries and to get out. I am usually there in my sweatpants and no makeup. This means, the last thing I am looking for is for you to start squeezing the melons and stare incessantly at me. And forget talking to me. I am really focused on not giving into temptation and buying mint chocolate chip ice cream and I don’t need you to divert my attention. I don’t want to hear what your sign is. My sign is LEAVE ME ALONE.

2. Gym. Guys, we are there to workout. We don’t look cute with buckets of sweat pouring down our faces. We hate working out. We hate that we have to be at the gym. Please do not give me one more reason to want to slit my wrists before I run like a gerbil on the treadmill. It is not a good place to talk to the ladies. Unless, you are asking me to pass you the 5 lb weight, do not breathe my way.

3. School. I am there to learn. I like learning. I like to focus on what the professor is saying. I am not interested in passing notes. We are no longer in junior high. Obviously, I am not dressed in a school girl’s outfit. This only happens in strip clubs. So if you want to get some from a “school girl” head out to your local gentleman’s club, I’m not interested.

4. Mall. The mall was a place I tried to pick up guys when I was in high school but not anymore. I want to shop with my girlfriends and try on outfits without being gawked at. I like to have my coffee and people watch. I am not winking at you. So please don’t ask.

5. Church. This is just an inappropriate place. Maybe if we are in a church singles group together, then yes, you can ask me for my number. But if I have bowed my head for prayer this is not a good time to sing my praises.

6. Airplane. When I am on an airplane, I am not interested in talking to anyone. I just want to read my book, listen to my Ipod and focus on the pilot not crashing. I am in an enclosed scary space with you for a few hours and I would like to not be taken off the plane by FAA Security. Do everyone, including yourself, a favor and just eat your pretzels and sleep.

7. Taxi. It never fails. When I get into a taxi, I get a guy who thinks he is as suave as Sean Connery but is really as eloquent as Shia LeBeouf. I am interested in getting to my destination. I am not interested in sleeping with you. I will not sleep with you. I do not know how to translate that into your language but how about F*%# off.

8. At Work. This is another place I loathe coming to. I would much rather be on a beach somewhere enjoying a margarita. But God did not smile down upon me and give me Paris Hilton’s life. Instead, I am here working for a smelly, fat man. I hate being here. Please do not make my life anymore miserable by making me find ways to avoid you all eight hours, five days a week. I will do it but you will pay for it.

9. Movies. If I am at the movies alone, there is a very good reason for it. I want to be alone. I chose to have people stare at me and feel sorry for me in order to go and enjoy a movie by myself. I am not there looking to be picked up on. I want to enjoy my tub of popcorn in peace. I am already creeped out by the uncleanliness of the seats, you are just adding to my discomfort.

10. Beach. No woman thinks she looks good in a swimsuit. But we like the beach. We like sunning ourselves and listening to music and enjoying quiet time. You are blocking my sun and interrupting quiet time if you try to pick up on my half naked self lying on the beach. Not interested surfer boy.

4. Shop
Everyone has a list of people in their lives that require gifts come holiday time, but the kindly spirit of giving if often overtaken by the bustle, hassle, and madness of shopping. Take your date over to Williamsburg for the Artists & Fleas market for one-of-a-kind artsy items and handmade crafts. Local artists gather during their extended holiday hours to offer gifts your friends and family won’t find anywhere else such as T-shirts and clothing, jewelry, beauty products, dolls, toys, and many other items. Get a feel for your date’s crafty side as you snack on homemade baked goods and browse the city’s creative output. The space also boasts a large selection of vintage clothing and used records and books, so you’ve got the “something for everyone” covered as you riffle through treasures with your date.

5. Watch Something
Taking advantage of one of the city’s cultural attractions is a fine plan for any date, and when the holidays are in full swing the possibilities are endless. Those into tradition will enjoy the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, where customary Christmas moments are celebrated with much showiness and magnificent stage production. High-kicking pretty ladies and men prancing around as toy soldiers will warm the heart and fill you with nostalgic tales of home. For couples who cringe at showy celebrations, head to the Landmark Sunshine Cinema for midnight screenings of Black Christmas. A film classic since 1974, it offers the endless entertainment that is a terrorized sorority house plus all the natural joy of Christmas. This cheesy slasher is a far better choice than the myriad holiday feel-good films that our families have been dragging us to for years. If you’re more in the mood for a rock concert, Yo La Tengo’s 8 Nights of Hannukah is a sure winner — the indie favorites will play holiday-themed shows at Maxwell’s with special guests.

6. Holiday Drinks
For those who enjoy a good drink, many bars throughout the city offer tasty wintery beverages and the cozy atmosphere daters prefer. For foodies and socialites who dig a fancy hot spot, head to the Irving Mill for a taste of The Harvest, a buzzworthy recipe containing rosemary vodka and fresh cranberries, or the sugary Sugar Plum. Williamsburg’s infinitely more laid back Sweet Ups offers cozy booths and an unexpectedly varied drink menu featuring gems like the Pink Russian and the Blackberry Bramble. Sure a regular ‘ol bar date may seem a bit cliché, but it’s a fact that lots of things are extra happy and fuzzy when winterized, and alcohol is no exception. Tell tales of family tradition and childhood mischief at Huckleberry Bar over their delicious Hot Buttered Rum or Hot Chocolate spiked with the shot of your choice.

7. The South Street Seaport
Always a romantic destination with its seaside location, old-timey ships, and dazzling skyline view, the South Street Seaport goes all out for the winter with a giant lighted tree to remind you and your date of a certain holiday. The real draw, however, is the regular performances from the Big Apple Chorus, a bunch known for their fun-loving, engaging demeanors. Plus, sometimes they wear funny costumes. Take your memory for a spin as you realize you don’t remember what you did yesterday, but that the details of all twelve days of Christmas are still fresh in your mind. Impress your date with a thoughtful rendition of “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire,” though you may have to ward off invitations to join the choir. Everyone loves a free performance, and as chilly winds blow from who knows not what parts of the vast ocean, hold your date tight.

8. Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights Festival
Adorable zoo animals can melt almost anyone’s heart, but what happens when they come in the form of animated light sculptures? Romance! The Bronx Zoo is adorned at holiday time with over 140 glowing animals, adding some zip to the traditional adorned house or tree (though they so also feature tons of lighted trees). Bundle up and stick close to your date for a night of wandering around the facility’s vast grounds and seeing who can correctly identify the crafted creatures. As a bonus, certain regular zoo attractions will be open late, including the popular Monkey House. The holidays are a time for reflection and appreciation, and those scamps sure do remind us to laugh at ourselves. As you hold your sweetie close during the special night time sea lion feeding, appreciate the beauty of nature and of blossoming romance.

9. Holiday Karaoke
A great way to get to know someone a little better is to mix several social activities into one crazy holiday party. Discover the activities at which the object of your affection excels — be it singing, dancing, or even just drinking — at The Bell House’s 1st Annual Holiday Karaoke & Dance Party. This new bar and music venue offers a fine drink menu of cocktails named after famous albums, and a large performance space that maintains a cozy feel. Humble yourself in front of your date by performing your favorite holiday tunes, and then transition smoothly into a winner on the dance floor. DJ Christee, aka Of Montreal’s Kevin Barnes, will add a bit of celebrity flavor to the air, as will the hilarious comedy of Dave Hill and Eugene Mirman. Hot new club, karaoke, and famous people? You can’t go wrong.

10. Lights and Trees
Though a trip to Midtown might seem far from romantically appropriate, every holiday season deserves a bit of revelry in “Miracle on 34th Street”-style festive fun. This dense ‘hood is full of some of the city’s most famous and memorable landmarks, and though often packed with tourists, they remind of classic films and evenings spent by the fire watching them. Head over to the bustling yet gorgeous Grand Central Station for their Holiday Kaleidoscope Light Show, where ever half hour a themed display bounces off the walls and ceiling of the famous dome. There won’t be Pink Floyd music playing, but the moment will be lovely just the same. Then stroll over to the even more famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree at 30 Rock, where throngs of ice skaters and shoppers can’t put a damper on the utterly giant sparking spruce.

Liz Levine lives in Brooklyn and is the co-founder and co-editor of lizandlaura.com where she writes about music, pens poetry, and covers a number of humorous topics. Her work also appears at thestonewailer.com.

1. Apple Store
The Central Park South location (pictured, above) is an architect’s wet dream. The gadgets inside that glass box will make the nerd in you flip out!

2. MoMa Store
The MoMa Store sells the coolest-looking stuff that you definitely don’t need, like this ridiculous porcelain coffee mug that looks like a to-go cup from Starbucks. It’s so po-mo (post-modern), but you have to see it in person.

3. Pearl River Mart
A trip to Chinatown is not complete unless it includes a stop at PRM, which sells all sorts of Asian knick-knacks, paddy-whacks, and doo-dads, not to mention a ton of incense…

4. Century 21
Read our review of this department store as one of our DateSpaces of the Week here.

5. NikeTown
For the sporty couple, NikeTown is your one-stop shop for matching jogging suits.

6. Lee’s Art Shop
Countless ideas for collaborative stay-at-home dates may be found at Lee’s Art Shop on 57th. Wooden letter cutouts are only $1.50 each. Grab both sets of initials, a plus sign, a picture frame, and some paints, and you’ve just become the most romantic person in the world!

7. Toys ‘R Us
The Toys ‘R Us in Times Square features a huge ferris wheel that rivals its role model in Coney Island.

8. Sony Style Store
Located in the Sony building, the New York Sony Style Store has the latest electronic gadgets available in the U.S. You’ll only find whackier gizmos across the Pacific at the company’s flagship Tokyo store, a seven-story mecca for the world’s biggest geeks.

9. Virgin Megastore
Even though no one actually buys CDs anymore, for the indie sect, the Virgin Megastore may have the one or two rare imports that you simply can’t get anywhere on the world wide web. Worth a visit for the musically-inclined.

10. FAO Schwarz
If you’ve seen Big, then you’ve probably always wanted to step on the giant keyboard at FAO Schwarz. Unfortunately, too many fat people have already beaten you to the punch and the keyboard is out of commission. Still, this perenially-bankrupt toy store is a marvel for the eyes and always worth a peak, especially if you’re planning on buying an iPhone next door.

1. The City Bakery
Thick-as-a-milkshake and topped with ginormous marshmallows, this is how hot chocolate was destined to be.

2. Jacques Torres Chocolate Haven
A spicy concoction not for the uninitiated. If you like the Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate at Starbucks, you’ll go ga-ga for JT (and you’ll already be used to the hefty price tag).

3. Serendipity
Purveyor of the world-famous Frozen Hot Chocolate featured in countless movies about NYC.

4. Vosges Haut-Chocolat
The chain’s foreign-sounding name is really all you need to be convinced of it’s reliability.

5. Otto Enoteca Pizzeria
Most people know that Mario Batali of Food Network fame bakes a fine pizza at this West Village joint. But many do not realize that he also brews a mean hot chocolate there too.

6. Ninth Street Espresso
At $2 a cup, it’s tough to beat!

7. La Maison du Chocolat
At $8 a cup, it’s tough to justify! But seriously, if you’re on a date at the nearby Metropolitan Museum of Art, you cannot afford to pass this up.

8. Dessert Truck
These mobile food concepts seem to be popping up at more and more street corners every week. Buying hot chocolate from the Dessert Truck will transport you back in time to the good ‘ole days of Good Humor.

9. Dylan’s Candy Bar
The daughter of designer Ralph Lauren owns this shop, and let’s just say her confection skills are top-of-the-line.

10. Starbucks
“Really? Come on, DateSpaces! You should be ashamed of yourself…” No we’re serious. The ‘Bucks used to feature a too-thick-to-actually-drink hot chocolate that no one was buying. They’ve replaced it with two new varietals of more drinkable viscosity. And, as much as it pains us to say it, they are mighty tasty.

1. Hiking
Great exercise and great conversation await couples who choose to hike. This little link provides several suggestions for trailblazing lovebirds; most are no more than an hour from the city.

2. Apple Picking
Upstate New York is littered with apple orchards just ripe for the taking. Grab your sweetie and a Zipcar and head up north for an afternoon activity that will make you both feel like kids again. Here are our recommendations:

Dr. Davies Farm
Rt. 304 Farm Stand
Congers, NY 10920
(from NYC: approx. 1 hour or less)

Keepsake Orchards
9 Fishkill Farms Rd., Hopewell Jct.
Wiccopee, NY 12533
(from NYC: approx. 1+ hours)

Soons Orchards
23 Soons Circle,
New Hampton NY 10958
(from NYC: approx. 1+ hours)

Wilkens Farm
1335 White Hill Road
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
(from NYC: approx. 1 hour or less)

Wright’s Farm Market
699 Route 208
Gardiner, NY 12525
(from NYC: approx. 1+ hours)

3. Warm Beverages
Apple Cider, Hot Chocolate, Spiced Wines. These tasty treats make their annual appearance at this time of year. Impress your sweetie by concocting your very own version. For a stay-at-home date night in front of the TV, the Heiss’ have written a useful recipe book that will help complement the occasion.

4. NYC Street Fairs
Just a couple of more weeks to get fried Oreos, bubble tea, and various doo-dads at bargain prices. The perfect way to spend a weekend afternoon. Click on the schedule for the remaining ones this season.

5. Music Venues
This fall, New York’s classical music establishments reopen their doors for the 2008-09 Season. Check out what’s happening at Lincoln Center.

6. Museums
We’ve already devoted an entire Top Ten list to just this category. Check it out here.

7. Getaways
Fall provides a few potential 4-day holidays. Obviously there’s Thanksgiving, but there’s also Veteran’s Day (which falls on a Tuesday this year). If you’re already off, you might as well take Monday off too and make a nice weekend out of it. Sign up for the Travelzoo Top 20 Deals Newsletter and be the first to know when a 4-day cruise to the Bahamas gets cut to $200 per person.

8. Central Park
Still never gets old. And now there’s a Chanel Handbag exhibit. Boring for you, but she’ll be impressed.

9. Ikea in Red Hook
Bundle up and get on the FREE ferry to the new Ikea Store in Red Hook. You may not need to buy anything, but the boat ride around Governors’ Island, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and other points of interest is well worth it. Plus, you won’t feel like a tourist!

10. South Street Seaport
Many think that the Seaport is a summer-only attraction. In fact, it’s a hotbed for shows, discount shopping, cheap eats, and live music from now until Christmas.

1. Shrek and Princess Fiona

2. Bacon and Eggs

3. Sarah and Todd Palin

4. Lock and Key

5. Jessica and Roger Rabbit (pictured above)

6. Nut and Bolt

7. Fred and Wilma

8. Outlet and Socket

9. Borat and Pamela Anderson

10. Flatware

1. Museum of Sex
“Dedicated to the exploration of the history, evolution and cultural significance of human sexuality”, this museum explores the subject in a very serious manner while always providing enough hints of promiscuous innuendo to keep your heart racing throughout the afternoon.

2. Museum of Modern Art
The newly-designed MoMA (pictured, above left) is sleeker and sexier than ever before, on both the inside and the outside. Make sure to check out the retro-hip household designs permanent exhibit.

3. Metropolitan Museum of Art
Still considered by many art historians as the greatest museum in the world. Their ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian collections are second to none.

4. Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
The coolest and most novice-friendly temporary exhibits of new art seem to always find a home at the Goog.

5. Frick Collection
A small museum on the UES containing the best-known paintings of the European masters. You’ve probably seen them in books before, but seeing them in person is breaktaking. A fun game: Count how many times you and your date say, “Oh I know that one!”

6. Madame Tussaud’s New York
As far as museum-dates go, this world-famous wax museum is tough to beat. You’ll have endless hours of fun posing next to wax celebrities. But be forewarned, it’s the most expensive museum in the city.

7. American Museum of the Moving Image
For film buffs, the Moving Image in Astoria is must-see!

8. American Museum of Natural History
Rivals the Met as the greatest museum in the world, period.

9. Whitney Museum
Considered the coolest of the modern art museums in New York. Novices be forewarned — it’s snootier than the rest of the lot.

10. Pepsico Gardens
Before it gets bitter cold, take a train up to Westchester and check out the gorgeous sculpture gardens in Purchase, NY. The perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon.

Though it may be swelteringly hot at times, summer in NYC is a great time to grab a special someone and go on a date with nature. There are countless adventures to be had out of doors, from taking in a classic landmark to indulging in the city’s nightlife. Coats have been shed, sunglasses are donned, and the intoxicating power of the sun fuels the chances for romance like not quite anything else. So grab you spf 45 and prepare to enjoy a day/night on the town beyond the confines of walls or roofs. -Liz Levine

1. P.S.1 Contemporary Art Center
Those into the contemporary art scene will appreciate the chance to combine fine handiwork with dancing and booze. A former public school in Long Island City dedicated to creative uses of space, this facility successfully unites the art and the viewer with their summertime Warm Up events. These Saturday dance parties feature musicians and DJ’s from all corners of the globe in the building’s lovely courtyard, and have proven to successfully transform the museum into a raging club. Each summer, the outdoor space is augmented by a unique installation from the latest winner of the MoMA/P.S.1 Young Architects Program, a contest that challenges builders create a space appropriate for such events complete with seating and a bar. The ten dollar fee affords you entrance to the museum’s regular exhibits as well, so take a nice stroll through the air conditioned rooms before heading into the sticky yet inviting space for a night of dancing with your date.

2. The Yard
Making its home in Brooklyn’s classy Carroll Gardens ‘hood, The Yard has made itself known this summer with its varied events, and many of them. While the romance of a waterfront location along the Gowanus Canal is arguably diminished by the fait scent of waste, ignore this minor obstacle as you treat your date to a public BBQ. Offering all the staples of this classic summer event without the hassle of planning or actually being invited by someone, The Yard offers delicious local eats, various forms of entertainment, and the intimate setting one would expect in the back of someone’s home. The space is compact enough so that those present tend to interact as if they were at a small party and not a NYC bar, which means you and your date can either retreat to a private corner or chat it up with the locals. Be sure to check ahead of time based on which day you wish to attend, as the spot doesn’t keep regular hours. Instead, special event ranging from concerts to tastings to movie screenings are scheduled for varying fees on specific days.

3. Kayaking at the Down Town Boathouse
For those who enjoy dates of the sporty variety and a have the desire to dip their feet in the Hudson, the free kayaking sessions offered by the Downtown Boathouse are an excellent activity. Run entirely by volunteers, the organization’s three locations offer a range of sessions and classes, making it free and easy to climb on board for a 20 minute romp or a three hour tour. This community-based program lends all the necessary equipment beyond the obvious kayak, such as life vests and paddles, and asks of you only that you know how to swim. While you can’t make reservations and there may be a bit of a line, the wait itself is scenic and sunny on the right day, leaving plenty of room for conversation and the thrill of anticipation. In a city that makes it hard to remember that nature does indeed exist, this free, all-equipment-provided outing is both refreshing and romantic.

4. Roosevelt Island
The fact that not many people venture to this tiny island resting between Manhattan and Queens makes it an excellent place to explore for those curious about NYC and its history. Arguably the best part of this journey is taking a ride on the Roosevelt Island Tram, one of few similar transportation devices in the county, and one that offers spectacular views. The Tram has been in action since 1976 when it was built in order to temporarily provide access to the island before the subway made it there. A venture much delayed, the single F train stop wasn’t completed until 1989, but by this time the Tram had become loved by residents and an important part of the city. After the thrilling ride, stroll the island casually with your date as you gaze at the sea and beyond to views of either skyline depending on your location. This bit of land is small enough to access entirely on foot, and offers waterside walkways surrounding the Northern point. At the top tip of Roosevelt Island there are park grounds and an hilarious tiny lighthouse, so bring BBQ makings for a pleasant meal. If you can time your date accordingly, hop onto the Tram home during sunset for a pleasant return indeed.

5. Bryant Park Summer Film Festival
Every Monday night during the summer months, the kind folks at Bryant Park erect a giant screen and show an excellent film free of charge. The pictures shown usually fall into the “classic” category with comedies, dramas, and at least one representative from the Hitchcock catalog. The last Monday in the series if often saved for something slightly campy like everyone’s favorite terror-at-sea flick “Jaws.” Despite its large size, the lawn can quickly become packed with eager viewers, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a choice spot. But if armed with the proper amenities such as a blanket, picnic snacks, and a few brews, this can easily make for a lovely pre-movie romance opportunity. People-watching and the anticipation of sunset make the wait dandy, and as the entertainment begins the shiny, towering structures of Midtown provide the ultimate urban environment for your night.

6. Rooftop Films
Climbing to the top of a random building and taking in this city’s fantastic views is always an excellent conversation starter and way to bring excitement to your date. Add to this the presentation of underground films from around the world and you’ve got yourself a fine evening with Rooftop Films’ many summer events. With an ever-changing program and event location, these happenings are particularly suited for repeat visits should a first date turn into many more. Locally organized and dedicated to bringing a voice to the independent film community, the screenings are of both short and full length features, and may range anywhere from documentaries to comedies to silly home movies. As an added bonus, there are often live musical performances before the films go on, making these happenings suitable for all tastes. The views alone are worth the price of entry, but the various other forms of live entertainment ain’t too shabby.

7. Prospect Park
The many amenities of this large Brooklyn park make it an excellent place for spending the day in the sun with your special someone. For those looking to save cash, simply bring the makings of a picnic and spread out to casually enjoy the cheapness and beauty of nature. Once people- and dog-watching has lost its charm, head over to the Bandshell where free concerts take place often during summer evenings. You can take a spot up close for a true rock concert experience or stretch your blanket out on the massive lawn that still affords a view of the performance. For those who really want to up the romance factor, Prospect Park offers organized Twilight Tours where couples can enjoy a ritzy wine and cheese reception before going on a boat tour of the lake. One last perk not to be forgotten in the fact that they allow BBQing in approved areas, so there truly are no shortage of activities for making the date memorable.

8. Coney Island
This obvious city summer attraction (pictured above) might be packed with screaming children or sweaty tourists, but its very cheesiness makes it a great spot for goofy fun and adventure. Classic date offerings such as carnival games where you can win your sweetie an oversized stuffed toy, or the rickety old Cyclone that’s only somewhat terrifying, are time-tested activities that can break the ice on any date. The beloved Sideshow is entertaining to say the least, and gives you and your sweetheart the chance to help preserve a part of American history. What better way to impress you date then by taking them to see a fellow who calls himself Donny Vomit? Possibly the best part of the area it its seaside location, where you can stroll the boardwalk and sit on the beach as the action goes on behind you.

9. Skating in Central Park
Probably the safest place in the city to enjoying roller skating without the protection of a rink, the mostly car-free Central Park offers trees, trails, and plenty of comfortable benches for adrenalin-driven conversation. Once properly equipped with skates either your own or rented from one of the many businesses near the park, the opportunities to share this sport with fellow enthusiasts abound. The Central Park Skate Patrol trolls around on sunny days looking for skaters in need of lessons, first-aid, or any sort of help. They offer beginner’s classes every weekend, as well as special workshops based entirely on how to properly break. As hilarious as this may seem, such professional skill will surely impress your date, as will your ability to participate in the Central Park Dance Skater Association’s weekly dance circle. Twirl your partner ‘round and ‘round as you “dance” among the many who gather near the bandshell each Saturday and Sunday to hear the beats and giggle at the 70’s inspired crowd. Also, grabbing your date’s hand during a carefully calculated fall might be the best dating trick in the book.

10. Rockaway Beach
Surely such a list would not be complete without a mention of one of NYC’s real, live beaches. Once a Riviera of sorts for the classy and rich, this beach of Ramones song fame is a fine getaway for the pair who wants to enjoy the most straightforward of summer activities: relaxing in the sun. Slather your date up with sunscreen as you delight in the simple pleasures of sandcastle building, ocean diving, and consuming dripping ice-cream treats. A day spent on the coast will leave you refreshed from having actually enjoyed nature, and with as with a sense of satisfaction for having taken a mini-getaway. Technically located in Queens, Rockaway Beach feels amazingly far away from the bustle we must normally endure. One might be surprised to learn of the wildlife reserve, natural dunes, and historic beach houses all available to us city folk after an accessible subway ride some sunny afternoon.

Liz Levine lives in Brooklyn and is the co-founder and co-editor of lizandlaura.com where she writes about music, pens poetry, and covers a number of humorous topics. Her work also appears at thestonewailer.com.

1. Cornelia Street Café
Opened in 1977, the narrow basement performance space of the Cornelia Street Café (pictured above) offers a cheaper, cozier alternative to other clubs in town that have high cover charges or a pesky drink minimum. An excellent place to take in some live jazz music, this mirrored, blue-bricked room also hosts events appropriate for all musical tastes, and even offers nights of poetry, comedy, and a science series. This much-varying bill of fare is suggestive of the history and engaging spirit of the venue, but in the end the intimacy and acoustics of the place lend best to performances of the musical type. With cute tables lining both walls and a well-stocked bar tucked in the back, the atmosphere is pleasant for romance and conversation between acts, and hey, it ain’t too shabby that they’ve got a three-star dining experience right upstairs. The Cornelia Street Café offers an easy all-in-one – a fine meal in a café that’s reminiscent of grandma’s house – and an intimate live show for the latter part of your evening.

2. The Fort at Sidewalk Café
Credited as the club that birthed the Antifolk movement, The Fort has been settled in the small backroom of the Sidewalk Café since 1993, and together the two form a celebrated spot in the East Village. The space is tight yet comfortable with a small stage up front to showcase the talent, and the no-cover policy makes it the perfect place for taking in a bit of culture without straining the wallet. We all know that wining, dining, and entertaining a date can be quite cumbersome to the budget, so take your special friend here where in exchange for free entrance, you’ll only be responsible for the two-drink-minimum. Herewith, you and your company may enjoy not only the intoxicating effects of beautiful notes on the ear, but the similarly exhilarating influence that alcoholic beverages tend to have on a person. Mostly home to aspiring singer-songwriters or silly-yet-talented garage band sorts, the atmosphere is low-key and with a youngish crowd. Conveniently, the attached Sidewalk Café offers inexpensive diner style food with a very vegetarian-friendly lean, so if desired, your date could remain entirely in one location for the whole of the evening

3. Cake Shop
This Lower East Side space has definitely got the young, fresh, and hip thing going on, so if you and your date are hoping to take in some rockin’ new indie bands, this is your spot. The upstairs coffee shop carries lots of delicious hot beverages and baked goods, and with its comfy couches and interesting art on display, it’s a fine spot for enjoying some pre-music conversing. Extend your time before the loudness begins by browsing the small yet plentiful record and book shop in the back corner, where you can impress your special someone with knowledge of obscure singles and outdated music trivia. At showtime, head downstairs to the snug basement space for some boozin’ and rock music. Cake Shop often hosts a long lineup of bands, sometimes even beginning in the late afternoon, so expect the talent to be ever-changing. A cheap $5-10 entrance might just win you the chance to see upwards of eight bands, so after being thoroughly rocked, you and your date can accurately discuss the state of the current music scene in NYC.

4. Village Vanguard
This historic jazz club is famous for its laundry list of reputable past acts and the spectacular acoustics of its wedge-shaped performance space. Arrive with your date not only ready to be enraptured by gorgeous sounds as you sit in the cozy room, but armed with bits of back-story with which to impress. Once a prohibition-era speakeasy called the Golden Triangle, the club opened as the Village Vanguard in 1935 and offered an array of entertainment including comedy, cabaret, and many varieties of music. Going strictly jazz in 1957, the place has since become famous for boosting the careers of countless genre greats, as the memorabilia lining the walls and numerous live-album recordings will attest. Arrive a little early to the romantic triangle basement room to snag a quieter table, where you and your date can both chat and be dizzied by beautiful, inspired music.

5. Union Hall
Roomy and popular Park Slope bar upstairs, the basement music space at Union Hall sticks with the professorly, bookish cabin feel of the place while offering an excellent location for seeing mostly indie (but not necessarily small time) bands do their thing. If the night you choose finds the music space crammed with eager listeners, it’s easy to find romantic conversing spots right outside the stage area. With come as you please access in and out of the basement, you and your date can move smoothly from watching performances, to chatting on a nice plush couch, to drinking on the large outside patio between sets. Furthermore to such bar staples, they’ve got a delicious menu should your stomach be growling, and a full, very active Bocce court that never fails to start a conversation. A plate of tasty sliders and a wild sporting match are an awesome accompaniment to a night of rocking.

6. Barbès
This small but lively Park Slope bar makes up for its tiny performance space with a wildly eclectic calendar of acts sure give you and your date the desire to boogie. A small, low-lit bar up front offers a fine pre-show place to chat and perhaps consume the beverages necessary to loosen you up for some dancing. The room where the music happens is lined with folding chairs, but those who remain seated will inevitably end up shaking at least their upper halves. The rest of the floor usually becomes crowded with dancin’ fools and revelers engaged by the participatory nature of the performances here. The intimacy of the room is far from awkward as the bands address members of the crowd and the server slips casually between returning and new imbibers. But the pretension-free ambience isn’t even Barbès’ best feature – it offers some of the most unique and varying lineups in town, presenting groups from all over the world that are sure to test and entice your musical taste. You and your date will have your pick from a calendar that may include a boot-stompin’ jug band, a Greek ensemble, or an African jazz band. Particularly popular is their Tuesday night Slavic Soul Party, which rages through this otherwise dull weeknight with a carefree Gypsy vibe and insanely dancey beats. You’ll have to save your quiet chatting for after the music’s through at this establishment, but as the night wares on you’ll find no shortage of giggle-worthy closeness and the infectious romance of the dance floor.

7. Music Hall of Williamsburg
If you’re hoping to attend a more typical rock concert event for your night on the town, the freshly renovated Music Hall of Williamsburg is located conveniently in this happening Brooklyn neighborhood, and has a large enough capacity for hot-right-now bands. For those who want to truly rock out they’ve got your typical large stage and spacious standing room, appropriate for either squished-in rowdiness up front, or the casual swaying of those standing at a more safe distance. When you and your date have had enough of both, this multileveled venue carries plenty of spots for grabbing a bit of rest for the legs and ears. There are two large lounge areas, one downstairs and one behind the balcony bleachers, and each offers the convenience and refreshment of a full bar. The MHoW can easily be comfortable for the couple who likes to sit at a table on the side of the stage, the couple who likes to rock out on the floor, or the couple who likes to relax on fancy couches while only sorta listening to the band.

8. McCarren Park Pool
This once public swimming facility turned Williamsburg concert venue is perfect for a summertime date, be it of the daytime or evening variety. Every Sunday during this season, as the sweltering heat makes us question our sanity, laugh at discomfort as you guzzle refreshing Brooklyn beer or take a trip down the Slip’n’Slide. Other non-musical diversions include the dodge ball games that rage in one corner, and the delicious BBQ items for sale should your stomach need sustenance. The shows themselves take place on a large stage at one end of the former pool, with the old concrete sloping slightly toward this point, offering views that seem almost made for such events. All of the sunny Sunday concerts are free of charge, and in the past have featured mostly up-and-coming or newly popular indie acts. For those who prefer the cool breezes of the evening, the Pool also hosts nighttime shows that while not as short-shorts appropriate, are a bit more romantic and sweat-free. The overall spaciousness of the place makes it an ideal choice for a pair who wants to enjoy the show but also be able to spread out on a picnic blanket for a chat.

9. Warsaw
The Warsaw is an excellent place to enjoy a larger concert event without losing the opportunity for intimate conversing and cute, datey moments. This Polish establishment offers on one side a large stage and accompanying floor space for while the band is doing their thing, and on the other side a long, friendly bar that’s separate enough from that action so that you may engage in conversation. This room also has cozy tables and standing room, so that if you weren’t paying attention you’d almost feel like you were just hanging out in a regular bar. Furthermore, the Warsaw serves delicious, authentic Polish morsels like pierogis and kielbasa, bonuses that deliciously round out the trio of positives this venue has going for itself. The convenience of being able to start and end your date in one place is ideal for those who want to focus on the food, music and fun rather than worry about your date’s comfort or sanity.

10. Town Hall
Attending a show at Town Hall in Midtown makes for a right classy evening. Resting comfortably between the formality of larger concert halls and the rowdiness of a dive bar with a stage, this theater has plush red seating and is pleasantly inviting. Though the overall atmosphere is nice and casual, the elegant lobby is a lovely place to chat before the performance and enjoy a cocktail or some light snacks. Once in front of the stage the assigned seating is nice for those who prefer a setting with a bit more luxury than the mosh pit, but that also manages to keep in tune with the rockin’ vibe that bands often provoke. Not to be restricted by the assigned seating, people tend to tap their toes wildly or even shake in their seats a bit when the music gets going. And hey, the comfy chairs may be ideal for your date’s success, as you’re finally able to execute the patented yawn-turning-into-an-embrace move so popular with the kids these days.

Liz Levine lives in Brooklyn and is the co-founder and co-editor of lizandlaura.com where she writes about music, pens poetry, and covers a number of humorous topics. Her work also appears at thestonewailer.com.