NYC DINNER DATES: WHERE TO GO, WHAT TO WEAR

It has honestly been a very long time since I was dating in the city, but I fondly remember and not-so fondly remember dinner dates revolving around either the food or my outfit. The first date T and I went on I vividly recall my outfit dilemma and look back with remorse on the ensemble I wore. It was a wonderful date – don't get me wrong – but I wish someone had told me what to wear to our dinner date at La Esquina before choosing a DVF red wrap dress that, unbeknownst to me, had a large stain on the back :(

Five years later and one proposal with T, the red dress is now a distant memory…but I do know my choice was more Midtown, corporate appropriate and less SoHo, Downtown-vibing sophisticated. With that being said, as in most of my posts, this is a mini-helpful guide to get you by your first date jitters in style. And if by any chance you are asked to a dinner date in NYC at any one of my favorite dinner spots, order wisely and wear fashionably. Here are some tips to help you along the way:

COSME

This Mexican jaunt in Flatiron remains a top pick on my list for Mexican cuisine. It is always crowded and rightfully so as the food is top-notch. Reservations fill up quick for top weeknight times around the 8 p.m. time slot, so you know your date means business if you are taken here. Not to mention, this is the same spot that Adele, Emma Stone and Jennifer Lawrence chose when dining together in the Big Apple.

Price: $$$

Drink: Margarita

Appetizer: Half Lobster

Dinner: Duck Carnitas to Share

Desert: Husk Meringue

What to Wear: On-Trend Fashionista

MAMA GUIDARA THE NOMAD HOTEL

What a treat to eat at this Sunday night only pop-up restaurant in The Nomad Hotel. The chicken parm alone is worth the trip. Perfectly breaded to perfection and layered with béchamel and mozzarella cheese with light marinara, this is a no-joke meal. The red and white checkered tablecloths and blaring Dean Martin help set the mood for your Sunday night evening date. If you are lucky enough to dine at this establishment you know your date is not only in the know, but knows someone who helped lock in the time slot.

Price: $$$$

Drink: Grab a drink at The Library hotel before the dinner

Appetizer: Prix-Fixe Options

Dinner: Chicken Parmesan

Desert: Ice Cream

What to Wear: Sunday Night Contempo-Casual

MARC FORGIONE

This iron chef is celebrated by the food industry time and time again. One of the most sought after of the city celebrity chefs- the menu deserves all the attention. Decadent options from drinks to deserts will satisfy even the most difficult of foodies. Be impressed not only by the scene, but the fact the guy pulled major strings to get a resie. Enjoy the buzzy and bustling crowd including financier types to super fashionistas shuffling in from nearby company headquarters.

Price: $$

Drink: Take advantage of the superb wine list

Appetizer: Kampachi

Dinner: Chicken for 2

Desert: Chocolate Cookie

What to Wear: Sophisticated Downtown