VIBE

Grab a glass of vino, sink into an antique sofa at this funky little gem of a candlelit wine bar, and arrive in the West Village. Owner Osman Cakir has lovingly decked out the space in quirky antique pieces and assembled an equally impressive collection of vintage wines and elegant mezes from his home country, creating what just might be the most romantic place in town. (Well, if you go for the “boho-chic” version of romance–those who prefer a more Sex and the City take might want to look elsewhere for their apple martinis.)

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

A casual outfit with a dash of boho flair. We’d go with dark skinny jeans, heels, and a silky top.

GO HERE WITH

A date - for a cozy conversation over a bottle of wine

CROWD

Fascinating mix of West Village characters, from antique dealers to writers to off-duty chefs to full time bohemians, sitting alongside 30-something professionals.

WHY WE LIKE IT

We love the romance of it all. Even if you’re not coming to gaze at your date du jour over a glass of merlot, chances are you’ll still have a memorable evening chatting with the funky, artsy crowd of novelists, designers, and musicians who hang at the bar. On a more pragmatic note, we dig the helpful servers–they’re wizards at explaining the wine list.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

The space can get really hot and stuffy when it’s crowded. Also, we get the romantic ambiance thing, but the lighting is a little too low for our taste (and our poor eyes). Expect to have to hover over the nearest candle when you try to read the menu.

GOOD TO KNOW

Despite only being around since 2005, Turks and Frogs claims it’s one of the oldest wine bars in the Village. Gift cards available.

OTHER LOCATIONS

Tribeca (New York)

CLOSEST COMPS

Ara Wine Bar (New York); the room (New York); Gordon’s Wine Bar (London)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.