"We can’t think of too many places in NYC where you can drink super dry, full-bodied sake and eat creamy cod roe spaghetti while watching someone play jazz on the cello. That’s what makes this tiny basement Japanese spot on East 53rd Street an especially good choice for Valentine's Day. It’s sexy here, mostly thanks to some distinct Jazz Dungeon energy. Tomi Jazz hosts live music every night starting at 6pm and 9pm (and only charges a $10 cover on Friday and Saturday). You could come to Tomi Jazz just for drinks—they have enough whisky and sake options to warrant a Dewey Decimal System—but you’d be missing out if you didn’t at least get a snack. All the seating is first come, first served, so we’d recommend arriving early." - hannah albertine
