9 Romantic Restaurants in Austin for a Perfect Date Night
The Ultimate Guide
Navigating the vibrant culinary scene of Austin can be a romantic adventure with countless charming spots ideal for date nights. The city's mix of innovative cuisine and cozy ambiance offers couples myriad choices to create memorable dining experiences.
Whether celebrating an anniversary or simply enjoying each other's company, Austin's romantic restaurants provide the perfect setting for every special moment. From intimate hideaways to upscale dining destinations, the options are as diverse and delightful as the city's culinary landscape.
1) Eddie V's Prime Seafood
Eddie V's Prime Seafood offers an elegant dining experience perfect for a romantic night out. Located on 5th Street, this Austin restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and prime steaks. The atmosphere combines sultry earth tones and bold colored artwork, creating a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
The menu features a variety of expertly prepared dishes, including fresh oysters, prime beef, and catch-of-the-day seafood options. Guests can enjoy a mix of signature cocktails and an extensive wine list, making it easy to find the perfect pairing for any meal.
Service at Eddie V's is exceptional, ensuring that every detail of the dining experience is meticulously attended to. The proximity to the Austin Convention Center and other downtown attractions makes it an accessible choice for both locals and visitors.
For those looking to add a touch of rhythm to their evening, live jazz music often enhances the ambiance. This combination of fine dining and live entertainment ensures a memorable date night experience.
Contact Details:
Address: 301 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: +1 512-472-1860
Website: eddiev.com
2) The Oasis on Lake Travis
The Oasis on Lake Travis, often referred to as "The Sunset Capital of Texas," is renowned for its stunning views over Lake Travis, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner. The restaurant sits 450 feet above the lake, offering panoramic vistas that are particularly breathtaking at sunset.
The establishment boasts more than 40 outdoor decks, providing ample space for guests to enjoy the scenic surroundings. Originally conceptualized by Beau Theriot, The Oasis has grown significantly since its inception in 1982, becoming a beloved venue in Austin for both locals and visitors.
In addition to spectacular views, The Oasis offers live music and entertainment on weekends, enhancing the dining experience. With a capacity to host up to 2,000 guests, it’s the largest outdoor restaurant in Texas.
The menu includes a variety of American and Tex-Mex dishes, making it easy for couples to find something they both enjoy. The ambiance, combined with the exceptional service, makes it a memorable destination for date nights.
Contact Details:
Address: 6550 Comanche Trail, Austin, TX 78732
Phone: (512) 266-2442
Website: oasis-austin.com
3) Lenoir
Lenoir offers a truly unique dining experience, blending warm ambiance with an innovative menu. Located in South Austin, this cozy restaurant emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and offers a range of dishes inspired by global flavors.
The intimate setting, complete with soft lighting and eclectic decor, makes it ideal for a romantic evening. Diners can choose from the prix fixe menu, which is frequently updated to reflect seasonal produce and fresh, bold flavors.
Lenoir also features a charming backyard wine garden. It provides a relaxing outdoor space where guests can enjoy a curated selection of wine and small plates.
For an unforgettable date night in Austin, Lenoir delivers exceptional food in an inviting atmosphere.
Contact Details: 801 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
Phone: (512) 215-9778
Website: lenoirrestaurant.com
4) Olamaie
Olamaie is a celebrated Southern restaurant in Austin, known for its creative and contemporary approach to classic Southern cuisine.
The ambiance at Olamaie is refined yet welcoming, providing an intimate setting for a romantic evening.
Their menu features dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring fresh and seasonal flavors in every bite.
Signature dishes like their famous biscuits and buttermilk fried chicken bring elevated comfort food to new heights.
They also offer a thoughtfully curated selection of wines and cocktails to complement the meal.
For an unforgettable date night experience, guests often praise the impeccable service, which adds to the overall dining experience.
Reservations are recommended, given the restaurant's popularity.
Contact details for Olamaie:
Address: 1610 San Antonio St, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 474-2796
Website: olamaieaustin.com
5) Justine's Brasserie
Justine's Brasserie offers a charmingly romantic atmosphere ideal for a date night. Situated in a quiet part of East Austin, it combines classic French cuisine with a cozy, intimate setting. The dim lighting and vintage décor create a nostalgic ambiance that adds to the overall romantic experience.
The menu features traditional French dishes like escargot, steak frites, and duck confit. Each dish is carefully prepared to maintain authenticity. The wine list is extensive, offering numerous options to perfectly complement your meal.
Outdoor seating is available, providing a delightful option for those who prefer dining under the stars. The service is attentive, ensuring your dining experience is memorable.
Contact Details:
Address: 4710 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702
Phone: (512) 385-2900
Website: justines1937.com
6) Uchi
Uchi stands out as one of the premier destinations in Austin for a romantic date night. Known for its modern take on Japanese cuisine, the restaurant offers an intimate dining experience paired with a unique ambiance.
The chef's tasting menu is a highlight, featuring an assortment of inventive dishes that showcase the culinary expertise of the team. Sushi enthusiasts will particularly enjoy the fresh and creatively prepared selections.
The attentive service and carefully curated wine list further enhance the dining experience at Uchi, making it a wonderful choice for celebrating special occasions.
Location: 801 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
Contact: (512) 916-4808
Website: Uchi Austin
7) Jeffrey's
Jeffrey's offers an intimate ambiance ideal for a romantic evening. Located in Clarksville, this upscale New American restaurant is renowned for its sophisticated atmosphere and exceptional service.
The menu features a range of delicacies, from dry-aged prime steaks to fresh seafood. Each dish is carefully crafted, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Wine enthusiasts will appreciate Jeffrey's extensive wine list, which includes a variety of both domestic and international options. The knowledgeable staff can help you select the perfect pairing for your meal.
Jeffrey's also offers private dining options, providing an exclusive setting for special occasions.
Contact Details:
Address: 1204 W Lynn St, Austin, TX 78703
Phone: (512) 477-5584
Website: Jeffrey's
8) Le Politique
Le Politique is a chic brasserie located in the heart of downtown Austin.
With its Parisian-inspired decor and a menu boasting French classics, it provides a romantic ambiance perfect for a date night. The restaurant’s elegant design, featuring marble countertops and vintage accents, sets the stage for an intimate dining experience.
Their offerings include a variety of traditional French dishes such as escargot, duck confit, and coq au vin. Each dish is meticulously prepared to ensure authenticity and flavor. The wine list is extensive, featuring selections from both French and local vineyards.
Le Politique also offers a cozy outdoor patio, ideal for couples looking to enjoy a meal under the stars. Staff are attentive and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall dining experience with impeccable service.
Contact Details:
Address: 110 San Antonio St, Austin, TX 78701
Website: lepolitiqueaustin.com
Phone: (512) 580-7651
9) Moonshine Grill
Moonshine Grill offers a relaxed yet sophisticated setting for a memorable date night. Known for its blend of comforting Southern cuisine and historic charm, the restaurant sits in a renovated 19th-century building. The ambiance is intimate, with warm lighting and rustic decor creating the perfect backdrop.
The menu features a variety of classic dishes. Favorites include shrimp and grits and their famous corn dog shrimp. Each dish is crafted to highlight the rich flavors of Southern cooking, making it an inviting choice for those looking to enjoy comfort food with a twist.
Located in the heart of downtown Austin, Moonshine Grill provides easy access to other nightlife spots, making it a convenient stop for continuing the evening. Whether dining indoors or in their open-air patio, guests can enjoy a cozy and romantic atmosphere.
Address: 303 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 236-9599
Website: moonshinegrillatx.com
Atmosphere and Ambiance
The romantic restaurants in Austin are renowned for their charming decor and perfect visiting times. Each venue has a unique atmosphere that enhances the dining experience, making them ideal for date nights.
Romantic Decor Choices
The decor of these restaurants ranges from cozy rustic to modern chic. For instance, Lenoir Rooftop combines city views with modern French elements for an exclusive feel. Lonesome Dove Austin features rustic yet elegant decor that creates a cozy atmosphere.
Yamas Greek Kitchen + Bar offers a quaint, family-owned charm. Péché stands out with dim lighting, plush seating, and vintage decor, merging French and Southern influences. Decor choices are carefully curated to create intimate settings perfect for romance.
Ideal Time to Visit
Timing can significantly enhance the romantic experience. Evening reservations provide the best ambiance. For Lenoir Rooftop, sunsets offer stunning city views. Lonesome Dove Austin benefits from the warm, cozy feel of dusk.
Weekends might be busier but can add a vibrant atmosphere. Weeknight visits to Péché or Yamas Greek Kitchen + Bar provide a quieter, more intimate setting. Understanding when to visit these restaurants ensures a memorable and romantic dining experience.
Cuisine Highlights
Austin’s romantic restaurants not only offer enchanting settings but also impressive culinary experiences. From shareable dishes perfect for date nights to options catering to special dietary needs, this city has something to delight every palate.
Popular Dishes to Share
Romantic dining is often about sharing delicious food. At Yamas Greek Kitchen + Bar, couples can indulge in flavorful mezes like saganaki, spanakopita, and a variety of dips served with warm pita bread. For those craving sushi, Sushi Bar ATX presents beautifully crafted plates of nigiri and sashimi that are ideal for sharing.
Garrison offers a chef's tasting menu that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients, perfect for a culinary journey together. Fans of hot pot should try the high-end cuts of meat, such as A5 wagyu, at the upscale hot pot restaurant on Burnet Road, providing a fun and interactive dining experience.
In a more casual setting, Bar Peached is known for its small plates, such as Korean fried chicken and pork belly buns, which create a perfect balance for a memorable date night.
Special Dietary Options
For couples with dietary restrictions, Austin’s romantic restaurants offer diverse and inclusive menus. Buenos Aires Cafe caters to gluten-free and vegetarian diners with a variety of empanadas and hearty salads. Many fine dining spots, including Garrison, also accommodate special requests like vegan and dairy-free options when informed in advance.
Yamas Greek Kitchen + Bar emphasizes fresh, light ingredients, making it a great choice for health-conscious diners. Their menu includes plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free choices, ensuring no one misses out on the experience.
Sushi Bar ATX can adapt its offerings to better suit customers with dietary restrictions, offering vegetarian sushi rolls and sashimi-free options. Lastly, the upscale hot pot spot on Burnet Road provides vegetarian and gluten-free broth bases, allowing guests with different dietary preferences to enjoy their meal comfortably together.
Local Favorites and Hidden Gems
Austin is home to a diverse array of romantic dining options, ranging from beloved neighborhood eateries to lesser-known sanctuaries that promise an intimate dining experience. Explore the city's endearing mix of well-established restaurants and charming spots off the beaten path.
Neighborhoods with Romantic Spots
The eclectic South Lamar Boulevard hosts a variety of romantic locales ideal for date nights. Uchi, located at 801 S Lamar Blvd, offers a sublime experience with its chef's tasting menu. Nearby, Odd Duck stands out for its inventive farm-to-table dishes.
Downtown Austin also shines with Red Ash Italia, a sophisticated venue known for wood-fired Italian cuisine. For a cozy yet upscale dining retreat, Geraldine’s on Rainey Street provides breathtaking skyline views coupled with live music.
Lesser-Known Romantic Retreats
In West Central, Yamas Greek Kitchen + Bar stands as a hidden gem. This family-owned restaurant offers a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for intimate dinners. The authentic Greek cuisine adds to its charm, making it a must-visit.
On Burnet Road, Kome Sushi Kitchen surprises with its delightful sushi and omakase options in a relaxed setting. Additionally, Fonda San Miguel offers a unique escape with its vibrant interior and exquisite Mexican cuisine.
These lesser-known spots provide a departure from the usual, creating memorable and intimate dining experiences unique to Austin's vibrant culinary scene.
