Is there a better date night than those we take on vacation?
Videos by TravelAwaits
Far from the stresses of home, it’s easier for couples to make time for romance when on a trip together. There’s also a dash of intrigue thrown in as you and your partner explore a new place hand in hand.
Date nights combine multiple special experiences: discovering a new place, trying some of its best food, and getting cozy with your boo.
If you think I’m being a little dramatic, just take a look at the latest report from Tripadvisor on the best restaurants in the world, which includes multiple categories—including date nights. When it comes to the best restaurants in the United States for date nights, you’ll see establishments located in some of the country’s most popular destinations.
Do you see where I’m going with this? The latest findings from Tripadvisor, which are based on positive reviews over a one-year period, make it easy for you to nail date night on your next trip. Just check out the list, bookmark a few restaurants at a future destination that you’ll visit, and surprise your darling with a date night they’ll remember for years.
Remember: This list is based on traveler ratings, meaning the top restaurants include fine dining, casual eateries, and more. No need to pay an arm and a leg for a quality date night… although you might need to like seafood.
Top 10 date night spots based on Tripadvisor’s Best Restaurants Report
Beach Walk at Henderson Park Inn (Destin, Florida)
Located within Henderson Park Inn, this café offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico with some of the sweetest sunsets in the area. The atmosphere is intimate, the views are stirring, and the seafood is some of the freshest on the coast.
Red Shoe Island Bistro (Key West, Florida)
Speaking of seafood, Red Shoe Island Bistro serves up some of the best snapper, shrimp, and scallops in Key West. The restaurant is low-key and hyper-focused on its dishes, offering only two dinner options at six or eight at night. Come hungry.
GW Fins (New Orleans, Louisiana)
You might be seeing a pattern here—this upscale seafood restaurant has been lauded by locals, regional critics, and national foodies alike. You’ll eat like royalty from menus that are prepared daily. Make sure to book a reservation. This place is popular.
Mama’s Fish House (Maui, Hawaii)
History meets effortless elegance at this seaside Hawaiian restaurant. The gardens are a sight to behold as you enjoy a menu that’s been slowly perfected since this family-owned restaurant opened its doors in 1973. Expect Hawaiian dishes that show you a new side of the Pacific Ocean.
Magnolias (Charleston, South Carolina)
Classic, elegant, and home to Southern classics like fried green tomatoes, Magnolias is the perfect date night for those who want to enjoy Lowcountry specialties. The atmosphere is also slightly more upscale, perfect for a dressed-up date night in Charleston. Just mind the wait times—they can get long during high season.
Chive Sea Bar & Lounge (Savannah, Georgia)
Step back in time at this Gilded Age-inspired eatery in Savannah’s famous Historic District. (Savannah has two other restaurants on this list—all are located in the gorgeous Historic District.) It’s a lively, modern seafood spot that offers a bit of flash—and some seriously good seafood dishes.
Slightly North of Broad (Charleston, South Carolina)
Here is Charleston’s second mention on Tripadvisor’s list of the best restaurants in the United States for date nights—and it’s another Lowcountry specialty stop. Food is sourced from local fishermen and farmers for fresh eats, while there’s also a highly celebrated wine program that’s perfect for couples who enjoy a fine bottle.
Café Marquesa (Key West, Florida)
This classic eatery is a well-known quantity in Old Town Key West—it’s been a favorite for locals and visitors alike for years. The menu is curated each day by the chef, which focuses heavily on seafood and seasonal ingredients. Breads and desserts are also made in-house, making this a foodie-forward date night.
Olde Pink House Restaurant (Savannah, Georgia)
If you’ve visited Savannah, you’ve heard of its famed Olde Pink House, which combines history and a droolworthy menu. It’s upscale, ideal for getting gussied up on date night. If you can’t swing a reservation at the restaurant, head downstairs. I ate at its downstairs counterpart, which has a slightly different menu. It was seriously good.
Vic’s On the River (Savannah, Georgia)
I didn’t make it to Vic’s On the River, located on the riverside promenade in Historic Savannah—but I heard about it often from fellow travelers. Vic’s offers an Old World charm-meets-modern sensibilities setup, and focuses heavily on seafood dishes and other Lowcountry comfort foods. As a perk, there’s also live music most nights, which is great for setting the mood.