The Best Date Night Restaurants in Atlanta

By Mary Welch
Posted April 19, 2018

Looking for the perfect restaurant for date night? Need a special restaurant to celebrate a birthday or anniversary? From Tuscan-inspired dishes that melt in your mouth in Buckhead to signature steaks served in a swanky atmosphere in Midtown to sipping cocktails while enjoying stunning views of the Atlanta skyline in Downtown. Bring on the romance and enjoy an intimate dining experience at some of the best date night restaurants in Atlanta.

Please note: Restaurants throughout Georgia can offer in-person dining using social distancing guidelines set forth by the governor’s office. Make sure to visit the restaurant website or call ahead to confirm dine-in, takeout or curbside pickup and delivery options.

Romantic Restaurants in Buckhead Atlanta

Anis Cafe & Bistro

The South of France defines romance, and Anis Cafe & Bistro in Buckhead delivers it. Owner Arnaud Michel charms guests with recipes from his youth in Montpelier, France. The converted house transports guests back to Provence with such delicacies as escargots au pastis, boeuf au poivre, and poulet roti, while they dine in the warm yellows of the sun-drenched atmosphere of the South of France.
Dine-in and curbside pickup available.

2974 Grandview Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30305
(404) 233-9889
anisbistro.com

Antica Posta

Henry Winkler once said that Buckhead’s Antica Posta may be one of the best Italian restaurants on the East Coast, and we agree. Not only will the Tuscan-inspired dishes melt in your mouth, but the quaint, intimate atmosphere will put romance in your heart. The Betti brothers understand that dining should be a relaxing, enjoyable experience, and they and their wait staff let you linger over your dinner and drinks while the romance simmers.
Dine-in, curbside pickup and no-contact delivery available.

519 East Paces Ferry Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305
(404) 262-7112
anticaposta.com

Aria

Set in a converted house in Buckhead, Aria is the perfect place for a memorable evening. With its white linens and simple, yet sophisticated traditional American dishes, it’s a slam dunk for a romantic night out. Chef and owner Gerry Klaskala and pastry chef Kathryn King are known far and wide for their eclectic gourmet fare and the restaurant continuously tops the charts as one of Atlanta’s best. Aria is also touted for its phenomenal dessert selection, so don’t overlook the sweet stuff during your romantic evening.
Dine-in and curbside pickup available.

490 East Paces Ferry Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305
(404) 233-7673
aria-atl.com

Atlas

Atlas, located inside the St. Regis Hotel in Buckhead, has been named one of Atlanta’s top restaurants. The restaurant boasts an impressive gallery of 20th century artwork, and the menu and atmosphere are just as priceless. Atlas offers the best in seasonal American cuisine combined with European influences and made with fresh ingredients from local farms. The Tavern at Atlas offers a more casual dining experience with its perfectly portioned small plate menus and seasonal hand-shaken cocktails. For an unparalleled culinary experience, this chef-driven restaurant is second to none.
Takeout only.

88 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
(404) 600-6471
atlasrestaurant.com 

Bistro Niko

Located in Buckhead and part of the Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, Bistro Niko has a knack for pairing French fare with romance. From the beautiful interior with its grand ceilings and artwork from Paris to the lovely patio that overlooks Peachtree, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner for two. From decadent pastas to roasted chicken and duck, dishes in this casual bistro strike the perfect balance between sophistication and comfort.
Dine-in, curbside pickup and no-contact delivery available.

3344 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 261-6456
buckheadrestaurants.com

Canoe

Located on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, Canoe offers a romantic setting with natural, yet manicured, lawns and a tranquil waterfront. Inside, diners settle into overstuffed booths or tables and enjoy an inspired decor that features an exposed kitchen and a ceiling that resembles the inside of a canoe. Located in Vinings, Canoe is one of the area’s most acclaimed restaurants, and diners can feast on such delicious treats as she-crab soup, Australian octopus, oven-roasted duck breast, and hand-rolled fettuccine.
Dine-in and takeout available.

4199 Paces Ferry Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30339
(770) 432-2663
canoeatl.com

Imperial Fez

Imperial Fez is an exotic and fun Buckhead restaurant that offers private tented rooms, belly dancers, and Moroccan and Middle Eastern specialties. A special treat is having your hands washed in rosewater before the meal — a Moroccan tradition — as is dining on comfortable pillows and eating some of the food by hand. To ensure a long and romantic evening, order the five-course dinner that takes a minimum of two hours — perfect for getting to know your date.
Dine-in, takeout and no-contact delivery available.

4790 Peachtree Industrial Blvd Ste 204, Norcross, GA 30071
(404) 351-0870
imperialfezrestaurant.com

Kyma

Kyma is a contemporary seafood tavern that is true to its Mediterranean (especially Greek) origins. Romance is always in the air as the white marble columns, white-washed walls and dazzling constellation display on the deep blue ceiling take you away to the Greek islands. Kyma is part of the esteemed Buckhead Life Group, so you know the food and service will be outstanding, and it is. Kyma offers a variety of fish and seafood and specializes in the Greek technique of wood grilling with olive oil, lemon and oregano.
Dine-in, curbside pickup and no-contact delivery available.

3085 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305
(404) 262-0702
buckheadrestaurants.com

Le Bilboquet

Le Bilboquet is located at the Shops Buckhead Atlanta and offers a vibrant atmosphere that is reminiscent of a Parisian cafe. With lots of natural light, blue velvet banquettes, a two-color terrazzo floor and pewter bar, the restaurant offers classics such as les crêpes Suzette, crab and avocado salad, and steamed mussels.
Dine-in and takeout available.

3027 Bolling Way NE, Atlanta, GA 30305
(404) 869-9944
lebilboquetatlanta.com

St. Cecilia

St. Cecilia is well named because a dining experience in this Buckhead restaurant is, indeed, heavenly. Renowned chef-owner Ford Fry serves coastal European food in a dramatic three-story room with multi-colored woods, white-tiled columns and a 20-seat marble bar that is perfect for a pre-dinner tête-à-tête. St. Cecilia is the complete package: Outstanding food, beautiful décor, and the aromatic smells from the kitchen make it a favorite for lovers.
Dine-in and curbside pickup available.

3455 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 554-9995
stceciliaatl.com

Explore even more great restaurants in Buckhead Atlanta.

Romantic Restaurants on Atlanta’s Eastside

Agave

Agave is an Inman Park neighborhood favorite. The eclectic Southwest fare made with only the freshest ingredients is spectacular, and the atmosphere is just as inviting.  If it is date night you are interested in, ask to be seated in the side room, or in the loft, where only a few tables make for a more intimate meal. On a chilly night, you may be able to enjoy a fireside dinner.
Dine-in, curbside pickup and no-contact delivery available.

242 Boulevard SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
(404) 588-0006
agaverestaurant.com

Kevin Rathbun Steak

One of Atlanta’s premier steakhouses, Kevin Rathbun Steak, is perfect for a special night out. What was once an old cotton warehouse in the Inman Park area suddenly became one of the best steakhouses in the city. The rich atmosphere and warm tones of the restaurant lend to an intimate experience. And the completely chef driven menu features Prime steaks along with seafood and some very creative appetizers and sides.
Takeout only.

154 Krog St NE STE 200, Atlanta, GA 30307
(404) 524-5600
kevinrathbunsteak.com

Sotto Sotto

Sotto Sotto, located in the Old Fourth Ward, has been a dining tradition for the past 15 years. Chef-owner Riccardo Ullio serves simple, regional food in an intimate dining room reminiscent of a seaside Roman villa. If the weather is nice, ask for a table on the outdoor patio. With such a romantic setting, you will definitely feel like re-enacting the “Lady and the Tramp” classic pasta scene.
Dine-in, curbside pickup and no-contact delivery available.

313 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30307
(404) 523-6678
sottosottoatl.com

Staplehouse

Another neighborhood restaurant, Staplehouse, found its home in Old Fourth Ward, boasting a seasonal rotating menu (including a 5-course tasting menu) and an inspiring story of a community stepping up to support its own. Staplehouse makes for a great experience of good food and an atmosphere of comfort and creativity sure to impress a significant other.
Takeout and delivery available.

541 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
(404) 524-5005
staplehouse.com 

TWO Urban Licks

Consistently rated highly as the restaurant to impress someone, TWO Urban Licks lives up to the hype. Besides the lovely view of the Atlanta skyline, the 14-foot wood-pit rotisserie tower in the center of the dining room is quite impressive, too.  Add to that, the indoor garden and floating chandeliers, and TWO Urban Licks provides an intimate dining experience unlike any other. Cozy up to your date and sip on an expert cocktail. Salmon chips are a terrific way to start your meal. Scallops, fish, and steak – you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here.
Dine-in and takeout available.

820 Ralph McGill Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
(404) 522-4622
twourbanlicks.com

Wisteria 

Who says Southern food can’t be elegant? Not Wisteria. Located in the historic Inman Park neighborhood, you will find Wisteria housed in a historical brick building with exposed ductwork, giving it a sophisticated yet trendy vibe at the same time. Unless you are a wine aficionado, let your server select a wine, as the wine “book” is quite extensive. Can’t miss starters like butter bean hummus and tuna tartare are the perfect beginning to a meal. Their signature entrée, a molasses pork tenderloin, is artfully presented.
Dine-in and curbside pickup available.

471 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30307
(404) 525-3363
wisteria-atlanta.com

Romantic Restaurants in Midtown Atlanta

Atmosphere

Atmosphere is a quaint bistro located near Ansley Park that features meticulously prepared dishes, desserts, and cocktails — and romance. The soft lighting offers up an atmosphere of relaxed elegance, which lends itself to intimate conversations, laughter, and a special evening.
Dine-in, curbside pickup and no-contact delivery available.

1620 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
(678) 702-1620
atmospherebistro.com

STK

STK is the epitome of sexiness when it comes to Atlanta restaurants. The swanky atmosphere is perfect for a romantic birthday dinner. Sip a colorful cocktail as you nuzzle up to your sweetie in the comfy booths. Indulge in a lamb shoulder starter or beef tartare. But make sure to get one of the signature steaks.
Dine-in, takout and no-contact delivery available. 

1075 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 793-0144
stksteakhouse.com

Explore more restaurants in Midtown Atlanta.

Romantic Restaurants on Atlanta’s Westside

Bacchanalia

Long heralded as Atlanta’s favorite five-star restaurant, Bacchanalia features contemporary American cuisine using the freshest possible ingredients. Headed by Chef Anne Quatrano, the West Side eatery is a favorite for special occasions and romantic meals. The four-course prix fixe menu include an appetizer course, entrée course, cheese course and dessert course that is sure to make your taste buds flair.
Dine-in and takeout available.

1460 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW Suite 1, Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 365-0410
starprovisions.com

JCT Kitchen & Bar

Head over to this West Side favorite and start upstairs at the bar for cocktails before heading indoors for dinner. One of Chef Ford Fry’s many Atlanta endeavors, JCT Kitchen keeps a simple, mouth-watering menu full of Southern favorites and beyond. It’s a perfect spot for a date night where you can have an award-worthy meal in a comfortable, fun environment.
Dine-in, curbside pickup and no-contact delivery available.

1198 Howell Mill Rd #18, Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 355-2252
jctkitchen.com

Romantic Restaurants in Downtown Atlanta

Polaris

Who doesn’t find a rotating lounge romantic? Hyatt Regency Atlanta’s Polaris certainly fits the bill. With the city skyline in the background, the Polaris offers specialty cocktails, chef’s plates, a modern, yet retro, decor and romance. It’s even better if you get a room at the Hyatt Regency Downtown. Make your dinner reservation to coincide with the sunset so that you are sipping on a perfectly prepared Manhattan as you view the sunset at this rotating restaurant.
Currently accepting requests for private events only.

Hyatt Regency Atlanta, 265 Peachtree St, Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 460-6425
Hyatt.com

Explore even more great restaurants in Downtown Atlanta.

Boasting intimate atmospheres, elegant décor and some of the most incredible cuisine, romantic restaurants in Atlanta offer the perfect setting for a special night out with your loved one. And keep the romance going with these fun date night ideas. Or for a more private evening of romance, try these at-home date night ideas.

Journalist Mary Welch writes business and lifestyle stories for local and national publications.