The 19 Most Romantic Restaurants in Atlanta in 2024
The most romantic restaurants in Atlanta offer an intimate atmosphere, excellent service and delicious food. They are fantastic for a date night or celebrating that special occasion with your significant other. From casual, fast-service restaurants to those offering five-star, gourmet menus, there are many choices in cuisine and atmosphere.
While plenty of restaurants in Atlanta offer an exciting menu or fun vibe, which is best for a special night out? Is one option better for a first date and another more suitable for a proposal? We are about to dive in and find out. Here is your guide to some of the most romantic restaurants in Atlanta.
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The 19 Most Romantic Restaurants in Atlanta
1. The Southern Gentleman
Buckhead Village District provides a modern twist on traditional American food with this popular gastropub. The Southern Gentleman Gastropub celebrates all that is wonderful about the South and pairs its fabulous menu with a wide variety of barrel-aged cocktails and bottled libations.
The Vibe
The seersucker window treatments, tufted and cozy leather booths, white marble countertops, high vaulted ceilings, herringbone floors and crystal chandeliers make this one of the most romantic restaurants in Atlanta. A local artist’s creation completes the top floor’s artistry — an oversized portrait of Mark Twain.
What to Order
The braised short ribs are tender and delicious. Pair your main course with a Peachy Keen margarita. Save room for dessert and enjoy a bowl of peach cobbler topped with refreshing vanilla bean ice cream.
The Southern Gentleman Gastropub | 3035 Peachtree Road NE, A208, Atlanta, GA 30305 | $$$
2. 5Church Midtown
Culinary and artistic wonders await you at 5Church Midtown. This new American restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients to create a seasonally changing and creative menu. Local Atlanta artists have a home for their work here, creating a unique, romantic and fun vibe in one of the most romantic restaurants in Atlanta.
The Vibe
The restaurant is spacious and vibrant, with local art displayed throughout. A forest of painted trees pop up throughout the room, and the graffiti art that Atlanta is famous for is displayed prominently. Visit the rooftop for truly spectacular views of the skyline. It is one of the highlights of this romantic restaurant in Atlanta.
What to Order
Start with the sushi tot appetizer. Order the steaming hot and crispy fried chicken biscuit paired with roasted potato hash or the hazelnut crusted salmon for your main course. End your evening with banana cream brûlée topped with homemade whipped cream.
5Church Midtown | 1197 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30361 | $$$
3. BoccaLupo
Italian American cooking with a casual vibe is what BoccaLupo offers. The intimate atmosphere makes it the ideal romantic restaurant in Atlanta to visit when you are on a date. Their pasta is hand-cut and hand-crafted daily, so snuggle next to your partner and enjoy a plate.
The Vibe
Cozy tables and dim lighting give this romantic restaurant in Atlanta an intimate vibe. The restaurant has only 20 tables, so reservations are encouraged. Try the cushioned seating and outdoor patio during a special night out.
What to Order
Start your evening off with the marsala glazed octopus. It practically melts in your mouth. For your main course, choose the black spaghetti with hot calabrese sausage or the soft shell crab risotto. Dessert is a must. Try the homemade gelato for a refreshing treat.
BoccaLupo | 753 Edgewood Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 | $$
4. City Winery Atlanta
If you and your date share a passion for wine, music and great food, City Winery is a romantic restaurant in Atlanta that you must check out. A visit here provides one-stop shopping for food, wine, mixed drinks and fantastic live music. Finding everything in one place makes visiting here one of the most popular date ideas in Atlanta.
The Vibe
The atmosphere is buzzing at City Winery Atlanta with industrial architecture, exposed brick and vintage lighting and wine barrels throughout. The venue hosts prominent musical acts and remains loud and lively throughout the week.
What to Order
For your appetizer, choose a charcuterie board. It is loaded with meats and cheeses and perfect for sharing. Garlic shrimp confit and the lobster risotto are the must-try items on the menu for your main course. Pair your meal with the wine flight to sample their many fine wines.
City Winery Atlanta | 650 North Ave. NE, Ste. 201, Ponce City Market Atlanta, GA 30308 | $$
5. Aria
If you are searching for a romantic restaurant in Atlanta that is a date night institution, Aria is the place. From its fantastic tasting menu to various a la carte items, this restaurant offers something for everyone in a cozy, hip space perfect for unwinding.
The Vibe
The sound is subdued, the lighting is dim and the décor is upscale. White linen cloths cover the tables, and simple yet elegant decorations fill the room. The vibe here is exactly what you would want for one of the most romantic restaurants in Atlanta.
What to Order
The sampling menus are the way to go at Aria. They allow you to try various items, from the "fall off the bone" short ribs to the succulent pork and tender sea scallops. Their fried fish is also a great option. You cannot go wrong with the passion fruit sorbet or strawberry angel cake for dessert.
Aria | 490 E. Paces Ferry Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | $$$$
6. Gunshow
Gunshow’s grab-and-get dining style offers a unique experience for foodies that makes for a memorable date. Dishes are presented to your tableside by the chefs who created them, and cocktails are mixed at your table. Your job is to tell the chefs which dishes you wish to enjoy. This romantic restaurant in Atlanta has an air of transparency, and the kitchen is in plain view from most tables.
The Vibe
Gunshow provides a lively and eclectic vibe with a lot of communal seating. There is a lot of conversation as bartenders and chefs circle the room and mingle with guests. Consider this a romantic restaurant in Atlanta for couples who love to converse and mingle.
What to Order
While their menus vary day to day, one thing is guaranteed — whatever dish you order will undoubtedly satisfy your appetite for high-quality, refined and innovative dining.
Gunshow | 924 Garrett St., Ste. C, Atlanta, GA 30316 | $$$$
7. Lazy Betty
Chinese roots, Southern upbringing, French culinary techniques — this is what Chef Ron Hsu brings to the table and what is reflected in the menu served at Lazy Betty. This is a romantic restaurant in Atlanta where guests are encouraged to take their time and enjoy a seven-course menu in an intimate setting.
The Vibe
This romantic restaurant in Atlanta is unpretentious, modern and upscale. The lighting is dim, and the seating is comfortable. Plan to dress up for your night out, and make a reservation.
What to Order
The seven-course menu at Lazy Betty’s is fixed, but let the chef know if you have any allergies or dietary restrictions. Add a wine pairing for a special evening out.
Lazy Betty | 1530 Dekalb Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 | $$$$
8. Highland Tap
For a date night that is both classy and casual, choose Highland Tap as your venue. This Virginia Highland steak tavern makes the list of romantic restaurants in Atlanta because of its atmosphere and American comfort food menu. They also serve the best martinis in town.
The Vibe
You are underground when you visit this romantic restaurant in Atlanta, surrounded by stacked stone walls. This gives it a relaxed, speakeasy vibe. There is a massive stone fireplace in the dining room, which creates a cozy and romantic yet casual atmosphere.
What to Order
The artichoke dish is creamy and delicious, ideal for sharing as an appetizer. Next, opt for the thick-cut burger. It is juicy and cooked medium. Finally, finish your evening with bread pudding, but order it early as it is a popular dessert!
Highland Tap | 1026 N. Highland Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 | $$
9. Canoe
Nestled against the Chattanooga River, Canoe is a romantic restaurant in Atlanta with an unmatched setting. Chef Carvel Grant Gould has created an upscale menu with unique flavor combinations that set this American cuisine apart from the competition.
The Vibe
The beauty of this romantic restaurant in Atlanta is most evident when you step outside onto the perfectly manicured lawn surrounded by a tranquil garden leading up to the riverfront. The interior blends brick, wood and ironwork to keep it in tune with the natural beauty of the great outdoors.
What to Order
The hickory grilled steak is perfectly seasoned and seared to perfection, or try the jumbo lump crab cakes with yuzu dressing slaw. For dessert, order the Washington State pear crisp with fresh almonds, sweet vanilla and a hint of currant or the chocolate truffle cake.
Canoe | 4199 Paces Ferry Road SE, Atlanta, GA 30339 | $$$
10. Julianna’s Coffee and Crepes
Locally sourced and crafted with love, the food at Julianna’s Coffee and Crepes makes this the ideal spot when you are searching for a romantic restaurant in Atlanta that serves breakfast. The quaint coffee shop is located off a side street in Inman Park, easy to stroll to and fantastic to visit.
The Vibe
Julianna’s is heavy on the European vibe with its ivy-covered exterior, stone interior walls and small open kitchen. The decorations are vintage, and the seating at this romantic restaurant in Atlanta is cozy and casual.
What to Order
The Hungarian crêpes are the dish of choice at Julianna’s. Order them sweet or savory, or choose one and share both with your date. Pair your crêpes with a steaming hot coffee, brewed fresh daily.
Julianna’s Coffee and Crepes | 775 Lake Ave., Atlanta, GA 30307 | $
11. Lyla Lila
Lyla Lila strives to deliver exceptional service and a rotating menu of Southern European dishes slightly different from the rest. This romantic restaurant in Atlanta also offers one of the best wine selections in town, and it sits across the street from the Fox Theatre, making it the ideal spot to eat for a night out on the town.
The Vibe
Snuggle up in one of the cozy enclaves at Lyla Lila, or enjoy the impressive views of Peachtree and the Fox Theatre from the large windows. This romantic restaurant in Atlanta has a touch of sophistication, but the service and the vibe are friendly.
What to Order
Start with a plate of grilled calamari. It is tender and delicious. Then, pair the non-traditional duck lasagna with your favorite glass of wine. For dessert, save some room for tiramisu.
Lyla Lila | 693 Peachtree St. NE, Ste. 118, Atlanta, GA 30308 | $$$
12. Lucian Books and Wine
This cozy and intimate romantic restaurant in Atlanta is in the Buckhead neighborhood. Visit Lucian Books and Wine for a unique lunch or dinner date. The establishment is half bookstore and half restaurant, and it only seats 40 people, so make a reservation to guarantee your table.
The Vibe
Rattan-style chairs, walnut wood finish and modern round dim lighting create a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere in this romantic restaurant in Atlanta. The bookcases and rows of books are a beautiful touch and create a home-like feel.
What to Order
The juicy prime rib steak is seasoned perfectly at this romantic restaurant in Atlanta. Each bite practically melts in your mouth. It pairs nicely with the fruit essences of a pinot noir. The salmon is also a good option if you want something more refined. Order the panna cotta with honey and honeycomb touches to finish your meal.
Lucian Books and Wine | 3005 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | $$$
13. Rock Steady
When you and your date want to rock out, visit Rock Steady. This romantic restaurant in Atlanta serves Afro-Caribbean cuisine with a twist of Southern comfort in a lively and colorful atmosphere.
The Vibe
The restaurant portion of Rock Steady is downstairs. It is the perfect romantic restaurant in Atlanta for a date night with dim candlelit tables accented by colorful Afro-modern wall paintings. When you are ready to dance and sing, move upstairs to the lounge for a lively atmosphere.
What to Order
The spiced wild honey shrimp is a delicious menu item with citrusy undertones. The jerk-style or grilled chicken are also highly recommended if you prefer something with more spice. Opt for the plantain banana pudding with ice cream on top for dessert.
Rock Steady | 907 Marietta St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 | $$
14. Bones Restaurant
Bones is a romantic restaurant in Atlanta and has won many prestigious awards for its service and food. They are known for accommodating fine dining experiences and special occasions and offer personalized menus on request.
The Vibe
Beautiful inside and cozy, this is an upscale romantic restaurant in Atlanta. There is a bit of a “fancy gangster” vibe thanks to the unique décor and wood and brick finishings. The white glove concierge service makes any evening feel like a five-star affair.
What to Order
Begin with a foie gras appetizer, followed by sweet lobster bisque. Steak is their specialty, so order any steak on the menu for your main course. For dessert, opt for the homemade pecan pie.
Bones | 3130 Piedmont Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | $$$$
15. Spring
Chef Brian So and Sommelier Daniel Crawford bring you Spring, a New American restaurant serving seasonal, locally sourced dishes paired with organic and natural wines. This romantic restaurant in Atlanta is known for supporting locals and leaving guests with a memorable experience.
The Vibe
Spring’s dining room is intimate, small and cozy. With minimal seating, reservations are required to dine at this romantic restaurant in Atlanta. The décor is simple and minimalist, featuring brick, wood and natural fibers. This gives the restaurant an upscale farmhouse feel.
What to Order
The roasted duck is incredible, juicy and well-balanced. It pairs nicely with the fresh peach salad and a glass of wine. Ask the sommelier for their recommendations. For dessert, try the shredded parsnip and banana dish. The presentation is beautiful, and this dish offers the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Spring | 36 Mill St., Marietta, GA 30060 | $$$
16. Parlor
Named after the gathering room in most 19th-century homes, Parlor is a cozy romantic restaurant in Atlanta that is perfect for cocktails and light bites. Mellow jazz and R&B play over the speakers, lending to the intimate atmosphere ideal for conversation.
The Vibe
Parlor is a sophisticated and cozy space with a speakeasy vibe. You enter by a somewhat hidden pink door on the side of the building to find yourself inside a smaller space filled with comfortable couches, intimate tables and cushioned chairs.
What to Order
Parlor is a great romantic restaurant in Atlanta for drinks and dessert or light bites. Share an order of the crispy bites and order your favorite mixed drinks; the bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable. For dessert, try the light and fluffy blueberry pastry.
Parlor | 249 Peters St. SW, Unit A, Atlanta, GA 30313 | $$
17. Le Bon Nosh
Le Bon Nosh is like two romantic restaurants in Atlanta in one. During the day, it has a French café feel, and at night, it transforms into a French bistro and wine bar. They celebrate the beauty of simple, seasonal foods, and their menu is ever-changing based on the availability of local ingredients.
The Vibe
This adorable romantic restaurant in Atlanta gives off a Parisian vibe with tasteful décor and a large glass pastry case as the focal point. Most of the day, it is calm and quiet, so it is a perfect spot for conversation and casual dining.
What to Order
Try the duck confit paired with sweet carrot purée and savory lentils. The french fries are a “not to be missed” side at this romantic restaurant in Atlanta. If you visit for breakfast, the almond croissant is flaky and delicious.
Le Bon Nosh | 65 Irby Ave. NW, Ste. 103, Atlanta, GA 30305 | $$
18. Kimball House
Steeped in history, the Kimball House delivers old-world charm in the heart of Atlanta. The menu at this romantic restaurant in Atlanta is elevated and rotates depending on the season and the availability of locally sourced ingredients.
The Vibe
This meticulously restored Victorian-era building exudes old-world charm with ornate chandeliers, mahogany accents, soft glowing candles and plush furnishings, creating an intimate and inviting ambiance in this romantic restaurant in Atlanta.
What to Order
Start with the oysters. The Kimball House is renowned for its raw bar. Dive into the savory and creamy shrimp and grits for your main course. Save room for dessert at this romantic restaurant in Atlanta; both the chocolate pot de crème and the mille-feuille are unforgettable.
Kimball House | 303 E. Howard Ave., Decatur, GA 30030 | $$$
19. Atlanta Fish Market
If that special someone in your life loves seafood, Atlanta Fish Market is the romantic restaurant in Atlanta that you need to check out. It boasts the largest selection of wild-caught fish in the area, and the seafood is fresh and flown in daily.
The Vibe
With an open and airy interior, high ceilings and comfortable booths, this romantic restaurant in Atlanta has a loft-like setting. It is bright, casual and inviting.
What to Order
The soft and sweet lobster rolls are dripping with butter. Pair them with the sweet potato mash, a creamy and delicious side. For dessert at this romantic restaurant in Atlanta, opt for the tart yet sweet Key lime pie.
Atlanta Fish Market | 265 Pharr Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | $$$
Try Cooking Atlanta Foods
If you’d rather enjoy a romantic meal in the comfort of your own home, taking a cooking class will help you cook a delicious meal that is guaranteed to impress your love interest. Cooking classes in Atlanta offer a mix of options including Asian specialties, Italian cuisine and soul food.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
When planning that special date night, Atlanta offers many incredible restaurants to try, from lively music halls to intimate steakhouses and scenic dining establishments. A little research makes it easy to discover your perfect match.
Sample a few of the romantic restaurants in Atlanta on this list to impress your date. You will make great memories and enjoy some delicious food along the way. For even more ways to explore Atlanta, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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