14 Most Romantic Restaurants in Philadelphia in 2025

What are the most romantic restaurants in Philadelphia to take your significant other? From nervous first dates to casual date nights and even milestone celebrations like engagements or anniversaries, this city has no shortage of lovely, intimate spaces with impeccable food for you and your special someone. 

We’ve curated a list of reliable spots, some old, some new, for you to consider in your quest to have a thoughtful meal together. Without further ado, here are some of the most popular spots for romantic dining that Philadelphia locals love.

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• The 14 Best Date Night Restaurants in Philadelphia
• Other Romantic Foodie Experiences in Philadelphia

The 14 Best Date Night Restaurants in Philadelphia 

1. Scampi 

New to Queen Village but not the dinner scene, Scampi is the dream space designed by Elizabeth Grothe. This spot offers five-course Italian-inspired menus that change by the month, making it one of the top romantic restaurants in Philadelphia to bring your special someone. 

The Vibe

Step into this romantic restaurant in Philadelphia to enjoy a friendly, casual space that, true to the chef’s humble roots, feels like an intimate dinner party with friends. 

What to Order

One past showstopper at this romantic restaurant in Philadelphia that customers loved was the classic fettuccine alfredo, praised for its house-made pasta and sauce. 

Scampi | 617 S. 3rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 | $$$

2. Irwin’s 

For gorgeous greenery to go along with your food, visit Irwin’s. This is one of the many romantic restaurants in Philadelphia, in part because of its vision led by recognized Chef Michael Vincent Ferreri. Another unique factor that sets Irwin’s apart is the decision to showcase delicious natural wine pairings with its fresh Sicilian menu. 

The Vibe

Natural wood furnishings make this romantic restaurant in Philadelphia feel like home, with plants hanging off bookshelves in corners and ambient lighting throughout. 

What to Order

Diners rave about the Sicilian gnocchi sardi here, made with a flavorful tomato chile sauce and eggplant. 

Irwin’s | 800 Mifflin St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 | $$$

3. Illata 

Next up on the list of the top romantic restaurants in Philadelphia is Illata. This minimalist spot is all about doing more with less, as seen in its rotating menu of dishes with pleasantly surprising “hidden” ingredients. 

The Vibe

This tucked-away candlelit neighborhood restaurant features comfy wooden seating and a tiled bar. Everything comes together to make this one of the most appealing and memorable date ideas Philadelphia locals or visitors can try. 

What to Order

At this romantic restaurant in Philadelphia, order the marinated mussels. The dish expertly integrates Japanese flavors like miso and mildly sweet, crunchy hakurei turnips. 

Illata | 2241 Grays Ferry Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19146 | $$$

4. River Twice 

Staying close to home always has its advantages, and River Twice knows this. Led by Chef Randy Rucker, this romantic restaurant in Philadelphia makes the most out of local seasonal ingredients to create a rustic modern American seafood-based menu that’s sure to inspire. 

The Vibe 

This modern, chic space includes an open kitchen to watch the masters at work. The monochrome color scheme and upscale environment come together to create the kind of lovely romantic dining Philadelphia locals deserve. 

What to Order

The tasting menu is exquisite, with unique past dishes like bluefin tuna toast and understated trout roe. Every dish pairs unexpected flavors together, creating new experiences entirely. 

River Twice | 1601 E. Passyunk Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19148 | $$$

5. Kiddo Restaurant 

Vibrant vegetable-inspired fare. Speckled plates that also look like bowls. What’s not to like? Kiddo Restaurant specializes in seasonal dishes that are innovative, playful and undoubtedly satisfying. Add a sophisticated ambiance and you’ve got one of the best romantic restaurants in Philadelphia. 

The Vibe

From the abstract art hanging on the walls to the curved window sills of this blue-and-white themed establishment, there’s no question that this is a romantic restaurant in Philadelphia to visit with your loved one for a relaxing evening. 

What to Order

Go for the pork porterhouse with rhubarb jam, smoky potato and a smattering of strawberries and walnuts to balance it out here at Kiddo, one of the best date night restaurants Philadelphia offers. 

Kiddo Restaurant | 1138 Pine St., Philadelphia, PA 19107 | $$$

6. Rex at the Royal 

Tucked within the Royal Theatre is one of the most lovely, romantic restaurants in Philadelphia. Aptly named Rex at the Royal, this historical landmark welcomes guests to enjoy delicious Southern seafood. 

The Vibe

Visit the Rex, one of the top romantic restaurants in Philadelphia, and you’ll be dining in style. This extravagant space has teal walls in some rooms and mesmerizing tiled floors in others, all bathed in rustic chandelier lighting.  

What to Order

The frogmore stew is a house signature item. It’s a seafood boil that customers recommend for both its flavors and presentation. For a late morning meal, Rex offers a delicious breakfast Philadelphia locals love to enjoy.

Rex at the Royal | 1524 South St., Philadelphia, PA 19146 | $$$

7. Friday Saturday Sunday 

For an award-winning restaurant experience that comes with a thoughtful tasting menu and mouth-watering cocktails to match, plan a meal with your significant other at Friday Saturday Sunday. It’s one of the best classy, romantic restaurants in Philadelphia, PA. 

The Vibe

Impress your date at this romantic restaurant in Philadelphia with its scenic art hanging on the walls, playful checkered patterns and intimate lighting in the evenings. A husband-wife team runs the spot, a standout among Black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia.

What to Order

Notable past dishes on the tasting menu include the light yet flavorful chicken liver mousse and the beef tartare, paired with fluffy sourdough bread. 

Friday Saturday Sunday | 261 S. 21st St., Philadelphia, PA 19103 | $$$$

8. Little Fish 

Next on the list of the best romantic restaurants in Philadelphia is Little Fish. This restaurant has both history and heart that aren’t so little. Led by Chef Alexander Yoon, the seasonal seafood-inspired menu has changed constantly since Little Fish’s humble start in the 1990s. 

The Vibe

Quaint yet refined, this space is definitely one of the more casual romantic restaurants in Philadelphia. Along with being an intimate date night spot for sweet-nothing conversations, the atmosphere is also fit to be one of your next quieter birthday ideas Philadelphia has to offer. 

What to Order

From the à la carte menu, try the dressed scallops on fluffy, buttery toast.

Little Fish | 746 S. 6th St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 | $$$

9. Little Water 

Coincidentally following its similar namesake above, make no mistake about it — Little Water holds its own as a beautiful, romantic restaurant in Philadelphia. This coastal seafood-inspired restaurant and wine bar is led by the expertise of recognized husband-wife duo, Chefs Randy and Amanda Rucker. 

The Vibe 

The earthy, beachy tones of Little Water create the perfect reprieve for relaxing with your significant other, making it a great option when it comes to date night restaurants Philly offers. 

What to Order

At this romantic restaurant in Philadelphia, try the Milanese-style swordfish. Diners love this dish for its spicy Cajun seasoning and refreshing sides of dill-infused tartar sauce and crisp, refreshing salad. 

Little Water | 261 S. 20th St., Philadelphia, PA 19103 | $$$

10. Fork 

Trek into the heart of Old City to find Fork, one of the most highly acclaimed romantic restaurants in Philadelphia for modern American cuisine. Stunning mirrors make the dining area of this establishment feel larger than life. 

The Vibe 

The spacious setting and classy red lampshade lighting helps turn this romantic restaurant in Philadelphia into a cozy affair. It’s one of the top restaurants Philadelphia has to offer for date nights.  

What to Order

If you’re a fan of burgers, the dry-aged burger here with crispy bacon glazed using five-spice is not to be missed. Some say it’s the best elevated burger in the city. 

Fork | 306 Market St., Philadelphia, PA 19106 | $$$

11. Alpen Rose 

No list of top romantic restaurants in Philadelphia, or any other city for that matter, would be complete without a steakhouse mention. Alpen Rose excels in this regard. Since 2019, Alpen Rose has offered a modern vision of the timeless charm that comes from any steakhouse, creating an experience to remember with every dish. 

The Vibe

Ambient chandelier lighting illuminates the dining room, along with backlit bookshelves that add to the refined atmosphere. Comfy seats finish the setting here at one of the top romantic restaurants in Philadelphia. 

What to Order

Any steak on the menu here is not to be missed, but especially the dry-aged bone-in ribeye, seared to perfection. 

Alpen Rose | 116 S. 13th St., Philadelphia, PA 19107 | $$$$

12. Jansen 

Polite and unassuming, Jansen stands on the corner of Germantown Avenue as one of the top romantic restaurants in Philadelphia for new American cuisine. Chef David Jansen leads the vision here, contributing to its success as the 2024 winner of the best fine dining restaurant in the city. 

The Vibe 

As one of the best date night restaurants Philadelphia offers, Jansen is all about stellar service in humble, clean digs. From the neat white-and-blue exterior to the intimate tables inside meant for small parties, be sure to book a table here for a lowkey celebration. 

What to Order

At this romantic restaurant in Philadelphia, it’s important to try the light and flaky halibut. It comes with delectable sides that customers love, like the crab and brie arancini. 

Jansen | 7402 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19119 | $$$

13. Bistro Romano 

For almost forty years, Bistro Romano has served up a stunning Italian menu in a quaint, historic atmosphere that captures the old-world romance of Italy. As one of the most romantic restaurants in Philadelphia, it makes sense that customers flock here for signature dishes like lobster ravioli, truffle gnocchi and in-house desserts. 

The Vibe 

The two-floor dining space is surrounded by exposed brick walls, flourishing crimson curtains and historic art, which makes this one of the most impressive date night restaurants Philly has to offer. 

What to Order

For a well-rounded experience, try the five-course tasting menu at this romantic restaurant in Philadelphia. It features squid ink spaghetti with plum tomato sauce among other dishes. 

Bistro Romano | 120 Lombard St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 | $$

14. Hiroki 

Head to Fishtown for the last pick of the top romantic restaurants in Philadelphia. Hiroki is a traditional omakase spot specializing in fresh sushi dishes, wagyu and nigiri, with intentional sake pairings to match.

The Vibe

The long, minimalist wooden bar keeps all attention on the courses being served, each with expert precision by masterful chefs. This is a great place to experience delicious Philadelphia food. 

What to Order

Go for the traditional omakase menu at this romantic restaurant in Philadelphia for 20 uniquely crafted dishes. Diners praise the o-toro (fatty tuna belly nigiri) and the zensai (a seasonal selection of cold specialties). 

Hiroki | 1335 N. Front St., Philadelphia, PA 19122 | $$$$

Other Romantic Foodie Experiences in Philadelphia 

It goes without saying that there are a number of beautiful, romantic restaurants in Philadelphia. Some are extravagant while others opt for subtlety, but all offer delicious food to enjoy with your special someone. For foodies looking to spice up a regular date night with a hands-on activity, consider taking one of the cooking classes in Philadelphia. There are even couples cooking classes in Philadelphia designed specifically for partners, allowing you to learn new skills and have fun together.

For a relaxed milestone date, hire a private chef in Philadelphia to create a high-end, date-night dinner. This intimate experience lets you savor a menu tailored just for you by a dedicated professional. All of these options are great alternatives to exploring the many romantic restaurants Philadelphia has to offer.

Exploring romantic restaurants in Philadelphia with your partner is always fun and special. Shared meals are a fantastic way to make cherished memories together, especially since you can plan them as a surprise and tailor your options to suit both your tastes. 

You can also choose to try new experiences by venturing out in your list of romantic restaurants in Philadelphia, PA. Whatever you choose to do for your next casual date night, elevated milestone meal or something in between, this city has got you covered when it comes to romantic restaurant options. 

For even more ways to explore Philadelphia and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.