I’m honored you came to me to find the best date night restaurants in Seattle. Every relationship deserves a romantic evening out where two people can get to know each other or reconnect.
However picking the right spot can be overwhelming. Early on in a relationship, it may be too soon for a splurgy fine dining restaurant. For celebrations later into the relationship, it may be difficult to keep the element of surprise when it seems like your 50th special occasion meal. And hey, sometimes we want a midweek date spot that won’t break the bank or require getting too dolled up.
No matter that type of date night spot you’re looking for, great ambiance and food are non-negotiable. So if you’re looking for a romantic and yummy meal out, here is my roundup of the best date night restaurants in Seattle.
23 Best Date Night Restaurants in Seattle
Save this to Pinterest for later, as I’ll add more to this list of the best date nights in Seattle as I discover them!
San Fermo
website | 5341 Ballard Ave NW (get directions) | neighborhood: Ballard | best for: pasta
San Fermo serves some of the best pasta in Seattle. It’s super cute since it’s located inside a historic farmhouse, so expect to bond over vintage paintings and the quaint small-town atmosphere.
My must-order dish has always been the saffron bolognese spaghetti, as it’s earthy with a slightly sweet bite. But any of their fresh pasta dishes will have you planning date number 2 before you’ve cleared your plates.
They accept walk-ins here, but I recommend making a reservation. If you have to put your name down, head to their sister bar Percy & Co. down the street for an excellent cocktail.
Le Caviste
website | 1919 7th Ave (get directions) | neighborhood: Downtown | best for: an intimate date
Le Caviste is a small wine bar in downtown Seattle with an intimate atmosphere, yet few people talk about it. That’s a shame because it’s one of the best French restaurants in Seattle. I’ve always thought this place was built for meaningful convos, so it’s ideal for couples who crave quality time.
If you choose to eat here, grab the fish in parchment and the Beaujolais charcuterie board, the later of which is served with one of the best butters I’ve ever tried. I’ll genuinely eat it by the spoonful with zero shame. Throw in a couple of French pours to make it a date to remember.
Spinasse
website | 1531 14th Ave (get directions) | neighborhood: Capitol Hill | best for: a cozy atmosphere + great wines
Spinasse is the place to be for hand-cut pasta, and it’s been my go-to spot for Northern Italian cuisine since it opened in 2008. It’s one of my favorite fine dining restaurants in Seattle for ridiculously rich ragu, but I usually get the Menu Degustazione tasting menu if I’m struggling to decide because it lets you try the whole menu (minus desserts).
What puts this place among the best date night restaurants in Seattle is the ambiance and god-tier food. From the cozy and rustic atmosphere to the amazing international wine list, it’s a complete slam-dunk in every way.
This place is usually packed-out in the evenings. So, you’ll want to grab a reservation. And if you’re on a first date, don’t be afraid to request a table by the window.
Homer
website | 3013 Beacon Ave S (get directions) | neighborhood: Beacon Hill | best for: Mediterranean plates
When it comes to posh Mediterranean food in Seattle, you can’t beat Homer. It’s one of the best date night restaurants in Seattle for a fancy night out, but it doesn’t take reservations for parties under 6. If you need to wait for a table, head to The Coupe & Flute down the street for some sparkling wine to kick off your date.
Although the food at Homer is fancy, the atmosphere is inviting and airy. The menu is seasonal and extremely fresh, consisting of Middle Eastern dishes with a modern twist.
You’ll likely fight over the pita and dips, but save room for this spot’s legendary soft serve. It’s some of the best ice cream in Seattle!
Beast & Cleaver / Peasant
website | 2362 NW 80th St (get directions) | neighborhood: Loyal Heights | best for: an upscale meat-focused tasting menu
Beast & Cleaver is one of the best Seattle butcher shops located in the northern Ballard area. However, come nighttime Thursdays through Sundays, they turn their cozy space into one of two restaurant concepts: Beastro and Peasant. Peasant is their fine dining option on Thursday and Fridays that only has a ~$180/person tasting menu with wine, while Beastro is their more casual a la carte gastropub concept Saturday and Sunday evenings.
The space only has a few tables, so make sure to grab a reservations for either dining concept well in advance. I always recommend this as one of the best date night restaurants for foodies, as everything is seasoned to perfection and the menu is really creative.
La Medusa
website | 4857 Rainier Ave S (get directions) | neighborhood: Columbia City | best for: Sicilian food
La Medusa is a cute and casual spot that would rival any trattoria in Italy. It’s ideal for a weeknight date or a quick bite to eat as it’s unassuming and cozy.
They used to take online reservations, but they’re operating a telephone-only policy right now. They’re typically busy, but you should be able to snag a seat if you get here by 6 pm-ish. If not, though, you can grab a drink while you wait at their amaro bar, Persephone, located right inside the restaurant.
La Medusa’s menu isn’t huge, which is always a sign of fresh and seasonal eats. You’ll find rotating dishes like ridiculously-tender grilled lamb chops and crowd-pleasing pork ragu. If you want to hang around for a nightcap, order a bottle or two of their house wine.
MariPili Tapas Bar
website | 1117 12th Ave (get directions) | neighborhood: Capitol Hill | best for: authentic tapas
You may feel like you recognize MariPili given its location inside the once-iconic Cafe Presse. It’s a Galician tapas bar owned by Chef Grayson Pilar who shares the food of her abuela in an intimate setting. The space is dimly lit, yet the atmosphere is buzzing with conversation.
Given the emphasis on small plates, this spot is made for sharing. Standouts include the paella, croquettas, tortilla de patata, scallops, and baccala. Don’t miss the gin and tonic menu with interesting flavor combos and beautiful presentation.
Deep Dive
website | 620 Lenora St (get directions) | neighborhood: Denny Triangle | best for: speakeasy vibes
Deep Dive is a swank lounge that serves incredible cocktails and bougie bar snacks. I’ve always appreciated the Seattle speakeasy feel here with its dark corners for doing dark deed (haha, nothing too lewd though, of course!).
This bar is tucked inside The Spheres and used to be a Curtis Steiner art installation before being transformed by Renee Erickson, one of my favorite restauranteurs in the city. These days, it’s one of the best date night restaurants in Seattle for newer relationships and those who have high-class taste when to comes to craft cocktails.
As it’s such a small venue, reservations are limited. It adds to the exclusive feel of the place, but you’ll want to snag a reservation in advance to avoid disappointment. Definitely get drinks and don’t miss their amazing olives and focaccia bread.
Bar del Corso
website | 3057 Beacon Ave S (get directions) | neighborhood: Beacon Hill | best for: soul-satisfying pizza
Bar del Corso is the perfect place for bonding over a cheesy pizza and a few drinks. It’s developed a loyal local fanbase over the years, and my boyfriend and I just love the Margherita here. Their wood-fired pizzas are second-to-none, so you’ll always get that beautifully charred crust with the right chewiness that puts them up their on the list of best pizzas in Seattle.
Pro tip: Don’t miss their baccala fritters if they’re on the menu! It’d be an adventurous treat for couples who like discovering new flavors.
Le Pichet
website | 1933 1st Ave (get directions) | neighborhood: Downtown | best for: chill wine nights
Le Pichet is right by Pike Place Market and is among the best date night restaurants in Seattle. The focus here is on high-quality French food, with a stellar natural wine list and that easy-breezy Parisian bistro vibe.
The slow-roasted chicken is one of the most perfectly seasoned thing I’ve ever eaten in Seattle. It literally melts in your mouth as it’s so moist. However, it takes a while to make, so request it as soon as you sit down!
Bottlehouse
website | 1416 34th Ave (get directions) | neighborhood: Madrona | best for: grazing boards + wines
Bottlehouse has been on the Seattle restaurant scene since 2010 and operates as a quaint wine bar. The décor is rustic and homey, which is fitting given its built inside a refurbished house with a gorgeous patio. And like any good home, you can spend hours sipping wine and enjoying each other’s company.
Food-wise, this place is all about baguettes, grazing plates, and signature cheese boards. This gives you the space to chat away to your heart’s content without getting distracted by mains.
Mezzanotte
website | 1210 S Bailey St (get directions) | neighborhood: Georgetown | best for: outdoor dining
Mezzanotte is the sister restaurant of Ciudad, one of the restaurants featured in my Georgetown food tour. From the tented outdoor seating area to the warm brick wall interior, it’s just darling.
I’ll usually order a few antipasti plates to share, making sure not to skip the roast carrots. But the tajarin pasta drenched with sage sauce will rival anyone for your affection. Once you’ve downed your food, stick around for a few craft cocktails to finish the night in style.
Sushi Kappo Tamura
website | 2968 Eastlake Ave E (get directions) | neighborhood: Portage Bay | best for: top-notch sushi
Sushi Kappo Tamura is expensive, but the upscale décor and elegant dining room make up for the cost. The restaurant is run by executive chef Taichi Kitamura who trained under the sushi master Shiro Kashiba. If you didn’t know, Kashiba runs the ever-popular Sushi Kashiba, which is home to some of the best sushi in Seattle.
Everything by Kitamura is made using seasonal Pacific Northwest ingredients. And the preparation? It’s authentically Japanese down to the last slice of the knife.
I usually get the prix-fixe three or five-course menu as it’s decent value and you can easily share. However, couples with smaller appetites can go with a selection of rolls. Just remember to reserve a table because it gets busy.
Osteria la Spiga
website | 123 Main St. (get directions) | neighborhood: Capitol Hill | best for: authentic dishes + cozy ambiance
Osteria la Spiga is one of my favorite Black-owned Seattle restaurant serving up romantic Italian eats. It’s ideal for those brutal Seattle winters as most of the tables are indoors. I also love that they offer events throughout the year with guest chefs and expert wine pairings.
But if I’m being honest, it’s the excellent homemade food and the airy loft-like atmosphere that couples love. While you’re eating your meatballs Lady and the Tramp-style, cast your eyes on the rustic wood panel ceilings, wine-lined bar walls, and hanging lamps. Trust me when I say that love will be in the air.
New Luck Toy
website | 123 Main St. (get directions) | neighborhood: West Seattle | best for: a vibrant atmosphere
New Luck Toy is a hidden gem in West Seattle that gives you plenty to talk about. It serves Chinese-American fare in a hip and trendy atmosphere. The hanging lanterns and muted lighting gives the whole place a Chinatown feel which is playful and fun.
However, the real party starts with the karaoke and pinball machines. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy yummy honey walnut prawns that won’t break the bank while partaking in some friendly competition.
Bar Sur Mer
website | 219 N 85th Seattle St (get directions) | neighborhood: Greenwood | best for: seafood + Spanish wines
This quaint bar is from the owner of two of my favorite Seattle restaurants, RockCreek and FlintCreek (the latter of which is next door). While all their restaurants are romantic, I think Bar Sur Mer is one of the best date night restaurants in Seattle given its cozy tapas bar ambiance. The wooden and brass décor makes this place feel warm, stylish, and upscale.
You’ll find a bunch of small plates like the beef tartare with capers and the wood-fired mackerel. But honestly, it’s the Spanish wines served in Catalan pitchers and gin and tonics that are worth sticking around for.
Bar Sabine
website | 5307 Ballard Ave NW (get directions) | neighborhood: Ballard | best for: speakeasy vibes
I was ecstatic when Bar Sabine opened because it’s in the same space as The Back Door, the late Bastille’s cozy hidden bar. In similar fashion, Bar Sabine is a 21+ cocktail bar known for its speakeasy vibe and dark mood lighting. I can’t get enough of the indoor bar area, but the outdoor terrace is decorated with vines for an otherworldly, fairytale feel that’s magical for first dates. Basically, you can’t go wrong wherever you sit!
Food wise you’ll find a bunch of Mediterranean-leaning small bites. Think dates, dips, and kebabs perfect for sharing.
Baker’s
website | 6408 32nd Ave NW (get directions) | neighborhood: Sunset Hill | best for: a friendly neighborhood feel
This cute-as-a-button neighborhood bar is one of the best date night restaurants in Seattle for Pacific Northwest cuisine. I get that it may not look like much at first glance (it’s TINY). But this Sunset Hill staple serves incredible small-batch natural wines and local beers that you can enjoy in the garden out back.
The cheeses and olives here are next-level, but you can bulk things up with the Oregon pork collar served with a mooreish lentil ragout. Throw in a few glasses of bubbly and you’ll be signing up for a second date.
JarrBar
website | 1432 Western Ave (get directions) | neighborhood: Downtown | best for: relaxed rounds of drinks
JarrBarr serves funky Iberian small plates and specialty cocktails in an intimate venue within Pike Place Market. I’ve settled in at one of the tables after exploring the market many times since it’s so cozy and inviting.
It’s not the best place to visit if you’re ravenous, as the menu focuses on cured meats, tinned fish, and olives to snack on. Don’t worry though, you can easily make a meal of it while gabbing away with your date over drinks.
The Corson Building
website | 5609 Corson Ave S (get directions) | neighborhood: Georgetown | best for: hyper local food in a fancy English garden
The Corson Building is one of the most dreamiest restaurants in Seattle. I actually fantasize about having a wedding here.
Let me set the scene. The restaurant is situated in an early 1900s historic home. The stone facade gives it an English countryside manor vibe, which The Corson Building really leaned into with the landscaping. You’ll see landscaping, fountains, and an outdoor patio that would be fitting in The Secret Garden.
The layout inside is what you’d expect when entering a home. The vibe gets a bit more rustic Italian with warm neutral stones and decor, but it still has that European countryside feel. There are only a few tables inside, giving it the feeling of a dinner party. It especially feels so when you’re led through the kitchen to get to the patio seating.
When it comes to food, The Corson Building focuses on Pacific Northwest cuisine that honors seasonal ingredients. The menu changes weekly, with a la carte options Thursdays and Fridays or a set menu Saturdays and Sundays. Given the intimate setting and prices, this place is best suited for special occasions (i.e. it’s too fancy for a first date).
Even though the menu changes, salads are a staple so definitely make sure they end up on your table. It’s the perfect dish to describe their ethos: simple, high-quality ingredients elevated into a cacophony of textures and well-balanced flavors.
The Pink Door
website | 1919 Post Alley (get directions) | neighborhood: Pike Place Market | best for: live entertainment
The Pink Door is one of my favorite date night restaurants in Seattle. It’s right in Pike Place Market on Post Alley so it’s a fabulous place to stop for dinner after checking out the vendor stalls and Gum Wall.
The open patio is beautiful during the summer, as it’s decorated with hanging flowers, bright tablecloths, and string lights. The vibe is relaxed, making it ideal for a low-pressure first date.
Inside is where the ambiance gets a bit more romantic. You’ll find Venetian masks and Carnival-themed decor throughout. See those trapeze-like ropes hanging from the ceiling? No, you’re not losing it. They host sultry live performances most weekends.
Food wise, you’ll find a lot of authentic Italian grub on the menu. I’m a sucker for the lasagna with ricotta and pesto or the rich bolognese.
Liberty Bar
website | 517 15th Ave E (get directions) | neighborhood: Capitol Hill | best for: craft cocktails + sushi
I have such a soft spot for Liberty Bar as it’s where my boyfriend and I had our first date. Let’s not talk about how long ago that was!
The bartenders are bona fide mixologists and the craft cocktails are excellent. You can pretty much ask for anything and they’ll whip it up. Which honestly, is just darn amazing.
The chill atmosphere is ideal for dates and you can spend an entire evening sipping spirits and chowing down on sushi. Seriously, once you’ve settled into one of the plush leather sofas you might need to get yourselves surgically removed. They’re that comfortable.
Hamdi
website | 4012 Leary Way NW (get directions) | neighborhood: Fremont | best for: Turkish fare + a lively ambiance
Hamdi is a Turkish and Anatolian restaurant that’s taking the Pacific Northwest by storm. It’s owned by Michelin-star couple Berk Güldal and Katrina Schult who used to run pop-ups at Ballard’s Fair Isle Brewing. They were so popular, they were able to open this brick-and-mortar location.
The atmosphere is refined yet super lively, so you’ll have plenty of background noise if there are pauses in the conversation. The menu features a selection of mezze and seafood dishes. Don’t miss the kebab, their signature dish that features the most succulent meat you’ll ever eat!
More date night ideas in Seattle
If you adored these date night restaurants in Seattle, you might want to check my other couple-friendly ideas:
