The 14 Sexiest Restaurants for a Romantic Date Night in Atlanta

For the dinner date with that special someone, here are the best places in the city that can provide the perfect vibe.

With Valentine’s Day steadily approaching, you’re likely trying to plan the perfect evening of romance for your significant other. Plenty of restaurants have great food and even better drinks here in Atlanta, but only a select few give off that ideal intimate feel for date night. So whether you’re looking to rekindle an old flame, embark on a first date, or just have a special meal with the love of your life, here is your guide to the most romantic restaurants in Atlanta.

This Southern-inspired gastropub in the Buckhead Village District provides a fresh, modern take on traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s gorgeous top-floor space is perfect for date night, with an elegant aesthetic, topped off by some amazing artwork. With a menu that boasts regional favorites such as fried green tomatoes, braised pot roast, and gulf shrimp & grits, there’s no wonder that this is one of the most popular establishments in Atlanta for date night. After the food is finished, you can sip uniquely crafted cocktails while basking in the city’s skyline.

Available for Reservations

The Blind Cupid

Buckhead
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For all you lovers out there, The Blind Pig has once again transformed itself into The Blind Cupid now through the end of February. Guests will fall head over heels for this wildly popular pop-up experience that brings Valentine’s Day-themed sizzle with a menu of swoon-worthy drinks, decadent menu snacks and over-the-top pink and floral décor. The Buckhead speakeasy, long known for its intimate, sophisticated vibe and The Blind Elf pop-up during the holidays, restyles its Victorian-era decor to set the mood.

Available for Reservations
5 Church
Virtue Rooftop | 5Church Midtown

5Church Midtown

Midtown
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Colony Square is already a great place for a romantic night out. Places like Saints + Council, Upstairs, Serena Pastifico, and Jojo’s Beloved Cocktail Lounge all bring the best vibes for you and yours. When it comes to the decor, menu, and drink selection, 5Church is the total package, especially if you travel upstairs to Virtue Rooftop, the sexiest rooftop bar in Midtown. There, you can experience the Be My Valentine pop-up bar from February 2 - 19. From 5 pm until late, guests will step into a world of romance boasting love-inspired cocktails, indulgent foods from sweet treats to personal fondue stations, and a romantic playlist.

Available for Reservations

In addition to the Hyatt being one of the most beautiful hotels in Buckhead, it is also home to the restaurants Three Arches and Spaceman. The former, which is located on the first floor, has a pan-Mediterranean-inspired menu in a rustic, stylish setting. When you hit the latter, you’ll experience a rooftop vibe like none other. Located on the 15th floor, Spaceman provided delicious, shareable dishes along with craft cocktails to savor with friends against Atlanta’s scenic atmosphere. Although it’s hard to choose between these two, for a lovely evening out—you can’t go wrong with either.

Available for Reservations

Rooftop L.O.A

West Midtown
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The Interlock is now the site of an amazing oasis of intimacy, perfect for a dinner date with Mr. or Mrs. Right. During chilly evenings, the outside fire pits will keep you warm, or you and your guest can get close if you really want to get cozy. Whether popping the big question, popping a bottle, or sharing the night with the best of friends, make this Valentine's Day (or any day, in general) unforgettable. This popular establishment has got something for everyone to fall head over heels for, so be ready to share the perfect sunset with the ones you love.

Available for Reservations

Nine Mile Station

Old Fourth Ward
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There’s no better way to elevate your romance than by physically ascending to Nine Mile Station, one of Atlanta’s highest restaurants. Nestled atop Ponce City Market, Nine Mile Station offers a breathtaking view of the city skyline, and its dimly lit ambiance makes the dining experience feel even more intimate. From Valentine’s Day to anniversaries, Nine Mile Station also has a knack for celebrating love in the most spectacular way possible—all while delivering unbelievably great dishes like the Scottish Salmon, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, and the Sesame Crusted Tuna.

Available for Reservations

Cooks & Soldiers

West Midtown
$$$$

There’s not a bad seat or a bad server within the walls of Cooks & Soldiers, which is why the West Midtown restaurant’s vibe is simply immaculate. While the Spanish- and French-inspired basque cuisine alone is enough to make guests blush, Cooks & Soldiers has an inimitable romantic flair thanks to its low lighting and modern, yet warm decor.

Available for Reservations

Atlas

Buckhead
$$$$

Atlas is perfect for a couple looking to dine in the lap of luxury. The space in the St. Regis Hotel is tastefully appointed with rich green and caramel hues and dim lighting with a serious vibe. Enjoy the tasting menu (although a la carte is available) while indulging in a visual feast of artwork from the Lewis Collection that includes Picasso, Chagall, and Monet.

Available for Reservations

Spring

Marietta
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Spring, located off of Marietta Square (about 30 minutes north of Downtown Atlanta), is intimate without much flair. But it doesn’t get much more romantic than sharing an order of the foie gras torchon and a couple of Brian So’s elegantly crafted seasonal dishes. Reservations are highly recommended for this cozy spot.

Available for Reservations

Lyla Lila

Midtown
$$$$

With cozy enclaves and dazzling views of Peachtree Street, Lyla Lila is a lovely spot to snuggle up. Order a plate of the duck lasagna, a few glasses of wine, and save room for the tiramisu. Lyla Lila happens to be across the street from the Fox Theatre making an excellent pre or post-theater bite.

Available for Reservations

Canoe

Vinings
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Canoe is a go-to spot for couples celebrating an occasion. Whether you and your date are celebrating something specific or just want a nice meal in a restaurant reminiscent of a hunting lodge, Canoe is a worthy destination. Go when it’s still light outside (or even in the twilight) to enjoy a stroll through their garden to the river. Carnivores: Don’t miss the exotic game on the menu, like the peppercorn crusted kangaroo loin.

Available for Reservations

Who says romance is only for the evening? If you and your honey find yourselves craving a breakfast date, head to Julianna’s Coffee & Crepes. The quint cafe is found on a side street off of Inman Park’s main drag. The European vibes are strong with an ivy-covered exterior, interior stone walls, and a small open kitchen to watch them make their Hungarian crepes. You can’t go wrong with sweet or savory, but why not order one of each and share?

Marcel

West Midtown
$$$$

Marcel is dark and moody and, sometimes, that’s just what you need for date night. Ford Fry’s steakhouse serves classic fare with seasonal sides, and a deep wine list is stacked with interesting choices from around the world. Is there a dessert more romantic than a baked Alaska set aflame table-side? Probably not, which is why you have to order it if you really want to impress your date.

Available for Reservations

By George

Downtown
$$$$

Tucked away on the ground floor of the stunning Candler Hotel is By George, a gorgeous American Contemporary that's perfect for an intimate dinner with your loved one. Hugh Acheson’s restaurant is ridiculously chic with glamorous Art Deco architecture and floor-to-ceiling windows, candlelit tables, and cozy booths. Nothing says romance like sharing a plate of wild mushroom ragout pappardelle or seared salmon, and since it is in the Candler Hotel, you can stretch the evening into a luxurious staycation.

Available for Reservations
Joshua Robinson is an Atlanta-based contributor for Thrillist. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter @roshrisky.
Lia Picard is an Atlanta-based journalist writing about food, travel, and a variety of other topics. Her work appears in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Wine Enthusiast, and CNN Travel.
Okla Jones is an Atlanta-based journalist who writes about food, fine arts, and entertainment. His work also appears in ESSENCE, Creative Loafing Atlanta, and Consequence of Sound. Follow him on Instagram at @coolhandoak.