Best Restaurants in Atlanta for Date Nights

Atlanta's lively food scene offers many options for a perfect date night out. With so many excellent restaurants to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to go. From upscale eateries with romantic ambiance to casual spots with funky flair, Atlanta has dining destinations ideal for every type of date.

This vibrant Southern city boasts an array of cuisines to suit any palate. To help you plan an evening to remember, here are some of the top date night restaurants in Atlanta.

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Whether you're craving down-home Southern cooking in a charming setting, farm-to-table new American fare in a chic downtown locale, or exotic global flavors in an artsy intown neighborhood, you'll find places that offer delicious food along with just the right atmosphere.

Aria: Aria is an upscale American restaurant in Buckhead that offers a romantic atmosphere and excellent cuisine. The menu features a variety of seasonal dishes made with local ingredients, and the wine list is impressive.
Canoe: Canoe is a beautiful restaurant located on the Chattahoochee River that offers stunning views and delicious food. The menu features Southern-inspired cuisine with a focus on seafood and fresh, local ingredients.
Gunshow: Gunshow is a unique restaurant in Glenwood Park that offers a fun and interactive dining experience. The menu is presented on carts that are rolled around the dining room, and guests can choose which dishes they want to try.
Bacchanalia: Bacchanalia is a fine dining restaurant in West Midtown that has been a staple of Atlanta's dining scene for over 25 years. The menu changes seasonally and features dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Marcel: Marcel is a classic steakhouse in West Midtown that offers a chic and sophisticated atmosphere. The menu features high-quality steaks and seafood, along with an extensive wine list.
St. Cecilia: St. Cecilia is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in Buckhead that offers a romantic atmosphere and excellent food. The menu features seafood, pasta, and other dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Umi: Umi is a high-end Japanese restaurant in Buckhead that offers an intimate atmosphere and some of the best sushi in Atlanta. The menu also features other Japanese dishes, along with an extensive sake list.
Seasalt on Howell Mill: Seasalt on Howell Mill is an upscale seafood restaurant located on Howell Mill Road in West Midtown. They specialize in fresh, sustainably-sourced seafood, with an emphasis on creative dishes and bold flavors. The atmosphere is sleek and modern, with a full bar and outdoor seating available.
Platez Southern Kitchen: Platez Southern Kitchen is a family-owned restaurant located in the historic West End neighborhood of Atlanta. They offer classic Southern comfort food, including fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens, as well as a variety of sandwiches and salads. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a focus on community and hospitality.

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Game Night-Date Night

A game night experience can be a fantastic way to spend a fun and lively date night in Atlanta. Playing games together can bring out your competitive spirit, creating an exciting and playful atmosphere.

Whether you choose to play board games, card games, or arcade games, the act of playing together can help to break the ice and create a relaxed and enjoyable environment. Game nights also offer a chance to connect with your partner on a deeper level, as you work together or against each other toward a common goal.

A game night experience can be a budget-friendly option for those who want to have a fun date night without breaking the bank. So if you're looking for a unique and entertaining date night idea, consider hosting a game night or visiting one of Atlanta's many game-focused venues, such as Slingshot Social Game Club or Joystick Gamebar.

Joystick Gamebar: Joystick Gamebar is a popular arcade bar located in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood of Atlanta. They offer a variety of classic arcade games, pinball machines, and console games, as well as a full bar with craft cocktails and beer. The atmosphere is laid-back and fun, with plenty of seating and a focus on socializing and having a good time.
Battle & Brew: Battle & Brew is a gaming bar located in Sandy Springs that offers a unique combination of video games, board games, and tabletop games. They also host regular gaming tournaments and events, making it a great spot for competitive gamers. The menu features pub-style fare and a variety of beer and cocktails.
The Painted Pin: The Painted Pin is a boutique bowling alley located in Buckhead that offers a variety of games, including bowling, bocce ball, shuffleboard, and ping pong. The atmosphere is upscale and trendy, with a focus on craft cocktails and gourmet bar food.
Punch Bowl Social: Punch Bowl Social is a large entertainment complex located in the Battery Atlanta that offers a variety of games, including bowling, arcade games, and karaoke. They also offer a full menu of food and drinks, including craft cocktails and local beer.
Slingshot: Slingshot is a unique restaurant and entertainment venue located in the Castleberry Hill neighborhood of Atlanta. They offer a variety of competitive games, including ax throwing and arcade games, as well as delicious food and drinks. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with a focus on socializing and having a good time. It's a great spot for a night out with friends or a unique date night experience.

Out of the Ordinary Date Night: Rooftops/Speakeasy

There are many reasons why someone might choose to do a unique date night experience in Atlanta. First and foremost, a unique date night can be a great way to impress your partner and create a lasting memory.

Trying something new and unexpected can also be a fun and exciting way to shake up your usual routine and keep the romance alive. Unique date night experiences can also be a way to explore the city and discover hidden gems that you may not have known about otherwise.

Whether it's a speakeasy-style bar, a rooftop restaurant with a stunning view, or a hidden picnic spot, these unique experiences offer a chance to bond with your partner and create a special and memorable night together.

By stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something different, you can infuse your relationship with excitement and adventure.

Hard Rock Cafe: Hard Rock Cafe is a classic American restaurant chain located in downtown Atlanta. They offer a variety of American comfort food, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as a full bar with signature cocktails and beer. The atmosphere is energetic and music-themed, with rock and roll memorabilia on display throughout the restaurant. There is both indoor and outdoor seating available, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
The Speakeasy Cocktail Murder Mystery: The Speakeasy Cocktail Murder Mystery is an immersive theater experience located in Atlanta. The event takes place in a secret location and features a 1920s-themed murder mystery storyline. Guests are encouraged to dress in 1920s attire and will be served cocktails and small plates throughout the event.
Red Phone Booth: Red Phone Booth is a speakeasy-style bar located in downtown Atlanta. To enter, guests must dial a secret phone number on a vintage rotary phone located outside the door. Inside, the atmosphere is reminiscent of a 1920s speakeasy, with dark wood paneling, leather chairs, and a full bar with craft cocktails and whiskey. It's a unique and immersive experience that transports guests back in time.
The Blind Pig Parlour Bar: The Blind Pig Parlour Bar is a hidden bar located in the Buckhead Village neighborhood of Atlanta. To enter, guests must find the hidden door and ring the doorbell. Inside, the atmosphere is dark and moody, with a full bar and live music on weekends. They also offer a small menu of shareable plates and snacks.

Hidden Gems

If you're looking for a unique and memorable date night experience in Atlanta, be sure to check out some of the city's hidden gems. These hidden spots offer a special and intimate atmosphere, away from the crowds and hustle and bustle of the more well-known dining establishments.

Fellinis on Howell Mill is a cozy and charming Italian restaurant tucked away in a strip mall, offering authentic Italian cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere.

The Red Phone Booth is a speakeasy-style bar hidden behind a bookshelf in a downtown Atlanta cigar shop, where you can enjoy craft cocktails and live music in a sophisticated and exclusive setting.

And for a truly unique experience, There on 5th is a vintage-style soda fountain and pharmacy-themed bar where you can sip on old-fashioned cocktails and indulge in nostalgic treats.

These hidden gems are just a few examples of the unique and unforgettable date night experiences that Atlanta has to offer.

Krog Street Market: Krog Street Market is a trendy food hall located in the Inman Park neighborhood of Atlanta. While it's not exactly hidden, it can be easy to miss if you're not familiar with the area. The market features a variety of vendors offering everything from tacos to sushi to Mediterranean cuisine. The atmosphere is lively and casual, making it a great spot for a low-key date night.
Banshee: Banshee is a small, upscale restaurant located in East Atlanta Village. The entrance is tucked away behind a nondescript door, and the atmosphere inside is sleek and modern. The menu features contemporary American cuisine with a Southern twist, and the cocktail menu is equally impressive.
Tiny Lou's: Tiny Lou's is a French-American restaurant located inside the boutique Hotel Clermont in the Poncey-Highland neighborhood. The entrance is unmarked, and you have to take an elevator to reach the restaurant. Inside, you'll find a stylish and intimate atmosphere, with a menu that features classic French dishes with a modern twist.
The Murder Mystery Company: The Murder Mystery Company hosts a variety of interactive murder mystery events in Atlanta, including private parties, corporate events, and public shows. The events are typically held in a restaurant or event space and include a three-course dinner and a murder mystery storyline that guests can participate in.
The Dinner Detective: The Dinner Detective is a nationwide interactive murder mystery dinner theater company that hosts events in Atlanta. The events are held in a hotel or restaurant and include a four-course meal and an interactive murder mystery storyline that guests can participate in.

Laid Back Date Nights

If you're looking for a low-key and laid-back date night experience in Atlanta, there are plenty of options available. From casual neighborhood bars to trendy food halls, Atlanta offers a variety of venues where you can relax and enjoy a casual night out with your partner.

Check out the laid-back atmosphere at The Porter Beer Bar, where you can enjoy craft beers and pub fare in a cozy setting. Or head to the Krog Street Market for a fun and casual dining experience with a variety of food vendors to choose from.

The Sound Table is another great option, with a trendy and modern vibe and a focus on creative cocktails and global cuisine. So if you're in the mood for a low-key and casual date night, Atlanta has plenty of options to choose from.

Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall: Ladybird is a casual restaurant and bar located in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood of Atlanta. The atmosphere is laid-back and rustic, with plenty of outdoor seating and a focus on Southern-inspired cuisine. The menu features wood-fired dishes, sandwiches, and salads, as well as a variety of beer and cocktails.
Taqueria del Sol: Taqueria del Sol is a casual Mexican restaurant with several locations around Atlanta. The atmosphere is bright and colorful, with a focus on affordable and delicious tacos, enchiladas, and other Mexican dishes. They also offer a variety of margaritas and other cocktails.
Antico Pizza Napoletana: Antico Pizza is a casual Italian restaurant located in the Westside Provisions District. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, with an open kitchen and communal seating. The menu features Neapolitan-style pizzas made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven.
Ponce City Market: Ponce City Market is a food hall and marketplace located in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood of Atlanta. The atmosphere is lively and eclectic, with a variety of vendors offering everything from burgers to sushi to Middle Eastern cuisine. There is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating available, making it a great spot for a casual date night.
Hopdoddy: Hopdoddy is a burger restaurant located in the Toco Hills Shopping Center in Atlanta. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The menu features a variety of creative burger combinations, as well as salads, sides, and shakes.
The Vortex: The Vortex is a classic Atlanta burger joint with two locations in the city. The atmosphere is edgy and irreverent, with a focus on creative burgers and a wide selection of beer and cocktails. The menu also features wings, sandwiches, and other pub-style fare.
Stockyard: Stockyard is a steakhouse located in the West Midtown neighborhood of Atlanta. The atmosphere is upscale and sophisticated, with a focus on high-quality meats and seafood. The menu features classic steakhouse dishes, as well as a variety of other options, including salads and pasta.
Fellinis on Howell Mill: Fellinis on Howell Mill is a casual Italian restaurant located in West Midtown. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with a focus on traditional Italian cuisine. The menu features pizza, pasta, salads, and other Italian specialties, as well as a variety of wines and cocktails.

Vegan

Atlanta has seen a surge in the popularity of vegan cuisine in recent years, with more and more restaurants offering plant-based options on their menus. This shift towards veganism has been fueled by a desire for healthier, more sustainable eating options, as well as a growing awareness of animal welfare and environmental issues.

One of the pioneers of the vegan movement in Atlanta is Pinky Cole, founder of Slutty Vegan. Her plant-based burger joint has become a sensation, with long lines of customers waiting to try her creative and flavorful vegan burgers.

Cole's success has helped to bring veganism mainstream in Atlanta and has inspired other entrepreneurs to embrace veganism and plant-based cuisine. With an increasing number of options for vegans and non-vegans alike, Atlanta's vegan food scene is sure to continue to grow and thrive.

Tassili's Raw Reality: Tassili's Raw Reality is a vegan restaurant located in the West End neighborhood of Atlanta. The restaurant specializes in raw, plant-based cuisine, with a focus on fresh and healthy ingredients. The menu features a variety of wraps, salads, and smoothies, as well as raw desserts and snacks. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Herban Fix: Herban Fix is a vegan restaurant located in the Chamblee neighborhood of Atlanta. The restaurant specializes in vegan Asian cuisine, with a focus on fresh and organic ingredients. The menu features a variety of dishes, including sushi, noodle bowls, and dim sum. The atmosphere is upscale and modern, with a full bar and an extensive wine list.
Cafe Sunflower: Cafe Sunflower is a vegan restaurant with two locations in Atlanta. The restaurant specializes in vegan cuisine with a Southern twist, with a focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and entrees like vegan mac and cheese and fried “chicken”. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, making it a great spot for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Dulce Vegan Bakery & Cafe: Dulce Vegan Bakery & Cafe is a vegan bakery and cafe located in the Kirkwood neighborhood of Atlanta. The restaurant specializes in vegan baked goods, including cakes, cookies, and cupcakes, as well as sandwiches, salads, and other cafe fare. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or coffee break.
Soul Vegetarian: Soul Vegetarian is a vegan restaurant located in the Poncey-Highland neighborhood of Atlanta. The restaurant specializes in vegan soul food, with a focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a variety of dishes, including vegan barbecue, fried “chicken”, and mac and cheese. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, with a focus on community and healthy eating.
Slutty Vegan: Slutty Vegan is a vegan burger restaurant with several locations in Atlanta. The restaurant specializes in creative and flavorful vegan burgers, with names like “One Night Stand” and “Dancehall Queen”. The atmosphere is lively and upbeat, with a focus on fun and indulgence.
R. Thomas Deluxe Grill: R. Thomas Deluxe Grill is a vegan-friendly restaurant located in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta. The restaurant specializes in healthy and organic cuisine, with a focus on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a variety of dishes, including vegan options like the “Vegan Deluxe Burger” and the “Vegan Superfood Bowl”. The atmosphere is cozy and eclectic, with a focus on holistic health and wellness.
Lov'n It Live: Lov'n It Live is a vegan restaurant located in East Point, just south of Atlanta. The restaurant specializes in raw, plant-based cuisine, with a focus on healthy and nutrient-rich ingredients. The menu features a variety of dishes, including raw sushi, salads, and wraps. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with a focus on healthy living and sustainability.

Breakfast /Brunch

Breakfast and brunch dates are a great way to start your day with your loved one. If you just met a new trend is to do a breakfast or brunch date. It gives you an opportunity to decide if this is someone you actually want to spend more time with without the pressure of a late-night date, and these dates are typically cheaper.

If it works out you can pick another restaurant on this list for dinner! Atlanta offers a variety of options for breakfast and brunch spots, from classic Southern-style dishes to trendy and modern cuisine.

Enjoy the signature biscuits and gravy at Buttermilk Kitchen or the creative twists on breakfast classics at West Egg Cafe. Flying Biscuit Cafe is a popular choice for its famous “biscuit of the day” and other Southern-inspired dishes.

For a cozy and intimate atmosphere, try the comfort food at Home Grown or the fresh and healthy options at In My Belly. With so many delicious options to choose from, Atlanta's breakfast and brunch scene is the perfect way to kick off your next date.

Buttermilk Kitchen: Buttermilk Kitchen is a popular breakfast spot located in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta. The restaurant specializes in Southern-style breakfast dishes, including biscuits and gravy, chicken and waffles, and shrimp and grits.
Flying Biscuit Cafe: Flying Biscuit Cafe is a popular breakfast and brunch spot with several locations in Atlanta. The restaurant is known for its signature “biscuit of the day” and other Southern-style breakfast dishes.
West Egg Cafe: West Egg Cafe is a trendy breakfast and brunch spot located in the Westside Provisions District of Atlanta. The restaurant features a variety of breakfast dishes, including omelets, pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches, as well as a selection of coffee drinks.
Sun In M y Belly: Sun In My Belly is a cozy breakfast and lunch spot located in the Reynoldstown neighborhood of Atlanta. The restaurant features a variety of breakfast dishes, including omelets, pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches, as well as a selection of coffee drinks and smoothies.
Home Grown: Home Grown is a popular breakfast spot located in the Reynoldstown neighborhood of Atlanta. The restaurant specializes in Southern-style breakfast dishes, including biscuits and gravy, chicken and waffles, and grits.

International

Atlanta's diverse cultural scene means that there are plenty of options for international cuisine when it comes to date night dining. Whether you're in the mood for the rich flavors of Mediterranean food from Baraka Shawarma or the vibrant Caribbean-inspired dishes from The Clutch Atl, Atlanta's international cuisine scene has something to offer for every palate. Indulge in the sophisticated Thai flavors of Nan Thai Fine Dining. From Italian classics at La Grotta Ristorante Italiano to authentic Mexican fare at Superica, exploring Atlanta's international cuisine scene is a great way to spice up your next date night.

Baraka Shawarma: Baraka Shawarma is a Mediterranean restaurant located in the Virginia Highlands neighborhood of Atlanta. The restaurant specializes in fresh, authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, including shawarma, hummus, and falafel. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot for a casual and delicious date night.
The Clutch Atl: The Clutch Atl is a Caribbean-inspired restaurant located in the West Midtown neighborhood of Atlanta. The restaurant specializes in flavorful dishes inspired by the cuisine of the Caribbean islands, including jerk chicken, plantains, and fish curry. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, making it a great spot for a fun and lively date night.
Nan Thai Fine Dining: Nan Thai Fine Dining is a Thai restaurant located in the Midtown neighborhood of Atlanta. The restaurant features an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere, with a focus on traditional Thai cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, including curries, stir-fry dishes, and seafood, as well as an extensive wine list.
La Grotta Ristorante Italiano: La Grotta Ristorante Italiano is an Italian restaurant located in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta. The restaurant features a romantic and intimate atmosphere, with a focus on classic Italian cuisine. The menu features a variety of pasta dishes, seafood, and meats, as well as an extensive wine list.

Coffee/Cafes/Dessert

Coffee shops, cafes, and dessert bars are great options for a casual and cozy date night in Atlanta. From the French-inspired pastries at Amelie's French Bakery & Cafe to the trendy coffee drinks at Chrome Yellow Trading Co., there are plenty of places to satisfy your sweet tooth and enjoy a hot beverage with your date.

And if you're looking for something a little more indulgent, check out Sublime Doughnuts or Cafe Intermezzo for a decadent dessert and cocktail pairing.

So whether you're in the mood for a cozy brunch or a sweet treat after dinner, Atlanta's coffee shops, cafes, and dessert bars have got you covered for a perfect date night. Here's our list of our favorites:

Cheesecaked: Cheesecaked is a dessert and coffee shop located in the heart of downtown Atlanta. Their specialty is, of course, cheesecake, but they also offer a variety of other desserts, as well as coffee and tea. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a great spot to relax and indulge in something sweet.
Buzz Coffee (Cascade Rd): Buzz Coffee is a small, locally-owned coffee shop located on Cascade Road in southwest Atlanta. They offer a variety of coffee drinks, teas, smoothies, and pastries, all made with high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, with plenty of seating inside and outside.
Cafe Intermezzo: Cafe Intermezzo is an Atlanta institution, with locations in several neighborhoods around the city. They offer a European-style cafe experience, with an extensive menu of coffee drinks, teas, wines, and cocktails, as well as a wide selection of pastries, cakes, and desserts. The atmosphere is upscale and sophisticated, making it a great spot for a date or special occasion.
Sublime Doughnuts: Sublime Doughnuts is a popular doughnut shop located in the Georgia Tech area of Atlanta. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, with a focus on creative and delicious doughnuts. The menu features a variety of doughnuts, including vegan and gluten-free options.
Sweet Hut Bakery & Cafe: Sweet Hut is a bakery and cafe with several locations around Atlanta. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with a focus on Asian-inspired pastries and drinks. The menu features a variety of drinks, including bubble tea and coffee, as well as a selection of cakes, pastries, and savory snacks.

Best places for date night picnics

If you're looking for a romantic and unique date night experience in Atlanta, a picnic is a perfect option. From the beautiful scenery of Piedmont Park to the historic Grant Park, there are plenty of great spots to spread out a blanket and enjoy a delicious meal with your loved one.

And what better way to elevate your picnic experience than with food from some of the best restaurants in Atlanta?

Whether it's the mouthwatering burgers from The Vortex or the flavorful Middle Eastern cuisine from Baraka Shawarma, incorporating food from these restaurants into your picnic will take your date night to the next level.

So grab a bottle of wine and a basket of delicious food, and enjoy a romantic night under the stars in Atlanta at any of the following parks:

Piedmont Park: Piedmont Park is a large urban park located in the heart of Atlanta. The park features plenty of green space, walking paths, and scenic views of the city skyline. There are also picnic tables and benches scattered throughout the park, making it a great spot for a picnic.
Atlanta Botanical Garden: The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a beautiful botanical garden located in Midtown Atlanta. The garden features a variety of plants and flowers, as well as several themed gardens and sculptures. There are also plenty of grassy areas and benches throughout the garden, making it a great spot for a picnic.
Grant Park: Grant Park is a historic park located in the Grant Park neighborhood of Atlanta. The park features plenty of green space, walking paths, and a large lake. There are also picnic areas and benches throughout the park, making it a great spot for a picnic.
Chastain Park: Chastain Park is a large park located in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta. The park features plenty of green space, walking paths, and several sports fields. There are also several picnic areas and benches throughout the park, making it a great spot for a picnic.
Stone Mountain Park: Stone Mountain Park is a large park located just outside of Atlanta. The park features a large mountain with a carved relief of Confederate leaders, as well as plenty of hiking trails, lakes, and scenic views. There are also picnic areas and benches throughout the park, making it a great spot for a picnic.

Written by: Chef Kimberly Houston