New Orleans is a city of romance, from its charming historic architecture to its world-class culinary scene. These carefully selected restaurants offer the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable Valentine's Day celebration. Whether you're planning an intimate dinner for four or looking to make a grand romantic gesture, we recommend securing your reservations early to guarantee your spot at one of these exceptional dining destinations.
10 Perfect NOLA Spots for Valentine's Double Dates
1. 34 Restaurant & Bar
714 Baronne St., (504) 498-3434
34restaurantandbar.com
Located in the Warehouse District, 34 Restaurant offers a modern Portuguese dining experience perfect for double dates. Share petiscos (small plates) like their Queijo Fresco fresh cheese, Croquetes de Jamón, and signature rice dishes in an elegant yet relaxed setting. The restaurant's sophisticated atmosphere, complemented by craft cocktails and an extensive wine list, creates an ideal environment for couples to enjoy intimate conversation while exploring authentic Portuguese flavors.
2. Alma Cafe
Multiple Locations
eatalmanola.com
This cozy spot offers the perfect blend of casual and romantic, with shareable Latin American dishes perfect for group dining. The outdoor patio creates an ideal setting for double-date conversations. Don't miss their signature Chilean Sea Bass—perfectly crispy on the outside while keeping the flesh moist and flaky inside. The dish is complemented by their Wild Herb & Peanut Salad, featuring fresh cilantro, mint, Thai basil, and parsley tossed with toasted peanuts and a zesty sesame-lime dressing.
3. Blackbird Hotel
1612 Prytania St., (504) 383-8143
theblackbirdnola.com
This Mid-City hotel provides an ideal setting for double dates with its sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. Their spacious dining room and intimate bar area offer plenty of room for group conversation while maintaining a cozy ambiance. Their standout Blackbird B.L.T., featuring Nueske's applewood smoked bacon topped with Creole tomatoes, romaine lettuce, and special aioli sauce, is perfect for sharing casual conversation over great food. Pair it with their signature Brackish Martini, crafted with vodka, Kaluha, espresso, coconut cream, and coconut water.
4. Domenica
123 Baronne St., (504) 648-6020
domenicarestaurant.com
Experience authentic Italian romance at this sophisticated Roosevelt Hotel restaurant. The warm, inviting atmosphere created by the wood-burning pizza oven and elegant décor sets the perfect stage for double date dining. Try their exquisite Chicken Al Mattone, featuring truffle farrotto, root vegetables, green onion salmoriglio, and delicata squash—a dish that elevates the humble chicken to new heights. The restaurant's expansive dining room allows for intimate conversation while maintaining the energy of a true Italian gathering place. Don't miss their handcrafted cocktails and extensive Italian wine list, perfect for toasting with friends.
5. Drago's
Multiple Locations
dragosrestaurant.com
Located in the Hilton New Orleans Riverside and in Metairie, Drago's offers an ideal setting for double date dining with its vibrant atmosphere and shareable specialties. The restaurant's standout Mac Daddy Trio is perfect for couples to share and compare notes—featuring twin filet mignon with mushroom sauce, crawfish mac & cheese, and a half Maine lobster tail. After dinner, toast to friendship with their crafted espresso martinis. The spacious dining room provides the perfect balance of energy and intimacy, making it an excellent choice for couples looking to enjoy both great conversation and exceptional seafood.
6. Lyons Corner
537 Gravier St., (504) 527-0006
lyonscornernola.com
This historic establishment offers an intimate yet casual setting perfect for double-date conversations, combining the charm of old New Orleans with modern culinary flair. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and shareable small plates create an ideal environment for couples to mingle and enjoy each other's company.
Their signature Cajun Prawns—head-on gulf shrimp in a decadent brown butter and roasted garlic sauce—make for an excellent shared starter that will spark conversation. The restaurant's extended hours until 10 p.m. and crafted concoctions provide flexibility for couples planning their evening. The blend of coffee culture and cocktail craft creates a unique double date experience where pairs can transition seamlessly from afternoon coffee dates to evening drinks and small plates.
7. Mosca's
634 Louisa St., (504) 436-9942
moscasrestaurant.com
A historic family-style Italian restaurant established in 1946, Mosca's provides the perfect setting for double dates with its communal dining approach and warm, traditional atmosphere. The restaurant's family-style platters are ideal for sharing, creating natural conversation starters as couples pass dishes around the table.
Their signature Oysters Mosca and Chicken Cacciatore are must-try dishes that bring people together. For wine enthusiasts, their carefully curated wine list includes selections like the Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino that's perfect for sharing between couples. Make reservations in advance and arrange return transportation beforehand, as ride-sharing services can be tricky for pickup. Remember to bring cash, as they don't accept other forms of payment.
8. Nice Guys NOLA
910 Earhart Blvd., (504) 523-1661
niceguysnola.com
Celebrate Valentine's Day in the heart of downtown at Nice Guys NOLA, which offers an ideal setting for double dates with its vibrant atmosphere that encourages shared dining experiences. The restaurant's spacious layout and welcoming ambiance create the perfect environment for group conversation while enjoying innovative twists on New Orleans classics.
Their signature Louisiana Seafood Potato is perfect for sharing and sparking conversation—featuring crispy fried catfish and shrimp atop a freshly baked potato, all smothered in their house-made seafood cheese sauce. The generous portions and creative presentations make every dish a conversation starter.
9. Sala
124 Lake Marina Ave., (504) 513-2670
salanola.com
Nestled in Lakeview, Sala offers an intimate yet lively setting perfect for double dates, where couples can share both conversation and expertly crafted small plates. The restaurant's stylish atmosphere and thoughtfully designed seating arrangements create an ideal environment for group dining and socializing.
Their Petite Filet & Grilled Shrimp Chimichurri is an excellent sharing option that satisfies diverse palates. For a festive touch, couples can toast with their signature King Cake Martini, featuring house-made cinnamon-infused vanilla vodka. The combination of innovative cocktails and shareable dishes makes Sala an excellent choice for couples looking to create a memorable double date experience.
10. Vacca Steakhouse
3524 Severn Ave., (504) 318-3808
vaccasteakhouse.com
Set in a sophisticated atmosphere, Vacca Steakhouse provides an upscale yet welcoming environment perfect for double dates. The restaurant's spacious dining room and intimate lighting create an ideal setting for couples to enjoy both fine dining and engaging conversation.
Their Chilean Sea Bass is a standout sharing option, featuring delicate fish perfectly paired with sautéed spinach and a rich lemon butter sauce. For cocktail enthusiasts, Exit 235-A offers an exceptional experience, blending Pierre Ferrand Cognac, Sazerac Rye, Benedictine, and Sweet Vermouth. The combination of refined cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails make Vacca Steakhouse an excellent choice for couples seeking an elevated double-date experience.
Make Your Reservations Today!
Whether you're planning a casual evening out or an elaborate double date night, these venues offer the perfect mix of ambiance, cuisine, and space for shared conversation. Remember to book early as Valentine's Day reservations fill quickly, and be sure to mention you're coming as a group to ensure appropriate seating arrangements.
