New Orleans can certainly be a party city, but there are
times when you really want to slow it down and spend good quality time with
your sweetie. It's best to get away from the neon lights and loud music and
retreat to somewhere quiet where you can really enjoy each other's company.
This city has some of the most romantic restaurants you could ever ask for, and
they're all happy to make it a truly magical date night for you and your loved one.
Drink a little, eat a little, and love a lot!
It doesn't really matter where you go when you're with the one
that you love, but these highly-romantic restaurants are guaranteed to bring
out the ardor in you. They're especially popular for Valentine's Day, so plan ahead!
Best Date Night Restaurants in New Orleans
1. Meril
424 Girod St., (504) 526-3745
bemeril.com
In the heart of New Orleans' Warehouse District, Meril stands out as our top pick for a romantic dining experience in the Big Easy. From the mouthwatering Korean Fried Chicken Wings to the delicate Tuna Wraps, each dish is a culinary adventure that invites couples to explore flavors together. The wood-oven flatbreads and unique offerings like the Shrimp & Sweet Corn Beignets showcase the restaurant's commitment to blending local New Orleans flavors
Try their vast menu of fresh seafood, pastas, and long list of wines and draft. This seafood restaurant is a staple in New Orleans, so as they say, "eat, drink, and be meril."
2. Sofia
516 Julia St., (504) 322-3216
sofianola.com
Situated in the vibrant Warehouse District of New Orleans, Sofia emerges as our second pick for a romantic dining experience in the Crescent City. This charming Italian restaurant offers an intimate and stylish setting that's perfect for couples seeking a memorable evening out.
What sets Sofia apart is its dedication to authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features a delightful array of handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and carefully crafted entrees that showcase the best of Italian culinary traditions. From the delicate Cacio e Pepe to the rich Osso Buco, each dish is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. Complemented by an extensive wine list and creative cocktails, Sofia provides the ideal place for couples to savor a romantic meal while immersing themselves in the flavors of Italy right in the heart of New Orleans.
3. N7
1117 Montegut St., 504-381-0045
n7nola.com
Tucked away in the Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans, N7 emerges as our third pick for a romantic dining experience in the Crescent City. This hidden gem, named after the historic French highway, offers an enchanting atmosphere that feels like stepping into a secret garden. With its intimate courtyard, twinkling lights, and vintage decor, N7 creates a magical setting that's perfect for couples seeking a unique and memorable evening.
The menu boasts an diverse mix of dishes, ranging from classic French fare like Steamed Mussels and Steak au Poivre to Japanese-inspired Curry. Complemented by a carefully curated wine list and craft cocktails, N7 provides a dining experience that's both adventurous and deeply romantic, making it an ideal spot for couples to explore new flavors together in a truly enchanting setting.
4. Emeril's
800 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 528-9393
emerilsrestaurant.com
Emeril's, a culinary legend in the heart of the Warehouse District, is yet another exquisite restaurant in New Orleans. Chef Emeril Lagasse, a culinary icon, proves his passion for bold, innovative cuisine with every dish he serves. The restaurant's elegant atmosphere, boasting rich colors and contemporary accents, perfectly complements the nature of Chef Lagasse's signature dishes. From the exposed brick walls to the warm lighting, every detail reflects the city's vibrant spirit.
From the melt-in-your-mouth chicken and andouille sausage gumbo to the iconic "Kicked-Up Mac and Cheese", Emeril's dishes are legendary for a reason. With its impeccable service, extensive wine list, and romantic ambiance, Emeril's provides an unforgettable dining experience that's perfect for couples looking to indulge in world-class cuisine in the heart of New Orleans.
5. Patois
6078 Laurel St., (504) 895-9441
patoisnola.com
This pretty Uptown eatery is sandwiched between Tchoupitoulas and Magazine, so it has more of a neighborhood feel than other restaurants. The dining warm is warm with a joyful atmosphere, and it's a wonderful spot have a good time with the one you love. The menu gleefully boasts about the traditional Louisiana cuisine with a French accent within it.
Though the offerings can change based on seasonal availability, you will certainly find something you love here. The Seared Scallops are plated with potatoes, roasted butternut squash puree, buttered green beans, bacon lardons, and picked apple butter sauce. The Grilled Hangar Steak comes with charred broccoli, steak frites, and ramp greens.
6. Lilette
3637 Magazine St., (504) 895-1636
liletterestaurant.com
Nestled in Uptown New Orleans, Lilette is a culinary gem blending French and Italian cuisine with Southern charm. Opened by Chef John Harris, this elegant restaurant offers an intimate atmosphere perfect for romantic dining. Lilette's warm ambiance and tasteful decor create an ideal setting for couples and food enthusiasts alike.
The menu showcases Chef Harris's expertise with exquisite dishes like escargot and white truffle Parmigiano toast, highlighting the finest local ingredients. An extensive Old World wine list complements each dish perfectly. With impeccable service and a carefully curated menu, Lilette provides an unforgettable dining experience that embodies New Orleans' renowned culinary culture.
7. Clancy's
6100 Annunciation St., (504) 895-1111
clancysneworleans.com
Clancy's is a beloved New Orleans institution that has been serving since the late 1940s. Locals love coming back time and time again to take part in the restaurant's history. Part of Clancy's old-school charm comes from the menu which appears to be hand-written, and it is full of down-home favorites that will become a ritual for you and your significant other.
Clancy's is usually packed for lunch on Thursday and Friday (available from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.). So you'll want to take your date for a nice dinner. Start off with the very popular Shrimp Remoulade before getting an entrée like the Sautéed Veal Annunciation.
8. Bistro Daisy
5831 Magazine St., (504) 899-6987
bistrodaisy.com
This bright yellow former Uptown home invites you to have a great meal, and they promise to make you feel just like family. Bistro Daisy is a cozy cottage restaurant serving some of the best entrees in the entire city. Sauté of Gulf Shrimp, Crispy Leg, or Duck Confit and Roasted Breast Slices, and Seared Yellowfin Tuna are just the beginning of what you can experience here.
Just don't go home before you have some of
Bistro Daisy's beautiful desserts. A little Classic Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée
with Fresh Berries or Lemon Creamsicle Baked Alaska with Raspberry Coulis will
certainly put you in the mood for snuggling.
9. Le Crepe Nanou
1410 Robert St., (504) 899-2670
lacrepenanou.com
There's nothing more romantic than crepes! Le Crepe Nanou is one of the most popular spots in town for date night. The richly decorated interior sets the tone for a passionate night. You may even have moments where you think you hopped on a jet and flew to Paris for the evening. The French bistro specializes in savory crepes, but that's not all they have.
If you'd prefer a traditional French entrée over a steaming crepe dish, try the Escalope de Veau (a paneed veal pasta dish) or perhaps the Crevettes au Vin Blanc Ail et Fines Herbes (Louisiana shrimp sautéed in white wine with herbs over pasta). It's difficult to make an unappetizing selection here. Be sure to make reservations in advance especially if it's Valentine's Day!
10. Muriel's Jackson Square
801 Chartres St., (504) 568-1885
muriels.com
Muriel's Jackson Square, our final romantic dining pick in New Orleans, offers a unique blend of history and cuisine in the French Quarter. Housed in a restored 1800s building, it features elegant decor and overlooks Jackson Square. Muriel's serves classic New Orleans Creole dishes, with special offerings like the Sunday Jazz Brunch, capturing the essence of local traditions.
The restaurant's commitment to historical charm and exceptional food creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for couples. With its prime location and rich culinary heritage, Muriel's provides a quintessential New Orleans dining experience. Share the hearty Gumbo Ya Ya or savor the Pecan Crusted Puppy Drum together. For a sweet finale, indulge in their decadent Bread Pudding with Candied Pecans and Rum Sauce - a perfect end to your intimate evening.
The Most Romantic Restaurants In New Orleans
These romantic restaurants are ready to host you and your
heart's desire for a night of fantastic food and drink in lovely surroundings.
Get all dolled up so that you can fully experience the romance that New Orleans can offer you. Whether it's your very first date or the celebration
of a long, fruitful marriage, these are the best places to come together.
What romantic things do you like to do in New Orleans? Let us know
where you like to go!
