The streets, architecture, and laissez-faire attitude of New Orleans give the city a romantic atmosphere throughout the year. These elements, paired with the delectable foods and quaint settings of dozens of date-night-worthy restaurants, make New Orleans the perfect romantic getaway. Whether in a French Quarter courtyard, an Uptown bistro, or beyond, our romantic restaurant picks are sure to dazzle both you and your date.

New Orleans’ Top Romantic Restaurants:

1
Justen Williams

The alleyway of lights will draw you in, and the intimate atmosphere will make you want to stay awhile. Enjoy French cuisine at Vyoone's in the Warehouse District, where the courtyard is ideal for a date both daytime and night.

2
Paul Broussard, NOTMC

Just off Jackson Square, you’ll find this dimly lit carriage house and courtyard. The craft cocktails, killer playlist, and French Quarter charm make Sylvain a great spot for a first date and all the ones that are sure to follow.

3
Courtesy of Jewel of the South

This French Quarter tavern is from legendary bartender Chris Hannah. Enjoy delicious hand-crafted cocktails and a sophisticated selection of small plates that are perfect to share with your dining partner.

4
Rebecca Todd

This local gem is located Uptown and has been a favorite date spot for those in-the-know for years. Mussels, escargot, crepes, and fondue pair perfectly with Crepe Nanou’s magical ambiance to create an intimate, romantic experience. 

5
Justen Williams

The Elysian Bar inside Hotel Peter and Paul will wow you as soon as you walk in the door. The retro yet exciting décor will make your night out feel like a classic silver screen rendezvous.

6
Rebecca Todd

Dine at this tucked-away gem in the Ninth Ward. Authentic French food, including specialty canned seafood flown in directly from France, can be found on the seasonal menu underneath the fairy lights.

7
Justen Williams

Whether you're having a glass of wine and some small plates at the bar or you're seated in the front reservation-only dining room, Saint Germain is both impressive and cozy. The dining room was recreated to feel like the chef's home, and everything is made in-house including the bread, cheese, and butter. 

8
Rebecca Todd

Set in a Creole cottage in the French Quarter, dine inside or outside in a classic historic courtyard with James Beard Award-winning dishes from Chef Susan Spicer.

9
Paul Broussard

Calling all seafood lovers! The cocktails, courtyard, and dim lighting at this Warehouse District eatery are sure to set the mood.

10
Rebecca Todd

This open-air Mid-City café was built around an oak tree, creating an atmosphere that’s as unique as it is romantic. This ambiance partners with its French bistro menu and unobstructed view of Esplanade Avenue’s eclectic neighborhood to create a slice of Paris in New Orleans.

11
Rebecca Todd

Located on Lower Decatur Street, this restaurant exudes French Quarter elegance. The friendly staff will make you and your date feel welcomed and the authentic Italian dishes will leave you wanting to come back for many dates to come.

12
Rebecca Todd

Off the beaten path on Laurel Street Uptown, Patois sits in a quaint building and serves an immersion of French and Creole cuisine. This white tablecloth bistro has an ideal date night ambiance.

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Courtesy of Jamila's Cafe

The dimly-lit space and homey décor of Jamila's Café are great for intimate conversation. The Tunisian Mediterranean cuisine makes for an exciting date night that is sure to impress.

14
Rebecca Todd

Enjoy sophisticated Italian cuisine at Avo, where handmade pasta is standard and innovative takes on seafood dishes are menu mainstays. Ambiance is everything at Avo, and its limited seating makes for an intimate dining room.

15
Rebecca Todd, NOTMC

Elevated French cuisine is what you'll find at La Petite Grocery – perfect for a romantic date night. Enjoy yellowfin tuna tartare, ricotta dumplings, and blue crab beignets in this cozy bistro setting on beautiful Magazine Street. 

16
Denny Culbert

Moody lighting, that glowing magenta entrance hallway that graces the Instagram stories of almost everyone who visits, and the adventure of a tasting menu­–from the moment you walk into the restaurant until you’ve finished your last bite, the entire experience at Lengua Madre feels undeniably sexy and cool. Whether you snag a spot at the bar along the open kitchen or a table for two, Lengua Madre is ideal for a truly memorable date night.

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Sam Hanna, Courtesy of MaMou

There’s just something about a good French restaurant that screams romance, and MaMou is no exception. Located just on the edge of the French Quarter, MaMou feels like walking into a Parisian brasserie. Inside you’ll find a cozy-yet-cool atmosphere, with flowers dripping from the ceilings and a lush, red velvet banquette running the length of the back wall. Pair that with an outstanding wine list and food that’s almost too beautiful to eat, and you’ve got yourself a no-brainer for a dinner out with that special someone.

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Image Courtesy of Hungry Eyes

Funky, fresh, and loaded with charm, this ‘80s-themed restaurant is sure to make a lasting impression on your date. Small bites on an ever-changing menu along with several versions of martinis will have you feeling fancy.

19
Rebecca Todd

Bustling with ambiance, the bar alone in Coquette is a great starting point for a date. Diving into the food, order à la carte or wow your date with the five-course blind tasting menu, an eye-opener for the senses.

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Image courtesy of Bijou Restaurant & Bar

A contemporary neighborhood restaurant, bar, and lounge located in the French Quarter, Bijou serves international dishes, worldly wines, and craft cocktails. Don’t skip the Tom Yum Fried Chicken, with bold Thai flavors and a plethora of fresh herbs.

Need more inspiration? See a full list of New Orleans’ most romantic restaurants here.