Looking for the perfect spot to charm your significant other on date night? Look no further than Arlington, VA! With its vibrant culinary scene, this charming city is teeming with exceptional restaurants that are sure to set the mood for a romantic evening.
From cozy cafés to upscale bistros, we've rounded up the top 15 date night restaurants in your area that are guaranteed to make a lasting impression. Whether you're craving a delectable seafood dish at Salt, yearning for authentic Turkish cuisine at Yayla Bistro, or seeking a cozy French café vibe at Cafe Colline, this list has something to suit every taste and occasion.
So, mark your calendars and get ready to woo your partner at these truly exceptional spots in Arlington.
Jump to places
- Mele Bistro
- Grand Cru Wine Bar and Bistro
- Maison Cheryl
- Green Pig Bistro
- Cafe Colline
- The Melting Pot
- Ambar Restaurant - Clarendon
- Oby Lee Winery
- CIRCA at Clarendon
- Federico Ristorante Italiano
- Sfoglina Rosslyn
- Yayla Bistro
- The Pinemoor
- The Portofino Restaurant
- SER Restaurant
Located in Arlington, Mele Bistro is a charming and intimate restaurant that offers a great date night experience. Known for its European-style cuisine and Italian classics, Mele Bistro has received excellent reviews from guests. Visitors have praised the extensive menu, which includes a variety of delicious options for meat, pasta, and seafood dishes.
One guest mentioned how the menu is named to indicate the origins of the ingredients, ensuring that everything is fresh. Dishes such as the eggplant mozzarella and fried calamari are highly recommended. The friendly and attentive staff also contribute to the positive dining experience, with waiters making guests feel welcome from the moment they step inside.
Mele Bistro's outdoor seating area is comfortable and pleasant, adding to the overall ambiance of the restaurant. Overall, Mele Bistro is a must-visit spot for couples looking for a delightful dining experience in Arlington.
Located in Arlington, Grand Cru Wine Bar and Bistro is a charming spot that should be on your radar for a great date night. Visitors rave about the impeccable service at this French-American establishment. One guest shared their positive experience, mentioning the delicious duck breast and salmon dishes they had, accompanied by deviled eggs.
However, they did point out that the duck confit in the eggs was a bit overpowering. Another guest couldn't contain their excitement about the scrumptious escargot, which they described as flavorful and expertly prepared with fresh herbs and philo dough.
They also praised the warm brie, creamy and light, as well as the generous portions of lamb shanks and perfectly cooked steak. For dessert, the white chocolate bread pudding receives high praise. With a friendly vibe both inside and outside the restaurant, as well as an extensive menu, guests can enjoy a pleasant and memorable evening.
Maison Cheryl is a lovely restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and generous portions, making it a great option for a date night. People say that the dishes at Maison Cheryl are top notch in terms of flavors and plating. The menu offers a variety of options, including a Waygu burger with Brie and truffle fries, Eggs Royale, and Avocado toast for brunch.
Visitors appreciate the pleasant and efficient service, along with the good cocktail and wine menu. With a very relaxed and no rush atmosphere, Maison Cheryl is recommended for lunch, brunch, and dinner. This restaurant is also open late, which is a rare find in this area.
Guests mention the friendly staff and delicious food, with dishes like truffle fries, honey spiced nuts, spring salad, and ratatouille being particularly enjoyable. Maison Cheryl is located just 24 minutes from DC, making it a worthwhile trip for those who hesitate to cross the river.
Overall, Maison Cheryl offers delicious food, craft cocktails, and stellar service, making it a must-visit for date nights in Arlington.
In Arlington, there is a bar called Green Pig Bistro that is worth visiting for a great date night. Scot Harlan's nose-to-tail ethos turns out American-French dishes in a modern, kitschy spot. People say that the ambiance here is quaint and cozy, setting the perfect mood for a romantic evening.
The service is decent, but it is the food that steals the show. Guests describe the food as spectacular, with flavors that make you feel like someone's grandmother poured all her love into each dish. One reviewer even exclaimed that you'll want to lick the plate afterwards! The must-try item on the menu is the stuffed waffles, which are described as "soooo so good!" Other popular dishes include the deviled eggs, biscuit, and the original stuffed.
People also appreciate the comfort food experience at Green Pig Bistro. From deviled eggs to a lobster dip with fresh French bread, the menu offers a variety of comforting options. However, one reviewer mentioned that the steak and frites, though cooked perfectly, were not worth the $45 price tag.
Another aspect to consider is the parking situation, as it can be a bit challenging. Despite these minor downsides, visitors highly recommend Green Pig Bistro, giving it a 10 out of 10 rating.
Cafe Colline is a wonderful French cafe located in the N. Arlington Cherrydale neighborhood. People say that this restaurant is a must-visit, thanks to its delicious menu options and friendly staff. Guests rave about the fabulous croque madame and the amazing French fries.
One visitor even exclaimed, 'C’est magnifique!' Another highlight of the menu is the lemon olive oil cake topped with fresh whipped cream, lavender, and honey, which reviewers insist is absolutely divine. The cafe is also known for its outstanding bar service, offering convenience to those who arrive without a reservation.
With a wide range of delectable dishes, including a fabulous salad, mussels, and very good onion soup, visitors agree that Cafe Colline is a properly run place and can't wait to come back for dinner, particularly for the steak frites. This French cafe is a definite must-visit for a great date night in Arlington VA.
The Melting Pot is a bar and fondue restaurant that offers a unique and memorable dining experience. Guests rave about the variety and quality of the food and drinks. People say that the Fiesta Cheese Fondue is a must-try, and the California salad is incredibly tasty.
For the main course, visitors enjoy options like The Classic BRC and Steak Lovers BRC. As for desserts, The original SM and Yin & Yang SM are highly recommended. The atmosphere at The Melting Pot is often described as great, creating a pleasant and enjoyable ambiance for a date night.
Reviewers mention the exceptional service provided by servers like Quin, who make the experience even more enjoyable. With a quiet and lovely atmosphere on Monday nights, it's always a treat to dine at The Melting Pot.
Ambar Restaurant - Clarendon offers a small plates menu of traditional Balkan dishes in rustic-chic digs. Guests say it boasts the best brunch, with top-tier food, service, and value. The managers, Danielle and Valentine, are highly praised for their personalized and exceptional customer service.
Visitors appreciate the attentive servers, Ivan, Andrea, and Kate, who ensure a delightful dining experience by providing just the right amount of food and timely beverage service. One reviewer highlights the fact that the bar tender adds to the overall enjoyment of the visit.
For a fun outing with friends, the popular brunch is highly recommended, as it allows you to try everything on the menu, and the food is consistently excellent. Additionally, the restaurant offers a wide range of vegetarian dishes bursting with flavor.
The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a wonderful spot for a date night, although it can get busy at times.
Oby Lee Winery is a contemporary spot with a patio offering small estate wines and espresso, as well as sweet and savory crepes. Visitors say it is the perfect place to eat outdoors when the weather is nice. One reviewer mentioned the cute outdoor seating which serves some of the best dessert crepes they have ever tasted.
While they also offer Polish food, this reviewer found it underwhelming. Guests appreciate the convenience of tap pay and ordering and paying upfront. They mention that the food is picked up from the outdoor table or the front if dining indoors. Another reviewer praises the wide variety of food and drink options available, including breakfast crepes, lunch crepes, dinner crepes, pastries, cookies, coffee, wine, and even difficult-to-find imported beers.
They mention that the decor is very nice as well. Another guest raves about the amazing crepes, including favorites like the strawberry, banana, Nutella crepe and the duck confit crepe. They highly recommend visiting the restaurant for brunch or to experience their wine bar, and express their intention to return to sample the perogies.
CIRCA at Clarendon is worth visiting for a great date night experience. With its cool atmosphere and friendly staff, guests are immediately drawn to this New American bistro. Even during busy Saturday nights, the service is incredibly quick, leaving visitors impressed.
The Brussels sprouts and shotgun shrimp appetizers receive rave reviews, with one diner claiming they are the best they have ever had. Another reviewer enjoyed a prompt and friendly late lunch, especially appreciating the option to add protein to the delicious spinach salad.
For those looking for a more substantial meal, the steak frites and the 4 cheese flatbread are highly recommended. Overall, guests are delighted by the excellent food, service, and the cool vibe that CIRCA at Clarendon offers.
Located in Arlington, Federico Ristorante Italiano is a charming and rustic restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience. Guests can indulge in traditional pastas, pizza, Italian entrees, and a full bar, all served in a casual atmosphere. Visitors have raved about the exceptional dishes, with one person describing the chicken piccata as "fabulous, tender, juicy, and perfectly flavored.
" The warm and slightly crusty bread adds to the overall appeal of the meals. The attentive staff ensures that guests have a memorable experience, making them feel welcome and well taken care of. Another reviewer appreciates the restaurant's cozy ambiance, stating that it reminds them of how restaurants used to be.
One person highly recommends trying the Soprano brunch, as it offers a true romantic Italian experience with blissful food. Whether it's a romantic date night or a casual outing, Federico Ristorante Italiano is definitely worth a visit.
Sfoglina Rosslyn is a spot that locals and guests alike can't stop raving about. People say that the noodles and meats are incredibly fresh, setting it apart from other Italian cuisines that can be heavy on the stomach. One guest even mentioned that they had appetizers, entrees, and dessert and still felt light afterwards.
The restaurant itself offers a wonderful experience, especially during the quiet hours around 1:30-2pm. Service is quick, and the eclectic and dazzling space is decorated quite well, creating a great vibe. While some visitors might find the prices a little on the higher side, the overall experience at Sfoglina Rosslyn is worth it.
It's conveniently located near hotels, and even during busy times, they were able to accommodate guests promptly, such as offering a cozy space at the bar. To top it all off, guests are greeted with a complimentary prosecco as they enjoy watching the talented bartenders.
The mafalde telefono comes highly recommended for those looking to indulge in a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Yayla Bistro, a Turkish restaurant serving traditional dishes in a stylish, contemporary setting, is a local favorite worth visiting. With its clean and nice ambiance, guests feel comfortable and at ease here, even when it gets a bit crowded. Visitors rave about the nice and friendly staff, who provide impeccable and attentive service throughout the dining experience.
The food at Yayla Bistro is another reason why it stands out among other restaurants in the area. People specifically mention the excellent and amazing flavors of dishes like the lahmacun and cheese pide, leaving them craving for more. Moreover, the visually beautiful and romantic atmosphere in the dining space, enhanced by soft lighting, adds an extra touch to any special date night.
While some guests have mentioned that the food could have been hotter when served, overall, Yayla Bistro offers a wonderful experience for those looking to indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine or try something new and delightful.
The Pinemoor is an easygoing restaurant and bar that serves up sandwiches, steak, fish dishes, craft cocktails, and a delightful weekend brunch. People say it is worth a visit for a great date night experience. One visitor raved about their Tomahawk Steak, calling it the best they've ever had in their life.
The steak was so phenomenal that it didn't even need any additional sauces. Another guest praised the quick service and attention to detail, noting that the staff got them seated promptly and their server was attentive, checking in multiple times to ensure they had everything they needed.
They also mentioned that the popcorn was delicious and the coffee was top-notch. Additionally, the excellent service stood out, with another reviewer emphasizing how their server went above and beyond by accommodating them outside and making them feel welcomed throughout their entire visit.
With such positive experiences, it's no wonder that guests are already planning their return visits to The Pinemoor.
Family owned since 1970, The Portofino Restaurant in Arlington VA serves fine Northern Italian fare based on family recipes. People say that it is worth visiting for a great date night experience. According to one visitor, this restaurant offers great food, great wine selection, and a very friendly staff.
Another guest mentioned their amazing experience, starting with being immediately greeted and seated outside. They enjoyed a specialty cocktail, the cherry blossom martini, along with a delicious clam chowder appetizer. The dinner special, lobster ravioli with shrimp, was described as excellent.
To cap off the meal, they indulged in a yummy dessert to share - a neapolitan ice cream ball covered in... Additionally, a guest who dined here on a business trip praised the friendly service and delicious food, particularly mentioning the mango dessert's freshness.
Despite a minor inconvenience of not having Coca Cola and being served Pepsi, the overall experience was still enjoyable.
Located in Arlington, SER Restaurant is an atmospheric spot that offers an authentic Spanish dining experience. Visitors rave about their fantastic dining experience, with every dish being amazing. Favorites among guests include the langosteen dish and the raw tuna dish, showcasing the restaurant's dedication to high-quality ingredients.
Another noteworthy mention is the availability of whole grilled sardines, a rare find in the area. While some dishes, like the fried shark bites, may not be for everyone, the salted cod fritters are described as wonderful. Guests also praise the specialty cocktails, particularly the diablo and the gin and blackberry concoction.
Service at SER Restaurant is highly lauded, with staff members like Christian and Bryan providing excellent recommendations and personalized service. With an outstanding menu and exceptional service, it's no wonder that SER Restaurant is a top choice for a great date night.
