With Valentine’s Day around the corner, it is time to start making plans and reservations if you plan to go out. Mitch and I are celebrating Valentine’s Day a day early this year!
One of our favorite date night is going out to dinner- especially when we are in New Orleans – the food capital of the United States! I don’t think we have ever had a bad meal here. There are still hundreds of restaurants I want to try in this city, and one by one we keep crossing them off.
This list has been our favorites for a romantic date night. These would all be perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversary, or just want to have a romantic night out with your boo.
Court of Two Sisters
In the heart of the French Quarter, this was actually the first date Mitch took me on in New Orleans. They are known for their Jazz Brunch, but when the sun goes down and all of the lights in the outdoor courtyard start to twinkle it turns into such a romantic spot. I highly recommend sitting in the courtyard. With hundreds of vines, old trees, and even more lights it will give you all of the feels. They are known for their tableside bananas foster. Just get it! It is equally delicious as entertaining! 613 Royal Street.
Brigtsen’s
This is where Mitchell and I spent Valentine’s Day last year. We were recommended this place and we are so happy. It is definitely more fine dining. The restaurant is in an old Victorian house with Frank Brigtsen as head chef. This award winning contemporary creole restaurant is as good as the critics say. The New Orleans BBQ shrimp is a must any visit. You will need a reservation to eat at Brigsten’s so make sure you call a week or so in advance for weekends. 723 Dante Street.
Adolfo’s
If you were to ask Mitchell what his favorite restaurant in all of New Orleans was, hands down he would say Adolfo’s. This hole in the wall serves Italian creole food. It is cash only, and has 15 tables. You would walk right past it if you are not looking for it. It is on top of the Apple Barrel bar on Frenchman Street. Adolfo’s is known for their “ocean” sauce which is a cream based sauce with shrimp, crab, and crawfish. It is to die for – so rich, but so yummy. This isn’t the fanciest of places, but is a great meal. 611 Frenchman Street.
Orleans Grapevipe
Three words about Grapevine – BACON.HAPPY.HOUR. Yes you heard that right. You get free bacon with your drinks during happy hour everyday 4:00pm-6:00pm & 10:00pm-midnight. Besides the awesome happy hour, the vibe of this place is super cool. Dark lighting, in an old building in the heart of the French Quarter. Mitch and I rarely eat in the French Quarter due to touristy traps, but this one is a hidden gem. The food is good and there is a real romantic feel. 720 Orleans Street.
Bacchanal
This is another more casual romantic spot, but again Mitch and I love it. Wine lovers, take note: at this quaint Bywater spot, you walk into a wine shop, select a bottle from a selection, then go to fridge and pick out your own cheese for a charcuterie board, then head out into the spacious backyard. You will be greeted by a jazz band playing 7 days a week at noon and 7:30pm. Someone will bring out your charcuterie board and you will enjoy a lovely time sipping on wine. You can also order small bites or limited entrees to enjoy as well. Mitch and I had the Louisiana shrimp and they were delicious! 600 Poland Avenue.
Irene’s
White tablecloths, candlelit and a mishmash décor—the elegant main dining room of Irene’s is straight out of a romance novel. This Italian restaurant is a must for a night of romance. Everything on the menu looks delicious, but you cant leave without the Creole cheesecake. Gentleman a jacket is suggested, and no shorts, but dressing up is part of the fun. This is where Mitch and I will be spending Valentine’s this year and we are extremely excited! He has never been to Irene’s before so it should be extra special! 529 Bienville Street.
Of course, there are probably more famous, expensive, and fancier romantic restaurants in the city of New Orleans. But these are our go-to for a romantic date night.
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