15 Most Romantic Restaurants in the World


Estimated reading time: 18 minutes

We’ve found the most romantic restaurants in the world for a swoon-worthy Valentine’s Day dinner. All you have to do is secure that reservation.

Valentine’s Day dinner table.
Make memories to cherish forever on this Valentine’s Day. Image credit: azerbaijan_stockers/Freepik

Dining out on Valentine’s Day has become a timeless tradition for couples to celebrate their love. When it comes to a truly romantic dining experience, all the elements must come together in perfect harmony: the tantalizing aroma of world-class cuisine, attentive service that anticipates your every need, and the unique ambiance that sets the stage for a night filled with love, laughter, and bliss.

Make it extra magical by choosing a venue that resonates with your memories. Whether your love story began over a particularly special date on the beach, a shared passion for French cuisine, or an appreciation for classic Italian dishes, below you will find some of the most romantic restaurants in the world that will make your evening unforgettable.

Table of Contents

Most Romantic Restaurants in Paris

Girafe

Let’s start with Paris, known as the “City of Love”. This is a destination where lovebirds from all over the world come to experience moments of pure romance and passion that they will cherish forever.

A street in Paris.
Paris, the perfect destination to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Image credit: Soroush Karimi/Unsplash

Tucked cozily into the Cité de l’Architecture, Girafe offers the perfect blend of stunning Eiffel Tower views, luxurious 1930s décor, and delicious seafood-centric cuisine.

As soon as you step inside, you’ll be transported to the romantic Paris. The brass fixtures, lustrous chandeliers, plush velvet cushions, and masterfully crafted design by world-renowned French architect Joseph Dirand, contribute to an atmosphere of sophistication and elegance. The marble bar at one end of the restaurant also adds a touch of grandeur to the ambiance.

But the real showstopper is the rooftop terrace, where you can take in the Eiffel Tower in all its glory. This is truly the epitome of Paris destination dining, making it the perfect spot to celebrate your love or pop the question to your loved one.

When it comes to the menu, seafood is the star of the show. The lobster spaghetti, spicy yuzu tuna, and sesame seed sea bass are all standout dishes that offer an interesting and different take on French food. The bar, meanwhile, focuses on exquisite renderings of cocktail classics, alongside an indulgent and ambitious wine menu. So, if you are in Paris and in love during this time of the year, don’t miss out on visiting this gem.

Address: 1 Pl. du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, 75016 Paris, France 

L’Arpège

L’Arpège is not just a restaurant, it is a temple of gastronomy. Masterfully curated by Alain Passard, this three Michelin star restaurant offers a unique dining experience that combines exceptional gastronomy with an intimate atmosphere.

Chef Passard, celebrated for his innovative approach to vegetables, sources fresh produce daily from his own organic garden, adding a touch of freshness and authenticity to every dish.

The name L’Arpège, which means arpeggio, is a musical term that refers to the notes of a chord played in succession. The chef chose this name to express his philosophy of harmony and balance in cooking. He also decorated the restaurant with a bucolic fresco that depicts his gardens and his love for nature.

Signature dishes like beetroot in a salt crust, vegetable ravioli with consommé, turbot infused with smoked butter, and an apple tart with caramel and vanilla are like the perfect ingredients for a romantic dinner date. To complement the experience, L’Arpège boasts an impressive wine list featuring over 1,000 bottles from France and beyond.

L’Arpège has attracted many celebrities and famous people over the years and has also been featured in various media, such as the documentary film Chef’s Table, the book The Food Lover’s Guide to Paris, and the manga series Oishinbo.

Address: 84 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris, France

Most Romantic Restaurants in Rome

Aroma

As the day of love has roots in Roman history, it sounds quite fitting to celebrate it in its origin, Rome. With its winding streets, historic palaces, grand monuments, and picturesque bridges, it is one of the most romantic cities in the world.

If you want to make your date unforgettable, take them to one of the romantic restaurants in Rome with a view, such as Aroma. Imagine being swept off your feet and whisked away to a terrace overlooking the Colosseum, where the only thing more captivating than the view is the exceptional cuisine and unparalleled service.

This one Michelin star restaurant embodies a luxurious aura with its warm earth tones and plush seating. The lighting is carefully chosen to create a soft and romantic ambiance. The decor showcases a harmonious blend of traditional and modern styles, featuring striking chandeliers, and vintage artwork. 

Chef Di Iorio’s culinary offerings are intimately linked to the local terroir and ingredients sourced in the surrounding region. His unique take on classic Italian cuisine is sure to impress and leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. 

One of the standout dishes is the gin-infused pork, where the delicate flavors of the pork are elevated by the subtle yet distinct gin infusion. The lasagnette with quail and mushrooms is another must-try dish, the combination of the tender quail and earthy mushrooms between layers of delicate pasta. For dessert, indulge in a rich chocolate brownie paired with light-as-air lavender marshmallows. And with sommelier Alessandro Crognale’s cellar selections, featuring over 600 different labels, including a particular focus on champagne, you’ll have the perfect wine to complement your meal.

Address: Via Labicana, 125, 00184 Roma RM, Italy

La Pergola

Whether you are celebrating an anniversary, a proposal, or just a special night, look no further than La Pergola, the only three-star Michelin restaurant in Rome. Located on the ninth floor of the Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria Hotel, La Pergola offers a stunning panoramic view of the Eternal City, from the dome of St. Peter’s to the Colosseum.

But the view is not the only reason to visit La Pergola. The restaurant is helmed by Heinz Beck, one of the most acclaimed chefs in the world, who creates exquisite dishes that combine the best of Mediterranean, contemporary, and creative cuisine. You can choose from a variety of tasting menus, or create your own, and enjoy delicacies such as lobster salad with caviar, fagottelli carbonara, and chocolate soufflé.

To accompany your meal, you can rely on the expert advice of Marco Reitano, the sommelier, who will guide you through the impressive wine list, featuring over 60,000 bottles from Italy and around the world.

Address: Via Alberto Cadlolo, 101, 00136 Roma RM, Italy

Most Romantic Restaurants in London

Clos Maggiore

Talking about romance, Clos Maggiore sets the bar high. Nestled in the heart of London, the restaurant exudes an air of enchantment, making it the perfect destination for a special night out.

The restaurant’s interior is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. The ceiling is adorned with an enchanting canopy of cherry blossom trees, creating a sense of being outside while still being cozy and warm inside. The soft lighting and candlelight create an inviting ambiance, setting the stage for a truly romantic experience.

 Clos Maggiore London dinning area
Experience enchantment in the heart of London at Clos Maggiore. Image credit: Clos Maggiore

Get ready for a culinary adventure as head chef Marcellin Marc takes you on a journey through the delicious flavors of Provence and Tuscany. The dishes are expertly crafted and each one is more delicious than the last. The menu changes seasonally to ensure that guests are getting the best of what’s available in terms of taste and quality. Highlights of the menu include the pan roasted organic Irish Sea trout, cooked to perfection and served with a delicate balance of flavors. The oven roasted filet of Iberico pork is a must-try dish for meat lovers, the rich and robust flavors are elevated to new heights with the oven-roasting technique, resulting in tender and juicy meat that melts in your mouth.

The restaurant’s wine list is equally impressive. Sommeliers will guide you through the extensive list of wines, which features some of the best bottles from around the world. From champagne to fine red wine, they have it all and will help you choose the perfect wine to enhance your dining experience.

Address: 33 King St, London WC2E 8JD, United Kingdom

La Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester

If you’re looking for a place to celebrate your love with style, elegance, and delicious food, you’ll love La Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester. This restaurant is a cozy spot inside the classy Dorchester hotel, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of Hyde Park and a romantic atmosphere. 

Helmed by the acclaimed chef Alain Ducasse, the restaurant has earned three Michelin stars, solidifying its status as a pinnacle of culinary excellence. Incorporating his distinctive elegance, the menu highlights the finest British and French ingredients, emphasizing seafood and seasonal vegetables. The dedicated vegetarian menu features dishes like fermented green asparagus with morel mushrooms. The à la carte options span from native lobster to foie gras with borage flowers. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the exquisite wine list influenced by French selections.

For a more intimate and exclusive experience, the restaurant offers the Table Lumière – a private table surrounded by a curtain of sparkling fiber optics. Here, you have the opportunity to select your own tableware and customize your menu, creating a uniquely personalized dining experience that enhances the romantic ambiance.

Address: 53 Park Ln, London W1K 1QA, United Kingdom

Most Romantic Restaurants in the U.S.

Eleven Madison Park, New York City

This iconic New York City restaurant, located just south of the Theater District, offers an epicurean experience that will be etched in your memory for a lifetime.

As you enter the Art Deco building through the revolving doors, you’ll be struck by the grandeur of the main dining room with its 10-meter-high windows overlooking Madison Square Park. The vaulted ceiling, marble floors, and impeccable attention to detail set the stage for a truly unforgettable evening.

Eleven Madison Park restaurant dinning area
Creating memories to last a lifetime over a romantic dinner at Eleven Madison Park. Image credit: Pablo Monteagudo/flickr

Chef Daniel Humm, who has recently introduced a plant-based menu, demonstrates a theatrical flair in his presentations. Delicacies such as freshly baked, crisped vegan rolls presented with faux butter and a quenelle of tonburi, mimicking caviar, plated with horseradish cream, are sure to impress. Desserts such as a frozen cherry blossom and rose confection dressed with strawberries are equally accomplished.

Each table is assigned a Maitre d’, or a captain, who will reach out a week before your reservation to inquire if you’re celebrating a special occasion or if there’s anything they should know to make your experience even more unique. This is a place of lasting memories, where luxury and romance combine to make every visit memorable.

Address: 11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010, United States

Bix, San Francisco

Get ready for a night of jazz, martini, and culinary delights as you enter the doors of Bix, where San Francisco’s past meets its present in a celebration of style and taste!

With grandiose ceilings, low lighting, and ornate decor, the ambiance of this swanky two-story spot resembles a vintage supper club, reminiscent of The Great Gatsby and Cotton Club; think of black and white attire, red lipstick, stilettos, and crisply ironed shirts. It’s no wonder that Bix has been featured in a number of movies.

 Bix restaurant dinning area
Step back in time with a touch of class at Bix, a celebration of jazz, martini, and culinary delights. Image credit: Bix

Just like the interior, the menu is a playful blend of the old and the new, featuring some iconic items like steak tartare blended tableside and is served with wedges of malty dark bread, and the decadent Maine lobster spaghetti, best enjoyed with a glass of William Hill Chardonnay. Bix also has some classic moves up their sleeve, like the clubby chicken hash, a dish that’s been on the menu since day one (which was 1988!).

Don’t forget to save room for a sweet finish to your meal with Bix’s delectable dessert options. Gold St. foster is the epitome of indulgence and a must-try. We also recommend trying the warm chocolate brioche bread pudding with chantilly and hot fudge.

Address: 56 Gold St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Musaafer, Houston

This restaurant has an intriguing story and concept. Before opening its doors in Houston in 2020, the culinary team behind Musaafer, led by executive chef Mayank Istwal, set out on a journey through India to gather inspiration for their menu. They explored the local ingredients and preparations from different regions of India, including saffron picking in Kashmir, rice brews in Nagaland, bebinca in Goa, and the iconic pandhra rassa in Maharashtra. The word Musaafer, meaning “traveler” in Hindi, comes from these adventures. It evokes the spirit of wanderlust and carries a sentimental association with travel memories, including encounters with people and lingering scents and flavors.

The restaurant’s 10,000-square-feet space, located in the upscale Houston Galleria, is a feast for the eyes. The interiors take inspiration from India’s grand palaces and bustling spice markets, featuring majestic artwork, antique rugs, and ceilings adorned with handcrafted lampshades. It features a “Traveler’s Room” that has been designed like a market, complete with folk motifs, sculptures, and a 14-seat social table. Guests can also dine in the “Diwan Lounge”, an outdoor courtyard dining area or on a mezzanine inspired by “Sheesh Mahal”- a majestic palace in India.

Musaafer restaurant's dinning area.
Musaafer restaurant’s mezzanine, inspired by “Sheesh Mahal” palace. Image credit: Raydon Creative

Chef Istwal‘s menu is a true masterpiece, blending his international fine-dining experience under celebrity chef Luke Mangan with his burning passion for Indian cuisines and delicacies.

From traditional street food like Pani Puri to more elaborate dishes such as Nalli Nihari (lamb shank), the menu is sure to please any palate. It also features whimsical items such as the Mishti Doi with its faux yogurt mushrooms and freeze-dried raspberry and pomegranate, that add a playful touch to the high-end dining experience.

Get ready to raise a glass (or two) to the masterful cocktails of lead mixologist Afzal Kaba. From the Adraki Sutra, a unique blend of vodka, ginger, turmeric, lemon juice, and orange bitters, to the Teekha Peru, a creative take on the popular Indian drink, all are meant to elevate your meal to new heights. 

Save room for one of the decadent desserts, such as Qubani Ka Meetha with fennel sorbet, and Shahi Tukda which is served with Tahitian vanilla ice cream. Savor every sip and bite with your loved one for a night filled with romance and excitement.

Address: 5115 Westheimer Rd Suite C-3500, Houston, TX 77056, United States

Most Romantic Restaurants in Dubai

Eauzone

If you’ve any doubts about romantic scene-setting, just go to this warm, refined-with-a-hint-of-tropical vibes spot.

Eauzone is a tranquil oasis nestled between the beach and an aqua-tiled pool, bathed in the blue of the sea and the sky. It features shaded wooden decks and private floating gazebos, surrounded by calm waters and tropical palm trees. The unique setting creates a sense of being in the Maldives.

Eauzone resort Dubai
Escape to a tranquil oasis for a Valentine’s dinner like no other and experience the Maldives in the heart of Dubai. Image credit: Eauzone

During the day, the atmosphere is relaxed and casual, but as evening approaches and the stars come out, Eauzone transforms into a sophisticated island paradise, with gleaming lanterns casting a warm glow and shimmering lights reflected in the surrounding waters.

The menu perfectly complements this paradise-like atmosphere, showcasing the best of pan-Asian cuisine. It features a blend of dishes from different cultural roots, including French foie gras ballotine, Japanese sashimi and tempura, Italian risotto and tiramisu, and Thai green curry. However, our top picks are the angus beef tartare, Chilean sea bass, and the lobster sweet and sour.

Reserve space for dessert as the lemon tart, sake cappuccino, and the rich chocolate mousse with a hint of Rocoto Chili will be sure to satisfy and offer a delightful conclusion to the night. Eauzone is located within the magnificent One&Only Royal Mirage hotel, and we suggest arriving early to take a leisurely walk with your loved one through the resort’s gardens and wooden walkways and snap a couple of romantic shots. Nothing says romance like a night of fine dining in Dubai.

Address: Al Sufouh Rd,Jumeirah Rd, Arabia Courts, Opp Media City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Il Ristorante – Niko Romito

Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, at Bulgari Resort Dubai, is the brainchild of Niko Romito, one of the most celebrated Italian chefs in the world, who has earned three Michelin stars for his Reale restaurant in Abruzzo. Romito has created a unique concept for Il Ristorante, blending modern and classical Italian styles with simplicity and sophistication. His dishes showcase the authentic flavors of Italy, using high-quality ingredients and refined techniques.

The restaurant’s ambiance is equally impressive, echoing the original Bulgari Hotel Milano, which is renowned for its chic and contemporary design. The space features Japanese-inspired elements, such as the curved wood ceiling, that create a warm and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant also offers stunning views of the city from the 40th floor of the hotel, adding to the sense of exclusivity and luxury.

Il Ristorante – Niko Romito has been recognized as one of the best restaurants in Dubai, earning two Michelin stars from The Michelin Guide Dubai for two consecutive years since 2022.

Address: Jumeirah 2, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Most Romantic Restaurants in Tokyo

Florilège

Consistently ranked among the top ten of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, this intimate, 22-seat counter restaurant is the creation of young Japanese chef Hiroyasu Kawate.

Florilège restaurant dinning area.
Florilège, where each dish is a symphony of flavors, and each moment a treasure to cherish forever. Image credit: Pieter D’Hoop- flo

Florilège is not a white-plate fine dining restaurant you come to expect with Michelin stars, but a stand-alone unique creation that transports you into another realm for a few hours and leaves you with a lingering memory. Located in the trendy Shibuya district, the restaurant is a hidden gem, shrouded by ornamental trees that create a feeling of otherworldliness, as if you are Alice going down the rabbit hole.

The restaurant interior is designed to resemble a theatrical stage. The walls are elegantly clad in ash and charcoal shades, contrasted by a pop of vibrant lava red in the carpeting. The dim lighting adds to the drama of the ambiance. The kitchen is the centerpiece, with its open design allowing diners to watch the chefs in action from their slightly elevated seats that are arranged around the kitchen.

But the drama doesn’t stop here. The menu, which changes every two months, features Japanese dishes with a French flair. From the signature sustainability beef to AYU sweet fish, and the imaginative chocolate omelet dessert, each plate is like a haiku – minimal, slightly unrhymed, and full of imagery. All the well-thought dishes offer a harmonious balance of taste, texture, and presentation, complementing each other perfectly, and are ideal for sharing.

Florilège is all about mindful consumption, minimal waste and sustainability. So, celebrating Valentine’s here is a win-win situation!

Address: 〒105-0001, 2F Garden Plaza D Azabudai Hills, 5-10-7, Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan

Sukiyabashi Jiro

Sukiyabashi Jiro may not seem like a typical romantic destination, but it offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience to share with your partner. It was the first sushi restaurant in the world to earn three stars from the Michelin Guide. Although it was removed from the list in 2019 because it only accepts reservations from guests of luxury hotels, its unparalleled reputation persists.

Two chefs preparing sushi at a counter in a traditional Japanese restaurant.
Jiro Ono and his son. Image credit: Wikimedia

The chef, Jiro Ono, is a living legend widely regarded as the greatest sushi master of all time, devoting his entire life to perfecting his art. He uses only the finest and freshest ingredients, transforming them into exquisite pieces of sushi with his expert hands. His style is simple and refined, allowing the natural flavors of the fish to shine through.

Located in Ginza, a fashionable and upscale district in Tokyo, the restaurant has only ten seats at the counter where you can watch Jiro and his apprentices work their magic. The restaurant does not have a fixed menu but offers an Omakase tasting course, allowing the chef to select your sushi. You will be served about 20 pieces, each a delicacy that will delight your senses. The selection varies depending on the season and the availability of fish at the market.

The atmosphere is serene and intimate, and guests are expected to respect the rules: no pictures, loud talking, or lingering too long. All these rules enhance your experience of enjoying Jiro’s sushi. However, once you’re done, he and his staff will gladly pose for a photo with you at the doorway, serving as a souvenir of your unforgettable encounter.

The restaurant has hosted many famous names, including Anne Hathaway, Hugh Jackman, David Beckham, and, most famously, former US president Barack Obama, who shared a meal with former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2014.

Address: 4-2-15 Tsukamoto Sogyo Bldg. B1F, Ginza, Chuo 104-0061 Tokyo, Japan

Most Romantic Restaurants from Around the World

Don Julio, Buenos Aires

Typically, you don’t think of a steakhouse as a romantic location but when it comes to Don Julio you better think again because Cupid’s arrow just found a new target! 

Located in the heart of Palermo Soho, this rustic-chic steakhouse is a true gem. The warm, welcoming atmosphere is perfect for a cozy dinner with your loved one, while the open kitchen and wood-fired grill add a touch of excitement to the dining experience. The menu is centered around traditional Argentine flavors, with an emphasis on high-quality beef, cooked to perfection on the grill.

Don Julio restaurant Buenos Aires
Celebrate love in rustic-chic style at Don Julio. Image credit: wikimedia

Start your meal with a selection of homemade empanadas, filled with savory beef, chicken, or spinach and cheese. For your main course, indulge in a mouthwatering cut of beef, cooked to your liking, and paired with traditional chimichurri sauce. Vegetarians can also enjoy a delicious selection of grilled vegetables, which will delight your taste buds.

Another highlight at Don Julio is the traditional Argentine dessert, dulce de leche. This sweet caramel treat is served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating the perfect balance of flavors. To finish off your meal.

The combination of traditional Argentine flavors, a cozy atmosphere, and the best cuts of beef in the city, make this steakhouse a must-visit destination for any romantic occasion, particularly Valentine’s Day.

Address: Guatemala 4699, C1425 CABA, Argentina

Lokanta 1741, Istanbul

Valentine’s in Istanbul? Yes, please! From its gorgeous scenery to its rich culture, there’s just something special about Istanbul that makes it a must-visit for lovebirds. And where better to experience the best of both worlds than Lokanta 1741.

A view of Istanbul.
Celebrate love in the city of two continents, Istanbul, where East meets West and romance blooms. Image credit: Yaroslav Danylchenko/Freepik

The way that leads to this restaurant is an experience in itself. This beautiful contemporary eatery is situated in the historic Cağaloğlu Hamam, a traditional Ottoman bathhouse. As you make your way through the bathhouse, you’ll find yourself losing track of time and space. The grandeur of the traditional Ottoman architecture casts its spell on you, leaving you feeling ready for a feast of the soul.

The restaurant is a two-storey building with a romantic roof terrace that boasts a magnificent view over Istanbul’s old town. The combination of the captivating view and the historical ambiance is sure to make your dining experience a memorable one.

Chef Durukan Özgen’s menu features culinary classics dating back to 1741. The menu offers a variety of traditional Turkish appetizers, mezes, pides, seafood, and kebab dishes that have been reimagined with a creative twist. Don’t miss out on the highly recommended Tirit Kebab and the traditional baked rice pudding infused with a touch of lavender scent. Alongside the delicious food, the restaurant also offers Ottoman-inspired cocktails and a carefully curated local wine list, all to complement your scrumptious meal. Finish the night with a leisurely stroll in the Sultanahmet neighborhood for a fairy-tale ending.

Address: Alemdar, Prof. Kazım İsmail Gürkan Cd. No:34, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Explore the Most Romantic Restaurants in the World in Style

We’ve curated a list of the most romantic restaurants in the world for a special night, saving our best advice for the grand finale. Make your loved one fall even harder for you by booking a Blacklane. Imagine the surprise and delight on their face when they see a luxury car waiting for them at the doorstep. 

Also, traffic can be incredibly congested in some of these cities, making it difficult to get to your destination on time and in a relaxed state. With a personal chauffeur, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the convenience of being driven around in style. Our chauffeurs are equipped with valuable local knowledge, fluent in English and the local language, and well-versed in the customs and norms of the region, ensuring that you navigate through unfamiliar territories with ease. 

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ellie Smith

Ellie is an avid traveler, writer, and adventurer, with a passion for exploring the world and sharing her experiences through storytelling. Working for global chauffeur company Blacklane and having lived in cities like Dubai and Berlin, she has gained valuable first-hand experience in uncovering hidden gems worldwide.