Louisiana Restaurants Named Top Date Night Spots By TripAdvisor

Planning a special evening? Choosing the right restaurant can make all the difference. TripAdvisor recently highlighted Louisiana as home to some of the country’s top date night spots.

Here’s why these restaurants stand out and where you can find the most romantic dining experiences in the state.

1. G.W. Fins: Fresh Seafood Excellence

Located in the historic DH Holmes building at 808 Bienville Street, this restaurant serves some of the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere. Chefs here source ingredients locally, ensuring every dish tastes amazing and supports nearby fishermen.

The elegant atmosphere creates a perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations. Couples love the sophisticated yet welcoming vibe that makes special occasions feel even more memorable.

2. Bayona: Historic Creole Charm

Step into an 18th-century Creole cottage where history meets culinary artistry. Chef Susan Spicer has earned countless awards for her innovative approach to global cuisine, blending flavors from around the world.

The romantic courtyard offers an outdoor dining experience unlike any other. Surrounded by lush greenery and soft lighting, you’ll feel transported to a European hideaway right in the heart of New Orleans.

3. Lilette: Uptown Sophistication

This Uptown gem welcomes you with tasteful tile work and cozy intimate booths perfect for two. The menu brilliantly combines French, Italian, and Asian cooking styles into dishes that surprise and delight your taste buds.

Couples appreciate the sophisticated yet comfortable environment that never feels stuffy. Whether celebrating an anniversary or just enjoying each other’s company, the atmosphere here makes every meal feel special.

4. Sylvain: Moody Gastropub Romance

Dark wooden accents and flickering candlelight create an intimate, moody atmosphere that’s perfect for romance. The elevated gastropub menu offers comfort food with a refined twist that satisfies without being pretentious.

An intimate back patio provides a secluded escape from the bustling French Quarter streets. Many couples choose this spot for its unique combination of casual comfort and romantic ambiance that encourages lingering conversations.

5. N7: French-Japanese Fusion

Tucked away in the Bywater neighborhood, this hidden treasure combines French elegance with Japanese precision. Cool French pop music plays softly while you explore a menu that bridges two incredible culinary traditions.

The candlelit patio creates an enchanting outdoor space where romance flourishes naturally. Its chic setting and unique flavor combinations make it a favorite among couples seeking something different from traditional date night restaurants.

6. Cafe Degas: French Garden Magic

A massive pecan tree grows right through the middle of the dramatic open-air patio, creating natural beauty that no decorator could replicate. Classic French specialties prepared with authentic techniques transport your taste buds straight to Paris.

The tree-shaded setting provides natural romance during both day and evening hours. Sharing escargot or coq au vin under the branches creates memories that last long after dessert arrives.

7. Commander’s Palace: Garden District Elegance

Commander’s Palace stands as one of New Orleans’ most iconic dining destinations, housed in a stunning Victorian mansion that’s been welcoming guests since 1893. The turquoise-and-white building alone will take your breath away before you even step inside.

Couples love the elegant Jazz Brunch on weekends, where live music fills the air while you enjoy turtle soup and pecan-crusted Gulf fish. The upstairs dining rooms feature sparkling chandeliers and windows overlooking oak-lined streets.

Don’t miss their famous 25-cent martinis during lunch – a tradition that adds playful charm to your romantic outing. The attentive service and award-winning Creole cuisine have earned this restaurant countless accolades over the decades.

8. Arnaud’s: French Quarter Romance

Walking into Arnaud’s feels like stepping back to 1918, when Count Arnaud Cazenave first opened the doors to this magnificent French Quarter establishment. Mosaic tile floors and gleaming mirrors create an atmosphere of old-world glamour that modern restaurants simply can’t replicate.

The menu showcases classic Creole dishes like shrimp Arnaud and oysters Bienville, prepared with recipes passed down through generations. Private dining rooms offer extra intimacy for special occasions, while the main dining room buzzes with sophisticated energy.

After dinner, couples can explore the upstairs Mardi Gras museum, adding a unique cultural touch to your evening. Jazz music from nearby Bourbon Street drifts through the windows, providing the perfect soundtrack.

9. August: Contemporary Fine Dining

Chef John Besh’s flagship restaurant brings a modern twist to Louisiana’s culinary traditions, earning a spot among the country’s most celebrated fine dining establishments. The sleek, contemporary space features warm lighting and comfortable booths that encourage lingering conversations over multiple courses.

August’s seasonal tasting menus showcase Gulf seafood and local ingredients transformed into edible art. Each plate arrives beautifully presented, making your meal feel like a special celebration worth savoring slowly.

The sommelier’s wine pairings perfectly complement each course, enhancing flavors you didn’t know existed. While the atmosphere feels upscale, the staff maintains a welcoming Southern hospitality that puts guests at ease throughout the evening.

10. Brennan’s: Breakfast at Dinner Magic

Famous as the birthplace of bananas foster, Brennan’s has been creating romantic memories since 1946 with its stunning courtyard and exceptional Creole cuisine. The lush tropical garden, complete with a flowing fountain, transports diners to a private oasis right in the heart of the French Quarter.

While breakfast is their claim to fame, dinner service offers an equally enchanting experience with dishes like Gulf fish meunière and turtle soup. Watching the servers prepare flaming desserts tableside adds theatrical flair to your evening.

The pink building’s elegant interior features chandeliers, antiques, and artwork that reflect New Orleans’ rich cultural heritage. Reserve a courtyard table for the most romantic setting imaginable.