For a first date with an activity and food, the Tatsu-ya team opened up their upper-scale take on Japanese hot pot with their new restaurant DipDipDip Tatsu-ya up in Crestview. Order, dip, and cook an array of meats and vegetables (or opt for the omakase servings to make things easier in an intimate space seated across from each other. Even better: each individual gets their own pot of broth so you don’t have to share necessarily.

Often lauded and rustically chic, Barley Swine makes for a superb milestone celebration destination. Order the tasting menu and let the chefs guide you and your date through unusual but delicious offerings.

If your date is a sushi purist, Musashino is the place to go for classic sushi. Start with the creamy crab-topped avocado kama, and make sure to ask the bartender which of the myriad sakes would be the best accompaniment. The secluded interior ambiance is perfect for long-time lovers and seafood fans alike.

Meat lover’s paradise Dai Due is ideal when you want to please the carnivore in your life. This butcher shop knows its way around everything from bierwurst to wild boar. Err on the side of adventure and order something different from the usual fare. Venison ceviche, anyone?

Atmospheric and casual, Salty Sow is the consummate place to meet up for a happy hour drink paired with one of the wide variety of appetizers. Talk while sharing a plate of the salty, rich duck fat fries and sipping on one of the signature cocktails. If drinks extend into dinner, you can’t go wrong with the candied pork belly or slow-cooked beef shoulder.

Olamaie should be number one on your list of places to take your Southern beau or belle for a taste of home. The biscuits are a non-negotiable order here, so enjoy them on the lovely veranda with your special someone.

Romantic and intimate, Fabi + Rosi should be on your short list for first dates and special occasions. Don a nice outfit and share a Metzger charcuterie board for two.

Head to Clay Pit for Austin’s take on contemporary Indian cuisine. Don’t miss the coconut curry shrimp and the creamy tikka masala, making sure to pair both with pillowy garlic naan. You can always pop a mint, just in case.

Take advantage of a mild day and indulge in the oysters at Clark’s. Toast your companion with a cold glass of white wine out on the deck.

Lin Asian Bar offers an adorable backdrop for a date, with cute decor, tasty dishes, and of course, those famed dumplings. Don’t miss the beautiful desserts.

Chez Nous is the place to take your Francophile date. The bistro serves up classic French fare like boudin blanc, steak frites, and escargot. Share the pate maison plate to start; all pâtes are made in-house.

The communal seating and convivial crowd at Bufalina make it a lively setting for a post-drink pizza. Watch the wood-fired oven where perfect Neapolitan-style pies are made while sharing the buttery smooth burrata.

Long considered the most popular sushi restaurant in town, Uchi is the number one spot to take a date when you want to impress, whether it's the first time you’re stepping out together or you’ve been holding hands for years. Uchi’s modern take on Japanese cuisine emphasizes small shareable bites, perfect for splitting. Splash out on the omakase to let the chef surprise you and your date with the day’s most innovative offerings.

Justine’s does its inspirational home country France proud. Flickering candlelight, red walls, and music provided by a record player playing anything from its wide collection will help set the mood. Make sure to finish the evening by sharing the impeccable crème brulee.

Vespaio is the place for that casual date night when you’re craving quality Italian but aren’t in the mood for stuffy atmosphere. Welcoming and cozy, Vespaio serves up hearty traditional Italian fare meant to be enjoyed fully. Split a freshly made mozzarella and toast your date with one of the many delicious wines.

Lenoir is the refined madame to Justine’s sultry mademoiselle. With the beautiful, romantic decor and cozy dining room, Lenoir is an impressive first date venue. Opt for the four-course tasting menu, which makes ordering a breeze, freeing up the rest of your time to chat away.