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A shallow bowl of light yellow ravioli with shaved dark truffles on a dark wooden table — Ravioli with truffles at Il Brutto

19 Splendid Date Night Destinations in Austin

A guide to the perfect restaurant for every romantic occasion

by Ashley Wright and Erin Russell Updated Jul 29, 2021, 12:55pm CDT

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Ravioli with truffles at Il Brutto

| Il Brutto/Facebook

by Ashley Wright and Erin Russell Updated Jul 29, 2021, 12:55pm CDT

Picking out just the right spot for a date is tricky, whether it's for a first date, anniversary celebration, or just an opportunity to spend some quality time together. After working up the courage to ask that person out, or just coordinating schedules for the right night, you need the perfect setting. Eater is here to help you work your wooing magic with the best date night restaurants in Austin.

Below are the best places to take the object of your affection for every occasion. Hit happy hour destinations like Contigo if you’re more interested in nibbling on appetizers than a full-blown meal, and reserve heavy hitters like Jeffrey’s for anniversaries. Slay your first date with Lenoir, or keep it casual (but still delicious) with Bufalina Due. This update adds Kalimotxo, Radio Coffee and Beer, Il Brutto, Chosun Galbi, and Perla’s. Any of these date night destinations will set you up for success.

For more options, check out Eater’s guide to fine dining restaurants in the city.

As with all businesses, be sure to call ahead to make sure each restaurant is still open or if there are updates on current offerings and service models, as things are changing constantly. Wear a mask, tip well, and if you’re ordering delivery, try to order directly from the restaurants themselves.

Health experts consider dining out to be a high-risk activity for the unvaccinated; the latest data about the delta variant indicates that it may pose a low-to-moderate risk for the vaccinated, especially in areas with substantial transmission. The latest CDC guidance is here; find a COVID-19 vaccination site here.

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Note: Restaurants on this map are listed geographically.

If you book a reservation through an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy.

DipDipDip Tatsu-Ya

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 Crestview restaurant. 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.

Open in Google Maps

7301 Burnet Rd Ste 101, Austin, TX 78757

Visit Website

The shabu-shabu setup at DipDipDip

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Barley Swine

Often lauded and rustically chic, the finer dining destination in Brentwood 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.

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6555 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78757

Visit Website

Barley Swine

Bufalina Due

The close seating and convivial crowd at the Brentwood Neapolitan pizza restaurant 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 and an excellent bottle of wine. Takeout orders can be placed online.

6555 Burnet Rd #100, Austin, TX 78757

Visit Website

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A post shared by Bufalina & Bufalina Due (@bufalinapizza)

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Chosun Galbi

Activity-pegged dates are always fun, and Korean barbecue is always a people-pleaser. The Highland Korean restaurant is a classic for good reason. Mix and match grill-your-own meat sets (the marinated short ribs are particularly great) or share the larger barbecue set, while adding in classic Korean dishes and stews.

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713 E Huntland Dr, Austin, TX 78752

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A post shared by Deana Saukam (@faimfatale)

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Musashino Sushi Dokoro

If your date is a sushi purist, this Japanese restaurant in the Heritage neighborhood is the place to go for classic sushi. Indulge in the a la carte array 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.

Open in Google Maps

2905 San Gabriel St, Austin, TX 78705

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View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Austin Food Babe (@austinfoodbabe)

Contigo

The tapas-style offerings at the MLK patio restaurant are perfect for sharing, so make it a double date and snag a spot on the expansive, beautifully lit patio. If you’ve got a four-legged friend along, the dog is welcome to lounge under the table as well. When the weather (eventually) turns cooler, Contigo is a great destination to warm up your date with heartier fare under the heat lamps. Takeout orders can be placed online.

2027 Anchor Ln, Austin, TX 78723

Visit Website

Sliced steak on a plate — The tri-tip at Contigo

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Dai Due

The Cherrywood restaurant and butcher shop — aka a meat lover’s paradise — 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? Takeout meat orders can be placed online.

2406 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

Visit Website

Antelope sausage with red cabbage and sweet potatoes and fried onion rings on a white plate — Antelope sausage at Dai Due

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Jeffrey's

The Clarksville restaurant should be reserved for big occasions, like a 10-year anniversary. The elegant surroundings, top-notch service, and delicious classic American menu make the restaurant a destination for memories.

1204 W Lynn St, Austin, TX 78703

Visit Website

Fish and orange broth with greens in a paper bowl on a white plate — Texas Gulf snapper en papillote at Jeffrey’s

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Clay Pit

Head to the downtown restaurant 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. Takeout orders can be placed online.

Open in Google Maps

1601 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701

Visit Website

A metal bowl with handles containing spinach cooked in spices — Jeera saag at Clay Pit

Lin Asian Bar + Dim Sum

The Clarksville Chinese restaurant offers an adorable backdrop for a date, with cute decor, tasty dishes, and of course, those famed dumplings. Don’t miss the beautiful desserts. Takeout orders can be placed online.

Open in Google Maps

1203 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78703

Visit Website

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by megan li (@meganyli.eats)

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Kalimotxo

Pintxos and cocktails are a tried-and-true date combination. Test your compatibility by creating your own snack board or go for a larger plate like the wood-grilled flatbread or a burger at this downtown Spanish restaurant from the Emmer & Rye team. Don’t miss some of the best desserts in town — the burnt cheesecake and Kali sundae (a pool of salted cream with hidden treasures inside). Takeout orders can be placed online.

Open in Google Maps

607 W 3rd St #105, Austin, TX 78701

Visit Website

Backlit bottles and porrons in front of green tile — The bar at Kalimotxo

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Il Brutto

An Italian date night is never a bad idea, especially at the East Sixth restaurant. Share a pizza or go “Lady and the Tramp” on some handmade pappardelle. Sit outside on the patio for great people watching. Takeout orders can be placed online.

Open in Google Maps

1601 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702

Visit Website

Pizza at Il Brutto

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Uchi

Long considered the most popular sushi restaurant in town, the Zilker Japanese spot 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. Takeout orders can be placed online.

801 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

Visit Website

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Uchi Austin (@uchiaustin)

Also featured in:

Juniper

Modern Italian food, a gorgeous atmosphere, and well-crafted cocktails make the Holly restaurant a nice date spot for any stage of the relationship, from the a la carte array to the tasting menu.

2400 E Cesar Chavez St #304, Austin, TX 78702

Visit Website

A gray plate with a round piece of brown meat and several stalks of broccolini with a fork. — A dish from Juniper

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Justine's Brasserie

The Govalle restaurant 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. Takeout orders can be placed online.

4710 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702

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A plate with a piece of meat that is covered in a white sauce next to another plate with a green salad — Dishes from Justine’s

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Perla's

The South Congress seafood restaurant with a giant patio is the place to indulge in East Coast oysters and people-watch.

1400 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

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A tray of ice and halved oysters — Oysters at Perla’s

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Vespaio

The South Congress restaurant 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. Takeout orders can be placed online.

1610 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

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A plate with broth, a pile of capellini pasta and halved cherry tomatoes and seared scallops — A scallops and pasta dish at Vespaio

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Lenoir

The New American Bouldin Creek restaurant is the refined counterpart to Justine’s sultry vibes. The wine garden makes for an impressive first-date venue with a beautifully romantic ambiance. Opt for the five-course tasting menu, which makes ordering a breeze, freeing up the rest of your time to chat away. Takeout orders can be placed online.

1807 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704

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A post shared by Lenoir Restaurant (@lenoiratx)

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Radio Coffee & Beer

The South Austin coffee shop and bar has all the ingredients for a great casual first date: alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and truly excellent food options. Try some of Austin’s best tacos courtesy Veracruz All Natural, get spicy with Thai truck Dee Dee, or try a po’ boy from Da Boot Po’ Boys. Lounge on the large outdoor patio or cozy up inside.

4204 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78704

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Margarita at Radio Coffee & Beer

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DipDipDip Tatsu-Ya

7301 Burnet Rd Ste 101, Austin, TX 78757

The shabu-shabu setup at DipDipDip

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 Crestview restaurant. 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.

Open in Google Maps

7301 Burnet Rd Ste 101, Austin, TX 78757

Visit Website

The shabu-shabu setup at DipDipDip

Barley Swine

6555 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78757

Barley Swine

Often lauded and rustically chic, the finer dining destination in Brentwood 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.

Open in Google Maps

6555 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78757

Visit Website

Barley Swine

Bufalina Due

6555 Burnet Rd #100, Austin, TX 78757

The close seating and convivial crowd at the Brentwood Neapolitan pizza restaurant 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 and an excellent bottle of wine. Takeout orders can be placed online.

6555 Burnet Rd #100, Austin, TX 78757

Visit Website

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bufalina & Bufalina Due (@bufalinapizza)

Chosun Galbi

713 E Huntland Dr, Austin, TX 78752

Activity-pegged dates are always fun, and Korean barbecue is always a people-pleaser. The Highland Korean restaurant is a classic for good reason. Mix and match grill-your-own meat sets (the marinated short ribs are particularly great) or share the larger barbecue set, while adding in classic Korean dishes and stews.

Open in Google Maps

713 E Huntland Dr, Austin, TX 78752

Visit Website

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Deana Saukam (@faimfatale)

Musashino Sushi Dokoro

2905 San Gabriel St, Austin, TX 78705

If your date is a sushi purist, this Japanese restaurant in the Heritage neighborhood is the place to go for classic sushi. Indulge in the a la carte array 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.

Open in Google Maps

2905 San Gabriel St, Austin, TX 78705

Visit Website

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Austin Food Babe (@austinfoodbabe)

Contigo

2027 Anchor Ln, Austin, TX 78723

Sliced steak on a plate — The tri-tip at Contigo

The tapas-style offerings at the MLK patio restaurant are perfect for sharing, so make it a double date and snag a spot on the expansive, beautifully lit patio. If you’ve got a four-legged friend along, the dog is welcome to lounge under the table as well. When the weather (eventually) turns cooler, Contigo is a great destination to warm up your date with heartier fare under the heat lamps. Takeout orders can be placed online.

2027 Anchor Ln, Austin, TX 78723

Visit Website

Sliced steak on a plate — The tri-tip at Contigo

Dai Due

2406 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

Antelope sausage with red cabbage and sweet potatoes and fried onion rings on a white plate — Antelope sausage at Dai Due

The Cherrywood restaurant and butcher shop — aka a meat lover’s paradise — 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? Takeout meat orders can be placed online.

2406 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

Visit Website

Antelope sausage with red cabbage and sweet potatoes and fried onion rings on a white plate — Antelope sausage at Dai Due

Jeffrey's

1204 W Lynn St, Austin, TX 78703

Fish and orange broth with greens in a paper bowl on a white plate — Texas Gulf snapper en papillote at Jeffrey’s

The Clarksville restaurant should be reserved for big occasions, like a 10-year anniversary. The elegant surroundings, top-notch service, and delicious classic American menu make the restaurant a destination for memories.

1204 W Lynn St, Austin, TX 78703

Visit Website

Fish and orange broth with greens in a paper bowl on a white plate — Texas Gulf snapper en papillote at Jeffrey’s

Clay Pit

1601 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701

A metal bowl with handles containing spinach cooked in spices — Jeera saag at Clay Pit

Head to the downtown restaurant 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. Takeout orders can be placed online.

Open in Google Maps

1601 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701

Visit Website

A metal bowl with handles containing spinach cooked in spices — Jeera saag at Clay Pit

Lin Asian Bar + Dim Sum

1203 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78703

The Clarksville Chinese restaurant offers an adorable backdrop for a date, with cute decor, tasty dishes, and of course, those famed dumplings. Don’t miss the beautiful desserts. Takeout orders can be placed online.

Open in Google Maps

1203 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78703

Visit Website

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by megan li (@meganyli.eats)

Kalimotxo

607 W 3rd St #105, Austin, TX 78701

Backlit bottles and porrons in front of green tile — The bar at Kalimotxo

Pintxos and cocktails are a tried-and-true date combination. Test your compatibility by creating your own snack board or go for a larger plate like the wood-grilled flatbread or a burger at this downtown Spanish restaurant from the Emmer & Rye team. Don’t miss some of the best desserts in town — the burnt cheesecake and Kali sundae (a pool of salted cream with hidden treasures inside). Takeout orders can be placed online.

Open in Google Maps

607 W 3rd St #105, Austin, TX 78701

Visit Website

Backlit bottles and porrons in front of green tile — The bar at Kalimotxo

Il Brutto

1601 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702

Pizza at Il Brutto

An Italian date night is never a bad idea, especially at the East Sixth restaurant. Share a pizza or go “Lady and the Tramp” on some handmade pappardelle. Sit outside on the patio for great people watching. Takeout orders can be placed online.

Open in Google Maps

1601 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702

Visit Website

Pizza at Il Brutto

Uchi

801 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

Long considered the most popular sushi restaurant in town, the Zilker Japanese spot 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. Takeout orders can be placed online.

801 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

Visit Website

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Uchi Austin (@uchiaustin)

Juniper

2400 E Cesar Chavez St #304, Austin, TX 78702

A gray plate with a round piece of brown meat and several stalks of broccolini with a fork. — A dish from Juniper

Modern Italian food, a gorgeous atmosphere, and well-crafted cocktails make the Holly restaurant a nice date spot for any stage of the relationship, from the a la carte array to the tasting menu.

2400 E Cesar Chavez St #304, Austin, TX 78702

Visit Website

A gray plate with a round piece of brown meat and several stalks of broccolini with a fork. — A dish from Juniper

Justine's Brasserie

4710 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702