Romantic Date Ideas in San Jose

Vespucci Ristorante Italiano is an excellent choice for a romantic dinner date in San Mateo. The restaurant offers an upscale, continental Italian experience that is sure to impress. The food, which is authentic and top-notch, is prepared by a chef from Naples and is complemented by a charming and positive staff. The ambiance is cozy and intimate, which makes it perfect for a romantic evening. The prices are a bit on the higher side, but the quality of the food and service make it worth it for a special occasion.

Spencer's for Steaks and Chops in San Jose is a refined and elegant restaurant that promises a luxurious dining experience for couples. The attentive service and high-quality ingredients are the standout features of this establishment, ensuring an unforgettable date. While the menu is not extensive, the dishes on offer are well-executed, with the calamari appetizer being a crowd-pleaser. The price point is high, which might not be feasible for those on a tight budget. The ambiance is intimate, perfect for a romantic dinner, and the attentive service adds to the overall experience. Overall, Spencer's for Steaks and Chops is a great choice for couples seeking a high-end dining experience.

For couples seeking a romantic dining experience with a touch of nature, The Mountain House in Woodside is a must-visit. The restaurant's location overlooking the forest is breathtaking, and the ambience is cozy and intimate. The curated menu offers a variety of dishes that are sure to please even the most discerning palate. The service is top-notch and the cocktails and mocktails are a must-try. The only downside is that the restaurant is set to close soon, so it might not be a long-term option for couples seeking a repeat visit.

Photo The Mountain House

For couples seeking a romantic dinner in San Jose, L.B. Steak on Santana Row is a top-notch choice. This steakhouse boasts a beautiful decor and ambiance, which sets the mood for a special night out. The attentive and courteous service adds to the overall experience, and the prime rib eye steak is a must-try. While the seafood options are not as impressive as the meats, the wagyu burger is also a great choice. The only downside mentioned in reviews is the limited street parking, but there is a parking lot across the street that is free. The cost might be on the higher end, but the quality of food and service make it worth it for a special occasion date.

For a romantic night out, Plumed Horse in Saratoga is a fine dining establishment that offers a luxurious experience that is sure to impress. The Michelin star is well-deserved, as the food is beautifully presented and expertly crafted, with a particular focus on flavor pairings. The staff is attentive, courteous, and accommodating, making it easy to relax and enjoy the meal. The ambiance is intimate and cozy, with a touch of elegance. The only downside is that it can be quite pricey, making it more suitable for special occasions or for those who don't mind splurging. However, the quality of the food and service make it worth it for those who can afford it.

Terra Mia in Livermore is an excellent option for a romantic date night. The ambiance is cozy and intimate, with beautiful decor and a fireplace in the banquet space. The food is exceptional, with many options to choose from, including plant-based options for those who need it. The service is top-notch, with friendly and attentive waitstaff, especially David G, who has been praised for his professionalism and humor. However, the wait time on a busy night can be long, which might be a concern for some couples. Overall, Terra Mia is a great option for couples who want to enjoy a sophisticated dining experience with exceptional food, service, and ambiance.

Photo Terra Mia

Mistral Restaurant and Bar in Redwood City is a fantastic option for a romantic date night. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with an elegant touch that makes the experience feel special. The food is the highlight of the night, with a menu that is sure to impress. The seafood dishes, in particular, have received rave reviews from patrons. The outdoor seating area is a lovely option for those who prefer to dine al fresco, perfect for a summer evening. The only downside is that it may not be the most affordable option, but the quality of the food and service make it worth the splurge for a special occasion.

Le Petit Bistro is a French restaurant located in Mountain View, offering a romantic ambiance with authentic French cuisine. The restaurant has received rave reviews for its food and service, with customers praising the lamb chops and roasted duck. The sweets breads are a must-try and can be requested if enough people ask. The restaurant is low-key and doesn't do social media, which might be a plus for those seeking a more intimate setting. The audience skews older, and the restaurant has recently gone low-sodium, making it an excellent choice for those dining with parents. The only negative review mentioned the dryness of the roasted duck and the dislike for the duck liver.

Photo Le Petit Bistro

The Sea by Alexander's Steakhouse in Palo Alto is an upscale restaurant that offers an intimate and sophisticated ambiance, making it a great choice for a romantic date. The restaurant boasts of a menu that is focused on seafood and steak, with dishes that are beautifully presented and flavorful. The restaurant's attention to detail is evident in the quality of service, which is top-notch. While the restaurant is on the pricier side, the overall experience is well worth the cost. The restaurant's location is convenient, making it a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic night out.

Photo Pratik Bhattacharya

For couples looking for an intimate and romantic dining experience, Baci Bistro and Bar in Pleasanton is a must-visit. The restaurant's cozy ambiance, combined with its extensive wine list, provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable date night. The menu boasts a range of delectable Italian dishes, including the famous lamb shank and chicken marsala, which have earned rave reviews from patrons. The staff is known for their impeccable service and friendly demeanor, making for an enjoyable dining experience. The only downside is that it can get crowded on Friday nights, so it's best to call ahead and make a reservation.

Photo Emma Carreon

The Iron Gate in Belmont is a fine-dining establishment that exudes elegance and sophistication, making it an excellent choice for a romantic date. The restaurant has a separate bar section, which adds to the overall ambiance and provides an option for a pre-dinner drink. The food is exquisite, with steaks cooked to perfection and dishes like escargot and oysters Rockefeller that come highly recommended. The service is impeccable, with staff going above and beyond to make diners feel special. While it may be on the pricier side, it offers an experience that is worth the cost for a special occasion.

Bistro Vida, located in Menlo Park, is a lovely French restaurant that exudes a romantic ambiance perfect for a date. The restaurant's authentic French cuisine, paired with excellent service and a courteous staff, make for an enjoyable dining experience. The menu offers a variety of options, including gluten-free options, with generous portions that are worth the price. The restaurant is popular, so reservations are highly recommended. However, some reviews have mentioned that the service could be improved, with some customers experiencing delays in receiving their entrees. Overall, Bistro Vida is a great option for a romantic dinner date, with its cozy and intimate atmosphere, delicious food, and attentive staff.

Photo Bistro Vida

Vin Santo Ristorante in San Jose is an excellent choice for couples who love Italian cuisine. The restaurant's romantic atmosphere, friendly staff, and delicious food make it a perfect place for a date. However, one of the reviews mentioned that they served melting gelato without asking for the customer's preference, which can be a minor setback. The rotating menu might disappoint those who have their hearts set on a particular dish, but it also means that the restaurant is continually innovating. The outdoor patio is a great place to enjoy the meal, especially if you bring your furry friend along. Reservations are recommended to ensure availability. Overall, it is an impressive restaurant that delivers on taste, ambiance, and service.

Cetrella is a classy and sophisticated restaurant located in Los Altos, perfect for a romantic dinner date. The restaurant boasts a menu of delicious food, with plenty of options for those with dietary restrictions. The atmosphere is quiet and intimate, making it an ideal spot for couples. While the prices are slightly on the higher side, the quality of the food and the attentive service make it worth the cost. Cetrella is a great choice for those looking for a more upscale dining experience.

Photo Cetrella

If you're looking for a cozy and intimate Italian restaurant in San Carlos, 888 Ristorante Italiano is a great option for a romantic dinner. The ambiance and service have been praised by many, giving the restaurant a warm and inviting atmosphere. The food has also received high ratings, with many describing it as authentic and delicious. The wine selection is also noteworthy, making it a great spot for wine enthusiasts. While some dishes may not be as impressive as others, the overall quality of the food is still highly regarded. The limited seating may require a reservation, but the staff is exceptionally helpful, making the experience all the more enjoyable.

Thyme is an excellent choice for couples seeking a romantic dining experience in Palo Alto. The restaurant boasts an impressive menu with delectable dishes that are sure to impress. The service is top-notch, with friendly and passionate staff who go above and beyond to ensure that your dining experience is memorable. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic evening, with easy listening music and a quiet atmosphere that allows for intimate conversation. While the cost may be a bit steep, the quality of the food and service make it worth the splurge. Overall, Thyme is a fantastic option for a special night out with your significant other.

For couples looking for a classic, upscale dining experience, Porterhouse in San Mateo is the perfect choice. This steakhouse is known for its impeccable service, strong drinks, and perfectly cooked steaks that are sure to impress. Vegetarian options are also available, making it a great choice for couples with different dietary needs. The ambience is cozy and intimate, with an atrium seating option that adds to the romantic atmosphere. The noise level is kept low, allowing for easy conversation. While the waiter did disappear for a bit towards the end of one review, this seems to be an exception rather than the norm. Overall, Porterhouse is a great choice for a romantic dinner, especially if you're looking for a classic steakhouse experience.

Donato Enoteca in Redwood City is a great spot for a romantic dinner date that offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with a good selection of wine. The food is generally well-regarded, with the pork belly risotto being a standout dish. The wait staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the service is usually good, although it can be slow at times. The venue is elegant and perfect for parties, with private spaces available. However, some reviewers have noted that the wine selection is average and that some dishes, such as the braised lamb, are not as tasty as they could be. Additionally, there is a cake cutting fee of $3 per person. Overall, Donato Enoteca is a great choice for a romantic dinner date, especially for those looking for a quiet, intimate setting with good food and wine.

Osteria Toscana is a charming Italian restaurant located in the heart of Palo Alto. The restaurant offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere that makes it an ideal choice for a romantic date. The customer service is exceptional, with waiters who are friendly, accommodating, and engaging. The restaurant's vegetarian options are quite impressive, and the seafood pasta and salad are also worth trying. However, parking can be a bit tricky, and the prices are on the higher side, so it may not be suitable for those on a tight budget. Overall, Osteria Toscana is a great option for couples looking for a romantic dinner in a cozy and intimate setting.

Romantic Date Ideas: San Jose