Our Top 10 Date Night Restaurants in Austin

Date night is something we genuinely prioritize — not just as a dinner out, but as intentional time to reconnect. Over the years, we’ve learned that our favorite evenings don’t have to be fancy; they just need a relaxed and cozy atmosphere, quality food full of flavor, and friendly service that lets us settle in and stay awhile. As you’ll quickly notice, pizza and Tex-Mex show up often on our list (we clearly have our favorites!), but our go-to spots span everything from casual neighborhood joints to special-occasion sushi.

1. The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen

Why we love it: We had our first date at the Westlake location and always circle back to The Grove for their wide variety of menu options, relaxed atmosphere and wine flights.  I love the outdoor patio at the Westlake location and the view from the Lakeway location.

• Multiple locations: our two favorite are 

  • Westlake at 6317 Bee Caves Rd #380, Austin, TX 78746

  • Lakeway at 3001 Ranch Road 620 South, Austin, TX 78738

  • Additional locations in Northwest Hills and Cedar Park

• Website: http://www.grovewinebar.com/

• Price Range: $$ (about $20–30 per person for food)

2. Backspace

Why we love it: When downtown, Backspace is always a win for Neapolitan pizza, salads, and wine in a cozy and relaxed setting.

• Location: Downtown at 507 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78701

  *Anderson Lane location closed in 2025

• Website: https://www.backspacepizza.com/

• Price Range: $$ (about $20–30 per person for food)

3. Desano Pizza 

Why we love it: For a quick and easy night out, DeSano’s counter service hits the sweet spot between casual and truly great food. Pizza is made in an authentic Neapolitan style. We love the meatball pizza made Carnevale style where they fold ricotta cheese into the crust.  No matter which pizza we decide on, we always order the Caprese.

• Locations: Multiple locations.  We always go to the Burnet location at 8000 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78757

• Website: https://desanopizza.com/

• Price Range: $$ (about $20–30 per person for food)

4. Fresa's

   
   

Why we love it: Our go-to when we’re craving Mexican food and I get to choose the restaurant.  Flavorful and fresh whole chickens, tacos, bowls and more.  I love that you can get queso and a taco alongside crispy Brussels sprouts, grilled beets and cauliflower.  The cucumber cilantro margarita is so refreshing. 

• Locations: South First has a great outdoor vibe and Westlake has great views.

  • South First at 1703 S 1st Street, Austin, Texas 78704

  • Westlake at 3600 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Ste A-110, Austin, TX 78746

  • To-go only at 9th and Lamar

• Website: https://www.fresaschicken.com/

• Price Range: $$ (about $20–30 per person for food)

5. Eldorado Cafe

   
   

Why we love it: When we’re craving Mexican food and he gets to pick — just be sure to plan ahead and make reservations, because this casual, neighborhood spot fills up fast. Its non-distinct location in a strip mall could make you overlook this place, but this family owned and operated restaurant delivers classic flavors with great service. 

• Location: 3300 W Anderson Ln, Austin, TX 78757

• Website: http://www.eldoradocafeatx.com/

• Price Range: $$ (about $20–30 per person for food)

6. Azul Tequila

Why we love it: Perfect for those nights when we didn’t plan ahead and need a quick, casual Tex-Mex fix. Excellent margaritas, solid food, and consistently friendly service.

• Location: We always go to the Mesa Drive location at 8108 Mesa Dr, Ste C100, Austin, TX 7875. Second location on South Lamar.

• Website: https://azultequilatx.com/azuldrycreek

• Price Range: $$ (about $20–30 per person for food)

  
  

7. Carpenters Hall

   
   

Why we love it: A stylish and approachable choice located inside of the Carpenter Hotel, a boutique hotel built on the site of a former union hall from 1948. Offering southern-inspired cooking, the seasonal dishes (and staple “Hall Burger”) pair perfectly with drinks and conversation.

• Location: 400 Josephine St, Austin, TX 78704

• Website: http://carpenterhotel.com/restaurant/

• Price Range: $$ (about $30-40 per person for food)

• Vibe: Friendly and lively, great for casual dinner dates that still feel special.

8. Hopfields

   
   

Why we love it: A hidden gem gastropub in a cozy old house setting offering quality French-inspired food and drinks without the pretentiousness — perfect for mellow nights.

• Location: 3110 Guadalupe St, Ste 400, Austin, TX 78705

• Website: http://www.hopfieldsaustin.com/

• Price Range: $$  (about $30-40 per person for food)

9. Lenoir

Why we love it:  A farm-to-table gem with a chef-driven seasonal menu — perfect for when you want a more refined and romantic dinner.

• Location: 1807 S First St, Austin, TX 78704

• Website: http://www.lenoirrestaurant.com/

• Price Range: $$$ (about $50-60 per person for food)

10. Uchi Austin

    
    

Why we love it: Austin’s most celebrated sushi and Japanese destination — a go-to for special occasions or when you want to impress with innovative dishes.  Always memorable. 

• Location: 801 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

• Website: https://uchi.uchirestaurants.com/location/austin/

• Price Range: $$$$ (about $100 per person for food)