10 Best Romantic Food Destinations in America, New Data Says
After a year and a half of seeing people sparingly, many singles have been eager to get back out there and start dating in person again.
Now that in-person dating is starting to feel a bit safer (thanks to COVID-19 vaccinations!), you'll be in need of some epic date night suggestions. Yelp and Tinder joined forces to uncover the top 10 cities for post-pandemic dating. Yelp and Tinder's data science teams linked up and examined five months' worth of data across the U.S. between January 2021 and May 2021, to uncover the best cities for daters.
To accomplish such a feat, they evaluated the cities with the highest match rates from Tinder and highest proportions of date-related categories on Yelp, identified by review text volume of date-related phrases, such as "date night," "for a date," and "on a date." Now, here is the top 10 spots for date night in the country.
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Please note: All of the included restaurants are open as of publication. However, please call or check the restaurant's website or social media before running out the door.
Jaguar Sun in Miami Beach, FL
According to Yelp and Tinder, Miami is "a dater's paradise." Reviewers recommend going to Jaguar Sun for the oysters, martinis, Cacio e Pepe pasta, and, most importantly, a date you won't forget.
"If I could give this place 10 stars, I would…Do not sleep on Jaguar Sun. A top to bottom delightful and magical culinary experience!" writes Lourdes D. of Miami, FL. Receiving rave reviews and ratings, this restaurant is at the top of the list for restaurants for date night in Miami.
Shift Kitchen + Bar in Flagstaff, AZ
Flagstaff is another travel destination where you'd come for the warm weather but stay for the cute restaurants. Shift Kitchen + Bar is known for its small plates that are meant to be shared—perfect for a romantic date! Plus, the dishes are created based on seasonal ingredients, so each dish is extremely fresh and unique.
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Sunset Drive-in Movie Theater in San Luis Obispo, CA
What's more romantic than watching a movie under the stars in beautiful San Luis Obispo, California? That's really hard to top! Guaranteed to dial up the romance, Sunset Drive-in Movie Theater is a great destination for a special date night.
There's even a concession stand with lots of great movie-viewing snack options from the classic popcorn and candy to nachos, churros, even a pulled pork sandwich! But, it's important to note that this spot is cash only, so make sure you bring a few bills.
Bottiglia Cucina & Enoteca in Henderson, NV
Right outside of the Vegas strip, Bottiglia Cucina & Enoteca in Henderson, Nevada is a favorite among many Yelp users. With a breathtaking atmosphere, this restaurant offers a rustic Italian menu that is not to be missed.
"A+++ where do I begin?…Good service, casual romantic setting, and top-notch food! I've already recommended a few couples to check it out when they come to visit." writes Jessica C. of Reno, NV. As far as what to order, the Wild Mushroom Tagliatelle and the King Crab Bucatini seem to be reviewer favorites.
Source in Boston, MA
Boston has got plenty of romantic and fun date night spots from restaurants to bars or even catching a Red Sox game at Fenway Park. But, if you're looking for a spot that will truly impress your date, Source is the place to go. Their menu is farm-to-table, boasting freshly made pizzas, pasta dishes, shareable small plates, and so much more.
It's even open on the weekend for brunch, if that's more your style. This restaurant is also only 5 minutes from Harvard Square, so if you're looking to extend your date just a bit longer, you have the perfect spot to peruse through post-dinner!
Wasabi in Fayetteville, NC
Sushi date, anyone? Wasabi in Fayetteville, North Carolina is a restaurant with a seemingly never-ending sushi roll menu that's sure to impress. Of course, they have the classics like Spicy Tuna and California Rolls, but this spot also offers more unique options such as the Pink Dragon Roll, Spider Roll, Army Roll, and Grenade Roll—all of which are highly rated by Yelp reviewers.
James G. of Fayetteville, NC writes, "Very good, very quaint and intimate. Excellent service and very good sushi, remarkably inexpensive compared to most high-end restaurants." Nothing like finding a date spot gem like this that doesn't break the bank.
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Upland Brewing in Bloomington, IN
Breweries are also a fun date night option if you're looking for something a little more lowkey and fun. Upland Brewing offers major throwback vibes to old-school pubs. There is no question that if your date likes beer, this is the place to come. The seasonal beers are always rotating, so you're bound to try something new every time you come in.
Not only does Upland Brewing have top-quality beers, but the food is also not to be missed, according to reviewers. Fried Cheese Curds, Upland Hot Chicken Sandwich, and Fish and Chips are among some of the items that caught our eye on the menu.
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Plumb Line Coffee in Clarksville, TN
There is something just so inherently romantic and cute about coffee dates, and if you find yourself in Clarksville, Tennessee, Plumb Line Coffee may just become your new go-to spot. Spend hours chatting while sipping on your favorite type of coffee—this place truly has it all. If you're looking to try something new, Yelp reviewers love the whiskey caramel latte.
Tupelo Honey in Myrtle Beach, SC
When you're in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, you absolutely need to try some classic Southern food. Tupelo Honey offers all of the favorite dishes like shrimp and grits, biscuits, and fried chicken—all in a cozy, romantic atmosphere.
"Every dish we had was top drawer, fresh and interesting and delicious. The cocktails were perfect. What a find this place is!" writes Karen B. of Clearwater, FL. "We had a wonderful romantic dinner here. The service was friendly and helpful, and the interior was airy and yet sophisticated, a nice combination of elegant yet casual."
Moonshadow in Los Angeles, CA
Dinner with a view off the California coast? Count us in! Maybe it's the saltwater misting off the ocean or the breathtaking sunsets, but romance is definitely "in the air" at Moonshadow in Los Angeles. This spot was named Travel Channel's "sexiest beach restaurant and bar in the world," and we can totally see why. All of the seafood options on the menu are caught fresh daily (and locally!), which is what really puts this restaurant on top.
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