A Taste of Love: Exploring the Romantic Dining Scene in Gainesville, Georgia
There are plenty of reasons thousands of people decide to move to the beautiful city of Gainesville, Georgia, every year. Among these reasons is the city’s excellent dining scene, characterized by its high quality and wide variety.
When planning a romantic dining experience, plenty of Gainesville, Georgia, residents are looking for a new restaurant to experience. Fortunately, the City of Gainesville has much to offer if you are looking for delicious traditional Italian cuisine, classic southern seafood, or anything in between.
Here are a few of our top picks for romantic places to dine in Gainesville.
1. Cotto Italian
Located on Spring Street in Downtown Gainesville, Cotto Italian has quickly established itself as a modern Italian favorite. In addition to the always-reliable pizza Napoletana, some top dishes include seafood fra diavolo, a delicious salisiccia alla griglia (grilled Italian sausage), several world-class salads, and more. Cotto offers the perfect blend of old and new Italian cooking styles.
2. Consuelo
Consuelo is one of Gainesville’s top authentic Mexican restaurants and is open every Monday–Saturday from 11 am to 9 pm. In addition to a menu featuring traditional dishes and shareable appetizers (though you might have a hard time sharing), Consuelo offers a wide variety of tequilas and margaritas, perfect for any occasion.
3. The Stag
The Stag Chophouse was recently recognized as “Gainesville’s top restaurant for premium steaks and cocktails,” a title that anyone who has been there will agree is well-deserved. Premium appetizers include fried calamari, crab cakes, and the always-popular tomato sliders. Try the steak sandwich, chicken risotto, or glazed salmon for main courses. And, of course, no meal here can be complete without a handcrafted cocktail.
4. Standard Service
Recognized for its top-notch “bar, bites, and beers,” Standard Service is a fun and exciting establishment distinguished by a retro-diner exterior and exposed brick interior. Open for lunch, brunch, and dinner, Standard Service has gained praise for its fun atmosphere, tasty burgers, local beer selections, and undoubtedly above-standard service.
5. Cork It Wine Bar & Payton’s Pie Company
Gainesville’s Cork It Wine Bar is the perfect location to unwind after a long day and to take your loved one on a special occasion. Cork It offers a bespoke wine menu featuring red, white, and sparkling wines from more than a dozen different countries. Be sure to check out Payton’s Pie Company for the perfect end to any special night.
6. Soco Seafood
Soco, located in Gainesville, is a Peruvian restaurant committed to creating authentic and inspired dishes with only the freshest ingredients. Among the restaurant’s many different seafood specialties—each made with some distinct Peruvian flair—we recommend lobsters, prawns, and mussels. It is the perfect destination for any well-rounded foodie.
7. Luna’s
If you are looking for a romantic destination—and might even be thinking about “popping the question”—look no further than Luna’s. Recognized for its excellent cuisine, romantic atmosphere, and high-quality menu, Luna’s is the perfect destination for any special occasion. The fireplace and live piano lounge will help make the night even more memorable.
8. Hopscotch Tapas
Located directly beneath the Blue Door Comedy Club (a great spot to wrap up a date night), Hopscotch is a delicious tapas restaurant with an ever-evolving menu. The restaurant features traditional Spanish small plates, along with several features inspired by other culinary traditions. Some recent favorites include the calamari and the crusted cod over crab cakes.
9. Dinner and a Show at Bourbon Brothers
Lastly, a list of worthwhile Gainesville dating destinations can only be completed by mentioning the Bourbon Brothers. In addition to its extensive drink and cocktail menu, you’ll find a variety of smokehouse classics and a strong rotation of live music.
In Gainesville, there is always somewhere new to explore!