Pricey five-star restaurants aren't the only way to go when treating your date to a romantic meal in Austin. These intimate dining spots aim to please, covering a handful of tastes, from award-winning sushi to quaint French fare. Rated as one of the "Top Five New Restaurants in Texas," Uchi is very romantic with dimly lit lanterns. If you want some privacy, the sushi bar is for you. For appetizers, try the Muscovy duck and the baby bok choy and shiitake mushrooms. Make sure you leave some place for desserts; regulars rave about the chai tea creme brulee.
For some cozy Italian dining, visit Vespaio. This neighborhood eatery is supremely romantic, and a well-kept secret among the Austin dining elite. The chef lines up a delectable menu of fine Italian favorites. The service is pleasant and the prices are reasonable. The wine selection is extraordinary with more than 30 wines by the glass from which to choose. Dessert options are well worth the indulgence. The wait for a table has become legendary, but the food more than makes up for it.
If you're craving some fabulous French fare, Chez Nous is definitely worth a visit. With fusion food on the rise and the word "bistro" thrown around willy-nilly, it is comforting to find an authentic one of the French variety. Enjoy homemade pate, roasted chicken and crepes, all wonderfully executed and served in a cozy, dimly lit dining room dominated by a long bar. Try the salade Chez Nous, and do not miss the crepe du jour. The lights are dim, the food is great and the service is impeccable. So go ahead, indulge in that romantic dining experience you've been dreaming of at these Austin restaurants.
801 South Lamar Boulevard
Japanese gem...
1610 South Congress Avenue
Cozy Italian dining...
13614 Highway 71 West
Irish cuisine in a romantic cottage setting...
510 Neches St
French bistro tucked off Sixth Street...
6203 North Capital of Texas Highway
Building B
Upscale Tuscan cuisine...
914-C Congress Avenue
1st floor
Each dish handcrafted by the head chef...
3509 Ranch Road 620 North
Upscale restaurant with wild game specialty...
303 Red River Street
Shine on...
2905 San Gabriel
Flavors of the Mediterranean...