5 Romantic Restaurants in the USA Worth Traveling For
Some restaurants are just so good that packing your bag and taking a flight to reach them doesn't seem all that outlandish. We’ve dined in restaurants where the ambiance felt like a dream, enjoyed meals crafted with artistry, and discovered intimate spots that turned evenings into a spectacular celebration. Here are the restaurants that really stood out, and I hope you’ll love them too.
Circa 1886 Restaurant - best tasting menu
Since we moved to the South, we've been back to Charleston, SC whenever schedule allows. Once of my favorite finds is this romantic restaurant inside the historic 5-star Wentworth Mansion. We booked a table to celebrate our anniversary and had their tasting menu which was one of the best ever.
The decor was romantic as well, with original woodwork, candles, and chandeliers. The chef changes the menu seasonally, which means every time you visit, you get to taste something different. It also means that the ingredients are as fresh as possible, as well as local.
You can easily make a weekend of if since Circa 1886 is located close to many downtown Charleston attractions. In fact, since the restaurant is inside Wentworth Mansion, you can book a room on-site. Nearby, you can explore historic sites like The Battery, Rainbow Row, and the Charleston City Market, take a historic carriage tour, visit the Gibbes Museum of Art or the Charleston Museum, stroll through Waterfront Park to see the Pineapple Fountain to work up your appetite. I love that there are so many different ways to create the most memorable romantic night out!
Chandlers - best for stakes
Ever since discovering the Idaho Potato Drop for New Year's in Boise, I've loved visiting this Idaho city. Discovering delicious steaks at Chandlers made me enjoy the city even more.
Chandlers is actually independently owned. You'll find it in Downtown Boise. The decor inside the restaurant includes dark wood, leather, and soft lighting. There's usually live jazz music playing.
In addition USDA Prime steaks, you can eat fresh seafood that's flown in daily, a raw bar, and different desserts. You can order à la carte or a curated multi-course experience. The wine list is award-winning and especially strong in big reds.
L'Auberge Chez Francois - best for French food
In the mood for a unique gourmet experience near Washington, D.C.? Check out L'Auberge Chez Francois in Great Falls, Virginia, just about a 20-minute drive from Washington, D.C.
The ambiance at the restaurant is like stepping into a countryside cottage. Decor includes rustic stucco walls, dark wood beams, and stained-glass accents too.
We adored the six-course prix-fixe dinner (complete with appetizer, salad, dessert, and those legendary soufflés). They truly feel like a dream feast for my birthday celebration this month.
I had lobster in Sauternes butter sauce, while my husband had seared foie gras. W admired the classic Châteaubriand made for two that the couple at a table next to us ordered.
L'Auberge Chez Francois is historic too, family run since 1954 (they moved the restaurant to Virginia in 1976).
My favorite part? Dining outdoors. The outdoor terrace and wine-and-beer garden (there are tables in the garden).
Cave Bistro
This bistro in Avon-by-the-Sea (about 1 hour 10 minutes from NYC), is one of the most exciting farm-to-table restaurants I’ve visited. When we lived in New York City for 10 years, it was one of our favorites to dine at on a day trip from NYC.
Located near the Jersey Shore, it’s the perfect spot for a weekend dinner after a beach day.
We loved how the space had a natural vibe. Warm tones and rustic touches gave the whole evening a cozy feel.
The menu was focused on organic, locally sourced ingredients with creative twists. I loved that our meal was fresh, healthy, and absolutely delicious.
I was blown away by choices like the crab cakes, fresh seafood specials, and plant-based entrées. In addition, everything was plated beautifully.
What I loved best:
We thought the pricing was fair for the quality!
Two Fish BYOB
This is one of those amazing hidden gems in New Jersey that I can’t stop recommending, especially if you love fresh seafood with a creative twist.
You will find it in the heart of downtown Haddonfield (1 hour and 45 minutes from our apartment in Manhattan).
They offer seafood dishes that are refined.
One of my favorite parts is that it’s BYOB, so you can bring your favorite wine to pair with the meal.
For me, Two Fish BYOB is one of the best romantic restaurants.
What I loved best:
The service was attentive, my favorite highlight.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
