25 Best Richmond Restaurants for Romance

© Max's on Broad

Max’s on Broad is a spacious two-floor Belgian eatery on Brook Road with lovely views over Broad Street. Owned by Ted Santarella, Max’s has an air of an old European brasserie with octagon tile floors and décor elements of iron, wood and brass, and boasts an appropriately Belgian and French menu.

Try French favorites such as onion soup, foie gras, and beef carpaccio, or one of the tasty sandwiches for lunch. Great dinner picks include grilled ahi tuna, jumbo crab and short rib ravioli. MAX’s on Broad offers a selection of over 100 wines by the glass, half-bottle or bottle, as well as craft beers and cocktails. If you are celebrating a unique occasion, Max’s on Broad is one of the best Richmond restaurants for couples. 305 Brook Rd., Richmond, 804-225-0400

© Millie's Diner

You can’t beat the weekend brunches and jukeboxes at every table, when you visit Richmond’s landmark eatery, Millie’s Diner, which serves some of the best American diner fare in the city. Sip a delicious mimosa while enjoying a Devil’s Mess omelet or treat yourself with the Huevos Rancheros. Stop by for dinner and try the grilled quail.

London-born musician Paul Keevil opened the restaurant in 1989 and later brought on partner Lisa Edwards in 1991. Relax in the restaurant’s friendly, cozy, eclectic atmosphere at Millie’s Diner in Richmond’s Shockoe Bottom district. 2603 2603 E. Main St., Richmond, 804-643-5512

© Lemaire

Dine in elegance at the fabulous Lemaire which serves farm fresh, New American cuisine with Southern influences, made with locally-sourced ingredients. Stop in and try the delectable Blistered White Corn Bisque (with bacon and crab) or the Garlic-Crusted Outer Banks Mahi-Mahi – and wash it all down with a fabulous signature cocktail, like the Pom Queen.

Executive Chef Walter Bundy has been running the kitchen since 2001, bringing his creative imagination and Southern twists to the exquisite dishes. You’ll find Lemaire inside the iconic and historic Jefferson Hotel, centrally located in the heart of downtown Richmond. 101 West Franklin Street, Richmond, 804-649-4629

© Heritage

Housed in a stylish dining space, Heritage is a contemporary eatery that serves a menu of New American cuisine and sophisticated cocktails. Run by a trio of family members, namely Chef Joe Sparatta, who creates the delectable dishes on the menu, his wife, Emilia, who takes command of the front of the house, and her brother, award-winning bartender Mattias Hägglund, Heritage offers guests an unrivaled fine dining experience.

The menu features creative dishes such as Hanger Steak with purple potato gratin, and Hudson Valley Duck with vegetable fried rice and Korean chili paste. For dessert, don't miss the black forest cake with chocolate mousse or housemade ice cream. The restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday - Sunday. 1627 West Main Street, Richmond, 804-353-4060

© L’Opossum

Headed up by multi-award winning chef David Shannon, L’Opossum is one restaurant you absolutely have to visit on your next romantic night out in Richmond. Part adventure, part pure gastronomic bliss, this restaurant just keeps hauling in rave reviews. Your dining adventure starts with the eclectic décor, extravagant table settings and the carefully constructed menu designed to excite the taste buds and keep you guessing. The food is equally exciting and comes to the table presented as a work of art. Just a few of the signature dishes include their Escargot on a Ham Biscuit and the Vegan Orgy on a Texas Beach.

L’Opossum, 626 China Street, Richmond, VA 23220, 804 918 6028

© The Tobacco Company Restaurant

Dramatically set in an historic tobacco warehouse which was built in 1866, the Tobacco Company Restaurant features open brickwork, exposed metal beams and a three storey atrium with an antique elevator. The entire building is filled with historic charm and boasts many specially selected antiques to round off the décor. You can start your romantic night out with a drink in the down-stairs cocktail bar before moving to the dining room rooms above. The menu is modern American bistro fare featuring a good selection of appetizers, steaks and signature house specials including their Cajun Catfish with house-made andouille sausage.

The Tobacco Company Restaurant, 1201 East Cary Street, Richmond, VA 23219, 804 782 9555

© Old Original Bookbinder's

Richmond’s Old Original Bookbinder’s is an upscale steak and seafood restaurant, situated inside a beautifully refurbished former tobacco warehouse. You can’t go wrong with the bold flavors and amazing dishes, like the Titanic Appetizer Platter, the Cider-Glazed Double cut Pork Chop, or the Miso-Glazed Chilean Sea Bass.

Although Bookbinder’s has a rich history that started in the 1800s in Philadelphia, current owner John Taxin and his family opened a location in Richmond over 30 years ago. Enjoy your fabulous meal in a charming alcove or out on the patio at Bookbinder’s, located on in the Shockoe Bottom district. 2306 East Cary St, Richmond, 804-643-6900

© Julep's New Southern Cuisine

Located in the heart of the historic river district in downtown Richmond, Julep's New Southern Cuisine, owned by Amy Ayers, is famous for its modern take on classic Southern cuisine. Elegant atmosphere, and charming, friendly staff combine with outstanding cuisine to create a must-try dining experience.

Dishes such as the braised rabbit with dumplings, shrimp-and-grits, and crispy fried green tomatoes reflect Southern flavors of Savannah, Charleston, Atlanta and New Orleans while Old World wines and genteel cocktails provide the perfect accompaniment. 420 E. Grace St., Richmond, 804-377-3968

© Anthony's on the Hill

Anthony’s on the Hill is a family-owned neighborhood restaurant that serves traditional Italian cuisine with the freshest ingredients at the corner of 29th and Broad streets. Pizza bases are crispy and thin, and topped with homemade sauce and freshly picked herbs.

Pasta and other favorite Italian dishes such as the chicken parmesan are just as delicious, and a small, but quality lineup of canned and bottled beers, from Fat Tire to Virginia-brewed Full Nelson, meet the necessary pizza-and-beer-combo requirement. 2824 E Broad St, Richmond, 804-344-3374

© Lehja

Lehja is an exceptional Indian restaurant that will satisfy even the toughest Indian cuisine critic. Conveniently located on West Broad Street, Lehja serves traditional and popular Indian dishes with a contemporary flair in a casual, cultured and easy-going setting.

Four unique dining areas offer a different dining experience with each visit, and dishes range from traditional street fare favorites of chaat to classic meals like chicken tikka masala served mild or hot with creamy tomato and fenugreek sauce.

An outstanding wine list is the perfect accompaniment to the menu while the elegant bar and lounge feature an array of signature cocktails and spirits. Short Pump Town Center, 11800 West Broad street Suite 910, Richmond, 804-364-1111

© The Roosevelt

Located in a turn-of-the-century building in Richmond’s oldest neighborhood, The Roosevelt is an award-winning restaurant run by Chef Lee Gregory, whose untraditional menu celebrates the food of the South.

The Roosevelt opened in 2011 to public and has been serving favorites like the Southern poutine and lamb sausage, the roasted catfish served with rice grits, and the peanut butter pie with whipped cream. The famous bar boasts an all-Virginia wine list, regional beers and an array of signature cocktails that will leave you wanting more. 623 North 25th Street, Richmond, 804-658-1935

© Tarrant's Cafe

Once a famous corner drug store, Tarrant's Café is an upscale eatery that offers all-American fare in a casual, cozy setting. Based in the historic building known as Tarrant’s that sold glasses and medicinal remedies, the celebrated neighborhood café-style restaurant features high ceilings, wooden booths and chandeliers to create an elegant ambiance. The extensive menu features an array of delicious options, ranging from brunch and lunch to dinner specials, pizza and mouthwatering desserts.

Paying homage to its past, the ‘prescription list’ features an array of sublime cocktails, as well as fine wines, craft beers, and spirits. If you are in a hurry to explore the city sights, order sandwiches to go and have a romantic picnic in the park. 1 West Broad Street, Richmond, 804-225-0035

© Amuse Restaurant

Located at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Amuse Restaurant offers fine dining with a view of the museum’s Sculpture Garden and the Atrium. A modern interior with glass walls reflects the Museum’s design style, while an elegant patio is ideal for soaking up the sun over lunch or cocktails (which change with the exhibitions at the museum) during happy hour.

The restaurant serves a seasonally changing menu prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Amuse is a must-try for art lovers planning to spend a morning at the museum. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Boulevard, Richmond, 804-340-1580

© Buz and Ned's Real Barbecue

Buz and Ned’s Real Barbecue has been one of Richmond’s longtime go-to places for real barbecue, brisket, pork, and ribs. Boasting an encyclopedic knowledge of barbecue, Buz and Ned’s is a Southern authority on smoked meat, drawing barbecue -lovers from all over to savor the mouthwatering menu served to the tunes of Chicago blues music. If one rack of ribs isn’t enough, try the baby back ribs and beef ribs, served with garlic toast and collards with bacon lardons. Wash it all down with a range of local and regional microbrews. 8205 W. Broad St., Richmond, 804-346-4227; 1119 North Boulevard, Richmond, 804-355-6055

© Chez Foushee

Located in the heart of the Richmond Art’s District, Chez Foushee has been a favorite local eatery since 1989. The interior of the restaurant is elegant and sophisticated – ideal for a special romantic night out. The all-women kitchen crew is dedicated to offering diners a true taste of France, using only the freshest locally-sourced produce to bring you honest French cuisine that will captivate your taste buds. The menu changes with the seasons but will typically offer a selection of appetizers and salads followed by authentic French-inspired entrees – classis Steak Frites is always on the menu. To make the evening especially romantic you can pre-order flowers for the table.

Chez Foushee, 2 E. Grace Street, Richmond, VA 23219, 804 648 3225

© The Boat House at Rockket’s Landing

You just can’t beat a great waterfront view to set the scene for a romantic night out. The Boat House has just what you need to impress your partner – great views, excellent ambiance and fabulous food. The restaurant menu is extensive and offers a wide choice of delicious seasonal dishes to suit all tastes. There are many delicious options for vegetarians and vegans and the crab cakes are rumored to be the best you will ever try. Signature house favorites include the Shrimp Scampi, Salmon Mushroom Risotto, classic Shrimp and Grits, New England Clam Chowder and their Broiled Seafood Combination.

The Boat House at Rockket’s Landing, 4708 E. Old Main Street, Richmond, VA 23231, 804 622 2628

© La Grotta Ristorante

Bringing all the wonderful flavors and aromas of Northern Italy to the heart of Richmond, La Grotta Ristorante is eminently perfect for a special romantic dinner. The restaurant is located in the historic Shockoe Slip districts, where it is headed up by Chef Antonio Capese, who has been perfecting Italian cuisine since he was 15 years old. The warm and inviting interior of the restaurant is the perfect backdrop to your Italian fine-dining experience. The menu starts off with a choice of delicious antipasti including Italian charcuterie plates, fried calamari and several salads. The pasta is all home-made and is followed by a choice of delectable entrees to suit all tastes.

La Grotta Ristorante, 529 E. Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23219, 804 644 2466

© Can Can Brasserie

Can Can Brasserie is inspired by the avant garde establishments which popped up all along the Paris left bank in the 1900’s. It provides a unique backdrop to some great French-inspired food and drink in the heart of Cary. The restaurant is perfect for a celebratory dinner or a romantic night out, offering a warm ambiance and a good selection of French favorites on the menu. The dinner menu starts off with traditional hors d’oeuvres like escargot, beef tartare and baked brie, alongside some decadent oysters and other sea foods from the raw bar. These are followed by salads and soups, appetizers and hearty entrees, including the ever-popular Steak Frites.

Can Can Brasserie, 3120 W. Cary Street, Richmond, VA 23221, 804 358 7274

© Olga/stock.adobe.com

Portico Restaurant’s country-like setting on River Road is reminiscent of the Napa Valley, making it an ideal choice for a romantic date night dinner. There is a huge outdoor, candlelit terrace for alfresco dining, surrounded by beautifully tended flower, herb and vegetable gardens. Indoor seating with garden views is available if preferred. Portico serves delicious, classic Italian cuisine, using many of their own home-grown vegetables and herbs. The menu starts off with a selection of hot and cold appetizers, followed by soups, main-course salads, pastas, pizzas, sea foods and hearty entrees. You can choose the perfect wine to suit your meal from their carefully curated wine list.

Portico Restaurant, 12506 River Road, Richmond, VA 23238, 804 784 4800

© Stella'a

Stella Dikos has been bringing the vibrant flavors and aromas of Greece to Richmond Virginia for more than 60 years. Today Stella’s is known for its romantic vibe and for the excellent food that will make its way to your table. Stella’s serves rustic and Modern Greek cuisine, leaning heavily on age-old flavors and traditional methods to ensure authenticity. The menu starts off with a large selection of appetizers (meze) to get your taste-buds clamoring for more – the Grilled Octopus and the Mushroom Saganaki get rave reviews. There is always a choice of soups and salads before you come to the hearty entrees and decadent desserts.

Stella’s, 10-12 Lafayette Street, Richmond, VA 23221, 804 358 2011

© Buckhead's

Regularly mentioned as one of Richmond’s best dining establishments, Buckhead's is an excellent choice for a romantic night out. The friendly staff, warm wood paneling and the long wooden bar contribute to the welcoming ambiance. This popular restaurant/chop house prides itself on serving only the best local Beef and the freshest fish and sea food in town, all cooked to perfection by the enthusiastic kitchen team. In addition, Buckhead's is famous for its wonderful selection of wines (more than 700 labels), single-malt Scotch and small-batch bourbons. Their list of house-trimmed and matured steaks is impressive, as is the fresh fish and sea food menu and the fabulous desserts.

8510 Patterson Ave, Richmond, VA 23229, 804 750 2000

© Rowland

Using the freshest seasonal ingredients and loads of creative flair, Bruce and Virginia Rowland bring extraordinary flavors to Richmond’s historic Fan District. Their food is always fresh, always tasty and often very inventive, making this eatery a good choice for an impressive romantic dinner. You can get your evening off to a great start by choosing one of their classic cocktails while you browse the menu. Innovative appetizers include a delicious vegetarian Butter Bean Cake and a Pork Carnitas Spring Roll. Entrees like Pecan Crusted Port Chop and Cider Brined Cornish Hen come with unusual and delicious vegetables, garnishes and house-made sauces. Be sure to leave some room for one of Virginia’s decadent desserts.

Rowland, 2132 W. Main Street, Richmond, VA 23220, 804 257 9885

© Shagbark

Fresh seasonal produce sourced from local farmers, fishermen and other artisans will always be at the heart of the food that comes to your table at Shagbark, which takes its name from the wood of the Hickory Tree which is widely used to cure meats and flavor various foods. The restaurant serves Modern American cuisine with a distinct southern twist and is a great romantic option for adventurous diners. Appetizers include Chicken Fried Oysters, Butter Poached Ricotta Ravioli and their signature Fried Green Tomatoes, served with Gulf Shrimp and Okra. Entrees include enticing dishes like their Thyme and Butter Roasted Swordfish, Slow-cook BBQ Pork Chop and the Seared Duck Breast.

4901 Libbie Mill, East Blvd, Richmond, VA 23230, 804 358 7424

© The Grapevine

Bringing together the best flavors and traditions of the Mediterranean, the Grapevine is a unique Greek and Italian Restaurant which has been pleasing Richmond palates for close to 30 years. The Grapevine has some of the friendliest wait-staff in town and the ambiance is perfect for a memorable romantic dinner. Delicious appetizers include Greek Spanakopita (spinach and feta in pastry) alongside Italian Caprese Salad and Mozzarella Sticks. Soups and salads include their signature Big Fat Greek Salad before you get to the mouthwatering entrees which feature several Greek and Italian pasta dishes (gluten free options available), chicken, veal and sea food. There is also a choice of Pizza and Mamma Mary’s delectable desserts.

11055 Three Chopt Road, Richmond, VA 23233, 804 440 9100

© guruXOX/stock.adobe.com

You will find the perfect candle-lit ambiance for a night of romantic dining at the historic Halfway House Restaurant on the Petersburg Turnpike. The historic old building was formerly a stage-coach stop and dates back to 1760. It is filled with beautiful period pieces to provide a genuine atmosphere and guests are welcome to take a tour of the property. The cuisine is mainly Modern American, with a slight nod to southern influences. Favorite appetizers include Scallops au Gratin and Fried Green Tomatoes, while the entrée menu features hearty Slow-Roasted Prime Rib, Fresh Atlantic Salmon and Chesapeake Crab Cakes, to name just a few. You can round off your meal with a home-made dessert.

10301 Jefferson Davis Hwy, N. Chesterfield, VA 23237, 804 275 1760