17 Romantic Restaurants in Boston for Your Next Night Out

If you are looking for a romantic restaurant in Boston, Massachusetts, then you’ll want to check out one of Boston’s fine high end restaurants and eating establishments. With many different styles and cultures of cuisines, and a myriad of upscale atmospheres, the romantic restaurants in Boston have more to offer than meets the eye.

If you or someone you know is planning a romantic Boston getaway, you could treat them to a meal via GiftYa! GiftYa digital gift cards function just like every other gift card. It lets you make purchases at a participating bar, restaurant, or store. However, unlike with traditional gift cards, you can keep them on your phone rather than in your wallet.

You never have to worry about misplacing them or forgetting to take them with you. You can also set up the balance via the GiftYa app with an existing card for extra convenience. Here’s a list of some of the top rated romantic restaurants in Boston, many of which are supported by GiftYa!

1. The Oceanaire Seafood Room

A beautiful dining experience with all the delicious seafood you could ask for.

Purchase a GiftYa for The Oceanaire Seafood Room

40 Court St | Downtown | theoceanaire.com

Located in Boston's bustling financial district, The Oceanaire Seafood Room is a beautiful place for you and a loved one to dine. Their seasonal Valentine’s Day cocktail— the Blushing Rose —is available for the entire month of February.

These restaurants are all over the country, not just in Boston, and there’s far more than just specialty cocktails and wine on the menu. Between the oysters, appetizers, soup, salad, steakhouse cuts, simply prepared dishes, and chef’s specialties, you won’t want to miss out on this menu.

The Oceanaire Seafood Room was established in 1988. This romantic restaurant in Boston has also won several awards as a national chain.

• Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence
• Tripadvisor’s Certificate of Excellence Award for Superior Service
• Opentable’s Special Occasion Restaurant
  

“I had a great time celebrating my birthday. The service is great, couldn't ask for more. They were attentive and helpful in my decision making for my meal. I recommend [it] if [you're] looking for great seafood!” -Yelp Review.

Purchase a GiftYa for The Oceanaire Seafood Room

2. Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Great service and steak at this landmark location in Boston.

Purchase a GiftYa for Ruth’s Chris Steak House

45 School St | Downtown | ruthschris.com

This popular Boston steakhouse is located in the landmark Old City Hall, so you can sightsee in Boston while you eat as well as on either side of your meal! The setting isn’t the only reason why it's become a favorite of locals and tourists alike, however.

The USDA Prime steaks at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse are the star of the show, but they’re also well known for their seafood, sides, craft cocktails, and desserts! Not only is the food delicious, but the service is great!

“This was a nice way to end the trip in Boston. I was very impressed with the service. Our waitress was on top of it and very attentive. The restaurant atmosphere is awesome.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa for Ruth’s Chris Steak House

3. Mastro’s Ocean Club

Delicious dishes right on the Boston harbor.

Purchase a GiftYa for Mastro’s Ocean Club

25 Fan Pier Blvd | South Boston | mastrosrestaurants.com 

This restaurant right on the Boston waterfront has gorgeous views, so it’s definitely a great spot for a romantic evening dining out on the harbor. This restaurant is fairly upscale, so they enforce a dress code. It’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a fine dining experience in Boston.

On the menu you’ll find appetizers, sushi, soups, salads, steaks, seafood, and much more. In addition to dine-in, they also offer pick-up, delivery through a variety of platforms, and event catering.

“As we walked in, we had a very nice welcome by the hostess, then were ushered to what I consider the best seat in the house. Our table had the best view of the Charles River.” - Yelp Review.

Purchase a GiftYa for Mastro’s Ocean Club

4. Mamma Maria

Impress with crowd-pleasing Italian cuisine in a cozy setting.

3 North Sq | North End | mammamaria.com

What does love look like to you? If you answered sharing a delightful traditional Italian meal at a charming old restaurant in the North End of Boston, do we have good news for you! Settle into this cozy, romantic restaurant surrounded by Boston’s famous red brick buildings. Whether you’re a Boston local or you’re just stopping through, you’ll appreciate the intimacy of Mamma Maria’s atmosphere. 

Add in an amazing menu (that goes for the food and the wine), and we’re sure you’ll be joining the countless other satisfied diners who have rave reviews about Mamma Maria’s food and service.

“The food was absolutely incredible. I went with my boyfriend for our anniversary and our waiter, Mario, treated us like royalty. I could not say enough nice things about this restaurant!” - Yelp Review

5. Grotto

Perfect for a romantic first or thousandth date.

37 Bowdoin St | Downtown, Beacon Hill | grottorestaurant.com 

You’d never guess by looking at Grotto’s modest location, tucked away in a subterranean lot in Beacon Hill, what a romantic restaurant this Boston staple truly is. If you’ve been to Grotto, you know that there’s a good reason the restaurant has been receiving praise for its decadent contemporary Italian cuisine since it opened its doors in 2001.

Inside, you’ll find exposed brick walls and crystal light fixtures that give the whole restaurant a warm, romantic intimacy. Plus, the artwork featured throughout the restaurant was created by local artists, making Grotto a uniquely Boston experience. 

With traditional Italian fare like risotto, Bolognese, and spaghetti on the menu, you can be sure that whether it’s a first date or you’ve been together for years, you and your date will leave the restaurant with full stomachs and smiles on your faces. Definitely consider adding this one to your date night list!

“Everything was fabulous, only regret was eating too much bread and I couldn't finish my dessert (not in character for me at all). But it's so tempting to keep asking for bread.” - Yelp Review

6. Sorellina

Italian-Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist in Back Bay.

1 Huntington Ave | Back Bay | sorellinaboston.com 

This restaurant is in a great area of Boston, making it the perfect place to stop for a romantic, sit-down dinner. The chef and owner Jamie Mammano takes pride in dishes inspired by Italian and Mediterranean cuisine with a modern interpretation.

For dinner at Sorellina there are first and second course selections, as well as pasta and side dishes for you to choose from. There’s also delicious desserts options and a wine list that’s a cut above the rest.

“I had the bone-in veal Milanese, which is perhaps the most perfectly cooked veal I've ever had anywhere… just a hair short of “eyes rolling in the back of the head” good.” - Yelp Review

7. Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse

A classic American steakhouse on Boston’s waterfront.

Purchase a GiftYa for Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse

250 Northern Ave Ste 200 | Seaport | delfriscos.com

Whether it’s for dine-in or carry-out, you can find traditional American steak at this classic restaurant. Located in Boston’s Seaport district on Liberty Wharf, you won’t want to miss out on this menu.

There’s a great selection of wine for you to choose from, and Del Frisco’s also pride themselves on great service. But besides the steaks and wine, you can order a shareable dish, seafood, side, or dessert. The current special is a Valentine's dinner for two— five dishes over the course of your evening.

“Had dinner there Saturday night for our wedding anniversary. Our server, Jasmine, was absolutely amazing! Very attentive, knowledgeable, and personable… The whole experience from start to finish was perfect.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa for Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse

8. Giacomo’s Ristorante Boston

What could be more romantic than an amazing Italian meal?

355 Hanover Street | North End | www.giacomosboston.com

Giacomo’s Ristorante is a local favorite option for a romantic night out, and honestly, is it any wonder why? The warm lighting, the red brick, the charming balconies with garden boxes… it all gives us major Lady and the Tramp vibes. 

Treat your special someone to a big plate of pasta, mouthwatering ravioli, toasty Italian bread, and fine Italian wine. It’s sure to be a night you won’t forget!

“Giacomo's gets a lot of hype but doesn't flaunt it. There's no fanfare, when it's your turn to be seated you are waved in. And you order food, and the food is very good.” - Yelp Review.

9. Deuxave

Add a little extra romance with the elegant ambience of Duexave.

371 Commonwealth Ave  | Back Bay | deuxave.com

Nobody does romance quite like the French, and nobody does French quite like Deuxave. Named the Best French Restaurant of 2017 by Boston Magazine, Deuxave has just been building on its excellent reputation since then. 

Deuxave offers plenty of fancy French fare, so if you’re looking to impress your special someone on a first date or for a big event, Deuxave is the place to be. Enjoy delicacies like lobster gnocchi, seared foie gras, Nebraska Prime strip steak, and 9-hour French onion soup. You’re sure to leave satisfied!

“This restaurant was phenomenal. Came here for our anniversary. For me, this is a special destination restaurant. If you want to spend a special night on the town, this little hole in the wall right on Comm Ave is ideal.” - Yelp Review.

10. Ma Maison

Fall in love with Ma Maison’s delicious food and romantic atmosphere.

272 Cambridge St | Beacon Hill | www.mamaisonboston.com

How do we love Ma Maison? Let us count the ways… the charming dining room, the romantic fairy-lit patio, not to mention the incredible French cuisine. It’s no wonder Ma Maison is a must-stop spot on Boston locals’ list of most romantic restaurants in the city.

Whether you love a good lamb chop or prefer to savor scallops on a nice night out, Ma Maison’s food, wine, and cocktail menus have something for everyone. And definitely don’t forget about dessert!

“I am so happy to enjoy a birthday dinner with them. The ambiance was nice and cozy. The host and staff were super nice and friendly. My foie gras was brilliant(ly) seared and tasted good.” - Yelp Review.

11. Toro

Upgrade date night with a romantic reservation at Toro.

1704 Washington St | Worcester Square | toro-restaurant.com 

Want to try something different for your romantic night out? Whether you’ve never heard of tapas or you consider yourself a tapas aficionado, you’ll be impressed by the flavor-packed Spanish cuisine here. Open at 5pm daily, you’ll want to call ahead to reserve a seat inside or in Toro’s recently renovated outdoor dining area.

Not so long ago before Toro started taking reservations, you could find Bostonians lined up out the door to get a table. Thankfully, you can now conveniently make a reservation with Resy.

“Perfect date night! We came here for dinner on a Wednesday night and Toro was packed. Luckily, we got seated right away [on] the back patio with no reservations… beautifully setup with great heaters. We were very warm!” - Yelp Review.

12. Ocean Prime

One of the most romantic restaurants in Boston.

Purchase a GiftYa for Ocean Prime

140 Seaport Blvd | Waterfront | ocean-prime.com

With seafood, steak, signature cocktails and a Wine Spectator approved wine list, it’s no wonder why customers love Ocean Prime for a romantic evening out. They take their hospitality and safety policy just as seriously as their delicious dishes.

You can order Ocean Prime for takeout and delivery as well as dine-in, if you want a romantic evening with great food from the comfort of your own home. But the restaurant is a great dining atmosphere, if you do decide to go in person.

“This restaurant does not disappoint! The cocktails were delicious and the Black Orchid cocktail was unique: came with a beautifully designed ice ball with real orchids--very refreshing… Next time I would love to try the lobster bisque.” - Yelp Review.

Purchase a GiftYa for Ocean Prime

13. Carmelina’s

A Twist on Traditional Italian Food That Is Fresh and Flavorful

307 Hanover St | North End | carmelinasboston.com

Known as Boston’s Little Italy, the North End is home to countless amazing restaurants – but Carmelina’s is one of the most romantic. Family owned and operated, Carmelina’s has such a following that stars like Billy Joel and Benedict Cumberbatch have even stopped by for dinner!

Take a seat in the cozy dining room, dimly lit with warm red brick walls or amid the twinkling lights outside – either one is the perfect ambiance for a romantic meal. The crazy alfredo, frutti di mare, and gnocchi al forno get rave reviews, so be sure to try one – or impress by making a mouthwatering recommendation to your date!

“Obsessed. Food was DELICIOUS! We got to enjoy outdoor seating during the fall with twinkly lights. Perfect date spot!” – Yelp Review

14. Pescador

Cozy Coastal Grill Perfect for Date Night

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cq70OYiu-Yz/

498 Commonwealth Ave | Kenmore Square | pescadorkenmore.com

It’s hard to make a splash in Boston’s seafood scene – after all, there are countless amazing restaurants serving up lobster, crab cakes, and more caught right off the Massachusetts coast. Pescador is a relative newcomer, opened in just 2022, and also has fresh, New England seafood… but with a twist. Inspired by a variety of international coastal cuisines from Andalusia to Argentina, Pescador’s menu has everything from poke to paella and much in between.

“Wow, what a great new addition to Kenmore Square. The decor, music, feel upon entering transports you to a scenic, romantic, cobblestoned bistro in South America. The oysters, calamari, steak, lobster, you name it, try it all. Will be coming back again!” – Yelp Review

15. Saltie Girl

Best Lobster Rolls in BeanTown, Who Dis?

279 Dartmouth St | Back Bay | saltiegirl.com

Saltie Girl may have a reputation for some of the best lobster rolls in the city, but it’s so much more than that. Clam chowder? Check. Scorched salmon belly? Oh yes. Not to mention the oysters, the poke, and even the quail.

With President + Culinarian Kathy Sidell and head chef Kyle McClealand at the helm, it’s no surprise that Saltie Girl is the kind of place that everyone from brunch girlies to chefs wants to dine at.

“Food was delicious!! So many flavorful options! Our service was great, walked through the menu, made suggestions, always checked in at the right time! It's a super cozy, romantic spot!” – Yelp Review

16. Barcelona Wine Bar

Tapas and Chill, Anyone?

525 Tremont St | South End | barcelonawinebar.com

Barcelona Wine Bar may not be at the “tapas” of our list today, but that’s not because it isn’t incredible. The warm, welcoming space is inspired by the cuisine and culture of Spain – and it comes through in every bite. From the spiced beef empanadas to the patas bravas to the bacon wrapped dates, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.

And with an award-winning selection of Spanish wines, you’re sure to find the perfect pairing.

“One of my favorite spanish tapas restaurants! I have been here numerous times and it reminds me of the food in spain! Spectacular menu and my favorite is the potatas bravas and the sangria. The starter bread is also very delicious and warm. Good service and the vibe is nice. Would recommend for a nice date night!” – Yelp Review

17. Fox and The Knife

An Award-Winning Italian Neighborhood Joint by Chef Karen Akunowicz

28 W Broadway | South Boston | foxandtheknife.com

Traditional Italian food updated for the modern diner – that’s what you’ll find at Fox and The Knife. Walk-ins are welcome at the family owned and operated restaurant, but a reservation is worth it. Inspired by James Beard Foundation Best Chef Winner Chef Akunowicz’s time in Modena, Italy, you’ll taste the flavors of the Tuscan countryside in every bite.

“Everything about our experience at the Fox & The Knife was exceptional. The minute we walked in we were greeted by name. Our waitress was friendly, informative and attentive. Our food was served promptly and was so delicious I'm still thinking about it.” – Yelp Review

There you have it, a list of romantic restaurants you can find in Boston with options to fit your appetite and your wallet.

Even if you didn’t find what you’re looking for here, however, GiftYa has something to offer for everybody when they are in Boston looking for romantic restaurants. Whether or not you pick a restaurant supported by GiftYa, you are sure to get a delicious meal in Boston.