I often get emails asking me where a special place to celebrate an anniversary or a romantic birthday is. So, after many times answering emails, I thought it’s time I just write an article on the most romantic restaurants in Atlanta.

Atlas – Located inside the St. Regis hotel in Buckhead, Atlas is uber romantic and diners are surrounded by a superb collection of fine art from Van Gogh, Picasso and many other famous painters. My favorite dishes here are the lobster en croute and the rabbit sausage. But oh my goodness – the raspberry hibiscus doughnuts. You really can’t go wrong when you take a date to this romantic hotel restaurant!

Wisteria
Who says Southern food can’t be elegant? Not Wisteria. This restaurant, housed in a historical brick building with exposed ductwork is sophisticated yet trendy at the same time. Unless you are a wine aficionado, let your server select a wine, as the wine “book” is quite long. Can’t miss starters like butter bean hummus and tuna tartare are the perfect start to a meal. Their signature entrée, a molasses pork tenderloin is artfully presented.

STK

STK is the epitome of sexiness when it comes to Atlanta restaurants. The swanky atmosphere is perfect for a romantic birthday dinner. Sip on a colorful cocktail as you nuzzle up to your sweetie in the comfy booths. Indulge in a lamb shoulder starter or beef tartare. But make sure to get one of their signature steaks. Read about my killer STK experience during my Midtown staycation.

Bistro Niko
Part of the Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, Bistro Niko has a lovely patio as well as a beautiful interior, both perfect for a romantic dinner. French food and romance pair so well together. But don’t worry – the food is isn’t escargot and frog legs. The menu is made up of decadent pastas and dishes you’ll recognize.

5Church

This chic Midtown restaurant is sure to impress with its dark walls, plush leather booths and feathered lights. Food like the pastami cured Hamachi, or pigtail croquettes are my favorite share plates at 5Church, which is located at Colony Square adjacent to the W Midtown Atlanta hotel. Even for a brunch date, this restaurant is high on romance. Click on that link <—- and see more sexy photos!

Arnette’s Chop Shop
Ask to sit at one of the booths against the back wall at this cooler than cool steak house in Brookhaven. Oh and put your experience in the hands of the chef and let him pick a curated experience for you. You won’t be disappointed.  Service is top notch and staff will go above and beyond the make sure your evening is outstanding. Enjoy one of their Manhattans or Old Fashioned’s to start your evening. See pics from and read about the must have steak you have to have at Arnette’s.

10 Degrees South
After many years, there is still nothing like 10 Degrees South, the only South African restaurant in Atlanta. The subtle lighting and white tablecloths complete the romantic feel for this Buckhead restaurant. Start with the calamari or Sosaties (skewered beef in a apricot curry sauce). The ostrich is a good entrée choice as are any of the fish options. Don’t miss out on the terrific selection of wines. I love the quiet ambiance – perfect for your romantic evening of good food, wine and conversation.

Aria
Set in a converted house in Buckhead, Aria is the perfect place for a memorable evening. The menu contains a nice selection of traditional American foods but also has some more daring items for foodies. They are often touted for their phenomenal dessert selection; so don’t overlook that during your romantic evening.

Cape Dutch
The smart design completely separates the bar from the main dining room, so diners don’t have to hear the gregarious bar patrons while trying to enjoy an elegant dinner. Everything in the decor from the gorgeous lighting fixtures to the comfortable seating, oozes sophistication. It’s a terrific special occasion restaurant. Don’t miss out on the Venison carpaccio. Get the Elk or Veal and have your server recommend a lovely red to pair with it. We had the perfect romantic date night at Cape Dutch – read about it and see my pics here.

Polaris 

Does it get more romantic than a revolving restaurant with tremendous views of the Atlanta skyline? Well, yes, if you dine at Polaris atop the Hyatt in downtown Atlanta. They’ve got their own bourbon program, so definitely enjoy one of their bourbon inspired cocktails. And they small menu lends itself to sharing. Get the grouper cheeks and jump asian spiced when available. Of course you don’t want to miss out on any of their sinfully delicious desserts! Read my delicious post from Polaris and see why I think this spot is uber romantic.

TWO Urban Licks
Consistently rated highly as the restaurant to impress someone, TWO lives up to the hype. Besides the lovely view of the Atlanta skyline, the 14-foot wood-pit rotisserie tower in the center of the dining room is quite impressive too.  Cozy up to your date and sip on their expert cocktails. Salmon chips are a terrific way to start your meal. Scallops, fish and steak – you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here.