Where to Eat on Your Next Date Night in Saratoga Springs
From the First Date to the First Anniversary & Beyond
With so many great restaurants in the Saratoga area from global cuisine to fine dining to superb pub fare, it can be tough choosing a date night spot! We've taken the guesswork out of narrowing down your choice by dividing some of our favorites into restaurants excellent for a first date, places to go when you're upping your game, and the top notch establishments that you'll want to seek out for special occasions or anniversaries.
Jump to: First Date | Upping the Game | Special Occasions
Keeping It Casual But Elegant: Where to Go on That First Date
When we think first date we think relaxed, hip, and fun. You're just getting to know each other and you're not celebrating any milestones yet. But, if you end up continuing to date and the relationship progresses, your first spot might just become your go-to spot, so choose wisely!
Boca Bistro
Boca Bistro specializes in Spanish cuisine and tapas. This is a great place to get small plates to share, they also have a superb wine list, and reviewers rave about their happy hour.
Cantina
Cantina is the go-to place for a first date with a Mexican flare. After a few of Cantina's margaritas, you'll be laughing like old friends! We especially love the tables for two on the front patio, where you can sit and people watch together.
Forno Bistro
This Tuscan-style restaurant has an awesome covered patio and a totally refurbished inside that will get you both in a romantic mood. Since Forno Bistro is known for their wood-fired pizza, we recommend getting two to split.
The Hideaway
The Hideaway at the Saratoga Lake Golf Club is open to the public and serves everything from a build-your-own-burger option to a variety of sandwiches and more. We love this spot for the spacious views you can enjoy together from the patio—although you're in Saratoga Springs you'll feel like you whisked your date away to the country.
Harvey's Restaurant
For a pub atmosphere with an intimate patio setting and way-above-average food check out Harvey's Restaurant. The Congress Park Carousel is within walking distance of the restaurant, so stop by after dinner for some playful, sweet times at this historic spot or walk around the park together.
The Local Pub & Teahouse
A pub and teahouse with both an Irish and English vibe is what you'll find at the Local Pub & Teahouse. Get cozy in one of their booths as you dive into their delicious pub fare, enjoy some organic tea, or try one of their delectable cocktails. They're also known for their fabulous brunch, if you're looking for a more unique first date.
Bonus tip: This restaurant is adjacent to Beekman Street, so you can plan a date around checking out the art galleries in this lively district.
You've Been Together Awhile: Where to Go When You Want to Up the Game
Things are going well, you've been out together several times, and have developed the beginnings of what could be a long-term relationship. Here's where to go when you need to shake things up, try something new, or up your game. These are also great restaurants for celebrating small milestones, like a birthday or a new job.
The Brook Tavern
The Brook Tavern has many tempting options, and you can't go wrong with any! This restaurant offers a wide variety of both large and small plates, and casual and formal fare ranging from "tavern tacos" to filet mignon. It's easy to cater to you and your date's preferences!
Chianti Il Ristorante
Chianti Il Ristorante highlights authentic Italian cuisine from the northern part of the country. Reviewers talk about the falling-off-the-bone tender osso buco, the welcoming ambience, and the exceptional service. If you think "Italian food" when you think "date," this is the place for you!
The Olde Bryan Inn
If you visit in the winter make sure to sit by the fire at the rustic Olde Bryan Inn, situated in a Revolutionary-era house. Check out scrumptious sandwiches, steaks, and more - reviewers sing the praises of the prime rib, turkey dinner, and chicken cordon bleu.
The Wishing Well Restaurant
A little out of town on Route 9 in Gansevoort, the Wishing Well is a gorgeous, lodge-like restaurant with an Adirondack vibe that is perfect for year-round dates. And, bonus: They're also a spectacular wedding venue if things are getting really serious!
The Wine Bar
The Wine Bar offers an inviting atmosphere where couples can unwind over an extensive selection of wines, handcrafted cocktails, and shareable small plates. From artisan charcuterie boards to delicious appetizers, it's an ideal spot for a date.
The Thirsty Owl
For couples who enjoy great wine and locally inspired cuisine, Thirsty Owl Saratoga is a wonderful date night destination. Whether you're sharing a wine flight, enjoying dinner together, or simply relaxing with a glass after exploring downtown, Thirsty Owl offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for any occasion.
It's Anniversary - Or Proposal! - Time: Where to Go for Special Occasions
For your first anniversary to any milestone moment, the below restaurants are where you'll want to go when you're going all out for an incredible dining experience with your favorite person.
Morrissey's Lounge & Bistro
For amazing cocktails and upscale dining with a twist, check out Morrissey's Lounge & Bistro in the Adelphi Hotel! The bistro has an incredible variety of dishes—such as lamb tenderloin and pappardelle Bolognese—along with an entire sushi menu, all prepared by their fantastic chefs.
Morton's the Steakhouse
Celebrate an anniversary or a big win at the slot machines at Morton's The Steakhouse, located in the Saratoga Casino Hotel. Book a room for the evening and make a night of it!
Heritage Restaurant at Saratoga National
Heritage Restaurant, formerly known as Prime, is located at the gorgeous Saratoga National Golf Club, and you'll impress your significant other from the moment your drive inside the gates and make your way through the rolling hills of the golf course. If the weather is nice we suggest dining outdoors - they have one of the best patio dining experiences in Saratoga!
Salt & Char
This steakhouse in a stylish atmosphere also serves up delicious seafood and exceptional sides. Salt & Char also occasionally offers tasting dinners, which could be perfect for an upscale date night.
15 Church
If you're planning a special night out, 15 Church is one of Saratoga Springs' premier fine dining destinations. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, marking a milestone, or simply treating your partner to an unforgettable evening, 15 Church provides a sophisticated setting and outstanding service for a memorable date night.
Finding Your Perfect Saratoga Date Night Spot
From low-pressure first dates over shared small plates and a casual drink, to milestone anniversaries celebrating over exceptional fine dining, Saratoga Springs offers an unforgettable backdrop for romance.
No matter which stage of your relationship you are celebrating, the perfect date night ultimately comes down to sharing incredible food, an inviting atmosphere, and quality time with someone special. Cheers to your next night out in Saratoga!
Check out our Romance Itinerary for more date ideas in Saratoga »
