Romantic Candlelight Dining: Perfect Date Night Ideas

Romantic Candlelight Dining: Perfect Date Night Ideas

From cozy, intimate settings to luxurious fine dining experiences, there are numerous spots in Chicago to set the perfect mood for a romantic evening.

Whether it’s a first date or a significant anniversary, the city offers various romantic restaurant options that cater to all sorts of preferences.

Imagine indulging in a Michelin-starred tasting menu crafted by a talented chef duo, enjoying the melodic tunes of a live guitarist while savoring a sizzling fondue, or dining high above the cityscape with panoramic views. Each of these experiences is designed to make your date night unforgettable.

Geja’s Cafe

Geja’s Cafe has been a beloved spot in Chicago for more than half a century. Its inviting interior, resembling a cozy wine cellar, offers a romantic setting perfect for couples.

With curtained booths, candlelit tables, and live guitar music, the atmosphere ensures an intimate dining experience. The fondue menu, featuring everything from creamy Swiss gruyère cheese to rich Belgian chocolate, is cooked right at your table.

Whether for a first date or a significant celebration, Geja’s Cafe has witnessed countless love stories and engagements unfold.

Table, Donkey and Stick

Tucked away in Logan Square, Table, Donkey and Stick offers a cozy spot to dive into dishes inspired by Alpine culinary traditions.

With a Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction, this intimate eatery shines with charcuterie, seasonal small plates, and hearty European-style mains. The ambiance feels warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxed evening out.

The Press Room

The Press Room exudes a speakeasy ambiance with its soft lighting and antique-style decor. Tucked away in the basement of a building that’s been around for over a hundred years, this spot in the West Loop provides an intimate atmosphere.

Guests can enjoy carefully chosen wines paired with fresh pasta and tasty bites.

RPM Seafood

RPM Seafood is a chic dining spot overlooking the scenic Chicago River. It’s perfect for special events with its central waterfront location, full-service bar, and an extensive menu.

They offer fresh seafood, housemade pasta, and prime steaks, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience.

Francois Frankie

Francois Frankie offers a memorable experience with its unique rotating carousel bar. The American brasserie is tastefully decorated with rich jewel tones, original murals, and twinkling string lights that add a touch of elegance.

Their menu features an array of sophisticated options, including freshly shucked oysters, steak frites, and croque monsieur egg rolls, making it an ideal spot for a special evening out.

Bronzeville Winery

Bronzeville Winery is warm, spacious, and community-focused. Their fresh contemporary American fare pairs perfectly with a curated wine list featuring labels from women and minority-owned producers.

Located in a historic neighborhood, this chic spot also offers sounds from talented DJs and live musicians every week.

Boka

Boka stands out with its consistent Michelin star accolades since 2011, showcasing top-tier seasonal American cuisine. The atmosphere merges modern flair with vintage charm in Lincoln Park.

Known for its farm-to-table approach, the restaurant delights guests with dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, ensuring every meal is memorable.

Ella Elli

Ella Elli in Lakeview offers a unique blend of French and Italian culinary traditions. It’s a cozy spot where friends can gather and enjoy wine, cocktails, and small plates.

The intimate setting, complete with a fireplace and hidden alcoves, makes it perfect for sharing great food and conversation.

Segnatore

Segnatore shines by blending Italian culinary traditions with Midwestern flavors. Nestled in Humboldt Park, this spot offers a unique twist on comfort food.

The interior features a moody atmosphere that complements its inventive menu, making it a cozy choice for a night out. With dishes rooted in local herbs and ingredients, it uniquely honors Midwestern culture while drawing inspiration from Italy’s rich history.

Sapori Trattoria

For a cozy evening out in Lincoln Park, Sapori Trattoria offers a delightful mix of traditional Italian comfort food. Guests can enjoy antipasti, fresh pasta, and homemade desserts in a setting that’s both classy and relaxed. The option to dine on the patio adds to the charm.

The Dawson

In River West, The Dawson embraces the neighborhood’s history with an upscale industrial charm. The menu, featuring globally influenced American dishes, highlights seasonal ingredients such as fresh seafood and vibrant vegetables.

Perfect for date night, patrons can enjoy the cozy patio with its outdoor fireplace or the warmly lit dining room for a truly memorable experience.

Trivoli Tavern

Nestled in a quaint West Loop cobblestone courtyard, Trivoli Tavern stands out as a hidden gem. The dining room exudes an old-world charm, featuring dark wooden accents and furniture illuminated by a soft, warm glow.

Diners can indulge in coal-fired seafood, fresh oysters, and perfectly grilled steaks and chops, all complemented by a selection of robust beverages.

Momotaro

Nestled in the West Loop, Momotaro offers modern Japanese fare in a chic atmosphere. The main dining area boasts a sleek design coupled with a menu that mixes age-old flavors with new-age techniques.

Diners can enjoy dishes like the Imperial strip steak roasted over hot coals or perfectly sliced sashimi. For a post-dinner experience, patrons can visit The Izakaya downstairs. This underground bar is adorned with hand-painted menus, moody neon lights, and a selection of cocktails, sakes, and Japanese whiskeys.

Gilt Bar

Gilt Bar is a cozy and romantic spot, perfect for a memorable date night. This unique venue features red velvet booths, soft candlelight, and a bar accentuated by gilded mirrors, creating an intimate and stylish atmosphere.

The menu offers a variety of contemporary American dishes designed for sharing, including house-made pasta, seafood, and wood-fired entrees. The cocktail menu showcases classic favorites, making it an excellent choice for an evening out. If there’s a wait, guests can head downstairs to The Library, a more secluded drinking area that adds to the overall charm of Gilt Bar.

Sepia

Located in a building that once housed a print shop from the 1890s, Sepia exudes understated elegance. The interior, featuring brick and wood elements, reflects Chicago’s rich history while presenting a modern dining experience.

Chef Andrew Zimmerman curates a menu that highlights locally sourced ingredients, celebrating their intrinsic flavors with seasonal dishes. A well-rounded selection of cocktails and wines enhances the intimate dining experience, making it an exceptional choice for a romantic outing.

Elske

Elske, which translates to “love” in Danish, is run by a husband-and-wife team, adding a personal touch to the dining experience. The minimalist interior, soft lighting, and cozy patio with a working fireplace create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Diners can enjoy a tasting menu that includes several courses of beautifully presented, seasonal dishes, or opt for the a la carte offerings to sample Elske’s distinctive take on Danish cuisine. The combination of ambiance and culinary artistry makes it a go-to spot for a heartfelt evening.

Bavette’s Steakhouse & Bar

Bavette’s Steakhouse & Bar offers a sophisticated twist on the classic steakhouse.

With its dim lighting, plush leather booths, and mirrored walls, the setting is both luxurious and inviting. The menu features traditional steakhouse favorites like chilled seafood towers, baked crab cakes, and premium cuts of meat.

For dessert, the chocolate cream pie is a must-try, providing a sweet ending to a night of fine dining.

The timeless decor and delectable dishes make Bavette’s a prime choice for a romantic dinner.

Editorial Credit: Taylor Crowley shared under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International.

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Anthony Blackies

Meet Anthony Blackies, the passionate Italian-American behind "Blackies Chicago." Inspired by his heritage and Chicago's vibrant food scene, Anthony shares authentic recipes and explores the city's culinary treasures on his blog. From iconic deep-dish pizza to neighborhood delicatessens, he invites readers to savor Chicago's flavors through his flavorful stories and homemade dishes.