11 Most Romantic Restaurants In Boston
Valentine's Day shouldn't be the only evening to bring that special someone out to a romantic dinner. Oftentimes, it is more intimate to celebrate being together just because, so here is a list of the most romantic restaurants in Boston.
L'Espalier
One of Boston's longest-standing fine dining institutions, L'Espalier is the epitome of a romantic culinary experience. From the greeting at the street level entrance, to the maître d' who is waiting for you upon your exit from the elevator, your evening will be fine-tuned without being overly stuffy. Begin your meal with a cocktail in the lounge and then swoon over to a two-top in their dining area. Enjoy chef Frank McClelland's gorgeous and delicious artistry through his hand crafted and carefully balanced prix fix menus. Extensive wine lists are a natural way to up the romantic ante and of course, don't leave without sampling selections from their impressive cheese cart.
Bastille Kitchen
One of the newest additions to the Fort Point area is Bastille Kitchen. French cuisine is famously romantic by nature, but it is the wonderful space at 49 Melcher Street that provides the perfect backdrop for true love. With a long, open bar — perfect for a pre-dinner drink — you can proceed to the dining area where tables are set far enough apart that you and your date enjoy an intimate dining experience. The lighting and décor are also perfectly in tune with the lavish wood and deep reds in the décor. More secluded dining options are also available, should you wish for an even more intimate experience.
No. 9 Park
Barbara Lynch's culinary pillar, No. 9 Park is a perfect spot for a romantic evening. Sit down at a table to try the prix fixe menu, or enjoy an intimate evening at the bar where you can order most of the dishes they offer. Their secret cocktail list, extensive wine program, and location overlooking the Boston Commons will greatly enhance your dining experience.
Menton
Also from Barbara Lynch, Menton, the only Relais & Chateau restaurant in Boston, is a must for romantic dining in Bean Town. This spot offers an upscale dining experience; there is no bar, and they only offer prix fixe menus. Everything from the initial greeting to the last fleeting taste at the end of your meal is perfectly executed by the well groomed team. Head down to Drink at the end of your meal to further enjoy the craft cocktail talent in this row of restaurants on Congress Street.
Bondir – Cambridge
From Jason Bond, Bondir in Cambridge is the perfect intimate and off-the-beaten-path eatery. Romance is oozing out of the tiny brick building that marks the original of chef Bond's two restaurants. A fireside chat in the lounge area is just one way to begin your evening before heading to one of the few tables to further enjoy the New England cuisine featured and executed through French technique on the menu.
Bistro du Midi
Located across the street from the Public Gardens, Bistro du Midi is another French restaurant in Boston that is befitting romantic diners. The expert staff will lead you through a menu catered to your liking, with a choice of a la carte or prix fix options. Their wine list, curated by Todd Lipman, is sure to impress any connoisseur, and their chocolate soufflé (which requires twenty five minutes to prepare) rounds off the meal with a decadent moment.
Harvest
Tucked away down an alley in Harvard Square, Harvest is a sure bet for a romantic dinner. If you plan your trip during the warmer months, you may be able to request a table on their outdoor patio garden. Chef Mary Dumont and pastry chef Brian Mercury work together to create a full menu designed to stimulate the taste buds in exciting but subtle ways. The bacon butter rolls are a fan favorite and certainly start things off on the right foot.
Neptune Oyster
A list of the top romantic eateries in Boston would be incomplete without reference to Neptune Oyster; what better way to enjoy an evening with that special someone than over some of the best seafood in town? The small space takes no reservations, but it is located in the heart of the North End, which presents a perfect opportunity to stroll through the crooked streets, stumble upon a pre-dinner cannoli or glass of wine, and then head back to tuck into platters of oysters and other fruits of the sea.
asta
For something a little different, experience a tasting menu from asta on Mass Avenue. With a choice between three, five, and eight courses, the latter offers the most interesting concoctions from chef Alex Crabb and his kitchen staff. The open kitchen inside a small restaurant creates a bond between you and those who are creating your dinner, a sure bet for a memorable meal.
Oleana
Escape to the Mediterranean at Oleana in Cambridge, where chef Ana Sortun and her killer staff offer a menu of interesting and exotic flavors. Everything is fresh and authentic, inspired, and creative, and it all comes together to create a feeling of romance, inside and out.
Salts
One of Boston's hidden gems is Salts in Cambridge. Understated yet intriguing, consistent yet adventurous, Salts is a wonderful place to try out new things without straying too far into the unknown. Each dish is prepared with attention to detail and execution. Eat here and your meal is sure to be a beautiful and intimate experience.