A great date night calls for more than just good food—it’s about the atmosphere, the service and the little touches that make an evening special. Whether you’re after waterfront elegance, an intimate hideaway or a place with a touch of old-world romance, we’ve rounded up some of the best venues to set the mood for love.
Perched on the edge of the Georges River, Jaaks offers a refined take on Greek and Cypriot cuisine in an intimate waterfront setting. Tucked away in The Kyle Bay, this hidden gem is a feast for the senses, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing breathtaking views and a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes you feel like family from the moment you walk in.
For those looking to impress, Jaaks’ six-course degustation menu is the way to go. Each dish transports diners to the heart of Greece, starting with delicacies like tender octopus with tomato, olives and risoni, followed by quail served with creamy skordalia and kefalograviera. The show-stopper? A perfectly cooked lamb main with potato, horta and lemon velouté. Finish on a sweet note with a rich walnut moustokoulouro and salted caramel—an indulgent end to a romantic night.
For something a little different, head across the River Derwent to Gastown East, a Canadian-inspired eatery in Bellerive. With a chic, modern interior featuring deep green walls, dark timber furniture and an open kitchen, it’s an intimate space that blends warmth with style. A communal picnic-style table and an alfresco dining area overlooking the water add to its relaxed yet sophisticated vibe.
The share-style menu makes it easy to mix and match dishes, making for a playful dining experience. Start with the beloved Canadian staple, poutine—crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds and rich gravy—or opt for something sweeter like the ‘Hockey Puck’, a doughnut with custom toppings. For mains, the pork belly with tomato and chorizo cassoulet is a standout, served with fried breadcrumbs and a hit of chipotle.
Aji Japanese Cuisine – Mount Lewis, NSW
For a date night with a little mystery and flair, Aji Japanese Cuisine in Mount Lewis delivers. The moody, industrial-chic space features slate walls adorned with samurai swords, dark wood accents and soft lighting, setting the scene for an indulgent Japanese feast.
The menu is as refined as the setting, with sushi, sashimi and grilled seafood taking centre stage. Start with delicate salmon tataki, dressed with apple ponzu and basil oil, or try the grilled scallops in miso mornay sauce. The signature nori tacos are a must—think grilled miso salmon wrapped in seaweed, topped with avocado and a silky yuzu mayo. For something more decadent, the grilled lobster served alongside fresh salmon sashimi makes for a truly memorable meal.
Royal Indian Hut – Paradise Point, QLD
For those craving spice and tradition, Royal Indian Hut in Paradise Point is a charming escape. The restaurant’s unique décor—featuring a thatched ceiling, neon-lit hanging umbrellas and authentic Indian accents—creates an immersive experience before the first bite even hits the table. With alfresco seating for balmy evenings, it’s an ideal spot for a laid-back yet flavour-packed date night.
Start with a classic chicken tikka, marinated in spiced yoghurt and cooked to smoky perfection in the tandoor oven. If you're in the mood for something unexpected, the tandoori chicken pizza with capsicum, cheese, onion and mint sauce is a fusion delight. For mains, the slow-cooked goat on the bone, simmered in a rich onion and tomato gravy, is a bold and hearty choice. And of course, no Indian feast is complete without the ever-popular butter chicken—creamy, rich and served with fluffy naan and fragrant saffron rice.
Mr Vincenzo’s – Mornington, VIC
With its 1970s coastal aesthetic, Mr Vincenzo’s is a stunning ode to Italian nostalgia on the Mornington Peninsula. Overlooking Mornington Park and the bay, this inviting venue is awash with warm, sunny hues, cork accents and vintage photos of the Napolitano coastline. The laid-back yet elegant vibe makes it an effortlessly romantic setting.
The menu is steeped in classic Italian flavours with a contemporary twist. Begin with pork meatballs in sugo, topped with Grana Padano and fresh dill, or opt for the delicate hiramasa kingfish crudo dressed in blood orange and preserved orange dressing. For mains, the lobster tortelloni is a showstopper—plump pasta parcels filled with sweet lobster meat, swimming in a luscious bisque butter sauce with a hint of fennel. Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine, and you have a date night to remember.
From elegant waterfront dining to cosy, dimly lit spaces, each of these venues brings something special to the table for a memorable date night. Whether you're after refined degustation, bold global flavours or playful share-style dishes, the right setting can elevate a simple meal into something truly unforgettable. So, book that table, order a bottle of wine and let the romance unfold.
