When it comes to romance, the right restaurant can make all the difference. Whether it's the warm glow of candlelight, an intimate ambience, or a decadent menu designed to be shared, these restaurants are perfect for an unforgettable date night. From elegant European fare to modern Australian cuisine, here are five of the best romantic dining spots to visit.
For more than two decades, Nilgiri’s has been a beloved destination for couples seeking an elevated Indian dining experience on Sydney’s lower North Shore. The restaurant’s open kitchen offers glimpses of skilled chefs at work, adding to the theatre of the evening, while a spacious dining area is accented with vibrant colours for a lively yet intimate setting. Certified halal, the menu blends traditional Indian flavours with creative contemporary twists, making it a perfect place for an indulgent night out.
Start your meal with chicken tikka cooked to perfection in the tandoor or crispy cauliflower samosas paired with tangy tamarind and kokum chutney. For mains, the rich and aromatic butter chicken is a must-try, served with steamed rice, papadums and mango chutney. Meat lovers will relish the Kolhapuri lamb, slow-cooked with yoghurt, masala, sesame and poppy seeds, while vegetarians will delight in the eggplant in tamarind, coconut and sesame sauce. For something truly special, try the Khandeshi goat, where tender yearling goat is slow-cooked in a fragrant coconut sauce with chillies, cassia, pepper, sesame seeds and tomatoes.
Clock by the Bay – Portland, VIC
Housed in a historic post office on Cliff Street, Clock by the Bay is a romantic gem along the Great Ocean Road. With large arched windows offering stunning views, soft lighting and an inviting atmosphere, this venue blends classic elegance with coastal charm. Whether you choose to sip a glass of wine inside at a warm wood-toned table or enjoy the sea breeze dining alfresco, this is the kind of place where time slows down, allowing you to savour every moment.
Known for its seasonal Modern Australian menu, Clock by the Bay serves up locally inspired dishes with a focus on quality ingredients. The signature beef Wellington is an autumn and winter favourite, featuring tender beef wrapped in prosciutto, double brie and flaky puff pastry, served with onion jam, mustard, Parish mash and Shiraz jus. During warmer months, expect an emphasis on fresh seafood, paired with a curated selection of wines, including Clayfield Winery’s finest drops from the Grampians.
Willo Parramatta – Parramatta, NSW
For those who love a blend of modern sophistication and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, Willo Parramatta is the ultimate date-night spot. This chic restaurant and bar on Smith Street exudes elegance, with natural light streaming in through full glass frontage, round wooden tables, and a stylish cocktail bar that beckons for a pre-dinner drink. Whether you’re sharing a meal with someone special or diving into the nine-course chef’s tasting menu, every dish here is a work of art.
Start your evening with a vibrant kingfish ceviche drizzled with yuzu dressing and citrus fruit, or opt for hand-dived Hokkaido scallops accompanied by a rich Jerusalem artichoke purée and a hint of chilli oil. For the main course, the slow-roasted lamb shoulder is a must-try, served with harissa, pomegranate, and mint, alongside crispy baked potatoes and crispy eggplant. If you’re looking for the full experience, the chef’s tasting menu offers a culinary journey designed for sharing—a perfect way to make your evening extra special.
Harrison’s Food & Wine – Hamilton, NSW
Tucked away in Newcastle’s dining precinct, Harrison’s Food & Wine brings European romance to Hamilton with its intimate, candlelit setting. Sea-green walls adorned with vibrant artwork, crisp white tablecloths, sparkling glassware and lush potted greenery set the scene for a sophisticated yet cosy night out. With a focus on expertly paired wines sourced from the Hunter Valley and beyond, this fine dining venue is a dream for wine-loving couples.
The menu is equally indulgent, offering small plates like kingfish ceviche with finger lime and caviar, before moving on to rich, comforting dishes designed for sharing. The 10-layer Wagyu beef lasagne is a standout, served with a fresh garden salad, while the heritage pork shoulder with parsnip purée and rhubarb glaze is both hearty and refined. For an elegant finish, the Basque baked cheesecake is an irresistible choice. If you’re after a showstopping main, the confit duck à l’orange with braised witlof, jus, and a side of chat potatoes and greens delivers the perfect balance of tenderness and flavour.
The 203 – Fortitude Valley, QLD
For steak lovers with a passion for Italian flavours, The 203 in Fortitude Valley is a must-visit. This Brisbane hotspot is a seamless blend of refined yet relaxed, with plush booth seating, an open kitchen, and an effortlessly stylish ambience. The menu pays homage to premium Australian beef, prepared with expert precision, alongside traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist.
Kick off your date night with kingfish crudo, delicately balanced with blood orange, rhubarb, organic capers and olive oil. From the grill, the 42-day dry-aged tomahawk steak is a showstopper, served with a rich peppercorn sauce, shoestring fries and a crisp romaine salad. If you're in the mood for pasta, the lobster linguine with limone, aglio, olio, pepperoncino and basil is a luxurious treat. Other standout dishes include the Wagyu bone-in sirloin, roasted pumpkin cappellacci and, of course, the signature 203 double-smashed cheeseburger. End your night on a sweet note with a classic tiramisu—because no romantic meal is complete without dessert.
Whether you're in the mood for slow-cooked Indian delicacies, a Mediterranean feast, a candlelit European experience, or a sizzling steak, these romantic venues offer the perfect setting to celebrate love. With exquisite food, intimate atmospheres and impeccable service, each restaurant on this list promises a dining experience to remember.
Now, all that’s left to do is book a table and enjoy the romance.
