Date Night in the City :: 8 Boston-Area Restaurants for Reconnecting With Your Partner

October 21, 2022

couple holding wine glasses at a restaurant, toasting their date night in the city

Nurturing the relationship with your partner can be hard work. And we all know how elusive the date night can be — finding a babysitter and securing a dinner reservation can be enough of a logistical nightmare that we default to staying in… again.

But it’s worth the effort of getting out of the house, dressing up a little, and making it feel like a special night. (Even if it’s an early night.) Whether you live in Boston or the ‘burbs, get your babysitter lined up, grab your date-night shoes, and head out for a little fun and food at one of these fabulous date night restaurants near Boston!

Sarma :: Somerville

A Somerville must, this restaurant boasts a host of beautiful and delicious Turkish-inspired small plates designed to share. The flavors of the dishes are complex, well-balanced, and out of this world. We always leave thinking, “How do they do that?” The decor is beautiful and will leave you feeling like you’ve arrived in a hip restaurant right in Istanbul.

Neptune Oyster :: North End

The North End is known for its abundance of Italian food, but Neptune Oyster is one of the few non-Italian restaurants going strong. We are lucky to get some of the best New England oysters here in our city, and Neptune Oyster doesn’t disappoint. You’ll enjoy the laid-back vibe and tastes of the clam chowder or fried clams. Not to mention they have one of the best lobster rolls in all of New England: warm, buttered, and fancy-like.

Hojoko :: Fenway

Sushi lovers, rejoice! You’ll find a rock-and-roll-style, casual vibe when you walk in. This restaurant was the brainchild of the pair that brought O Ya to the scene. Hojoko is a Japanese tavern-style restaurant, where you’ll find a great beer/sake list and everything from sushi rolls to chicken ramen designed to go hand in hand with the mood of the restaurant. It’s super hip, super casual, and full of soul.

Giulia :: Porter Square

Homemade pasta — need I say more? This place is cozy, quite romantic, and not a place for the kids, which makes it a perfect date night spot. The menu is amazing, consisting of antipasti, small plates for sharing, or larger plates including unique homemade pasta dishes. (My choice for an antipasto is the prosciutto di Parma with local kiwi berry, pear, parmigiano, and pine nuts.)

Myers + Chang :: South End

Located in the South End, the dishes at Myers + Chang are a fusion of Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai, with a self-described indie diner-like setting. It’s indie chic, and the smell of the food when you walk in tells you that you know you’re going to leave happy. Date nights are especially fun here because of the small plates. This one is sure to be a hit.

Row 34 :: Seaport

Row 34 is the seaport district’s most wonderful place to get an extensive craft beer selection and seafood that is out of this world. This spot has everything from lobster rolls on that glorious buttery bun to whole grilled branzino. It’s as much a feast for your eyes as it is for your heart. The scene is fresh and urban — just what you need to break out of your routine!

Prezza :: North End

A North End hidden gem, Prezza is authentic Italian. Located off the beaten path, Prezza’s impressive menu includes an extensive selection of apps, homemade pasta dishes, and plenty of seafood and comfort food. Look for amazing homemade ravioli and risotto, plus delicious seafood or meat options if you prefer. They also offer traditional specials on Sundays. And stay for dessert!

Sorellina :: Copley Square

I consider Sorellina a special occasion type of place, since I recently celebrated a milestone birthday there. It’s a great place for an anniversary or birthday dinner — just the two of you. Fancy, if you want a date-night splurge. But even if you have no special occasion to celebrate other than getting out alone for a change, Sorellina’s staff will make you feel special.