Date Night Restaurants on Boston’s South Shore

Know what no one tells you before you have kids? Snagging a seat at the restaurant’s bar will no longer be an option, and a relaxing dinner out is simply not a thing with little ones in tow! And while I am all for “date nights” at home, sometimes there is nothing better than going out to dinner without children. If you’re a South Shore parent, you’re in for a treat — there are so many excellent date night restaurants just south of Boston!

Scarlett Oak Tavern :: Hingham

Whether you’re sitting at the bar, on the patio, or by the fireplace, this restaurant has date night ambiance all year round. During the warmer months, make it extra special by enjoying the live music outside. You can get anything from steak frites to a brick-oven pizza — paired with a perfectly crafted cocktail. And if you like goat cheese? You’ll love their baked goat cheese appetizer. 

Cheever Tavern :: Norwell

Tucked in Norwell Center, this quaint restaurant is named after Massachusetts author and Pulitzer Prize winner John Cheever. We recommend making a reservation, though you may be lucky enough to find a seat at the bar. The buffalo chicken dip is a not to be missed!

Alba :: Quincy and Hanover

This steakhouse gives major city vibes with its warm-weather roof deck — you’ll even find a bar there and special menu items! Owner Leo Keke sets the table for a meal that satisfies your cravings for everything from sushi to comforting pasta dishes like bolognese. Live farther south? Check out the location’s sister restaurant Alba on 53. 

Blue-Eyed Crab :: Plymouth

Want to feel like you’ve walked into a tropical bar and grill on the beach? Chef Jim Casey’s menu has Caribbean flavors to transport you with every bite. The crab bisque is a must try, and they also have their own hot sauce you can buy to take home! This spot was even featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives!”

Lucca :: Rockland

If you’ve visited the location in the North End, you know what to expect at this Italian eatery. This Rockland restaurant has that big-city feel — without the nightmare street parking. Save room for dessert and try the espresso crème brulée or affogato al caffe, which is basically a grown-up ice cream float in espresso. Lucca also features a perfect event space for your next special occasion.

Grill 151 :: Weymouth

This spot is so good we have friends who drive in from the South End to eat here! Their American style cuisine includes comfort food like meatloaf or a double pork chop — plus a lot of great seafood dishes. They also have a lovely brunch, plus seasonal cocktail classes you can sign up for.

Square Cafe :: Hanover and Hingham

This restaurant boasts an eclectic menu featuring a mix of Asian-European-American cuisine with regular, seasonal updates. The tuna poke and sparerib appetizers are delicious — and save room for dessert, because they have key lime pie! We recommend making a reservation here.

The Range :: Hingham

Want to try something different? Hit golf balls at the driving range in this hidden spot in Hingham that’s not too far from the Derby Street Shops. They have apps for days, with everything from buffalo chicken dip to roasted brussels sprouts and fried pickles. 

Abby Park :: Milton

Two words. Lobster dip. This spot offers a little something extra for your date night with its trivia nights, comedy nights, live music on Fridays, and even a piano bar night!

Looking for other date-night restaurants nearby? Check out these 10 restaurants north of Boston, these eight restaurants in the Boston area, and these six restaurants in Boston’s MetroWest!