21 Most Romantic Restaurants in Minneapolis, MN in 2025
The largest city in Minnesota is home to a wide array of romantic restaurants in Minneapolis that set the stage for an unforgettable evening. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or simply planning a cozy date night, the romantic restaurants in Minneapolis provide the perfect setting for a memorable experience.
Do you prefer a candlelit table in a historic venue or a trendy rooftop with city views? Whatever your style, the most romantic restaurants in Minneapolis have something to suit every couple's taste. With so many unique options, you're sure to find the perfect spot to create lasting memories with your special someone.
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The 21 Best Romantic Restaurants in Minneapolis
1. Bar La Grassa
A beloved Italian spot, Bar La Grassa is perfect for couples seeking a lively yet romantic restaurant in Minneapolis for a night out. Known for its fresh, house-made pasta and impressive wine list, this iconic restaurant, led by acclaimed Chef Isaac Becker, has long been a go-to for date nights in the city.
The Vibe
Expect an electric, vibrant atmosphere with dim lighting and cozy seating, ideal for couples who enjoy a lively setting. The candlelit tables and leather booths add a romantic touch amidst the buzz of its bustling dining room.
What to Order
Don’t miss the soft eggs and lobster bruschetta or the famous cauliflower and orange gnocchi for a truly memorable meal at this romantic restaurant in Minneapolis.
Bar La Grassa | 800 N. Washington Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55401 | $$$
2. Demi
This exclusive, high-end dining destination was created by James Beard award-winning chef Gavin Kaysen. As one of the most romantic restaurants in Minneapolis, Demi offers an intimate, immersive tasting menu experience in the North Loop. With only a handful of seats and a menu that changes regularly, each meal feels like a special occasion, crafted for couples looking for a memorable evening.
The Vibe
With its soft lighting, open kitchen and tranquil atmosphere, Demi is designed for an indulgent, private dining experience that encourages connection.
What to Order
The ever-evolving tasting menu includes intricate dishes like Rohan duck or sweet potato tart, making every visit at this romantic restaurant in Minneapolis unique and unforgettable.
Demi | 212 N. 2nd St., Minneapolis, MN, US 55401 | $$$$
3. Young Joni
Led by award-winning Chef Ann Kim, Young Joni is a top choice for couples seeking romantic restaurants in Minneapolis. After dinner, couples can slip into the hidden speakeasy through a back alley for a nightcap in a retro-inspired lounge.
The Vibe
This romantic restaurant in Minneapolis exudes warmth with walnut tones and candlelit tables, making it perfect for an intimate, cozy evening. The speakeasy adds a secret, fun element to the night.
What to Order
Try the famous Korean BBQ pizza with short ribs or indulge in La Parisienne, topped with prosciutto and brown butter.
Young Joni | 165 13th Ave., NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413 | $$
4. Alma
Nestled in a charming brick building on University Avenue, Alma is an ideal choice for couples seeking romantic restaurants in Minneapolis. With its seasonal prix-fixe menu offering both regular and vegetarian options, it’s perfect for a cozy, intimate meal. For an added romantic touch, extend your date with a stay at the boutique hotel next door.
The Vibe
Warm lighting and exposed brick make Alma a quiet, inviting space for a special evening at this romantic restaurant in Minneapolis.
What to Order
Regulars love the Maine lobster stew. Don't eat meat or fish? You won't be disappointed with the autumn root vegetable pavé from the vegetarian menu.
Alma | 528 University Ave., SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414 | $$
5. Broders’ Pasta Bar
This iconic Italian eatery in south Minneapolis exudes old-world charm, making Broders’ Pasta Bar perfect for couples looking for the best romantic restaurants in Minneapolis. Broders' offers an elegant yet laid-back dining experience. It's ideal for sharing classic dishes and meaningful moments.
The Vibe
Warm wooden accents and a wrap-around bar create a relaxed, inviting ambiance that's elegant without being overly formal.
What to Order
For a true date night at this romantic restaurant in Minneapolis, enjoy the spaghetti carbonara or gnocchi con vitello. The “After 8” special is perfect for sampling a variety of house favorites.
Broders’ Pasta Bar | 5000 Penn Ave., S. Minneapolis, MN 55419 | $$
6. The Bungalow Club
This charming eatery perfectly captures the essence of romantic restaurants in Minneapolis. With its trendy yet comfortable atmosphere, The Bungalow Club has a focus on fresh, handmade pasta that elevates the dining experience, making every bite a delight.
The Vibe
The unpretentious, dated setting features warm lighting and décor that evokes nostalgia for times passed, perfect for couples who want the charm without the pomp.
What to Order
If you’re in the mood for something savory and filling, try the tortelli filled with onion ricotta or savor the conchiglie with mushroom cream and herbs for a memorable evening at this romantic restaurant in Minneapolis.
The Bungalow Club | 4300 E. Lake St., Minneapolis, MN 55406 | $$$
7. The Copper Hen
This cozy, farm-to-table gem is great for couples looking for romantic restaurants in Minneapolis. The Copper Hen cakery and kitchen is a spot where you can enjoy everything from hearty dishes to custom cakes. Its rotating menu, featuring seasonal ingredients, makes each visit unique and the Thursday night three-course meal for two is an ideal date night option.
The Vibe
Rustic and welcoming with soft lighting and charming décor, The Copper Hen feels like a countryside escape in the city.
What to Order
Indulge in the rich biscuits and ham Benedict or share a chicken pot pie, paired with a mystery bottle of wine for a fun surprise.
The Copper Hen | 2515 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55404 | $$
8. Herbst Eatery & Farm Stand
While technically in St. Paul, Herbst Eatery & Farm Stand still stands out among romantic restaurants in the Minneapolis metro area, offering a cozy atmosphere paired with a hyper-seasonal menu crafted by chef Eric Simpson. The restaurant embraces the bounty of Midwestern ingredients.
The Vibe
The inviting décor and seasonal changes in ambiance create a comfortable setting at this romantic restaurant in Minneapolis that’s perfect for intimate conversations.
What to Order
Try complex and creative dishes like kabocha squash with creamed kale or the fusilli with duck confit, spicy mirepoix and poblano yogurt. Follow your choice of entrée with a warm sticky toffee pudding for dessert.
Herbst Eatery & Farm Stand | 779 Raymond Ave., St. Paul, MN 55114 | $$$
9. Café and Bar Lurcat
An elegant gem among romantic restaurants in Minneapolis, Café and Bar Lurcat offers sophisticated comfort food in a chic setting.
The Vibe
Nestled in a charming historic building, this romantic restaurant in Minneapolis has stylish interiors featuring white linen tables, crystal chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling windows. In the warmer months, the enchanting patio, adorned with twinkling lights, creates a magical atmosphere that's perfect for couples.
What to Order
When available, opt for seasonal dishes like the miso sea bass or the apple, cheese and chive salad. For a weekend treat, try the Sunday three-course tasting menu.
Café and Bar Lurcat | 1624 Harmon Place, Minneapolis, MN 55403 | $$$
10. Gus Gus
Tucked beneath a historic apartment building, Gus Gus offers a unique dining experience for couples seeking romantic restaurants in Minneapolis. This intimate, subterranean gem combines quirky charm with elegance, inviting diners to enjoy its whimsical atmosphere and eclectic décor.
The Vibe
Gus Gus features a cozy, playful setting with unexpected touches, like blue walls with retro lighting accents, making it a fun yet romantic restaurant in Minneapolis for couples.
What to Order
Don't miss the playful Aperol jello shots, and be sure to try the lengua sliders and sea bass with white bean ragú for a unique twist on classic dishes.
Gus Gus | 128 Cleveland Ave. N., St Paul, MN 55104 | $$
11. Hola Arepa
Want to feel like you're on a passionate tropical getaway without leaving the country? Latin street food spot, Hola Arepa, is the place to go. This colorful romantic restaurant in Minneapolis actually started out as a food truck.
The Vibe
Casual and welcoming with a cool, fun vibe, Hola Arepa will make you think you are on vacation.
What to Order
Indulge in made-from-scratch Venezuelan arepas with a variety of fillings like chimichurri chicken or black bean and queso fresco. For cocktail lovers, the Heat of the Moment is a spicy standout.
Hola Arepa | 3501 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55408 | $$
12. Gus Gus
Tucked beneath a historic apartment building, Gus Gus offers a unique dining experience for couples seeking romantic restaurants in Minneapolis. This intimate, subterranean gem combines quirky charm with elegance, inviting diners to enjoy its whimsical atmosphere and eclectic décor.
The Vibe
Gus Gus features a cozy, playful setting with unexpected touches, like blue walls with retro lighting accents, making it a fun yet romantic restaurant in Minneapolis as a choice for couples.
What to Order
Don't miss the playful Aperol Jello shots, and be sure to try the lengua sliders and sea bass with white bean ragu for a unique twist on classic dishes.
Gus Gus | 128 Cleveland Ave. N., St Paul, MN 55104 | $$
13. Sanjusan
A sleek Japanese-Italian fusion restaurant from celebrated Chef Daniel del Prado, Sanjusan offers couples a unique experience at this romantic restaurant in Minneapolis. Sanjusan’s inventive dishes provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening.
The Vibe
Sophisticated and modern, with dim lighting and elegant décor, Sanjusan sets the stage for a stylish and intimate night out at this romantic restaurant in Minneapolis.
What to Order
Indulge in the enoki arancini or the okonomiyaki. For pasta lovers, the mentaiko lumache is a standout.
Sanjusan | 33 N. 1st Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55401 | $$$
14. Estelle
This upscale neighborhood gem has quickly become one of the most sought-after romantic restaurants in Minneapolis. With a seasonal menu crafted by Chef Jason Hansen, Estelle blends Spanish and Portuguese flavors with comforting Italian pastas.
The Vibe
The restaurant boasts an intimate, minimal atmosphere with soft, spherical lighting and wooden accent walls.
What to Order
Try the patatas bravas and shrimp al ajillo for authentic dishes with punchy flavor, and don’t miss the pasteis de nata (Portuguese egg custard tart) for a sweet finish to your meal.
Estelle | 1806 St Clair Ave., St. Paul, MN 55105 | $$$
15. Joan’s in the Park
This upscale New American romantic restaurant in Minneapolis emphasizes seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. With a focus on exquisite, European-influenced dishes, Joan’s in the Park offers a fine dining experience while remaining unpretentious.
The Vibe
The intimate setting features white tablecloths and warm lighting, creating an inviting and sophisticated atmosphere. Perfect for date nights, this romantic restaurant in Minneapolis is also a great spot for those in search of birthday ideas in Minneapolis.
What to Order
Don’t miss the poached shrimp with carbonara cream or the delightful masa corn dumplings, followed by the buttermilk panna cotta for dessert.
Joan’s in the Park | 631 Snelling Ave., S. St Paul, MN 55116 | $$$$
16. Petite León
This intimate, fine dining gem is tucked away in south Minneapolis’ Kingfield neighborhood. Led by Chef Jorge Guzman, Petite León focuses on locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. Couples seeking romantic restaurants in Minneapolis always appreciate its elegant dishes, making a meal a worthy addition to your list of date ideas in Minneapolis.
The Vibe
Warm and inviting, this romantic restaurant in Minneapolis has a small dining room that's perfect for quiet, intimate evenings. The décor is understated but chic, making it an ideal spot for a special night out.
What to Order
All the meat lovers out there will be happy that they ordered either the brick chicken or glazed pork belly. For dessert? An indulgent slice of Basque-style burnt cheesecake is sure to please.
Petite León | 3800 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55409 | $$$
17. Mara Restaurant & Bar
Located in the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel, Mara Restaurant & Bar is a standout among romantic restaurants in Minneapolis. Led by acclaimed Chef Gavin Kaysen, this Mediterranean-inspired gem draws flavors from 22 different countries.
The Vibe
Sleek and sophisticated, the ambiance features elegant décor and soft lighting. Its modern-meets-Mediterranean design adds to the allure, making it an inviting spot for couples.
What to Order
Standout dishes for seafood lovers include the scallops and the Mediterranean sea bass. To drink, this romantic restaurant in Minneapolis' rose and jasmine-infused Arpege cocktail pairs well with much of the menu.
Mara Restaurant & Bar | 245 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55401 | $$$
18. The Kenwood
Offering a blend of rustic elegance and modern American cuisine, The Kenwood is the perfect destination for couples seeking romantic restaurants in Minneapolis. Chef Don Saunders creates beautifully crafted dishes that are as comforting as they are refined.
The Vibe
This romantic restaurant in Minneapolis feels like an upscale hunting lodge, with cozy, preppy décor and a warm, inviting ambiance that’s perfect for a romantic meal.
What to Order
Try the wild hanger steak with bone marrow risotto or the wild acres brick chicken for a memorable and rich dining experience.
The Kenwood | 2115 W 21st St., Minneapolis, MN 55405 | $$$
19. Meritage
A quintessential French brasserie in Downtown St. Paul, Meritage is perfect for couples seeking a romantic restaurant near Minneapolis for a refined yet cozy dining experience. Chef Russell Klein’s carefully curated menu brings a taste of Paris to the Midwest.
The Vibe
Perfect for a date night, this romantic restaurant near Minneapolis exudes classic French elegance with its crescent-shaped bar, warm lighting and intimate seating.
What to Order
Treat yourself to the duck confit cassoulet or enjoy the riesling-braised pork shank. Pair your choice with a refined Parisian cocktail.
Meritage | 410 St. Peter St., St Paul, MN 55102 | $$$
20. TERZO
A rustic Italian bistro from the renowned Broder family, TERZO is a great spot for couples seeking charming and romantic restaurants in Minneapolis. Known for its fresh, seasonal fare and extensive wine list, this cozy restaurant in Minneapolis has a knowledgeable staff that is always on hand to help you find the perfect wine pairing.
The Vibe
With its warm lighting and unique décor with branches hanging on the wall, this romantic restaurant in Minneapolis provides a rustic atmosphere with a twist, perfect for a cozy evening.
What to Order
Indulge in the rich risotto with fennel and hazelnuts or the fusilli pasta with mixed mushrooms and leeks. Let the staff recommend a wine to complement your meal for an unforgettable evening.
TERZO | 2221 W. 50th St., Minneapolis, MN 55419 | $$$
21. Wise Acre Eatery
This charming farm-to-table romantic restaurant in south Minneapolis is perfect for couples seeking a fresh, seasonal dining experience for breakfast or lunch. Wise Acre Eatery sources its ingredients from local farms, offering a menu that’s both delicious and health-conscious.
The Vibe
The industrial-chic décor, cozy patio and farm-to-fork ethos create a warm, welcoming ambiance. It's the perfect romantic restaurant in Minneapolis for relaxed and casual dates.
What to Order
Try the flavorful brunch bowl with eggs and herb scramble that will keep you satisfied throughout the day, or indulge in one of the chefs' irresistible baked goods for a delightful sweet treat.
Wise Acre Eatery | 5401 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55419 | $$
Other Romantic Culinary Experiences in Minneapolis
For an even more intimate experience than dining at a romantic restaurant in Minneapolis, consider hiring one of the talented private chefs in Minneapolis to cook a personalized meal for you and your partner at a venue of your choice. This option allows you to enjoy a bespoke menu tailored to your tastes in a cozy, private setting. It could even be in your own home!
If you're looking for something fun and interactive to do together, attending one of the many cooking classes in Minneapolis is a fantastic date idea. Learn new skills and create delicious dishes together for a memorable twist on a romantic evening and the perfect alternative to eating out at a romantic restaurant in Minneapolis.
Enjoy an intimate meal with your partner at a romantic restaurant in Minneapolis or explore new culinary experiences together. Whichever you choose, the Twin Cities offer countless options for a memorable date night, from cozy bistros to interactive cooking classes, allowing you and your loved on to focus on what's important — each other.
For even more ways to explore Minneapolis and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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