Date Night Restaurants in Grand Rapids
Carving out time to turn your Grand Rapids Date Night Ideas into reality is to be commended!
Single date, double date, or dinner with friends – however you do it, pairing a fun activity with a nice dinner out is a lovely treat.
But where to nosh? Of the probably hundreds of restaurants in Grand Rapids – some of them very new – these date night restaurants rose to the top. They offer the food, ambiance, and atmosphere that will help you create the moments you’re craving.
Use this list to find restaurants with cultural cuisine, unique flair (rooftop bar anyone?), and favorite old standbys for your next eating adventure.
No matter your tastes, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect spot on this list. Forks up!
In This Article
Top Romantic Restaurants in Grand Rapids
Here’s a detailed look at our top date night restaurants in Grand Rapids. Each place on this list is a solid choice for a special night out, depending on your interests.
1 – Brass Ring Brewery for the Vibe
2404 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
(616) 644-3451
Dine under the hearts for Valentine’s Day or in one of their cozy beer shanties! Brass Ring Brewing is an Alger Heights staple that will make you feel like “Cheers” is back on the air.
2 – MDRD for Spain With a View
187 Monroe Ave NW, 27th Floor, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616-776-6425
Feel like you’re living the high life at MDRD. Located on the 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza hotel, MDRD takes you on a culinary journey to Spain, all while gazing over the tops of Grand Rapids skyscrapers.
With an inspired menu that’s hard to beat, and a stunning location right in the heart of our city, this restaurant is sure to take your date night up a notch.
3 – Scholar for a Familiar Flair
11 Ionia Ave SW, Grand rapids, MI 49503
616-980-9073
Boasting a new take, or rather an old take, on American Cuisine, Scholar’s menu returns to the roots of early American cuisine by embracing flavor combinations of our country’s past. you’ll enjoy your favorite American dishes with a hint of old-word flavor.
Original hardwood floors from the 1880s, a cozy fireplace, and lush seating make for a classy, romantic, and yet familiar evening with your favorite person.
4 – Butcher’s Union for Whiskey & Meats
438 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids MI 49504
616-551-1323
We are enamored with everything we’ve tried at Butcher’s Union. My husband even wanted to lick his plate clean last time, it was so good!
Delicious cocktails, an unrivaled whiskey selection, and perfect dishes come together in this welcoming haunt on GR’s northwest side. Majoring in meat and whiskey, Butcher’s Union strives to use local ingredients in their mouthwatering dishes.
5 – Mangiamo
1033 lake Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
616-742-0600
Romantic Italian food and a 150-year-old-mansion? Yes, please!
Mangiamo is back at its original location on Lake Dr. ready to serve up Mangiamo classics (hello, baseball meatball), new delicacies, and an all-around sumptuous experience.
6 – Amore Trattoria Italiana
5080 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park, MI 49321
616-797-8794
With award-winning food and service, Amore Trattoria Italiana is definitely not just another Italian restaurant.
This place is perfect to settle in for a cozy and romantic meal together. The menu is full of delicious authentic Italian cuisine, and word on the street is they know how to celebrate. Couples say the food and the staff make this a great place to celebrate an anniversary.
7 – San Chez for Sharing
38 West Fulton, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616-774-8272
San Chez Bistro is a Grand Rapids icon, with its world-class tapas inspired by European, Mediterranean, and Latin dishes. It’s a great place to sample lots of things and share the incredible fare with your date.
Every plate is a hit, so it’s a safe place to be adventurous and try new things. Kick back and enjoy the ambiance and be sure to order a pitcher of sangria.
8 – Maru Sushi Cherry Street for Sushi Fix and Sake Sampler
927 Cherry Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508
616-458-1900
Head to Maru for the sushi, stay for the options! In addition to sushi, Maru offers a variety of menu items in case your date is not so inclined to sushi.
I also love that they accommodate dietary restrictions and can cater to gluten-free, vegan, keto diets, and more.
If you’ve ever wanted to try sake but didn’t know where to start, try the sake flight to sample several different types at once.
With its wide variety of offerings you can be sure Maru is a great spot for a unique date.
9 – Terra GR for Local, Sustainable, and Unforgettable
1429 Lake Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
616-301-0998
Terra GR serves up delicious made from scratch farm-to-table food that is sure to impress at every visit, and trust me, you’ll want to come back!
You and your date will enjoy quality American fare in a beautifully rustic atmosphere. Drop in for happy hour and indulge in a drink or one of their famous wood-fired pizzas.
10 – Bistro Bella Vita for a Taste of Europe
44 Grandville Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616-222-4600
Bistro Bella Vita is a favorite for anniversary celebrations!
Serving modern French and Italian cuisine, their focus is on presenting classic dishes prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The charming bistro atmosphere adds to your romantic evening.
11 – One Twenty Three Tavern for Eats and Entertainment
123 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616-900-9123
This classic American tavern, known for their smash burger and garlic fries, provides a cozy atmosphere in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids.
One Twenty Three is located in the Studio Park movie theater complex making it easy to upgrade your date night to dinner and a movie.
12 – Social Misfits to Mix It Up
43 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616-272-4984
Social Misfits is for everyone. They hang their hat on being different, and fully inclusive.
And that goes for their menu, too. I mean, where else can you get waffles + cocktails??
It’s a thing, and you need to check it out. (You can also swap your cocktail for artisanal coffee if you’re feeling more mainstream.)
13 – Nagoya Hibachi Steak House & Sushi for a One-Of-A-Kind Dining Experience
16 Monroe Center St Ne, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616-678-9999
Nagoya Hibachi Steak House & Sushi has the perfect blend of traditional & fusion Japanese Cuisine.
This new Grand Rapids restaurant features sushi and has four hibachi tables.
Downtown Grand Rapids Restaurants
Heading downtown for date night? Lucky you!
The city itself lends energy to a Grand Rapids date. Add one of the downtown Grand Rapids restaurants into the mix – voila – you’re in for a good time.
Here are the places we think you can’t go wrong on a date night in the city:
Brick & Porter
47 Monroe Center St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Classic pub food and beer selection. Good burgers. Generous portions.
Brickyard Tavern
940 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Craft cocktails and great burgers. Live music at times.
The Chop House
190 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Prime American steak house with extensive wine selections. Offers a menu of steaks and seafood in a polished and upscale setting, perfect for a fancy and memorable evening.
Condado Tacos
449 Bridge St. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Build-your-own tacos, sporting events on the tvs so you don’t miss the game, colorful decor by local artists.
Creston Brewery
1504 Plainfield Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Laid-back taproom in a historic building. Always has something going on. Great craft beer selection and good food. Try the Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich.
Divani
15 Ionia Ave SW Suite 130, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
High-end cuisine and cocktails
Downtown Market
435 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
One of our favorite uniquely local spots! The Downton Market houses several favorite restaurants like Aperitivo and Carvers, or you can go à la carte choosing from several different vendors.
The Foolery
10 Ionia Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Serving up Detroit-style pizza by the slice as well as beer and cocktails. A local favorite
Forty Pearl
40 Pearl St NW #110, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Oysters, craft cocktails, and Michigan wine bar
GRNoir
35 Division Ave S, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Wine bar serving small plates and hosting live jazz.
Mertens Rooftop Bar
35 Oakes St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Rooftop bar and lounge serving French style small plates. Or dine in their main dining room, Mertens-Prime.
(see more rooftop bars)
HopCat
25 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Grand Rapids born American pub with ultimate deliciousness: Cosmik Fries
187 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck, located in the Amway Grand Plaza, offers a unique blend of made-from-scratch comfort fare and authentic global classics. The restaurant’s luxurious and upscale atmosphere make it perfect for a fancy night out.
Knoop
131 Ionia Ave SW 8th Floor, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Small bites + cocktails + rooftop bar = great night
K-ROK Korean Barbecue & Karaoke
169 Campau Promenade, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Korean bbq + karaoke = a wild good time downtown GR
Leo’s
60 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Long-time local restaurant, featuring seafood and classic cuisine
Linear Restaurant
1001 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Farm-fresh American cuisine in a chic atmosphere on the banks of the Grand River. Features locally-sourced ingredients. Perfect for a romantic evening or a fancy night out. Indulge in delicious, flavorful dishes and a variety of mocktail options for non-drinkers. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
Lumber Baron Bar
187 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Historic bar serving premium drinks and appetizers. Located in the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel.
Luna
64 Ionia Ave SW #100, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Farm-to-table taqueria, specializing in Latin cuisine.
Margaux
235 Louis St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
French inspired cuisine in the J.W. Marriott
Max’s South Seas Hideaway
58 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Tiki bar style restaurant offers tasty dishes along with unique experiences such as the tableside bonfire dessert
MeXo
118 Fulton St E, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Pre-Hispanic Mexican cuisine with a tequila/mezcal bar
Monsoon
55 Monroe Center NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
The first authentic Vietnamese restaurant in the heart of Grand Rapids!
Their open kitchen showcases traditional Vietnamese cooking.
Portico
131 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Locally sourced, upscale modern cuisine and regionally inspired cocktails
Reserve Wine and Food
201 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Go-to spot for cheese, charcuterie and exceptional wine. Offers a menu of contemporary American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients in a romantic and intimate atmosphere.
ROAM by San Chez
250 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Global street food from the team that created San Chez
Rockwell Republic
45 South Division Avenue, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Gastropub with eclectic, seasonal cuisine. Shareables like the rangoons, beer cheese dip, and poke wonton nachos are winners and the blue skies cocktail is also a standout. The restaurant’s atmosphere is lively and fun, with a cute second floor patio and friendly staff.
Pro Tip: They don’t accept reservations and are often quite busy – plan accordingly.
Ruth’s Chris
Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 187 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Located in the Amway Grand Plaza in Downtown Grand Rapids, this upscale steakhouse is the perfect dinner stop for a night on the town.
Tupelo Honey
140 Ottawa Ave, NW, Suite 100 Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Southern cuisine from the Carolina mountains and local craft beer
Eastside Grand Rapids Restaurants
East Hills, Uptown, Fulton Heights, Midtown will help you travel the world with options for Indian, Caribbean, Cuban, Bosnian, Indian or Hawaiian fare.
7 Monks Taproom
740 Michigan St NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Serving world class beer and fantastic food
Bowdie’s Chophouse
2237 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Steakhouse with cocktail and wine bar
Brewery Vivant
925 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
LEED certified micro brewery, featuring Belgian and French inspired beer alongside European fare
Carolina Low Country Kitchen
2213 Wealthy St SE Ste 120, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Three local restaurateurs who joined forces to bring the flavors of South Carolina lowcountry to the GR area
The Commons
547 Cherry St SE Suite C, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
70’s style lounge serving classic comfort food.
Chez Olga
1441 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Mother-and-daughter run authentic Caribbean / Haitian restaurant
Donkey Taqueria
665 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Full service bar, serving authentic Mexican food
The Electric Cheetah
1015 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Local restaurant, serving real food made from scratch using local and organic ingredients
Forty Acres Soul Kitchen
1059 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Authentically American soul kitchen – sometimes offering R&B Soul Karaoke
The Green Well
924 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Essence Restaurant Group Gastro Pub – now open and newly renovated as of Feb 2023.
José Babushka’s
2232 Wealthy St SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
A fun fusion of Polish and Mexican fare (trust us, it works)
Matchbox Diner & Drinks
1345 Lake Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Old school diner and delicatessen serving classic dinner food and drinks and a handful of seasonal entrees
Testa Rossa Ristorante
1017 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
The best of home-cooked Italian, including pizza
The Old Goat
2434 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
A cozy atmosphere, live music, and homemade dishes are in store at this Alger Heights staple. Just about everything on the menu is a hit!
Olive’s
2162 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Upscale fresh food and unique flavors served in an intimate atmosphere.
Palio
545 Michigan St NE #102, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Authentic Tuscan-style cuisine, Mainstreet Ventures Restaurant
Rose’s
550 Lakeside Dr SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Casual American, Gilmore Collection restaurant
Vander Mill
505 Ball Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Pub fare and Michigan crafted hard ciders, live music
WikiWiki Poke Shop
1146 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Funky, fun mix of Hawaiian and Asian flavors
Zivio
724 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Bosnian cuisine with Turkish, Greek & other influences
Westside Grand Rapids Restaurants
Dinner + Drinks = Fabulous Date Night on the Westside. Westside restaurants offer unique options beyond the dinner menu.
Pair your dinner with a selection from hundreds of whisky or bourbon options, or order a handcrafted beer or artisan spirits alongside your dinner.
The Jolly Pumpkin
428 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Pizzeria and brewery
The Knickerbocker
417 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Part of New Holland Brewing Co, this brewpub and distillery serves fresh-made, beer-centric food.
Mercadito Mexican Eats & Treats
1202 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Pop in to Mercadito for authentic Mexican lunches along with snacks and treats.
The Mitten Brewing Co.
527 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Old-timey Detroit Tigers baseball décor compliments the wood-fired pizza and beer selection at this popular stop. Get the 12-inch oven baked pretzel – it comes with three sauces!
One Bourbon
608 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Diverse menu and bourbon tasting room
Salvatore’s
654 Stocking Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Italian, family-run business with old-Italian favorites
Kentwood • Cascade • SE Grand Rapids Restaurants
SE Side Grand Rapids Restaurants are filled with a variety of delicious options to suit everyone’s taste. Choose from restaurants offering authentic Japanese cuisine, Caribbean street food, or Indian dishes.
Or stick with a classic American comfort meal – soup and grilled cheese.
Broad Leaf Brewery & Spirits
2885 Lake Eastbrook Blvd SE, Kentwood, MI 49512
A variety of locally brewed beers on tap partnered with an Asian-fusion inspired menu. Also, indoor Pickleball coming soon!
Butcher Block Social
9900 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia, MI 49316
BBQ and cocktails served in a warm and inviting atmosphere to promote community
The Cheesecake Factory
3195 28th St SE, Kentwood, MI 49512
A vast menu of dinner options as well dozens of dessert options
Cooper’s Hawk
4515 28th St SE, Kentwood, MI 49512
Upscale American cuisine with an impressive (and delicious) wine menu.
FireRock Grille
7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Caledonia, MI 49316
Gourmet American fare with outdoor dining options in season
Flat River Grill
201 E Main St, Lowell, MI 49331
Wood-fired American cuisine served in a historic building, right on the river
Indian Masala
5769 28th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Authentic north Indian cuisine. You have to try the stuffed naan!
Irie Kitchen
6630 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508
Authentic Caribbean street food
Ju Sushi & Lounge
1144 E Paris Ave SE #9, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Sushi Lounge, featuring traditional Japanese entrees and a unique dining experience
Luna
7471 River St SE Suite 120, Ada, MI 49301
Farm-to-table taqueria, specializing in Latin cuisine. Cocktails are on point.
Myrth
7423 River St SE, Ada, MI 49301
Hand-made pasta and wood-fired pizza with award-winning flavors
Noco Provisions
4609 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Great vibe and food at this Forest Hills area restaurant. Stop in on Wednesdays for 1/2 off select bottles of wine.
Tokyo Grill & Sushi
4478 Breton Rd SE, Kentwood, MI 49508
Bringing the best Japanese sushi and cuisine to the area
Knapp’s Corner Restaurants Grand Rapids
Anchored by a movie theater, an outdoor treetops ropes course, and a shopping complex, Knapp’s Corner is an easy choice when it comes to a date night destination.
Now, where to eat?
Choose one of these date night restaurants to savor:
Hop Cat at Knapp’s Corner
2183 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Just like the downtown version but with free parking! Food, beer, and, yeah, we still call them crack fries. Brunch on Saturday & Sunday.
Fuji Yama Japanese Steakhouse
1501 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Hibachi grill and sushi bar
JAKU
2289 E Beltline Ave NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Specializing in Japanese and Korean food along with a vast sushi menu.
Licari’s
2869 Knapp St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Sicilian pizza kitchen
Melting Pot
2090 Celebration Dr NE #130, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Dinner and dessert fondue
PF Chang’s Grand Rapids
2064 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Asian-inspired dishes. Celebrate with golden chopsticks, just let them know you’re celebrating when you make a reservation.
Sheshco
2121 Celebration Dr NE #700, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Authentic Mediterranean, inviting atmosphere
Thai Chef
1971 E Beltline Ave NE #119, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Family owned Thai restaurant
Rockford • NE Grand Rapids Restaurants
Pair your dinner with a favorite destination, downtown Rockford. With a walkable downtown filled with locally-owned shops and the Rockford Dam Overlook, adding one of the delicious restaurant options nearby will make for a memorable date.
Which Northeast Grand Rapids restaurant will you try next?
Blue Water Grill
5180 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Lakeside views, great fireplace. Get the Mahi Mahi Tacos, Blu Bar Egg Rolls, and Lobster Club Sandwich.
Eastern Kille Distillery
7755 Childsdale Ave NE Rockford, MI 49341
Eastern Kill’s new location serves up pizza, apps, salad and dessert alongside a seasonally revolving menu of cocktails highlighting the spirits made onsite.
Mill Creek Tavern
3874 W River Dr NE, Comstock Park, MI 49321
American food and spirits
Perrin Brewing Company
5910 Comstock Park Dr NW, Comstock Park, MI 49321
Brewery serving pub fare
Red’s at Thousand Oaks
4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Modern American fare with wine bar
Third Nature Brewing Co
7733 Childsdale Ave NE, Rockford, MI 49341
Brewery with beer inspired menu
Hudsonville • Jenison • Grandville • Wyoming Date Night Restaurants
Explore these charming towns for delicious hometown eats. All the deliciousness of a downtown restaurant, but with free parking!
Which style cuisine will you choose?
Hudsonville Grille
4676 32nd Ave Suite F, Hudsonville, MI 49426
American, locally owned, family-friendly
K-Pocha
5751 Byron Center Ave SW suite f, Wyoming, MI 49519
Delicious Korean street-style fast food
Licari’s
3627 Baldwin St Hudsonville, MI 49426
Sicilian pizza kitchen
Lindo Mexico
1742 28th St SW, Wyoming, MI 49519
Fresh Mexican fare with signature cocktails and live music
Rush Creek Bistro
624 Port Sheldon St SW, Grandville, MI 49418
American, casual dining atmosphere
The Win Tavern 33
7628 Georgetown Center Dr, Jenison, MI 49428
Specializing in Michigan craft beers, pub fare elevated
Walker • Standale • NW Grand Rapids Restaurants
Columbian or American Cuisine? Tacos or tavern Food?
The Northwest side of GR will keep your taste buds happy as you enjoy a night out.
The Latin House
3363 Remembrance Rd NW, Walker, MI 49534
Serving authentic Peruvian, Argentinian, and Colombian cuisine
Stan’s Tacos
355 Wilson Ave. NW Walker, Michigan 49534
Delicious baja style tacos with a fun, casual atmosphere (also they have board games to play while you dine)
Walker Roadhouse
3272 Remembrance Rd NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534
Casual, yet intimate atmosphere with a diverse American menu
Westside Social
2802 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
American tavern style food
Are your favorite date night restaurants on this list? Do you have another special spot that you like to hit up with your date? Let us know in the comments so we can check it out, too!
Fratelli’s Kitchen and Bar is always our go to! Their food is amazing!
I recommend dinner downtown at Max’s South Seas Hideaway and then bring a pile of quarters to Pyramid Scheme nearby to play pinball.
Cascade- cascade road house is amazing! And i love the outdoor seating area they’ve upgraded to be used year round
Euro Bistro or Noto’s in Cascade make an excellent date night, as does Nonna’s Trattoria in Ada Village!
Sheshco I in Knapp’s Corner is AMAZING! Mediterranean food. And the service is fantastic.
North Area – Bostwick Lake Inn – one of our favorite places. Food is great and view is wonderful!
We went to Amore Trattoria Italiana!! It was amazing!! Thanks for the idea!!
Six.one.six @j JW Marriott is pretty fantastic for a date night!