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.
Cocktail at Linear Restaurant in Grand Rapids
Use this list to find restaurants with cultural cuisine and unique flair as well as 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 Date Night Restaurants
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.
Tableside bonfire dessert at Max’s South Seas Hideaway
1 – Max’s South Seas Hideaway for a Polynesian Getaway
58 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616-551-0016
Max’s Tiki Bar is for diners who want an experience. Shrug off the Michigan chill as you step into this tropical oasis, where an extensive cocktail selection and delicious menu await.
The drinks and food are both delicious. The unique atmosphere and relaxed vibe may even trick you into thinking you’re a few thousand miles south of the mitten.
2 – 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.
3 – 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 extensive 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.
4 – 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.
5 – 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.
6 – The Old Goat for Comfort and Charm
2434 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
616-288-6976
At the The Old Goat you’ll experience a cozy and eclectic atmosphere while you enjoy quality-made comfort foods that are sure to please. If cocktails are your thing, this place has you covered with their large selection of expertly made craft cocktails.
No matter what day of the week you visit, The Old Goat has live music that fills the dining room, which will add that extra spark to your date.
7 – 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.)
8 – 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.
9 – Ruth’s Chris for a Classy Night Out
187 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616-776-6426
Locals will tell you the best steak in town can be found at Ruth’s Chris. This upscale American steakhouse is located in the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel and mirrors the hotel’s classy ambiance.
Ruth’s Chris is a winning choice for couples looking to celebrate in a special way.
10 – 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!
11 – 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.
12 – 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.
Date Night Restaurants in Grand Rapids – Downtown
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.
Outdoor dining on Monroe Center
Here are the places we think you can’t go wrong on a date night in the city:
47 Monroe Center St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Classic pub food and beer selection. Good burgers. Generous portions.
940 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Craft cocktails and great burgers. Live music at times.
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.
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. 
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.
40 Pearl St NW #110, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Oysters, craft cocktails, and Michigan wine 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)
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.
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
60 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Long-time local restaurant, featuring seafood and classic cuisine
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.
187 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Historic bar serving premium drinks and appetizers. Located in the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel.
187 Monroe Ave NW 27th Floor, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Pronounced “Madrid,” this lavish restaurant replaces the iconic Cygnus 27 aloft in Amway Grand’s 27th floor. Enjoy panoramic views and modern Spanish cuisine.
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.
131 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Locally sourced, upscale modern cuisine and regionally inspired cocktails
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.
250 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Global street food from the team that created San Chez
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.
67 Ottawa Ave. SW Grand Rapids, MI 49503
The beloved baja tacos in Standale is now downtown at the old Wheelhouse kitchen location – just across the street from Van Andel Arena.
140 Ottawa Ave, NW, Suite 100 Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Southern cuisine from the Carolina mountains and local craft beer
Eastside Grand Rapids Restaurants
Looking for a little cuisine adventure on your date night? The Eastside will not disappoint.
East Hills, Uptown, Fulton Heights, Midtown will help you travel the world with options for Indian, Caribbean, Cuban, Bosnian, Indian or Hawaiian fare.
925 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
LEED certified micro brewery, featuring Belgian and French inspired beer alongside European fare
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
547 Cherry St SE Suite C, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
70’s style lounge serving classic comfort food.
1441 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Mother-and-daughter run authentic Caribbean / Haitian restaurant
665 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Full service bar, serving authentic Mexican food
1015 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Local restaurant, serving real food made from scratch using local and organic ingredients
1059 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Authentically American soul kitchen – sometimes offering R&B Soul Karaoke
924 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Essence Restaurant Group Gastro Pub – now open and newly renovated as of Feb 2023.
2232 Wealthy St SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
A fun fusion of Polish and Mexican fare (trust us, it works)
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
2162 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Upscale fresh food and unique flavors served in an intimate atmosphere.
1033 Lake Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Artisanal plates from around the world in a charming environment — a refurbished mansion. A Gilmore Collection restaurant.
545 Michigan St NE #102, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Authentic Tuscan-style cuisine, Mainstreet Ventures Restaurant
550 Lakeside Dr SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Casual American, Gilmore Collection restaurant
505 Ball Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Pub fare and Michigan crafted hard ciders, live music
1146 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Funky, fun mix of Hawaiian and Asian flavors
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.
438 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
American, exquisite food, inspired cocktails and an unrivaled whiskey collection
417 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Part of New Holland Brewing Co, this brewpub and distillery serves fresh-made, beer-centric food.
527 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Old-timey Detroit Tigers baseball d̩cor compliments the wood-fired pizza and beer selection at this popular stop. Get the 12-inch oven baked pretzel Рit comes with three sauces!
654 Stocking Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Italian, family-run business with old-Italian favorites
1232 Bridge St NW #1, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
*Closed while they build their new location as of Feb 2023.
Scandinavian, biergarten and kitchen featuring hyper-local and seasonally based cuisine and drinks
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.
2404 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
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 think Cheers is back on the air!
Brass Ring Brewing is known for great seasonal decorations
3195 28th St SE, Kentwood, MI 49512
A vast menu of dinner options as well dozens of dessert options
6450 28th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Soup City USA! Grilled Cheese, salads, breads, spreads
6246 28th St SE Suite A, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Korean BBQ
*Temporarily closed – check website for updates.
7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Caledonia, MI 49316
Gourmet American fare with outdoor dining options in season
5769 28th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Authentic north Indian cuisine. You have to try the stuffed naan!
1144 E Paris Ave SE #9, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Sushi Lounge, featuring traditional Japanese entrees and a unique dining experience
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.
4478 Breton Rd SE, Kentwood, MI 49508
Bringing the best Japanese sushi and cuisine to the area
Knapp’s Corner Restaurants in 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:
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.
1501 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Hibachi grill and sushi bar
2289 E Beltline Ave NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Specializing in Japanese and Korean food along with a vast sushi menu.
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.
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?
5080 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park, MI 49321
Italian, award-winning, family-run business
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.
4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Modern American fare with wine bar
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?
4676 32nd Ave Suite F, Hudsonville, MI 49426
American, locally owned, family-friendly
771742 28th St SW, Wyoming, MI 49519
Fresh Mexican fare with signature cocktails and live music
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.
3363 Remembrance Rd NW, Walker, MI 49534
Serving authentic Peruvian, Argentinian, and Colombian cuisine
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)
3272 Remembrance Rd NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534
Casual, yet intimate atmosphere with a diverse American menu
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!