Grand Rapids Restaurants: 50+ Best Date Night Restaurants in Grand Rapids to Try

Brass Ring Brewery Grand Rapids Date Night Restaurant

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 Grand Rapids
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.

Table bonfire dessert Max's South Sea Hideaway
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.

Max's South Seas Tiki Bar Grand Rapids

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.

terra gr downtown grand rapids michigan

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.

Butcher's Union Grand Rapids Restaurant

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.

Maru Sushi Cherry Street Grand Rapids

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.

the old goat alger heights grand rapids michigan

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.

Bistro Bella Vita assorted entrees and drinks on table

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.

ruth's chris steak house dining room downtown grand rapids amway

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!

Brass Ring Brewery Grand Rapids Date Night Restaurant

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.

Nagoya-Hibachi-Steak-House-Sushi

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.

Downtown Grand Rapids
Outdoor dining on Monroe Center

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.

Brickyard Tavern Restaurant Grand Rapids

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.
Condado Tacos Bridge street Grand Rapids

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.
Creston Brewery Grand Rapids

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

Houses several favorite restaurants like Aperitivo and Slows or you can go à la carte choosing from several different vendors

Forty Pearl

40 Pearl St NW #110, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Oysters, craft cocktails, and Michigan wine bar
Forty Pearl Date Night Restaurant Grand Rapids

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.
Mertens-Rooftop-Bar-Grand-Rapids-MI
(see more rooftop bars)

HopCat

25 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Grand Rapids born American pub with ultimate deliciousness: Cosmik Fries

The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck

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

Knoop Restaurant Grand Rapids MI

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.

Linear Restaurant Grand Rapids MI

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

MDRD

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.

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.
_Monsoon Grand Rapids Vietnamese restaurant

Portico

131 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Locally sourced, upscale modern cuisine and regionally inspired cocktails

portico restaurant grand rapids mi

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.

Stan’s Tacos

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.

Tupelo Honey

140 Ottawa Ave, NW, Suite 100 Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Southern cuisine from the Carolina mountains and local craft beer

Tupelo Honey Restaurant Downtown Grand Rapids

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.

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.
Commons Grand Rapids

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
Donkey-Taqueria-outdoor-summer-dining

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

Olive’s

2162 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506

Upscale fresh food and unique flavors served in an intimate atmosphere.

Paddock Place

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.

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
Rose's

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.

Butcher’s Union

 438 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

American, exquisite food, inspired cocktails and an unrivaled whiskey collection

The Jolly Pumpkin

 428 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

Pizzeria and brewery
Jolly Pumpkin Brewery Grand Rapids

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.

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!
Giant pretzel at the Mitten Brewing Company Grand Rapids

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

The Søvengård

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.

Brass Ring Brewing

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 Brewery Grand Rapids Date Night Restaurant
Brass Ring Brewing is known for great seasonal decorations

The Cheesecake Factory

3195 28th St SE, Kentwood, MI 49512

A vast menu of dinner options as well dozens of dessert options

The Electric Cheetah Cascade

6450 28th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546

Soup City USA! Grilled Cheese, salads, breads, spreads

Emonae

6246 28th St SE Suite A, Grand Rapids, MI 49546

Korean BBQ
*Temporarily closed – check website for updates.

FireRock Grille

7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Caledonia, MI 49316

Gourmet American fare with outdoor dining options in season

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

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.
Noco Provisions - Grand Rapids Date Night restaurants

Tokyo Grill & Sushi

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:

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.

Shesko

2121 Celebration Dr NE #700, Grand Rapids, MI 49525

Authentic Mediterranean

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?

Amore Trattoria Italiana

5080 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park, MI 49321

Italian, award-winning, family-run business

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.

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

Third Nature brewing is one of the date night restaurants in Grand Rapids
Third Nature Brewing

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

Licari’s

3627 Baldwin St Hudsonville, MI 49426

Sicilian pizza kitchen

Lindo Mexico

771742 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

Save

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!

Third Nature brewing is one of the date night restaurants in Grand Rapids
Third Nature Brewing

Just Published

About The Author

8 thoughts on “Grand Rapids Restaurants: 50+ Best Date Night Restaurants in Grand Rapids to Try”

  1. I recommend dinner downtown at Max’s South Seas Hideaway and then bring a pile of quarters to Pyramid Scheme nearby to play pinball.

  2. Cascade- cascade road house is amazing! And i love the outdoor seating area they’ve upgraded to be used year round

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *