Tasty Destinations: 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, 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 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!
Comprehensive Therapy Center
Established in 1982, Comprehensive Therapy Center’s mission is to meet the therapeutic and educational needs of children with disabilities who are at-risk or disadvantaged, through skill building, academic enhancement and social emotional support.
We help children to walk, talk, learn and play.
Facebook | 616-233-9160
Our Top 5 Favorite Date Night Restaurants
We went into detail on our top five date night restaurants in Grand Rapids. Each place on this list is a solid choice for a special night out, depending on your interests.
Best New Restaurant: Social Misfits
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.)
Best for Ramen: Ando Sushi
415 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
616-608-0789
Head to Ando for the Ramen. Ando is like comfort food but without the artery-clogged regret afterward.
Their delicious ramen bowls are full-on taste and zing and pair perfectly with one of their fine mule selections. If ramen isn’t your thing, Ando’s sushi will be. I also love that they accommodate dietary restrictions and can cater to gluten-free, vegan, keto diets, and more.
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 there. 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.
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.
San Chez for the 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.
The Growing List of Date Night Restaurants in Grand Rapids
Downtown Grand Rapids Restaurants
Heading downtown for date night? Lucky you!
The city itself lends energy to a Grand Rapids date. Adding 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:
44 Grandville Ave SW, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503
A favorite for anniversary celebrations! Mediterranean and Italian cuisine served in a rustic, yet elegant setting. To reserve a table, call 616.222.4600
47 Monroe Center St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Classic pub food and beer selection. Good burgers. Generous portions.
188 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Local restaurant specializing in American fare. Cozy atmosphere. Chocolate martinis – yum!
*Temporarily closed – check website for updates.
190 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Prime American steak house with extensive wine selections
449 Bridge St. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Build-your-own tacos chain will boast colorful decor by local artists
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
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
Made-from-scratch comfort fare meets authentic global classics in the kitchen of the world’s first celebrity chef, Wolfgang Puck located in the Amway Grand Plaza
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
187 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Historic bar serving premium drinks and appetizers: Amway Grand Plaza
458 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
A three-story tiki bar (need we say more?)
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.
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
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
43 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
An eclectic and inventive offering of scratch-made waffle dishes, both savory and sweet, all day long. Plus cocktails or artisanal coffee
67 Ottawa Ave. SW Grand Rapids, MI 49503
The beloved baja tacos in Standale is now downtown at the old Wheelhouse kitchen location
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. 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
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
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.
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
Brewpub and distillery serving fresh-made beer-centric food
654 Stocking Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Italian, family-run business with old-Italian favorites
443 Bridge St NW #1, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Scandinavian, biergarten and kitchen featuring hyper-local and seasonally based cuisine and drinks
Kentwood • Cascade • SE GR Restaurants
Restaurants on the Southeast side of GR 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.
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
3005 Broadmoor Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Family-run Asian fine dining, featuring a Japanese Steakhouse, Chinese Dining and Sushi Bar
*Temporarily closed – check website for updates.
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 GR Restaurant will you try?
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 Restaurants
Whether you call this side of GR your home town or you are just visiting for date night, you’ll be in for a treat.
Explore one of many local attractions on your date, like a seasonal Riverboat tour or a bike ride through the area’s trails and parks. Then check out another great local attraction – delicious food.
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 accelerated
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 an 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!
Map of Grand Rapids Date Night Restaurants
Find your next date night with this map of great date restaurants near you! Read on to see what delicious eats each establishment offers.
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!