Romantic Picks to Match the Mood
By
Mina Williams
Lover’s Lanes in Seattle can be found at a multitude of
romantic restaurants around the city. The key to romantic spots is in selecting
the locale to match the mood.
What makes romance? Always in the heart of the beholder,
whether big or small, a grand café or a hide-a-way these mood makers are sure to
stir the soul when next you want to have a connection of the hearts. One
person’s idea of romance might be Canlis (2576 Aurora Ave N, 206.283.3313) with
its sweeping views from the hilltop and sensuous island atmosphere. Another
person’s notion could be waterside tacos at Agua Verde (1303 NE Boat St.,
206.545.8570) followed by renting a kayak for a tandem adventure on Portage Bay.
Top Tips:
Play to your audience. Listen for passion pleasures so
you know to suggest a white tablecloth locale or a cozy Formica counter café.
If your love melts at the sight of linen and fresh flowers that is a keen
tip-off as to the style of restaurant you should select.
If it’s a special night, plan in advance. Get a
reservation and let the restaurant in on how special the evening is to you.
They want to please and make your night memorable.
Ask for what you want. You may want a special or
secluded table or one with a good view of the water or simply of the
restaurant. You may want to bring a special bottle of wine. Or, you may want
the restaurant to accept a flower delivery or serve a certain cake. Be clear
with what you want and ask for the staff’s recommendations how to get what you
want.
Inquire if there are suggested dress requirements. Keep
in mind that comfort is key. If you feel awkward out of blue jeans, don’t
select a swanky spot. It’s hard to be romantic if you are self conscious about
your appearance.
Be sure you know the menu prices and the restaurant’s
payment methods. Nothing kills the romance more than leaving your date to wait
while you dash to the cash machine.
Asian spots ooze the spice of the Orient
I Love Sushi
1001 Fairview Ave N.
206.625.9604
Dinner: $11-$20
This Lake Union spot marries the freshest of fish with
gorgeous views and a lakeside deck. Daytime or nighttime the ambiance delights.
Nishino
3130 E. Madison St.
206.322.5800
Dinner: $20 and under
To cement your intentions select the Chef’s Choice
presented with gold leaf on sushi. Otherwise, traditional options – salmon,
shrimp, tuna – pair with more adventuresome delights – salty surf clam, geoduck.
Multi-course offerings take the guessing out of ordering.
Shiro’s
2401 Second Ave.
|206.443-9844
Dinner: $18-$23
Belltown’s basic best sushi.
Wild Ginger
1401 Third Ave.
206.623.4450
Dinner: $21-$30
Pan-Asian fusion icon, the dark woods and deep colors
create a lush feeling. Open for late night dining. Privacy seekers should direct
their dates to the upstairs lounge and let the candlelight frame the evening.
Cozy spots, of all cuisines, add a romantic spark
Café Juanita
9702 NE 120th Pl., Kirkland
425.823.1505
Dinner: $40 and up
Romance is in the air at this Eastside restaurant. Local
lush ingredients paired with perfect preparations take the guess work out of
ordering. American cuisine with Italian and French influences.
Carmelita
7314 Greenwood Avenue North
206.706.7703
Dinner: $16 - $20
Vegetarian fare made from scratch using organic
ingredients. Ask to be seated in the intimate Carmelita Salon or, in warmer
weather, on the peaceful outdoor garden patio with fresh herbs scenting the
scene.
Chez Shea
94 Pike Pl., Suite 34
206.467-9990
Dinner: $31 - $40
Hide-a-way love nest in Pike Place Market. From the
intimate, candlelit dining room, gaze over the rooftops and watch the sun set
over the Olympics. Lusty and tender entrees reflect seasonal Northwest cuisine
as ferries slip across Puget Sound. A leisurely prix-fixe four-course dinner is
available. For a more casual evening the Shea's Lounge Bistro offers a sexy spot
for late night dining in laid-back atmosphere.
Dahlia Lounge
2001 4th Ave.
206.682.4142
Dinner: $31 - $40
Lush crimson and Chinese lanterns set the sultry tone of
this Seattle icon. Innovative Northwest food without being precious.
Marjorie
2331 2nd Ave
206.441.9842
Dinner: $31 - $40
Colorful Marjorie brings serenity to Belltown. The
globe-trotting menu offers something for just about everyone – Thai, American
South, African. The patio proves perfect for sultry evenings.
Melting Pot
14 Mercer St
206.378.1208
Dinner: $21-$30
Classic fondue. The double-sided fireplace of the Lower
Queen Anne location harkens memories of ski trips. The double-dipping action in
the secluded booths offers interaction.
Mona’s Bistro & Lounge
6421 Latona Ave NE
206.526.1188
Dinner: $20 and under
Music with dinner. This romantic bistro offers a bevy of
dreamy options. Jazz on the weekends. A cushy bar serving up creative cocktails
and a jewel toned dining room in which to enjoy pastas, seafood or steak
prepared with a Mediterranean flair.
Restaurant Zoe
2137 2nd Ave
206.256.2060
Dinner: $31 - $40
The warm glow of yellows accent the artichoke-green wall
the serves as the restaurant’s signature. At the door, one encounters the
heavily draped entry…a perfect place to steal a kiss…before being greeted.
Seafood is the specialty with a good assortment of land-loving offerings. The
tin topped bar is the centerpiece for inspired cocktails. The corner table in
the bar by the window is a show stopper.
Rosebud Restaurant & Bar
719 E Pike St
206.323.6636
Dinner: $13 - $21
Perfect when you don’t want smoke to get into your eyes.
The restaurant and bar are non-smoking. Comfort food served up in a romantic art
deco dining room. The secluded garden patio is another locale for a tête-à-tête.
Stumbling Goat Bistro
6722 Greenwood Ave. N.
206.784.3535
Dinner: $20 and under
Velvet curtains, vintage lamps and red walls all wrapped
up together make this neighborhood bistro a fine choice for a comfortable
romantic evening. The limited menu ensures that each dish is perfectly prepared.
Call in advance to check on the status of reservations. Sometimes they accept
them, other times not. No comfortable waiting area inside the restaurant, and
the romance will be quashed at the nearby Court Hause Tavern.
Café Flora
2901 E Madison St
206.325.9100
Dinner: $20 - $30
Glamorous surroundings, meat-free fare. Lush plantings in
atrium rooms make for the perfect romance-inspired seating adjacent to a
babbling fountain. Recipes are developed and dishes prepared so even carnivores
won’t miss the meat.
Cascadia Restaurant
2328 First Ave
206.448.8884
Dinner: $25 - $40
The window waterfall lets you know that this restaurant
stands for a relaxed sense of Northwest elegance. Like the region Cascadia is
elegant and accepting. The regional ingredients are spun into dishes arranged in
the a la cart menu, on the chef’s tasting menu and on a seven-course vegetarian
option with care. The unobtrusive waitstaff makes this a proposal-worthy
restaurant.
1200 Bistro & Lounge
1200 E Pike St
206.320.1200
Dinner: $25 and up
Elegant Northwest food combined with a sultry neighborhood
bistro that has a dash of Capitol Hill hip. A swank cocktail lounge greets
starry-eyed diners headed to the crimson-walled dining room where discreet
waiters serve the intimate tables. Stupendous by-the-glass wine selections.
Cozy, lush food presented as sophisticated comfort food heralds the equally cozy
and lush desserts.
Italian sauces and wines stir the soul
Il Terrazzo Carmine
411 First Ave. S.
206.467.7797
Dinner: $20 - $40
Here a quiet table for two is not the exception. Classic
Italian in Pioneer Square served by professional-grade waiters. Tried and true
favorites stand the test of time. A spot where "Northwest casual" attire is
frowned upon.
Tulio
At the Vintage Park Hotel
1100 Fifth Ave
206.624.5500
Dinner: $20 - $30
Intimate, cozy, Italian. Three things combined to make
romance. Rustic, authentic recipes using local ingredients. Patio on Fifth
Avenue makes for fine people watching.
Café Lago
2305 24th Ave E.
206.329.8005
Dinner: $21 to $30
House-made pastas paired with a heavenly tomato sauce are
the makings of the legendary lasagna. Stroll the Arboretum before or après your
meal.
Pink Door
1919 Post Alley
206.443.3241
Dinner: $31 - $40
Italian fare presented in an anti-slick dining room where
the tables are covered with oil cloth and water is served in plastic glasses
while antique mirrors reflect the sultry colors of the space. An outdoor deck
presents a cozy spot to watch ferries slip across the water.
Il Bistro
93 Pike St
206.682.3049
Dinner: $31 - $40
When you close your eyes its as if you were in Tuscany.
This dimly lit dining grotto, under the Pike Place Market, serves up a rack of
lamb made by Cupid himself. Ask for the table furthest from the bar that is
tucked in the corner.
Mamma Melina Ristorante
4759 Roosevelt Way NE
206.632.4333
Mamma Melina’s staff makes eating with the family a
romantic experience with dim lights and candles. Authentic and affordable. The
lamb shank is definitely a lover’s dish. Perfect University-district spot for a
dinner and a movie date with the Seven Gables Theatre around the corner.
Serafina (see full review in
"Restaurants" section)
2043 Eastlake Ave E
206.323.0807
Dinner: $20 - $30
A dim, candlelit dining room sets the tone and the rustic
Italian fare seals the deal. On warm evenings, ask for a seat on the patio.
Despite close-by diners, it’s as if you are on your own, personal patio with
just the summer night’s hum and occasional kitchen sounds providing a backdrop
for a kiss.
Assaggio Ristorante
2010 Fourth Ave
206.441.1399
Dinner: $15 - $20
Cheese-filled ravioli with scallops and cheese sauce. How
much more romance is needed? Ambiance here is perfect for a small chat and
getting-to-know-you dinner conversation over well-prepared dishes.
Fremont Classic Pizza and Trattoria
4307 Fremont Ave N
206.548.9411
Dinner: $10
Great first-date spot, this local joint is perfect for a
casual romantic evening with the ease of come-as-you-are elegance. With a menu
beyond pizza, pastas of the day and Caesar salads along with shellfish dishes
prove to be palate pleasing for everyone. Sometimes a Valentine’s Day special –
heart-shaped pizza.
Isabella Ristorante
1909 Third Ave
206.441.8281
Dinner: $10 - $27
Contemporary elegance. The lavish menu, echoes the deep
red walls in setting the tone for an amorous evening. Settle into a booth and
enjoy an evenly paced, but long, dining experience.
Pontevecchio Italian Bistro
710 North 34th St
206.633.3989
Dinner: $20 - $30
Seductive candlelight, white linen on the tabletops and a
balcony. This Fremont neighborhood spot doubles as a den of romance layered with
live opera singing on Fridays and Gypsy violin and classic guitar on Saturdays
-- just in case the atmosphere needs a little boost. Good spot for a lunch-time
trist.
Sostanza Trattoria
1927 43rd Ave E
206.324.9701
Dinner: $20
Romance for all seasons. Warm weather brings diners out to
the lakeside patio of this Madison Park favorite. Cooler months find diners
cozying up to the fireplace. Impeccable Northern Italian food puts one in the
mood for a stroll on the beach.
Lampreia
2400 First Ave
206.443.3301
Dinner: $50
Muted décor focuses your attention of your love
interest…until the food comes. The Italian-accented cuisine delights the eyes
and the palate. The chef’s tasting menu offers a full range of what the
restaurant offers. The quiet dining room allows for whisperings of sweet
nothings to be heard by your beloved.
When the experience needs to match the mood.
The Herbfarm
14590 NE 145th St., Woodinville
425.485.5300
Dinner: $150 - $190
It’s a really extravagant dinner party, and you don’t have
to being a hostess gift! Most diners are celebrating something, an anniversary,
a birthday. Romance is in the air. Snuggle into the cozy seats at The Herbfarm
and delight in the nine-course dinner, paired with wine, among the opulent and
whimsical surroundings with the lilt of classical guitar playing in the
background for the evening. Yes, the evening down to the sweet treats served up
with coffee after dessert. Dinner lasts about four and one-half hours.
Reservations are highly recommended. Later, take advantage of the adjacent
Willow’s Lodge. The Herbfarm has two specially designed view rooms that can be
booked for the night in conjunction with your dinner.
Barking Frog at Willow’s Lodge
14580 NE 145th St., Woodinville
425.424.2999
Dinner: $30 - $50
The fireplace in the center of the restaurant sets the
mood, then the food seals the deal. Seafood is perfectly prepared, the wine list
offers a huge number of by-the-glass selections in addition to bottles and then
there are meaty dishes so that both Venus and Mars will be satisfied. The
restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, making it a perfect starting
or ending spot for a day of wine tasting in Woodinville. Being across the
driveway from Willow’s Lodge makes it easy to extend your stay to enjoy the
pastoral surroundings and the Lodge’s spa.
Willow’s Lodge
14580 NE 145th St. Woodinville
425.424.2999
With its high-toned woodsy feel, The Willow’s Lodge oozes
tranquility. The rooms are appointed with high tech wonders that monitor water
temperature and audio ambiance. Down the hall the spa offers full services to
relax, unwind and open up for the romance to follow. A special "Do Not Disturb"
package ($495 per couple) includes overnight accommodations and dinner in the
Barking Frog. While you are dining, your tub is filled with bubbles and rose
petals and then topped with our special "in-tub dining tray" with fresh
strawberries, whipped cream, warm chocolate, a plate for fresh oysters,
champagne and candles.
The Hunt Club at the Sorrento Hotel
900 Madison St
206.343.6156
Dinner: $25 - $30
Comfy cozy is the Hunt Club with bolster pillows and
feathery booths. During sunny weather the drive is transformed into an Italian
piazza with all the romance of a trattoria. Extend your evening by taking
dessert or after dinner dinks in the Fireside Room. Then there are always the
recently renovated rooms upstairs.
The Georgian Room at the Fairmont
411 University St
206.621.7889
Dinner: $30 - $40
Since the 1920s The Georgian Room has been a spot where
Seattle couples celebrate. While offering a menu packed with local ingredients
in a more relaxed setting than in days gone by, the presentation is still
refined.
Spirit of Washington Dinner Train
625 S 4th Street, Renton
425.227.7245
Dinner: $60 - $75
Experience the romance of the rails as you ride and dine
in luxurious, vintage rail cars. From Renton to Woodinville, the journey takes
you along the shores of Lake Washington, while you savor dinner, to the Columbia
Winery for a sample of their Northwest wines. Hold hands watching the moon over
the lake on the return trip of the three and a quarter hour, 45 mile excursion.
Palomino
1420 Fifth Ave
206.623.1300
Dinner: $15 - $25
Whether lighting or rekindling a fire you can’t enter you
can’t enter Palomino without feeling the heat. This hip urban eatery makes the
perfect before or après theatre, event or shopping date. The wood-fired menu
items bring the trill of the grill to the table. For a quick snack share an
order of Gorgonzola fries and two flutes of Domaine Ste Michelle sparkling wine
for $14.95. A bottle with fries is $29.95.
Salish Lodge & Spa at Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie
425.831.6517
Dinner: $20 - $50
The crashing waters of Snoqualmie Falls as heard from the
Salish Lodge makes the heart beat faster. Romantic private rooms are available
to dine in. One presents three sides of windows, another a bird’s eye view of
the falls. After dinner select a simple dessert or offerings from the cheese
trolley’s creamy delights or choose the gourmet European hot chocolate service.
The French never go wrong when it comes to romance
Campagne/Café Campagne
86 Pine St
206.728.2800
Dinner: $20 - $40
This romantic hide-a-way tucked into the Pike Place Market
by the Inn at the Market lets the Franch do best what the French do…romance.
Secluded tables, casual elegance and warm tones sooth the soul at both Campange
and it’s café located alley-level. The outdoor patio is a perfect spot to sip
champagne. Cassoulet for two is sure to set the tone for sharing.
Maximilien in the Market
81A Pike Street
206.682.7270
Dinner: $16 - $30
Charming French bistro tucked into the nether region of
Pike Place Market. The two-story restaurant offers one of the best sunset
viewing spots Seattle has to offer. Time-honored French fare. Another date
option is, following Market crawling on a Sunday morning, Max’s for crepes.
Brasserie Margaux
401 Lenora St in the Warwick Hotel
206.777.1990
Dinner: $16 - $26
The fanciful atmosphere with chandeliers, domed dining
room ceiling, open kitchen and bold-striped coverings set a festive tone, while
the booths create a soothing atmosphere perfect for cuddling. Efficient staff
serving Northwest foods in a French centric fashion.
Rover's
2808 E Madison St
206.325.7442
Dinner: $40 and up
Cozy, private and romantic. A French country inn tucked
into the city. Perfectly prepared offerings are selected from the daily-changing
menu. In addition to the menu, sure hits include the offerings of wine available
by the half bottle, the cheese course and the vegetarian options.
That hot Latin beat makes the heart keep time
Andaluca
At the Mayflower Park Hotel
407 Olive Way
206.382.6999
Dinner: $31 - $40
Dimly lit dining in a rosewood paneled room is the
backdrop for this Spanish-inspired restaurant that provides privacy to let the
sparks fly. Spanish wines and sherries punctuate the passion of the
Mediterranean.
Tempero do Brazil
5628 University Way NE
206.523.6229
Dinner: $20
Brazilian culture and passion is sure to rub off in the
tiny house tucked away on the upper Ave. Well rounded and spicy foods warm the
soul while (on Tuesdays and Sundays) live music sets the beat.
Rare or well-done, a steak dinner still makes a
statement
El Gaucho
2501 1st Ave
206.728.1337
Dinner: $40 and up
A spot to impress your guest. Swanky steak house with
tableside preparations. Cozy booths. The upper level booths are for love birds
and have a view of the entire restaurant. Ask for a mink banquet for ultimate
loving luxury. After dinner, dance the night away downstairs in the Pampas Room.
Metropolitan Grill
820 Second Ave.
206.624.3287
Dinner: $40 and up
Terrific steak. Seafood entrees present something for
those seeking a lighter fare.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
800 Fifth Ave.
206.624.8524
&
565 Bellevue Sq.
425.451.1550
Dinner: $30 and up
Dark colors, dense carpet, crisp linen. A classic spot to
take your date if beef makes his or her heart race. Presented at the table
sizzling, steaks stay warm through the entire meal. Veal, lamb, chicken and fish
options present something for everyone. Classic Southern-hospitality, as one
would expect from the New Orleans-based restaurant group. In Bellevue ask for a
cozy corner table. In Seattle select from booths in the restaurant’s "Lover’s
Lane."
Daniel’s Broiler
809 Fairview Pl N
206.621.8262
&
200 Lake Washington Blvd
206.329.4191
&
10500 NE 8th St
425.462.4662
Dinner: $25 and up
On Lake Union lush draperies, a copper-hooded fireplace
and views to turn even the most jaded head. Classic steak house plus. The Lake
Washington location gives floor to ceiling views of the lake and Mount Rainier.
Over in Bellevue, the 21 floor loft makes you feel like you are sitting in a
castle surveying your kingdom. Piano in bar at all locations for before or after
fun.
One night stands are not always sleazy
Russell Lowell Catering
1111 Fairview Ave. N.
206.264.0400
Dinner: $85
One night a year this tony caterer opens its doors to
Valentine’s Day celebrators. The Lake Union locale is lakeside so you can enjoy
bobbing boats and Queen Anne Hill vistas. The meal, perfect. Reservations are
required.
Sea gazing and other romantic views
Anthony’s Pier 66
2201 Alaskan Way
206.448.6688
Dinner: $20
If you are looking for sunset views of Elliott Bay will
sipping wine with your sweetie, this waterside eatery is a good catch.
Canlis Restaurant
2576 Aurora Ave N
206.283.3313
$40 and up
You don’t know where to look! The restaurant’s interior,
smooth and soothing; the restaurant’s view, Lake Union spilling into the dining
room; into your dining partner’s eyes. A traditional Seattle stunner on all
counts. Simply prepared dishes served with efficient professionalism. This is
one spot where you can catch the romantic spirit. Oftentimes there is at least
one lad on a knee tableside. Ultimate intimacy can be had in the private dining
rooms on the restaurant’s upper level.
Chandler’s Crabhouse (see
full review in "Restaurants" section)
901 Fairview Ave N
206.223.2722
Dinner: $20 and up
Lakeside dining at its best. The outdoor deck presents the
thrill of seaplanes buzzing overhead, the romance of sunset on Lake Union and
some of the best seafood Seattle has to offer.
Palisade (see full review in
"Restaurants" section)
2601 W Marina Pl
206.285.1000
Dinner: $25 and up
Stunning views from this Magnolia spot are just the start
of your experience at Palisade. A Polynesian-inspired menu and fun cocktails
transport you to the tropics. While some lovers request a waterside table, there
are some "hot" spots among the lush plantings alongside the extensive indoor
pond full of aquatic life. Be prepared to feel comfortable. No trendy stuff
here.
Ponti Seafood Grill
3014 Third Ave N
206.284.3000
Dinner: $20
Plenty of spots to cuddle here while you watch boats slip
under the Fremont Bridge from the Queen Anne Hill side. Cozy bar, spectacular
window-side seats, patio dining in warmer weather and private dining rooms all
combine to offer many smooching opportunities.
Ray’s Boathouse & Café
6049 Seaview Ave NW
206.789.3770
Dinner: $25
Romantic celebration central, Ray’s offers the best
Olympic Mountain/sunset view in town. Whether you select the Boathouse’s main
dining room or the more casual upstairs café the world will be your oyster.
Observed once: A cuddling couple on the café’s upper deck huddled beneath a
restaurant-supplied blanket sipping wine and sharing a hamburger. Downstairs,
elevated booths give diners stunning views and privacy.
Salty’s on Alki
1936 Harbor Ave SW
206.937.1600
Dinner: $25
When you want the city at your feet, select Salty’s on
Alki and ask for a window seat. Comfortable dining experience the relies on good
food rather than pretentious service. Live entertainment on weekends. Limo
service from downtown hotels available.
Fish Café
205 Lake St S., Kirkland
425.822.3553
Dinner: $30 and up
Obviously seafood is the main attraction here, but for the
romantic spirited the view of Lake Washington is divine. The best seat in the
house is in the middle of the upper level.
Waterfront Seafood Grill
(see full review in "Restaurants" section)
2301 Alaskan Way
206.956.9171
Dinner: $30 and up
This gorgeous, warmly elegant restaurant takes full
advantage of its waterfront location at the tip of Pier 70. The Waterfront’s
floor-to-ceiling windows showcase breathtaking 270 degree views of Elliott Bay,
Magnolia Bluff and the Space Needle. Marvelous outdoor dining is featured during
Seattle’s brilliant summertime evenings. Live piano music adds a touch of
glamour.
Yarrow Bay Grill
1270 Carillon Point, Kirkland
425.889.9052
Dinner: $30 and up
The Yarrow Bay Grill offers spectacular waterfront fine
dining featuring "Northwest fresh artisan fare" complemented by an award-winning
wine list and outstanding service. With a stunning view of Lake Washington. The
menu changes daily. Everyday is Valentine’s Day at Yarrow Bay. The splendid view
with tables, that make you think you could dangle your feet in Lake Washington,
mirrors some new sexy menu offerings. Kobe Beef, steamed clams prepared with a
sultry Spanish flair and a three-course tasting menu all make this spot a
romantic destination 365 days of the year.
Sky City at the Space Needle
219 Forth Ave N
206.905.2100
Dinner: $25 and up
When you want to sit on top of the world, or at least the
Puget Sound region, select to dine at the Space Needle.
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