Romantic Dining

Ten Suggestions For An Intimate Evening, And One You Already Knew

Whether it's candles, flowers, intimate seating or low light that makes for your romantic night out, it's always good to have a plan B ready to go if your first choice is full up.   We were honored when a national publication asked us to share our favorites with them.  Of course, it only made sense that we share our favorites with our readers as well.  For Valentine's Day or a first date here's 10 of our favorites.  We've also added one that's easy to overlook sometimes.  The sooner you make your reservation the better, as many of these places do fill up ahead of time.

Canlis

When the sky's the limit and the occasion deems worthy, Canlis is the place to be.  An excellent view of Lake Union from 300 feet up and a broad array of menu items insures you've spared no expense for an exquisite meal.

2576 Aurora Ave. N.,  Seattle,  206-283-3313

Chandler's

The large glass windows in the dining area that overlooks Lake Union sets the scene for some of Seattle's finest seafood. Patio seating in the summer is perfect for late night sunsets.

901 Fairview Ave. N. #B100,  Seattle,  206-223-2722

Dahlia Lounge

Artful presentations and a myriad of flavors abound in the dark and romantic Dahlia Lounge.  And just when you thought it was over, there's the fantastic dessert menu!

2001 Fourth Avenue,  Seattle,  206-682-4142

Daniel's Broiler

Some of the finest prime cuts anywhere in the city, Daniel's aims to please with a breathtaking view of Lake Washington.  If you're solo, a few appetizers at the bar will make a meal.  Moon rises off to the east are spectacular here.

200 Lake Washington Blvd,  Seattle,  206-329-4192

El Gaucho

Grab your dinner jacket and cinch up your tie, El Gaucho is a classy place.  Piano jazz is always on tap as are some of the best meats and seafoods in the northwest. The Circular dining area makes for great people watching.

2505 First Avenue,  Seattle,  206-728-1337

II Bistro

Located on the south end of Pike's Market, Il Bistro is the perfect way to end a shopping spree or gallery visit downtown.  Intimate dining and premium meat based Italian fare are topped off by a huge wine selection.

93A Pike Street,  Seattle,  206-682-3049

Maximilien in the Market

The dark green interior is framed by picture windows that look out onto Elliot Bay.  One of the finest French menus in the northwest makes a great place for dinner as well as brunch on the weekend.

81-A Pike Street,  Seattle,  206-682-7270

Salish Lodge & Spa at Snoqualmie Falls

Simply the most romantic out of the way dining near Seattle.  The five star dining is complemented by a breathtaking view of the falls below and on cold winter days you can anticipate snow.

6501 Railroad Ave. SE,  Snoqualmie,  425-888-2556

Serafina

Rustic euro-Italian fare graces a menu that changes three times a year.  Intimate, candle light dining and music four nights a week makes Serafina a first date best bet.  Reservations suggested.

2043 Eastlake Ave.,  Seattle,  206-323-0807

Your place

That's right, your own home may very well be one of the most romantic places of all to eat in Seattle.  There's nothing quite like a intimate meal at home.  No waiting for your table, you select the music, the libations and menu; no wait service to deal with, and it's all at a fraction of the cost of going out.  Tidy your place up, add some fresh cut flowers and candles, cook or order in and let the night move at it's own pace.

Patrick Thomas