Selecting the perfect restaurant for a date involves a lot to consider. Good food and drinks are a given, but ambiance matters more than ever — because, as we all know, the wrong vibe can ruin the moment. With this in mind, I’ve curated a list of establishments worthy of the Cozy Romantic Tables award, meaning you’ll find ideal lighting, unobtrusive music, and just the right amount of intimacy. Peruse the roundup and choose the atmosphere that best suits your mood for the night.
Yes, you’ve probably seen this one on countless “most romantic” lists, and for good reason. Clos Maggiore earns every bit of its reputation. The designers have brought to life the very essence of what people envision when they hear the word “romantic.” Picture a cozy nest, draped in white blossoms that cascade above and around you. The dim lighting and dark wood add a touch of mystery, while the layout gives each table a sense of privacy. If that isn’t enough, the crackling fireplace seals the deal.
And just like that, you and your better half become characters in a storybook, with a happy ending, of course. It might feel a bit over-the-top for a first date, but for those wanting to celebrate enduring love or a special milestone, it’s a must. The menu here spotlights local produce, though the flavors may whisk you off to the French Mediterranean coast with creations like sea bass with crisp potatoes and persillade of trumpet mushrooms or classic duck enhanced with pickled vegetables.
5-course tasting menu — £85
Sitting at a table adorned with crisp white napkins beside a live olive tree and savoring lobster linguine, I felt as if I'd slipped into a vacation romance, even though I was right in the heart of Mayfair. Sparrow is apparently designed for indulgent dinners, boasting a modern twist on Italian cuisine and timeless tricks to create the idyllic ambiance.
The food offerings cater to a range of moods, from we-only-live-once Beluga caviar to more humble yet superb polenta with wild mushrooms. Whatever catches your eye on the menu, whether it's spicy pasta or chicken milanese, don't miss truffle focaccia — simple in name, but amazing in flavor. And if you’re lowkey searching for a pretext to keep the night going, head to the lively ground-level bar with its whimsical cocktail list or settle into the open-air terrace to linger over your drinks.
Lunch tasting menu — £45
Blanchette is an utterly charming, quintessentially Parisian bistro that brings a bit of the City of Love right into the heart of Soho, and it’s exactly what I’d pick for a date. Plus, their focus on small plates makes it even better — I mean, sharing food has a certain romance in it, right? The vibe is refreshingly easy-going and relaxed, yet still chic and stylish. The rustic interior captivates with exposed brick, quirky furniture, and retro decor. If you have plans for a cultural night out, they offer a pre-theatre menu that’s perfect for setting the tone.
The cuisine, as expected, is French, with a delightful emphasis on cheese and honey pairings, like Brillat-Savarin with Provence honeycomb or Bleu d’Auvergne with linden honey. I’d suggest you try grilled pork belly that comes with bacon jam and glazed turnip, as well as simply delicious marinière mussels. Make sure to sample one of the bold wines from the cellar, which boasts everything from old-school, pricey Pinot Noir Vosne-Romanée Alain Hudelot-Noellat 2005 to trendy bottles of orange like Moscatel Tinaja Mauricio Gonzalez 2021 from Chile.
3-course pre-theatre menu — £23
Elevating your night sky-high is always a fantastic way to shake up the routine, and London certainly offers no shortage of rooftop gems. One standout is Florattica, recently launched on the 11th floor of Canopy by Hilton in The Minories. What sets this place apart is its ability to dazzle even when the weather doesn’t cooperate — something that can’t be said for many similar spots that lean too heavily on the view. Inside, you'll find a ceiling draped with a stunning array of dried flowers, while the floral motif carries through to the charming patterns on the chairs.
The music is soft and lovely, with occasional live jazz performances that set the mood without disturbing your conversation. The cocktails are the real stars here, showcasing some wonderfully complex mixes. I enjoyed Mango Oregano, which balances tropical notes without veering into overly sweet territory. The food leans more towards snacks, but their charcuterie plate to share, whipped ricotta nibbles, and crab pasta are solid choices.
Crab tortelloni — £22
If you’re planning an oenophilic date night, Plume is where you want to be. This dimly lit, two-storey wine bar and speakeasy has a cozy, secretive vibe that beckons you to share it with someone special. I recommend heading straight downstairs for an exclusively secluded atmosphere. The well-priced wine list features selections from around the globe, including a standout collection of sparkling options. You can enjoy barrel-fermented East Sussex Chardonnay, take a trip to California with Orangotango Giornata, or even explore the intriguing Japanese terroir of Château Mercian.
To accompany your tasting adventure, indulge in small plates like burrata served with sourdough or flatbread with spiced beef and yogurt. I opted for All Aboard, an exquisite selection of cured meats and cheeses, and it was definitely on point. I must mention that the service can be a touch inconsistent, but overall, it’s still an enjoyable experience.
All Aboard — £30
