20 romantic restaurants for date nights in the Wilmington area

It’s clear that different people (and different couples) have different ideas about date nights and romance. So, one person’s idea of a romantic restaurant might not match another’s. Maybe you want to settle into a dark corner with white tablecloths or maybe you and your sweetie want water views and a buzzy atmosphere.

Hopefully, no matter what you prefer from intimate to vibrant, you’ll find a spot you want to try on this list of eateries in Brunswick, Pender and New Hanover the next time you're looking for ideas. Is there a romantic restaurant you think should be included? Let us know by emailing aballard@gannett.com -- and tell us why it's great for dates.

Caprice Bistro, downtown Wilmington

There’s a reason this downtown favorite was named one of the most romantic in the country a few years ago, according to Open Table. It’s French, with a variety of different seating areas, with a charming and hospitable couple at the core of the business. It's at 10 Market St. in downtown Wilmington.

Port Land Grille, near Wrightsville Beach

In Lumina Station, this has been a staple of local fine dining since it opened in 2000. Restaurateur Anne Steketee and her staff and chefs consistently offer great hospitality and seasonally inspired dishes at 1908 Eastwood Road near Wrightsville Beach.

The Sailfish, Porters Neck

This seasonal restaurant has recently re-opened for the 2024 season, just in time for these unseasonably warm days and date nights with water views. The restaurant is at Marsh Creek Marina on the Intracoastal Waterway. This season, chef Gary Walker is working his magic in the kitchen at 2570 Scotts Hill Loop Road in Wilmington.

Joseph's Italian Bistro, Southport

Located on the Intracoastal Waterway at South Harbor Village at 5003 O’Quinn Blvd. in Southport, this restaurant has both a picturesque setting and great Italian food. It's a Brunswick County favorite for dishes and specials like Saffron Mussels, classic surf-and-turf with steak and lobster tail, and ossobuco.

Floriana Restaurant, downtown Wilmington

When it comes to eat cute, it's hard to beat the balcony two-tops at this downtown Wilmington restaruant. Look for a menu of the northern Italian menu at the corner of Water and Market streets. Be sure to book one of the special tables for dates.

Lake Park Steakhouse, Carolina Beach

For those couple who just want a great steak -- maybe served in a classic steakhouse style setting. In Carolina Beach, at 12 S. Lake Park Blvd., this spot is a local favorite. Look for a menu with prime rib, classic cuts, seafood and a customizable salad.

Little Dipper, downtown Wilmington

A fun, and interactive, date night can be found at a fondue restaurant -- including this one at 138 S. Front St. Located in a renovated, historic building, there are a few quiet eating areas inside, as well as a bar and outdoor patio. Opt for the whole, multi-course experience. Or get an indulgent chocolate fondue for dessert.

Café Chinois, Wilmington

Sure, Indochine is a beautiful and popular spot for all sorts of dinners, but this sister restaurant at 3710 S. College Road in Wilmington is also a great spot for a romantic meal with art from owner Solange ‘Niki’ Thompson’s personal collection.

Island Way, Oak Island

Another Brunswick County favorite, this restaurant is right on the ocean and serves a menu with steak and seafood at 1407 E. Beach Drive. In addition to the regular dinner menu (with pastas and local favorites like crab cakes), they also offer an early evening menu beginning at 4:30 and daily specials.

The Vine, downtown Wilmington

While this spot was always an excellent one for a bite and glass of wine, new owners have taken over this restaurant at 25 N. Third St. They've updated the interior and also added a selection of bourbons and whiskeys. It's an easy-to-find spot that still feels tucked away.

Roko Italian Cuisine, Wilmington

Another local favorite spot is this intimate Italian eatery at 6801 Parker Farm Drive in Wilmington's Mayfaire shopping center. Despite its busy, central location, the atmosphere is dark and cozy. People love the Wild Mushroom Ravioli, the Shrimp Scampi and the Veal Sorrentino.

Perla Raw Bar, Wilmington

Restaurateur Ash Aziz has a way with creating the right space. His other eateries, Circa 1922 and Origins, are also often mentioned as 'romantic.' This new eatery in the Mayfaire/Renaissance Park area adds something unique to the mix that's fun and festive.

manna, downtown Wilmington

Another restaurant that always delivers is this spot at 123 Princess St. Owner Billy Mellon strives to create a culinary experience and chef Carson Jewell offers up his refined take on Southern fare that is both whimsical and delicious. Then, of course, there's the great bar program and service.

South Beach Grill, Wrightsville Beach

If the weather's nice, book your spot on the patio so you can enjoy the sunset while also having a menu of long-time favorites and locally inspired specials. They've been at it for more than two decades at 100 S. Lumina Ave. and they're also open for lunch, if you need a daytime date.

Smoke on the Water, Wilmington

Speaking of great settings, it's hard to beat this spot on the Cape Fear River. Lots of restaurants boast water views, but this one feels a little private, and out of the way. Plus, there's a something-for-everyone menu at 3704 Watercraft Ferry Ave. in Wilmington's Riverlights community.

G Prime, near Wrightsville Beach

Although it's not on the water, this new restaurant at 1981 Eastwood Road from Giorgios Bakatsias and the Giorgios Hospitality Group offers a big wow factor with an inspired steakhouse interior. The group has more than a dozen restaurant, some of the newest of which are in Wilmington.

The Second Glass, near downtown Wilmington

This wine-driven restaurant is well-known for offering creative pairing menus for special occasions, but you can go any time for a selection of craft cocktails and curated wines. Chef Ryan O'Janpa offers seasonal dishes for omnivores and vegans alike at 1540 S. Second St.

Oyster Rock, Calabash

You can find several great restaurants along the Calabash River in Brunswick County, this one -- situated for water views -- is great for date nights. Check out fan-favorite menu items like the seared scallops with lemongrass risotto cake and lime beurre blanc, the He & She Crab Soup, and crab cakes at 9931 Nance St.

Covey, Wilmington

This luxury cabin-meets-clubhouse restaurant offers a mini getaway in a location just off the beaten path in midtown Wilmington. There’s an outdoor patio, a cool bar, a wine-tasting room, private tables and a classic dining room. And in all of them, you can order a selection of innovative Southern inspired dishes.

Ellipsis, Wilmington

For those who have trouble coming up with date night ideas, the new Ellipsis is for you. This venue offers an ever-changing array of different menus and dining concepts. Upcoming experiences at 502 S. Third St. include a six-course vegan menu, a Champagne Jazz Brunch and a cheese-tasting.

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Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews. You can reach her ataballard@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Romantic restaurants for date nights in Wilmington, NC