If you’re searching for a classy locale to take your date out to in Tacoma, you’ve gotta find a sultry spot that inspires romance! Of course this means a delicious food, wine, cocktails, and desserts you can split, but you’ll also want to be sure and choose a place with the right vibe. We’re talking about low lighting (always flattering!), cozy seating, and a romantic ambiance to further inspire your amorous evening. **Revised and Updated February 2022**
Whether you’re searching for the perfect Valentine’s Day dinner, a special place to celebrate your anniversary, or a “just because” date night, here are our top choices for classic romantic date nights in Tacoma:
1. En Rama
Neighborhood: Downtown Tacoma
Located in the historic Courthouse Square in Downtown Tacoma. En Rama features the food and drinks of Tacoma favorite Chris Kiel formerly of 1022 and Hilltop Kitchen. The moody, cozy space delights diners with cocktails, sherry on tap, and house-made pasta and small plates. The cozy interior and large, well-lit patio are perfect for a date night.
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2. Wooden City
Neighborhood: Downtown Tacoma
With flattering lighting and the warmth of a pizza oven Wooden City is a must for date nights. The menu can best be described as elevated American comfort food. The atmosphere is cozy, lively, and warm. With great food and delicious cocktails- Wooden City is the perfect place for a date downtown.
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3. Stanley & Seaforts
Neighborhood: Eastside / McKinley Hill
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If you want the ultimate classic romance experience in Tacoma (fit for your grandma and grandpa did back in the day), Stanley & Seaforts is a not-to-miss Tacoma mainstay. Perched above Downtown and overlooking the city’s shimmering lights and boasting views that stretch on to Commencement Bay and beyond, this indulgent experience is designed to impress. Check out the menu here.
4. El Gaucho
Neighborhood: Downtown Tacoma
It’s dark, it’s sexy, and it’s extremely expensive (making El Gaucho a must if you’ve wronged your sweetheart in any way, shape, or form). This dimly lit steakhouse serves up some of the best surf and turf in town, and get the tableside service to truly embrace your experience there (because yes, dining at El Gaucho is an *experience*!). Take a look at El Gaucho’s menu right here.
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5. Indochine Asian Dining Lounge
Neighborhood: Downtown Tacoma
It’s hard to beat Indochine when it comes to ambiance in Tacoma—stepping into this Pacific Ave destination is like being transported into another world thanks to the tastefully ornate aesthetic that delights at every turn. They also have some of the best “waterfront” seating in Tacoma—make a reservation in advance to secure a seat by the pond that’s in the middle of the restaurant! Browse Indochine’s menu of Asian fusion cuisine here.
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6. 1022 South J
Neighborhood: Hilltop
This speakeasy-inspired cocktail bar offers an intimate atmosphere, and it’s tiny footprint ensures that you and your date’s bodies will almost certainly make contact at some point. 1022 is one of those places that’s been written about a million times and included on a ton of “best of” lists, and it’s with good reason. Not only can you find your footing in the world of classic cocktails here (everything from old fashioneds and manhattans to negronis and gimlets are on the menu), but their extensive list of exquisite craft creations are sure to delight even the most seasoned of cocktail connoisseurs. But we’re getting carried away here—the full menu of southern-inspired indulgences is just as impressive.
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7. Over the Moon Cafe
Neighborhood: St Helens / Downtown Tacoma
Over the Moon Cafe is the definition of a romantic hole in the wall restaurant. Walk through Opera Alley to a door and go down the steps into the dark, lush, dimly lit restaurant. For over a decade the delicious, rich, wonderful meals and great atmosphere make this the classic romantical date night spot for Tacomans.
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Marguerite Martin, Founder of MoveToTacoma.com is a real estate agent in Tacoma, WA . As a real estate “Matchmaker,” she specializes in connecting real estate clients to the perfect agent in Tacoma and across the country. Learn more at Meet Your Guide.
