There are first dates, second dates, and third dates. There are also dates which are more than a number, they’re an occasion to celebrate long-lasting affection.
Whether you’re kindling a newfound connection or keeping lit a passionate bond, Asheville has the region’s best romantic restaurants for adding extra charm to an evening which will forever be remembered.
The team at Asheville.com hopes to serve as your guide to creating the perfect evening for your special occasion. We’ve assembled a list of five romantic restaurants that we love and which we think will be an excellent choice for any pairing.
Cúrate
Our list begins with Cúrate, a Spanish tapas restaurant led by Chef Katie Button. Reservations are difficult to come by and once you’ve spent an evening there you’ll understand why. Chef Button has worked with two of the world’s most renowned chefs, José Andrés and Ferran Adrià. Her time spent at elBulli helped shape her career and gave her the necessary skills, and confidence, to begin her own restaurant. In our opinion, Cúrate is one of the country’s best tapas restaurants. From its jamón ibérico to croquetas de pollo to rossejat negro, this is a culinary experience you won’t forget. Cúrate is located at 13 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801. Visit curatetapasbar.com for additional information.
Sunny Point Café
A foundation of Asheville’s culinary greatness, Sunny Point Café has served the area with affordable yet incredible meals for well over a decade. Since its opening, co-owner April Moon Harper has committed to delivering fresh delicacies to one of Asheville’s most beloved areas. Traditionally known for its award-winning breakfast and lunch options, Sunny Point also packs a unique punch for romantic dinners, hosting candle-lit tables in an intimate setting. Sunny Point Café is located at 626 Haywood Road, Asheville, N.C. 28806. Visit sunnypointcafe.com for additional information.
Nine Mile
Nine Mile is a full-service vegetarian-friendly restaurant serving two locations in the Asheville area. The original location is in the heart of Historic Montford, and easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. Their newest location is in West Asheville on Haywood Rd. Their cuisine consists of Carribean-inspired dishes, including pasta dishes, rice dishes, daily specials, and an array of locally made desserts. Nine Mile is located at 233 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801 and 751 Haywood Rd, Asheville, NC 28806. Visit ninemileasheville.com for additional information.
Red Stag Grill
Tucked inside the Grand Bohemian Hotel in Biltmore Village, the environment of the Red Stag Grill can simply be described as breathtaking. Featuring contemporary European comfort food, Red Stag Grill is the combination of rustic and modern-chic sensibility. They are located at 11 Boston Way, Asheville, NC 28803. Visit www.bohemianhotelasheville.com for additional information.
Bouchon
Delivering an authentically French experience, Bouchon is located in the heart of downtown Asheville. Local ingredients come straight from the farm to create your favorite French dishes paired with North Carolina flavors. Romantic, intimate and charming, with an impressive list of hand-selected French wines, Bouchon is the perfect place to dine. It is located at 62 N Lexington Ave, Asheville, NC 28801. Visit www.ashevillebouchon.com for additional information.
Dessert: French Broad Chocolate Lounge
French Broad Chocolate Lounge is sure to be an adventure for the senses each time you visit. Intent on nurturing connections to the source of their food, French Broad Chocolates imports cacao from their trusted farmers, and transforms it into fine chocolate. They are located in downtown Asheville at 10 S Pack Square, Asheville, NC 28801. Visit www.frenchbroadchocolates.com for additional information.
Looking to explore other romantic restaurants? Visit Asheville.com’s Restaurants Guide.