Category 3: Date Night Restaurants
With the hectic rush of daily life–school, work, kids, etc.–it’s easy to forget how much fun a night out can be. When it comes to you and your significant other, date night is a great time to reconnect and enjoy one another’s company. Nothing suits this mood better than a warm, relaxing venue. Whether surrounded by candlelight or a bustling crowd, knowing that you’re spending the night with one another will make any destination seem like your own private island.

Aria
490 E. Paces Ferry, (404) 233-7673, www.aria-atl.com
Situated in the heart of Buckhead, Aria invites guests to an intimate dining room in its wine cellar, where they will find a private table for two surrounded by wine bottles and candles. A buzzer beckons service; otherwise, it’s just the two of you.

Atlanta Grill
181 Peachtree St. N.E., (404) 659-0400, www.ritzcarlton.com
Although located in the Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta downtown, couples wanting to enjoy a quiet night alone can indulge their wish by booking the “Cheater’s Booth,” a private table setting surrounded by privacy draperies.

Canoe
4199 Paces Ferry Rd., (770) 432-2663, www.canoeatl.com
With views overlooking the Chattahoochee River, Canoe welcomes visitors to sit back, relax and enjoy a mouthwatering meal in a peaceful environment where they can enjoy one another’s company without distraction.

The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View
210 Peachtree St., (404) 589-7506, www.sundialrestaurant.com
High atop the Westin Peachtree Plaza, this tri-level complex offers 360-degree panoramic views of Atlanta in both its revolving restaurant and rotating cocktail lounge. If on a first date, you’ll never run out of conversation when inspired by such beauty.

Dante’s Down the Hatch
3380 Peachtree Rd., (404) 266-1600
Those looking for something different to make date night memorable should head to Dante’s Down the Hatch, which is built around the illusion of an 18th-century sailing ship tied to the wharf of a mythical Mediterranean village. Enjoy a fondue dinner for two while taking in the restaurant’s collection of memorabilia and antiques.

Villa Christina
4000 Summit Blvd., (678) 686-4272, www.villachristina.com
Couples will enjoy a night out at this three-story, stacked-stone Italian villa, which features elegant dining rooms overlooking beautifully manicured gardens.

Vinocity Wine Bar and Restaurant
36 13th St., (404) 870-8886, www.vinocitywinebar.com
For those looking for a casual, yet upscale destination for their night out, this chic eatery hits the spot. With a full menu and an extensive wine bar, Vinocity provides a lovely escape.

The Grape
Six metro Atlanta locations, www.yourgrape.com
Since opening in 2000, The Grape has taken Atlantans by storm, offering an interesting alternative to the usual date night. Here, guests can have fun tasting a variety of wines before making a selection to enjoy with their meal of small plates.

Top of the Square at Shillings on the Square
19 N. Park Square, (770) 428-9520
Overlooking the Historic Marietta Square, the Top of the Square invites couples to enjoy an evening in its candlelit dining room. In addition, they can dine to sounds of piano music every Friday and Saturday night.

The Old Spaghetti Factory
249 Ponce De Leon Ave., (404) 872-2841, www.osf.com
Looking for a fun, casual night out for two? With its unique décor and relaxed atmosphere, this long-time favorite fits the bill.