California’s reputation for romantic dining experiences earned national recognition, with several restaurants featuring on OpenTable’s latest Top 100 Romantic Restaurants in America list.
Some dining destinations are about more than what is served on the plate. These are places where couples spend time together, bond over food, and celebrate milestones. Whether it is an anniversary, date night, or a proposal, the right restaurant can make a lot of difference.
From the waterfronts of San Francisco to the sunny courtyards of Palm Springs, California offers some of the most romantic restaurants in the country.
Here Are California’s Most Romantic Restaurants
1. Boulevard, San Francisco
Led by chefs Nancy Oakes and Dana Younkin, Boulevard’s menu champions Californian flavors, with a focus on regional seasonal produce. Located in the historic Audiffred building, the restaurant sits along the Embarcadero waterfront. First opened in 1993, the restaurant underwent a refresh in 2021. It offers two dining experiences: a set price menu served at the main dining room and an a la carte menu, which is available at the chef’s counter and in the bar and lounge.
2. FARM, Palm Springs
A traditional French restaurant in the historic Plaza in downtown Palm Springs, FARM’s menu features European dishes made with locally sourced produce and artisanal meats. Highlighting Provencial-style cuisine, the menu is designed to transport diners to the south of France. Some of the popular dishes include the prime filet mignon, baked brie, and farm chicken salad.
3. Gary Danko, San Francisco
Synonymous with fine dining in San Francisco, Gary Danko is known for its combination of classic French cooking style with a California twist. The restaurant’s menu changes seasonally and features extravagant cheeses, seafood, and an extensive wine selection. Led by Executive Chef Gary Danko, the restaurant held 1-star Michelin rating for 17 years until August 2024.
4. Jeune et Jolie, Carlsbad
Jeune et Jolie reimagines French cuisine through the lens of the Southern California landscape. Guests can expect a four-course menu, which can be enjoyed inside the restaurant or outdoors on the garden patio. Helmed by Executive Chef Eric Bost, Jeune et Jolie won a Michelin Star in 2023 and in 2024.
5. Mister A’s, San Diego
Mister A’s has been serving San Diego for more than 60 years in San Diego’s iconic penthouse destination. Perched on top of the Manchester Financial Building, the restaurant is a San Diego classic fine dining establishment. In addition to contemporary French-American cuisine, diners are treated to sweeping views of the city’s skyline, bay, and the Pacific Ocean. All dishes are prepared with locally sourced farm produce and made in-house from scratch.
6. Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch, Santa Barbara
Situated inside a 19th century citrus packing house on the grounds of the San Ysidro Ranch, the Stonehouse Restaurant offers a contemporary American cuisine that is prepared using fresh herbs and produce from the chef’s organic garden. The restaurant features a lounge with full bar service and a separate dining room with a fireplace and gorgeous views. The Stonehouse has the only Grand Award-winning wine program in Central California.
7. Summit House, Fullerton
Set atop a hill in Orange County, Summit House is known for its panoramic views of the surrounding area and old-world charm. The restaurant is built in the tradition of an English country manor and offers a classic, romantic feel. Some of the popular dishes include the USDA prime rib eye steak and the sauteed John Dory.
8. The Marine Room, San Diego
An iconic San Diego establishment, The Marine Room celebrates California’s coastal cuisine overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Offering sustainable seafood, The Marine Room offers the famed High Tide Dinners series, where diners can enjoy front-row views of the waves crashing against the glass while enjoying their food…