A special night out calls for more than just a good meal; it’s also about atmosphere and service. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, anniversary dinner, or looking for an excuse to splurge, the right restaurant can turn an ordinary evening into something unforgettable. In this guide, we’re sharing our 10 favorite restaurants for a special night out, featuring superior spots known for their ambiance, elevated menus, and consistently exceptional experiences.
Mozelle’s Fresh Southern Bistro
With consistently excellent food and ambiance, Mozelle’s is the perfect local spot for a magical night. They have a small interior dining room that feels inviting and elevated at the same time, plus we love sitting outside at one of their many tables for good people watching. Our favorite dishes include their fried chicken (trust us, it’s fancier than the usual fried chicken and oh-so-good), any fish special, and the shrimp & grits. And don’t forget dessert; the flourless chocolate torte or homemade ice creams are divine!
Rooster’s: A Noble Grille
Popular for business dinners and special occasions alike, Rooster’s is a sure bet for a superb meal. They have an extensive menu, with a mixture of classics, like fried calamari or duck breast, and seasonal offerings. We love to sit outside on their lush patio in the nicer months. We recommend sampling a few small plates or appetizers to extend the meal, then trying one of the seasonal dishes like soft shell crab, and don’t forget to try a side like the fresh succotash or tomato basil soup.
Ryan’s Restaurant
If you are looking for a classic, white-tablecloth steak house, Ryan’s is the place for you. It is full of old school charm and house-made freshness, plus we love their bread service (including a cheese spread and pretzel rolls that we dream about). While they are best known for their steaks, they do offer an excellent selection of seafood, too. We suggest the ahi tuna tartare or bacon-wrapped scallops for an appetizer, and the steak au poivre is a perfect, decadent meal.
Bernardin’s Restaurant
Located in the oldest home in the former town of Winston, the historic Zevely House, this upscale West End restaurant specializes in seafood, lamb, veal, and beef, and features an extensive wine list. For a charming evening and memorable meal, we recommend Bernardin’s, which also offers a beautiful patio for outdoor dining.
Spring House Restaurant, Kitchen, & Bar
Kick off your evening with a stop at the library bar inside Spring House for a cocktail, then sit at a table in one of the loveliest dining spaces in Winston. Spring House rotates its menu quarterly, so that ingredients are fresh and dishes are inspired by the moment. And if you are feeling indulgent, we insist you try the ooey gooey butter cake (if it’s available!) for dessert!
The Katharine Brasserie & Bar
We cannot get enough of the art deco, French vibe of The Katharine! You absolutely must go for a drink at the bar before dinner, and we recommend trying any cocktail on the menu for a unique experience (although they’re known for having the best espresso martinis in town). The menu is heavily influenced by French fine dining, so you will find escargots and sous vide duck offered along with roasted salmon and North Carolina trout. We recommend the french onion soup gratinée and steak frites for a delightful meal.
1703
Dining at 1703 Restaurant & Catering in the Buena Vista neighborhood feels elevated without being stuffy, striking a nice balance between upscale and relaxed. We love their crab cakes and unique salads. They offer seasonal, locally sourced dishes with a frequently changing, exciting menu; be bold and try some of the adventurous, rotating specials.
The Downtown Grille
The Downtown Grille feels like a classic steakhouse with a polished, modern touch. It’s a great spot to settle in at the bar first and start the evening with a well-made cocktail, whether that’s a martini, an old fashioned, or something seasonal they’re featuring. The menu sticks to elevated steakhouse staples, with quality cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and all the classic sides you’d hope for. Steaks like filet mignon and ribeye are exceptional, especially when paired with something rich on the side. It’s the kind of place that works just as well for a relaxed date night as it does for a celebration.
Betty on Burke
Dining at Betty on Burke has a refined but still warm and comfortable feel, with an intimate setting that works especially well for a date night or small gathering. The space is thoughtfully designed, giving it a bit of a big-city feel without losing its neighborhood charm. The menu is focused and creative, with noteworthy pasta dishes like lemon spaghetti and mushroom ravioli that keep things simple but memorable. When the weather is nice, the outdoor seating adds an extra layer of charm to the experience.
Tuscani by Sage & Salt
Dining at Tuscani by Sage & Salt in the Innovation Quarter has a romantic, dimly lit feel, with the added character of a wood-fired grill that you can smell as soon as you walk in. The house-made pastas and bread service are real standouts- especially the mix of focaccia, cheese bread, and Italian breadsticks that comes out warm and fresh. The menu leans Northern Italian and changes with the seasons, with dishes like slow-cooked chicken and beef tenderloin picking up a nice smoky flavor from the fire. You can sit in a quiet corner for a more intimate night or grab a spot near the chef’s counter if you want to watch the kitchen in action.
A great night out usually comes down to the right spot- somewhere the food, atmosphere, and service all come together. Whether it’s a date night, an anniversary, or just an excuse to go somewhere nice, the restaurant makes all the difference. Each of these places brings something a little extra to the table, making them easy picks for a night worth remembering.
