While Valentine’s Day has come and gone, at Laura U we celebrate our passion for gorgeous and inspiring spaces year-round. From our favorite markets to the design blogs we admire, it isn’t hard to find beauty and inspiration everywhere we look.
In the spirit of acknowledging the things we love, the Laura U team joins me in sharing our favorite romantic restaurants. Hopefully these spaces are a little less crowded and a little more romantic after quieting down from the Valentine’s Day rush!
To start, Michael and I just had the BEST dinner at Pappas Bros. Steakhouse in downtown Houston. The food was decadent and incredible and I would definitely define the atmosphere as “romantic”. Plus… that wine list!!!
Letecia – La Table – Chateau
Mark and I had a wonderful dinner at La Table – Chateau and it was amazing. The service/presentation was on point and the food was oh so good. We split the chocolate soufflé for desert which was the perfect way to end the evening!!!
Blair – Tiny Boxwoods and La Villa
I can never pick just one, so mine is a tie between Tiny Boxwoods and La Villa. Both spaces have this remarkable ability to transport you to a quiet, warm, and intimate atmosphere that allows you to forget the world outside. The menus at both restaurants are top notch and have been some of my favorite meals.
Michael – Brennan’s and Sketch
Have to admit Pappas Bros Steak is a legit romantic place. Also, can’t beat a night out at Brennan’s. Anyplace that still requires men to wear a sports coat is OK in my book! Sketch in London is one of the most romantic restaurants in the world. Laura and I visited last year and had a blast. The bar is super cool while the restaurant part is very hip. The bathroom is a scene right out of Mork & Mindy.
Shannon – Girafe
When I was in Paris in the fall, my Parisian beau took me to the best restaurant, Girafe. It has to be one of the top spots in the world for a romantic restaurant with the most incredible view of the Eiffel tower from the terrace seating. Girafe was designed by renowned interior designer, Joseph Dirand, and the design is fabulous — have a cocktail when you arrive at the gorgeous marble bar!
Lexie – Lulu’s
I absolutely adore everything about Lulu’s in Round Top. It is a gorgeous space with delicious Italian food and a wonderful wine list, which is the way to my heart. The ambiance here is perfect for a night out with your better half! I wish they were closer because this would without a doubt become my go-to date night.
Melissa – Spiaggia and The Purple Pig
My husband and I began our lives together in Chicago, and I have many romantic memories there, so it’s hard to choose. Spiaggia was where we dined on the night we got engaged. It is decadent, glamorous, and Michelin-rated. Very romantic, but not your everyday lunch spot! To me true romance = comfort. And that would be The Purple Pig. They serve indulgent tapas, have a great wine list, and the atmosphere is unpretentious and warm. My husband and I started going there regularly right as it opened, and we celebrated our wedding day there too!
Jericka – Hearsay Chic Antique
I’m not much of a foodie, but I really enjoy the atmosphere and menu of Hearsay Chic Antique. The sister site of downtown’s Hearsay Gastro Lounge, both locations boast gorgeous chandeliers inside their beautiful and modern industrial-style spaces. I think Hearsay Chic Antique is my favorite because of their expanded selection of signature American cuisine AND extended drink menu.
Krystin – A’ Bouzy
Currently, my favorite romantic restaurant is A’Bouzy. I have been there about a million times since I have moved to Houston. Nothing beats a nice chilled bottle of Veuve Cliquot under their dimly lit porch with a slight breeze and good conversation. If you’re lucky you’ll visit on a night when they hand out free bags of their truffle butter popcorn which pairs perfectly with a glass of your favorite bubbles.
Britian – Julep
Not entirely sure that this counts as a restaurant, but Julep is one of my Husband’s and my favorite places to visit on the weekends! It’s a small, intimate space that makes you feel like you’ve just discovered some secret of Houston. Beware, it can get crowded if you get there too late on a Saturday night! But, if you can find a seat at the bar, it’s a great place to get lost in conversation, craft cocktails, and some REALLY good lobster rolls.
What a fabulous list! What are some of your favorite romantic restaurants?