Planning the perfect date night in Evanston? Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a cozy spot for drinks, or a fun activity to enjoy together, we’ve gathered the best ideas to help you plan a memorable evening.
Koi Evanston
Voted the best Chinese food in North Shore Chicago, it’s no wonder Koi Evanston is one of the top date night spots in Evanston. Reserve a table for you and your honey online, then enjoy California Maki or Salmon with Black Bean Sauce, or choose from dozens of other options. Catering is available.
Tapas Barcelona
Tapas are small plates of food that are served to individuals or for the table to share. At Tapas Barcelona, you can choose from hot or cold plates and enjoy specialties like crabmeat, beef, Serrano ham, and more. The Salmon Ahumado (smoked salmon) is to die for; make reservations to secure your table!
Reza’s Restaurant
Reza’s Restaurant has locations in Evanston and Andersonville, and both are hot spots for couples craving fresh feta, hummus, and kabobs. We love the stuffed grape leaves and the chicken barley soup, but there are oodles of options for every palate. The restaurant provides the perfect atmosphere for a romantic dine-in, or you may order online to pick up your hot dinner or lunch.
The Wine Goddess
The Wine Goddess is a wine bar, sure. But the little establishment offers much more than that, so sign up for a wine class, a wine tasting, or a live music event with your sweetie. Join wine tastings on Saturday afternoons, or sign up for their wine club. Memberships cost as little as $40 per month, so you can enjoy delicious reds and whites from the comfort of your home.
Oskar
Oskar is closed on Monday, but the bar welcomes guests Tuesday through Sunday. We love that they’re just a short walk to the El; North Shore residents can safely return home after imbibing a sampling of top shelf whiskeys and martinis mixed to perfection. Even designated drivers have options, as Oskar serves signature drinks that are alcohol-free.
The Barn Steakhouse
Whether you’re meeting for a blind date or meeting for a wedding rehearsal dinner, The Barn Steakhouse is a top Evanston pick. This upscale steakhouse crafts dishes such as Liver and Onions and Crab Spaghetti, but steak lovers will salivate over their cooked-to-perfection ribeyes and New York strips. We love the table “enhancements,” too. Choose from floral arrangements, champagne, or a special occasion cake to create a memorable evening.
SPACE
Maybe you and your date are seeking out something a little different – if this sounds right, SPACE is for you! It’s an all-ages music venue, but note the schedule of performers to determine what’s right for your family. John Nemeth, Bad Sneakers Orchestra, and even music festivals are examples of headliners at this date night spot in Evanston. Metered parking is available, or you can take the Purple Line to the Dempster Street stop.
Alcove Evanston
If we were to describe Alcove Evanston in a word, we’d choose “elegant.” Ello Romero, the establishment’s chef, crafts exquisite dishes like Pan-Seared Maple Leaf Duck Breast for couples, but the desserts are equally enticing. The goat cheesecake is one of our favorite choices. Originally Chef’s Station, Alcove Evanston offers online reservations, so book your table today!
Oceanique
As the name implies, Oceanique primarily serves seafood dishes in Evanston, Illinois. Lobster, oysters, shrimp, and caviar are all on the menu, and an extensive wine list rounds off your meal. Gift cards and curbside pickup are available, but we highly recommend visiting this Main Street, Evanston restaurant in person.
Campagnola
Campagnola isn’t your ordinary Italian restaurant, it’s a date night destination. Tagliatelle, Panna Cotta, and even a delicious roasted chicken are just a sampling of the menu items at Campagnola, and you can even order a family meal for carry out. Visit Campagnola with a reservation, or book a special event at the venue.
Trattoria D.O.C.
You can always count on the freshest ingredients and boldest flavors at this Italian establishment in downtown Evanston. Lasagna di Carne is a top choice, and the Margherita pizza is one of the best in Chicagoland. Specials are offered each day; take a look at the menu to discover unique meals. Online ordering is available.