As the days brighten and the evenings stretch out, this idyllic season beckons us to revel in one of life’s simple yet profound pleasures: alfresco dining.
DatingAdvice.com ran a survey of 3,000 seasoned (no pun intended) foodies to identify the 150 most romantic locations for al fresco dining in 2024. The top 10 were as follows:
#1 Historic District, Savannah, Georgia.
The Historic District in Savannah takes the top spot. These historic streets are lined with ancient oaks and Spanish moss, offering cozy cafes and upscale bistros. Couples can enjoy traditional Southern fare or international cuisine in charming courtyards and sidewalk settings.
#2 French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana.
In second place is the French Quarter in the heart of New Orleans. Sidewalk cafes and courtyard restaurants offer a taste of local Creole and Cajun dishes as you soak in the bustling atmosphere and historic surroundings.
#3 West Village, New York City, New York.
The West Village’s quaint and artistic streets are next. Lined with a variety of restaurants offering outdoor dining, couples can enjoy intimate garden patios and small terraces with everything from gourmet meals to casual brunches in a picturesque neighborhood setting.
#4 Ocean Avenue, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California.
With stunning views of the Pacific, Ocean Avenue offers a relaxing dining experience. Couples can sample the local seafood on outdoor terraces and enjoy a perfect view of the sunset over the ocean.
#5 Downtown, Charleston, South Carolina.
In one of America’s oldest cities, couples can enjoy Lowcountry specialties and classic Southern dishes in the lush, open-air environments of Charleston’s finest restaurants.
#6 Downtown Asheville, North Carolina.
Voted in sixth place, Downtown Asheville offers views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, and features a variety of outdoor dining options from rustic beer gardens to rooftop restaurants.
#7 Harbor Town, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.
With panoramic views, it’s no surprise Harbor Town came in seventh. Seafood is a highlight here, with fresh catches served daily, and couples can choose from casual dockside eateries to upscale dining.
#8 Provincetown, Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
Known for its artistic community and beautiful seascapes, Provincetown, in eighth place, includes waterfront patios and decks where you can enjoy fresh oysters, clams, and other seafood delights while watching boats drift by on Cape Cod Bay.
#9 Old Town, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The local restaurants in Old Town offer a blend of Native American and Mexican cuisines, which couples can enjoy in the quaint courtyards and patios that dot this historic area.
#10 Waikiki, Honolulu (Oahu), Hawaii.
Rounding up the top ten is the world-renowned Waikiki. This beautiful location offers a plethora of dining options along the beachfront. From luxurious resort restaurants to casual seaside bars, couples can enjoy tropical cocktails and a diverse range of cuisines with stunning views of the Diamond Head.
3 locations in Mississippi were included among the country’s top 150 for alfresco dining:
#23 Beach Blvd, Gulfport/Biloxi.
Dining along Beach Boulevard offers expansive views of the Gulf, making it a fantastic spot for a romantic dinner watching the waves under the stars.
#110 Square, Oxford.
The heart of Oxford, The Square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a cultural hub. It offers a variety of Southern gourmet and casual dining options, providing a quaint and romantic atmosphere.
#118 Washington Street, Vicksburg.
Steeped in Civil War history, Vicksburg offers a historic downtown with Southern dining establishments set in picturesque buildings, providing a romantic setting filled with charm and history.
