Best Date Night Destinations In The Rock For Going All Out

We’ve come to one conclusion – a lot of you lose your mind when trying to decide on the perfect restaurant to wow your date. Whether it’s a first date or you’re looking to shake things up a bit, we’ve got you covered in this two-part guide. Why worry about finding the perfect combination of food, drink, and atmosphere when we’ve done it for you? First up, we have our top picks for going all out.
Table 28: Dining in a local hotel taken to a whole new level. Let Executive Chef Scott Rains melt your tastebuds. The Bone Marrow and Escargot is a winner, plus, you’ll want to try the Quail Bird Lollipops. Don’t forgo dessert either, as the Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake is where it’s at. For a unique, romantic experience and some of the best food in town, make Table 28 your next date.
The Pizzeria: If you want to wow your date with fantastic cocktails and an intimate, romantic atmosphere head to The Pizzeria, but be sure to go a little later so the families have a chance to clear out. If Dillon Garcia is in, ask him to make you a drink, a few of our favorites include the Old Fashioned, the Grand Manhattan and the Moro Martini. The pizzas are great because of the wood-oven, and you’ll have to have the Strawberry Shortcake.
Cache Restaurant: It’s time to give the River Market perch a try, especially if you’re going for swanky, yet comfortable. Think valet parking, balconies with a view, and a hip, upscale atmosphere. All this makes for an impressive date night. When perusing the menu don’t bypass the Tuna Tartare or the Tiramisu, and be sure to give the Maple Glazed Pork Chop a go.
Samantha’s Tap Room & Wood Grill: For the downtown dweller, or the downtown visitor, Samantha’s is a happening place. Open and airy the eatery is comfortable, but nice with a bar made for those who like to try new beer and wine on tap. Order the house made pork skins and whatever the special of the evening is – especially if it’s fish. Play it casual at the bar or get a booth for a more intimate evening.
Kemuri: Hillcrest lovers shouldn’t pass on Kemuri. A sister restaurant to Ocean’s, the restaurant offers some of the best sushi in town, and the dishes are outstanding. Let Chef Greg Wallis wow you – the Bibimbap is excellent, as is anything from the Robata menu. Sushi lovers should definitely be sure to order the Monkey Roll, which comes to your table “flame kissed.” The interior is classy and carries a metropolitan vibe. Order a drink special and call it a night.

Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse: For one of the best steaks in town, make a reservation at Arthur’s. The interior is rich and inviting, and you’ll feel high-class when you walk through the door. The beef is top-quality, and from Filet to New York Strip and Ribeye, you and your date will both leave satisfied. You can also choose from a well-stocked bar with an impeccable wine selection.
Ocean’s At Arthur’s: If your date likes seafood, park it at Ocean’s. You’re met with an upscale atmosphere and quality food. Wow your date by ordering the Seafood Tower, checking out the Oysters. If sushi is more your fancy start with the Alex Roll. Pick your poison – there are also ample cocktails, sake, wine and beer to choose from – guaranteeing you’ll have a good time.
South on Main: Whether you’re into dinner alongside a show or you want some of the classiest cocktails in town, stop by SOMA’s South on Main. The food is excellent – and Chef Matthew Bell provides a menu with a creative twist on traditional Southern fare. Try the Rabbit Leg and Country Ham or the Trout, although everything is delectable. When it comes to the bar, cocktails are the way to go and Sarah Harrington will take good care of you.
SO Restaurant-Bar: If your date likes wine, head to SO. The restaurant boasts of one of the best selections in town, and the food is on point. The interior is cozy and romantic, and is an ode to New York’s Manhattan style-wise. The Steamed Mussels are always a hit, as are the Oysters from the Raw Bar, but you really can’t go wrong with any choice from the menu.
One Eleven At The Capital:  Do dinner right at One Eleven. It’s bright, classy, and yet still intimate. Try the Leek Salad or Halibut, or whatever else may strike your fancy. You’ll have your choice of a solid cocktail, craft beer, or premium specialty wine.
La Terraza Rum & Lounge: Hillcrest runs the gamut when it comes to dining out on date night. The South American cuisine at La Terraza is highly underrated, plus they have fresh made mojitos that range in flavor from spicy to sweet. (Pro tip: ask for Armando to make them for you.) The Arepas are good as well as the Spanish Style Mushrooms, plus the Pollo Al Champignon is also a winner. Enjoy date night from the tiered patio and you just might have discovered your next “place.”
Ciao Baci: If the weather’s nice, make Ciao Baci’s patio your destination. The twinkling lights are extremely romantic, but even if you can’t sit outside the interior is whimsical and intimate. Choose from their solid wine list or peruse the cocktails. When it comes to food, treat your date to the Chef Jeff Owen’s Tasting menu, a five course progression of small plates that change nightly. It is one of the best kept secrets in town, and you’ll seem like a true “foodie” which will hopefully help woo your date.
Ristorante Capeo: Whether you’re a North Little Rock dweller, or you’re looking to mix it up a bit, Argenta’s Capeo is a great date night destination. Order the Veal or any of the specialty pastas with wine to drink and your tastebuds will thank you. After dinner take a romantic stroll down Main Street. You can thank us later.
Brave New Restaurant: A favorite that should be revisited if you haven’t been in a while, or your next destination if you’ve never been. Order the Walleye Special, if it’s available or check out the Scallops.
Local Lime: For tacos, tequila, and salsa stop by the Promenade and head to Local Lime. The interior is stylish with a Southwestern flair, a pretty bar, and a fun side patio. Whenever you get the chance, order the special, whether it’s tamales or the Green Chile Stew, order it if it has the word “Hatch” in front of it. Definitely order a salsa trio and be sure to check out the drinks – we swear by the Heirloom.