15 Most Romantic Restaurants in Ithaca for Perfect Date Night [2025]

Ithaca’s romantic restaurants create a perfect gateway to experience this charming city. The heart of New York’s Finger Lakes region draws visitors with its gorgeous gorges, waterfalls, and lively downtown – perfect elements for an unforgettable date night.

The city might not overflow with entertainment choices, particularly in winter months. Still, picking the right venue can make your date special. Local spots range from snug farm-to-table eateries to sophisticated wine-tasting venues that set the stage for intimate evenings. To name just one example, The Carriage House Cafe welcomes couples with its cozy atmosphere and delicious food before they head to other romantic spots in town.

This detailed guide showcases 15 of Ithaca’s most romantic restaurants. Each spot brings its own charm, excellent food, and memorable moments to the table. These carefully picked dining spots will boost any romantic evening in this beautiful Finger Lakes destination, whether you’re marking a special occasion or just spending quality time together.

Moosewood Restaurant

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The Moosewood Restaurant has delighted diners since 1973. This premier vegetarian dining spot in Ithaca stands out as one of the most romantic restaurants in the area. Their innovative plant-based cuisine and intimate dining setting appeals to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Moosewood Restaurant ambiance

The historic Dewitt Mall, a beautifully converted brick schoolhouse, houses this charming restaurant. Diners enjoy a sophisticated yet warm atmosphere. A sunken dining room with large picture windows gives guests a unique viewpoint of street-level passersby. Recent renovations brought polished concrete floors and artistic lighting designed by co-owner Woods. His dreamlike paintings add character to the walls. The restaurant has evolved from its casual canteen days with chalkboard menus. Today’s couples find a refined yet approachable space that keeps Moosewood’s community spirit alive.

Moosewood Restaurant menu highlights

Local Ithaca farms supply seasonal ingredients that create the restaurant’s magic. Creative vegetarian and vegan dishes showcase global influences. Their famous Black Bean Burger ($22) remains a menu staple since the original cookbook. More sophisticated options include Thai Red Curry with coconut rice ($27.50) and Mushroom Bolognese with bronze-cut organic pasta ($34.10).

The drink selection deserves special mention. Finger Lakes region wines and ciders share space with New York State craft beers and locally-distilled spirits. Guests rave about the cocktails’ unique flavor profiles and quality ingredients.

Moosewood Restaurant pricing

A mid-range to slightly upscale dining experience awaits guests, with entrees ranging from $18 to $30. Shareable starters include the NYS Cheese Board ($28.60) and Beet Hummus ($14.30). Sweet endings feature their iconic Moosewood Fudge Brownie ($9.90). A complete dinner for two with drinks, starters, entrees, dessert, tax, and 20% gratuity costs about $180. This makes Moosewood a reasonable choice among Ithaca’s romantic dining spots.

Gola Osteria

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The Historic Quarry Arms Building houses Gola Osteria, an intimate escape that serves authentic Italian cuisine. This charming spot has become one of Ithaca’s most sought-after romantic restaurants by blending old-world charm with modern culinary expertise.

Gola Osteria romantic setting

Old-world charm flows through the restaurant’s preserved architectural elements. The dining space features antique Stickley style furniture that creates an elegant yet cozy environment where couples can enjoy intimate conversations. The restaurant offers several romantic spots beyond its main dining area. Couples can choose a smaller dining room with a bar for up to 12 guests, a semi-private section for up to 18 people, or the covered terrace that seats up to 30 diners. Sophisticated décor and warm lighting make this spot perfect for anniversary celebrations and special date nights.

Gola Osteria signature dishes

Chef Sam Epps leads Gola Osteria’s kitchen to create modern Italian dishes that balance tradition with new ideas. The menu showcases homemade pasta and sauces that change weekly with seasonal ingredients. Popular starters include Baked Meatballs—all pork, hand-rolled and baked with ricotta cheese ($15)—and the Grande Piatti Misti, a mix of salumi, formaggi, and verdure ($35).

The restaurant’s handcrafted pasta dishes shine on the main course menu. Favorites include Tagliatelle al Ragu ($26), Pappardelle with Porcini Trifolati ($24), and Black Spaghetti with fennel, calamari, and Calabrian chilies ($27). The menu features a carefully selected range of Italian and Finger Lakes wines. Creative cocktails like the Bourbon Cider Smash and Aperol Spritzer round out the drink options.

Gola Osteria pricing

Expect to pay more at Gola Osteria, with pasta dishes ranging from $20-$27 and main courses between $32-$45. The menu’s premium options include Rib Eye Tagliata ($45) and Grilled Pork Chops with Polenta ($42). Budget-friendly choices like Gnocchi Lunghi at $22 are also available.

Smart diners can take advantage of special deals. Wednesday’s takeout special includes a half pan of house pasta with sauce, salad, and bread for $35, enough for 6-8 people. The “Gola Pasta Hour” runs during the last hour of dinner service from Wednesday through Saturday. This deal offers a bowl of spaghetti with two meatballs and a side salad for $10.

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Le Café Cent-Dix

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A distinctive periwinkle exterior makes Le Café Cent-Dix stand out on North Aurora Street’s “Restaurant Row.” This authentic French bistro adds romance to Ithaca’s dining scene. You won’t find another restaurant dedicated to traditional French cuisine in the area, making it a perfect spot for couples who want European charm right in the Finger Lakes.

Le Café Cent-Dix French charm

The restaurant masterfully balances elegance with comfort. Guests walk into a sophisticated yet cozy space where thirty-two mirrors of different shapes line one wall. These mirrors create an illusion of space in the narrow building. The dining area’s soft, quasi-industrial overhead lights set a romantic mood. Six comfortable booths and several intimate tables welcome diners. The bar’s distinctive scratched zinc slab provides extra seating for couples who want a casual experience. Brick walls and tile floors can make the space lively, but the restaurant’s warm atmosphere remains perfect for intimate conversations.

Le Café Cent-Dix best dishes

Classic French bistro cuisine shines through each carefully prepared dish. The kitchen excels at Steak Frites and serves an outstanding French Onion Soup. Their Duck Confit gets its rich flavor from herbs and spices before cooking in its own fat. The Roulade de Poulet features roasted chicken that’s stuffed with fresh peas, bacon, and cooked radishes, then sliced into five neat portions. Diners rave about the fresh sourdough bread. Thursday’s special Moules Frites brings mussels in a creamy sauce of white wine, leeks, spring onions, and green garlic.

Le Café Cent-Dix pricing

Le Café Cent-Dix keeps its prices reasonable compared to other romantic spots in Ithaca, even with its authentic French menu. Main dishes cost between USD 26.00-34.00 – great value for such quality food. Sweet tooths can choose from five desserts at USD 8.00 each, or enjoy Purity Vanilla Ice Cream for USD 6.00. The restaurant’s focus stays on wine rather than cocktails. Wine glasses range from USD 10.00-16.00, while bottles run USD 40.00-180.00. Budget-smart couples might like the wine on tap: USD 10.00 per glass, USD 19.00 for a half-liter, or USD 36.00 for a liter.

Agava Restaurant

Agava Restaurant brings a taste of the Southwest to Ithaca’s dining scene from its home in the historic East Ithaca Train Depot. The restaurant stands out from the city’s European-influenced spots and gives couples a fresh dining choice. Its blend of rustic charm and sophistication makes it one of Ithaca’s most romantic dining spots.

Agava Restaurant atmosphere

The restaurant’s rustic charm engages guests right away. You’ll find distressed wood elements and desert-inspired art throughout the space. The warm, welcoming environment sets the perfect scene for intimate conversations. Couples looking for more privacy can enjoy the covered back patio. Local artists’ work adorns the walls, including Bill Benson’s eye-catching large mural. This shows Agava’s strong ties to the Ithaca community. Live music often fills the rustic-modern space, adding an extra touch of romance to the setting.

Agava Restaurant seasonal menu

The kitchen team’s steadfast dedication to farm-to-table cooking shows in their seasonal menu changes. They work closely with local farmers to create high-quality dishes that support the region’s agricultural community. The Southwestern-inspired menu has many options that work well for vegetarians, vegans, and guests who need gluten-free meals.

Guests keep coming back for these favorite dishes:

• The brussel sprouts appetizer prepared with chickpeas
• Carnitas tacos with house-made tortillas
• Street corn queso and freshly prepared guacamole

Weekend brunch lovers flock here for wood oven-baked cinnamon rolls and specialty omelets.

Agava Restaurant pricing

You’ll find moderate prices here, with most entrees priced between $10 and $20. Some guests mention the portions could be bigger for the price, but many feel the unique menu and quality ingredients are worth it. The cocktail menu features margaritas made with local ingredients that add value without breaking the bank. So, Agava is a great choice for couples who want a special night out without the high prices of other romantic spots in Ithaca NY.

Carriage House Café

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The Carriage House Café brings 19th century charm to life as one of Ithaca’s most romantic dining spots. This restored building, dating back to 1850, served the prominent Gauntlet family. Diners can take a delightful trip into Ithaca’s past while enjoying exceptional cuisine.

Carriage House Café ambiance

Authentic architectural elements shine through the restaurant’s careful restoration, creating a romantic atmosphere. Rustic fieldstone walls, broad wooden doors, and original timbered features catch every visitor’s eye. The building sat abandoned for almost a century after a 1912 fire until it reopened in 2004 with its historic character intact. The Hayloft upstairs has been completed and provides an airy, open space with a wonderful balcony that’s perfect for private events. The venue’s place on the National Register of Historic Places highlights its heritage value.

Carriage House Café brunch and dinner options

Gourmet offerings shine brightest during breakfast and brunch hours. The menu features standouts like the Brie French Toast ($13.00) – a brioche stuffed with double crème brie and berry coulis. Their unique “Sconewich” ($7.50) combines scrambled eggs and cheddar on a housemade ham and scallion scone. Dinner options include a glazed tofu steak with cucumber, daikon and soba in soy-ginger vinaigrette. Tea and coffee complement the homemade desserts like chocolate pot de crème and lemon crème brulée.

Carriage House Café pricing

Breakfast items cost between $7.50-$14.00. The restaurant stays in the under $30 price range, which makes it a great value given its historic setting and quality ingredients. Coffee drinks run from $2.25-$4.85, while brunch cocktails like Bloody Marys cost $8.00.

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Coltivare

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Coltivare stands out among the city’s culinary destinations by blending education with fine dining at Tompkins Cortland Community College. The name—Italian for “cultivate”—captures the restaurant’s farming philosophy and its connection to TC3’s study abroad program in Italy.

Coltivare farm-to-table concept

The restaurant exemplifies authentic farm-to-bistro dining and exceeds industry standards by sourcing 60% of ingredients from Tompkins County. Strong partnerships with local farmers, including TC3’s own farm, form the backbone of their operations. Students learn everything from knife skills to menu planning as they work with professional staff to prepare seasonal dishes. The signature chicken’s maple glaze comes from trees tapped right on TC3’s farm.

Coltivare wine and cocktail pairings

Thoughtful beverage pairings complement the seasonal menu perfectly. Their Bloody Mary bar won the Brunchfest Bloody Mary Battle in 2016 and remains their most popular offering. Wine enthusiasts can enjoy carefully selected options that enhance their farm-fresh cuisine. The restaurant strengthens the regional food ecosystem by hosting events that connect local farmers with restaurant owners.

Coltivare pricing

Diners can expect main dishes between $22-32. The autumn pasta features house-made fettuccini and smoked beet cream sauce at $22, while the mulled cider glazed chicken with whipped brie costs $25. Breakfast choices include French toast for $9 and eggs Benedict for $14. “Wine Down Wednesday” lets guests receive a complimentary bottle of wine when they purchase two entrées. The restaurant maintains a 4.3-star rating from 1064 OpenTable diner reviews.

Ithaca Bakery

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Ithaca Bakery has been a cherished community landmark since 1910. This local gem gives couples a more relaxed yet charming option among romantic restaurants in Ithaca NY. Unlike typical romantic spots that only serve dinner, this versatile spot creates intimate moments all day long.

Ithaca Bakery cozy vibe

The Meadow Street and Triphammer locations welcome guests with plenty of indoor seating. Meadow Street shines with its spacious outdoor area, while Triphammer features a charming covered courtyard. The warm, community-centered interior creates a relaxed space where couples connect through unhurried conversations. Friendly staff members make every visit special at any time of day.

Ithaca Bakery menu variety

This isn’t your typical bakery – it’s a culinary adventure. NY-style bagels and artisan breads are the foundations of their creative sandwiches. The menu explains their specialty paninis, innovative entrées, and fresh salads. Sweet lovers can indulge in everything from rich cakes and cupcakes to cannolis and baklava. The menu caters to everyone with abundant vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices.

Ithaca Bakery pricing

The bakery delivers great value with romantic dinner-for-two packages starting at just $40. Single items stay budget-friendly—6″ cakes feed 6-10 people at $18.95, while 8″ cakes serving 8-12 people cost $25.95. Custom and special occasion cakes range from $28.95 for quarter sheets to $105.95 for full sheets.

German ice cream.

Purity Ice Cream Co.

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Purity Ice Cream Co. has delighted dessert lovers with sweet treats since 1936, making it Ithaca’s most beloved ice cream spot. Founded in 1936 by Cornell graduate Leo Guentert, this local gem remains a treasured part of Ithaca’s food scene.

Purity Ice Cream Co. retro charm

Couples step back in time when they visit Purity’s charming space with its classic 1950s soda fountain setup. The iconic shop catches everyone’s eye from its spot on Route 13 at 700 Cascadilla Street on Ithaca’s northside. This 89-year-old ice cream parlor keeps its charm alive with a unique style that shines through years of changes.

Purity Ice Cream Co. dessert options

The menu features creative flavors that go beyond basic scoops. Signature treats include “Boomberry” (black raspberry ice cream with mixed berries), “Cookie Dough After Dark” (chocolate ice cream with caramel swirl and mix-ins), and green tea. Sweet-toothed visitors love specialty items like the “Hurricane” (milkshake with chopped candy bars) and “Boston” (thick milkshake topped with a sundae). The shop serves forty different flavors plus classic sundaes, floats, and milkshakes.

Purity Ice Cream Co. pricing

Date night treats won’t break the bank here. Milkshakes cost $6.98, and classic banana splits go for $7.95. Special sundaes range from $6.95 to $8.95, including favorites like the Turtle Sundae at $7.65 and Vegan Banana Split at $8.95.

Six Mile Creek Vineyard

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Six Mile Creek Vineyard, Ithaca’s oldest winery and distillery, welcomes couples to a restored 19th-century Dutch Colonial barn near downtown. The venue blends refined and rustic elements to create a romantic alternative to Ithaca’s traditional dining spots.

Six Mile Creek Vineyard views

The vineyard’s scenery sets a perfect stage for intimate moments. From the tasting room’s spacious deck, couples can take in stunning views of the valley and vineyards. A charming pond and rolling fields create a picture-perfect setting for romantic outings. Many guests buy a glass of wine after their tasting and relax on the deck to soak in the peaceful surroundings.

Six Mile Creek Vineyard wine tasting

The $10 guided tastings let guests sample six different wines while the knowledgeable staff shares details about each variety. Visitors can taste award-winning selections like their Governor’s Cup-winning 2016 Cabernet Franc and distinctive options such as Rosatto, a dry rosé that features strawberry and cherry notes. The vineyard crafts spirits too – vodka, gin, and Italian-inspired varieties made using a traditional copper pot still.

Six Mile Creek Vineyard pricing

Wine tastings cost $10 for six pours, and spirit tastings run $2 each with a three-sample limit. Glasses of wine range from $7-9, and local beers cost $6-9. Couples can rent the indoor venue after 6PM starting at $500, with space for up to 30 guests. The venue’s cheese and snack options help create a complete romantic experience without the full restaurant commitment.

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Finger Lakes Cider House

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The Finger Lakes Cider House sits just north of Ithaca on scenic Route 89. This charming spot gives couples a rustic romantic experience with craft cider and local cuisine. You’ll find breathtaking views and farm-fresh food that make it a wonderful alternative to regular restaurants.

Finger Lakes Cider House ambiance

The Cider House sits above Cayuga Lake next to the working organic Good Life Farm. The indoor space welcomes guests with warm wooden tones that create a cozy atmosphere perfect for quiet conversations. Couples love soaking up sunshine on the lawn while they take in amazing lake views. Live music events happen throughout the year and add to the rustic charm. Guests can spread out on the spacious grounds to play cornhole or wander through apple orchards after eating.

Finger Lakes Cider House cider flights

This place shines with its orchard-based ciders made in different styles. A typical flight brings you four 2-oz tastings of unique blends like Funkhouse, Pioneer Pippin, Rose, and Honeoye. The menu includes specialty options like ice cider among other traditional choices. New visitors tend to love the young cider that tastes similar to Martinelli’s apple juice. You can join guided tours and tastings that last 75-90 minutes every Friday from May through October.

Finger Lakes Cider House pricing

A tasting flight of four 2-oz cider samples costs $8. The farm-to-table menu showcases dishes made with ingredients from local Finger Lakes farms. You can get local cheese and charcuterie boards ($80 with a large cider flight). The kitchen serves main dishes from 11:00-4:00pm and smaller plates until 4:45pm. Some guests say the portions seem small for the price, but most agree the quality makes it worth it.

Just a Taste

Just a Taste sits on North Aurora Street near Ithaca’s pedestrian mall and stands out among romantic restaurants with its Spanish-inspired tapas dining concept. This cozy spot lets couples share multiple small plates in an interactive and intimate setting.

Just a Taste tapas-style dining

The restaurant has a charming garden patio that adds to its romantic appeal. The bistro-style ambiance creates an intimate setting perfect for date nights, though it gets crowded during peak hours. Tapas naturally encourage a shared dining experience that lets couples try multiple flavors throughout their evening. The kitchen prepares fresh dishes that change often while maintaining creativity. Diners love the Braised Duck Leg with onion and olive accompaniments, crispy Potato Wedges with Chipotle Aioli, and Spicy Shrimp that packs just the right heat.

Just a Taste wine list

The wine selection really shines with over 40 varieties by the glass. Couples can match different wines with their tapas throughout the meal to create their own tasting experience. The restaurant sees itself as a wine and tapas bar, and these thoughtful pairings improve each dish’s flavors.

Just a Taste pricing

The prices stay reasonable for the quality, and most tapas dishes cost between $10-15. A full dining experience with multiple shared plates typically runs about $50 (plus tax and tip). The Chocolate Lava Cake makes a decadent ending worth saving room for.

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Mahogany Grill

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Mahogany Grill has been a cornerstone of Aurora Street’s Restaurant Row for nearly 20 years. The restaurant ranks among Ithaca’s most romantic dining spots and has managed to keep its charm by serving quality food in an inviting atmosphere.

Mahogany Grill classic steakhouse feel

The restaurant combines elegant and casual vibes to create perfect date night settings. Dark aged wood wraps around both bar and dining areas, beautifully complemented by pressed tin ceilings. The walls feature historic photographs that showcase Ithaca’s heritage. Warm, well-placed lighting sets the mood without being overwhelming, which makes conversation flow naturally. You’ll find everyone here – from students and families to business groups and couples looking for a cozy dinner spot.

Mahogany Grill menu highlights

The dinner menu showcases four premium steaks ranging from USD 39.00 to USD 49.00. The “Filet medallions Oscar” stands out as a signature dish. It combines tender beef medallions with lobster claw meat and asparagus in béarnaise sauce, served on bacon and cheddar mashed potatoes. Seafood lovers will enjoy the “Sautéed Garlic Shrimp” with white wine and olive oil, artichoke hearts, basil, and tomatoes over linguini. The menu also features “Lobster ravioli” with sautéed mushrooms in cream sauce as another luxurious option.

Mahogany Grill pricing

Dinner entrees start at USD 16.95. The wine list shows careful selection with options from New York State, national, and international vineyards. Wine by the glass costs USD 8.00-USD 10.00, while bottles range from USD 32.00 to USD 95.00.

Simeon’s American Bistro

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Simeon’s American Bistro sits at the heart of Ithaca’s Commons. This prime spot has become a magnet for both tourists and locals who love its perfect blend of historical charm and excellent food.

Simeon’s American Bistro historic setting

The iconic 1871 building showcases beautiful architectural details that tell its story. Marble block floors and ornate plaster angels have adorned this space for more than 100 years. The building’s rich merlot exterior catches everyone’s eye, and its location makes it the best spot in town to enjoy a meal while watching the world go by.

Simeon’s American Bistro menu

Fresh seafood is the life-blood of Simeon’s kitchen. Maine lobster, jumbo black tiger shrimp, and Atlantic oysters take center stage. The restaurant’s standout dishes never fail to please – from their indulgent four-cheese lobster mac and cheese to their hearty cioppino seafood stew and perfectly prepared steaks. The menu includes plenty of choices for vegetarian and gluten-free diners.

Simeon’s American Bistro pricing

Diners can expect to pay $$ – $$$ for their meals, with main course prices ranging from $16.95 to $49.00. The upscale atmosphere and fantastic location make these prices a great value. The restaurant’s popularity as a romantic destination means you should book ahead.

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The Heights Restaurant and H Bar

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The Heights Restaurant and H Bar, 28 years old, lifts Ithaca’s dining scene with its sophisticated cuisine near Cornell University. The restaurant stands out as one of Ithaca NY’s most refined romantic spots where couples celebrate their special occasions.

The Heights upscale ambiance

CIA graduate James Larounis and his wife Heidi’s vision created a casually elegant setting that perfectly balances sophistication with comfort. The contemporary interior creates an intimate atmosphere that makes conversations flow naturally. Each dish arrives as a work of art on the plate. The restaurant becomes the backdrop for life’s celebrations – from graduations to personal victories and milestone moments.

The Heights seasonal dishes

Mediterranean-inspired American cuisine with local ingredients shines in the kitchen. The menu’s stars include a $46 Atlantic Salmon with cannellini beans and a $55 Pan Seared Duck Breast served with confit potatoes. Regular guests often praise the Chilean Sea Bass special and bone-in ribeye. The kitchen serves each entrée with your choice of Caesar or mixed greens salad. Their signature chocolate lava cake soufflé needs advance ordering with the main course.

The Heights pricing

Expect to pay $39-$55 for main courses at this premium Ithaca dining destination. The generous portions often result in take-home meals. The restaurant’s wine program boasts over 400 bottles and more than 20 wines by the glass. This commitment to wine excellence earned them Wine Spectator awards every year since 1999.

Maxie’s Supper Club & Oyster Bar

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Maxie’s Supper Club & Oyster Bar brings romantic dining alive where Fulton meets State Street in Ithaca. The restaurant’s New Orleans influence creates a unique experience that whisks couples away to the vibrant Southern coast.

Maxie’s Supper Club jazz vibe

Maxie’s radiates warmth with its “funky old joint” character. The charming tin ceilings boost the acoustics beautifully. The restaurant features several dining spaces that set different moods. Guests can choose between an energetic bar area or a glass-enclosed room with removable doors that welcome pleasant weather. The covered patio stands out as a couple’s favorite spot, featuring adjustable fabric walls where they can share intimate moments while soulful tunes fill the air.

Maxie’s Supper Club seafood specialties

This Southern-style establishment takes pride in its fresh offerings. Boston oysters arrive weekly, with the kitchen serving roughly 1,000 each week. The menu features these standouts:

• Mighty-Mighty Gumbo with andouille sausage and chicken (USD 8-15)
• NOLA BBQ Shrimp in spicy Worcestershire-rosemary sauce (USD 14)
• Cajun-Seared Ahi Tuna with maple brown butter (USD 36)

The kitchen sources seafood directly from North America’s east coast, showing their commitment to sustainability.

Maxie’s Supper Club pricing

The entrees cost between USD 19-36, offering good value for their generous portions. The restaurant’s Happy Hour runs daily from 4-6pm and provides amazing deals. Guests enjoy half-price raw oysters and clams along with USD 5 Session IPAs. True to Southern hospitality, they serve complimentary cornbread with every order, including takeout.

Comparison Table

Enjoy Romantic Restaurants in Ithaca

Ithaca is a hidden gem that offers romantic dining experiences despite its small-town charm. This Finger Lakes destination boasts fifteen unique establishments that showcase amazing culinary diversity. Couples can pick from historic spots like Carriage House Café in an 1850 building or enjoy contemporary farm-to-table meals at Coltivare.

These romantic spots come with different price tags to suit every couple’s budget. You’ll find affordable options at Purity Ice Cream Co. and Ithaca Bakery. The Heights Restaurant and Mahogany Grill cater to those who want upscale dining experiences.

The city’s romantic scene shines through its diverse cuisine. Le Café Cent-Dix serves French classics while Gola Osteria dishes out authentic Italian fare. The legendary Moosewood Restaurant is perfect for vegetarian couples, and seafood lovers flock to Maxie’s Supper Club and Simeon’s American Bistro.

Ithaca’s unique date spots go beyond traditional restaurants. Six Mile Creek Vineyard and Finger Lakes Cider House let couples sip local drinks while taking in breathtaking views. Just a Taste’s tapas-style dining creates the perfect setting for sharing and conversation – the key ingredients of any romantic evening.

Local ingredients take center stage in Ithaca’s dining scene, showcasing the region’s rich agriculture. Many restaurants update their menus with the seasons, bringing fresh flavors to every special night out. The Heights and Le Café Cent-Dix’s thoughtful wine programs create perfect pairings that boost the dining experience.

Each restaurant’s atmosphere tells its own story. Agava Restaurant charms with rustic appeal, while Simeon’s American Bistro defines elegant sophistication. Cozy, intimate spaces are common, yet each spot maintains its unique personality through distinct décor and architectural features.

Romance thrives in this small town, way beyond the reach of major cities. These fifteen spots show how history, local agriculture, culinary expertise, and scenic beauty create unforgettable experiences. The city’s romantic restaurants turn ordinary evenings into extraordinary memories, whatever your taste, budget, or dietary needs might be.

FAQs

Q1. What are some of the most romantic restaurants in Ithaca for a special date night? Some of the most romantic restaurants in Ithaca include Gola Osteria for authentic Italian cuisine, Le Café Cent-Dix for French bistro dining, The Heights Restaurant for upscale American fare, Simeon’s American Bistro for its historic setting, and Maxie’s Supper Club for a lively New Orleans-inspired atmosphere.

Q2. Which restaurants in Ithaca offer the best views for a romantic dinner? For stunning views, consider Six Mile Creek Vineyard, which offers panoramic vistas of the valley from its deck. The Finger Lakes Cider House also provides beautiful views of Cayuga Lake, perfect for a romantic sunset dinner.

Q3. Are there any farm-to-table restaurants in Ithaca ideal for couples? Yes, Coltivare is an excellent farm-to-table option for couples. It sources 60% of its ingredients from Tompkins County and maintains its own farm. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience that combines education with fine cuisine.

Q4. What are some budget-friendly romantic dining options in Ithaca? For couples on a budget, Ithaca Bakery offers romantic dinner-for-two packages starting at $40. Purity Ice Cream Co. provides a nostalgic and affordable dessert date option with its 1950s soda fountain decor and reasonably priced treats.

Q5. Which Ithaca restaurants are best for wine enthusiasts looking for a romantic evening? Wine enthusiasts will appreciate The Heights Restaurant, which has earned Wine Spectator awards continuously since 1999 and offers over 400 bottle selections. Le Café Cent-Dix also features an impressive wine list, focusing primarily on French and local Finger Lakes varieties.