10 local restaurants perfect for a winter dinner date

Where can you have the perfect date night when the weather is chilly? We’ve gathered our top 10 spots around Birmingham that are cozy, intimate, and delicious.

Ready to dine? Let’s go.

1. Shu Shop

Love Japanese cuisine like ramen? You and your date can get your fix at this popular Magic City restaurant.

• Location: 1820 3rd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 5PM-1AM
• Website | Instagram

2. Hot and Hot Fish Club

Hot and Hot Fish Club’s Southern-inspired seafood and innovative flavors make it one of Birmingham’s top restaurants.

If you don’t fall in love with your date, you’ll definitely fall in love with the menu.

• Location: 2901 2nd Ave S, # 110, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Hours: Wednesday-Saturday | 5PM-9PM
• Website | Instagram

3. Gianmarco’s

Gianmarco’s won Bham Now’s Nowie Award for the “Most Splurge-Worthy” spot in Birmingham back in 2022.

Why do we love it? We can’t resist the authentic Italian cuisine and swoon-worthy wine selection.

• Hours:
  • Monday-Tuesday 5-10PM
  • Wednesday-Friday 11-2PM, 5-10PM
  • Saturday 5-10PM
• Location: 721 Broadway St, Birmingham, AL 35209
• Note: Gianmarco’s is currently reservation only. Call 205.871.9622 to reserve a table.
• Website | Facebook

4. Chez Fonfon

Chez Fonfon combines a cozy bistro vibe with classic French cuisine, making it the perfect place for a romantic dinner for two.

• Location: 2007 11th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205
• Hours: Tuesday-Friday | 11AM-9:30PM | Saturday | 4-9:30PM
• Website | Instagram

5. Bistro 218 

Bistro 218, located on Birmingham’s 20th Street North blends French and New Orleans cuisine in a chic setting. You and your date will enjoy the white tablecloths and menu items like Duck Confit, Pomme Frites, and Gumbo.

• Location: 218 20th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 4:30-10PM
• Instagram | Website

6. Cafe Dupont

Give your date a boost of elegance with dinner at Cafe Dupont. Their dishes feature fresh seasonal ingredients and a to-die-for dessert menu.

• Location: 113 20th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday | 5-9PM
• Website | Instagram 

7. Bocca 

Bocca in Birmingham elevates your date with perfectly seared scallops and a vibrant atmosphere. This is an ideal spot for a memorable night. Cranberry White Chocolate Bread Pudding anyone?

• Location: 2312 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday | 4:30-10PM
• Instagram | Website

8. Bottega

Say ciao to incredible Italian cuisine and impeccable service at Bottega. We vote this hot spot as one of the most romantic in town.

• Location: 2240 Highland Ave, Birmingham, AL 35205
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday | 11AM-9:30PM
• Website | Instagram

9. Freddy’s Bistro & Bar

Freddy’s in Homewood offers a delicious menu and fun atmosphere—two things I want in a great date spot.

• Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 4PM-9PM | Friday-Saturday 4PM-10PM
• Location: 1706 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood, AL 35209
• Website | Facebook

10. Ocean 

Indulge in a delightful selection of fresh, expertly prepared seafood while enjoying a warm and inviting atmosphere.

• Location: 1218 20th St S, Birmingham, AL 35205
• Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 5:30-10PM | Friday-Saturday 5:30-10:30PM
• Instagram | Website

Where are you taking your date this winter in Birmingham? Let us know @Bhamnow.