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Date Night Hot Spots in Newton and Brookline

Hot local restaurants for Valentine's Day and beyond

By Maria Barrette February 11, 2025

Looking to impress your date with a memorable dining experience? Grandparents watching the kids? Have your favorite babysitter booked? Here is a round up of some charming and must-try date night options for your romantic night out. From cozy Italian trattorias to upscale American bistros, here are some of the most popular date night restaurants in Newton and Brookline:


NEWTON:


Sycamore: Located in Newton Centre, Sycamore is a seasonally inspired, chef-owned neighborhood bistro that emphasizes locally sourced produce, fish, and meat. Their menu draws on classic European country food, creating rustic and wholesome dishes. The warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with their carefully curated wine list and craft cocktails, makes Sycamore an ideal choice for a cozy and intimate date night.

  • My personal menu recommendation: Pan Roasted Atlantic Cod
  • Address: 999 Beacon Street, Newton Centre


Buttonwood: Buttonwood is a beloved Newton establishment known for its rustic American cuisine and intimate atmosphere. This cozy spot has garnered rave reviews for its "beautiful atmosphere," "quietly relaxing ambiance," and "warm vibe." It's a go-to for date nights, offering a mix of a neighborhood restaurant feel and a gourmet experience. Their focus on craft beers, cocktails, and small-production wines adds to its romantic charm.

  • My personal menu recommendation: Their cornbread is a must-have!
  • Address: 599 Washington Street, Newton


Thistle & Leek: Thistle & Leek offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a cozy date night. This restaurant is known for its focus on seasonal, New American cuisine with a creative twist.  They often feature dishes highlighting local ingredients, and the ambiance is generally relaxed and intimate, making it a great choice for a special occasion or a more casual romantic evening.

  • My personal menu recommendation: The "young chicken" is savory and just one of my favorites on their menu
  • Address: 94 Union Street, Newton Centre


BROOKLINE:


La Morra: La Morra offers an authentic and intimate Italian dining experience. This cozy spot is renowned for its delectable regional Italian cuisine, an extensive and well-curated wine list, and exceptional, attentive service. The warm and inviting atmosphere makes it perfect for a romantic dinner, whether you're sharing a plate of handmade pasta or savoring a multi-course meal.  It's a true neighborhood gem.

  • My personal recommendation: Beef Agnolotti 
  • Address: 1 Washington Square, Brookline


Barcelona Wine Bar: For a lively and vibrant, yet still cozy, date night, Barcelona Wine Bar is a fantastic option. This popular spot offers a taste of Spain with its extensive tapas menu and impressive wine list. The bustling atmosphere, dim lighting, and communal tables create a warm and energetic ambiance, perfect for sharing small plates and enjoying conversation. While it's not as quiet as the other options, it's cozy in its own way and offers a fun, social experience.

  • My personal menu recommendation: Being a tapas bar with lots of shared plates, I can't possibly pick one!
  • Address:  1700 Beacon Street, Brookline

Bar Vlaha: Bar Vlaha offers a unique and intimate dining experience, specializing in modern Balkan cuisine.  The cozy and stylish setting, combined with the flavorful and often shareable dishes, makes it a fantastic choice for a memorable date night. It's a great opportunity to explore new flavors together.
  • My personal recommendation: Any of their feta pies
  • Address: 157 Brookline Ave, Brookline


These are just a few of many local fantastic restaurants that are perfect for a romantic date night. Although my personal recommendations are tried and true to my taste buds, I encourage you to explore the menus of all of these amazing restaurants. So whether you're looking for a special occasion spot or a more casual setting, you're sure to find something to impress your date and create a lasting memory!