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 West Virginia were included among the country’s top 150 for alfresco dining:
#32 Historic District, Harpers Ferry.
The confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers creates a breathtaking natural setting in Harpers Ferry, ideal for a memorable and romantic outdoor dining experience amidst historic landscapes.
#49 Capitol Street, Charleston.
Capitol Street, with its mix of modern and traditional southern eateries and art spaces, provides a lively urban setting for a romantic evening in the heart of the city.
#134 Downtown, Morgantown.
Home to West Virginia University, Morgantown offers a vibrant mix of student life and Appalachian culture. The downtown area’s variety of restaurants provides a fun and youthful setting for a romantic meal.