Ambiance abounds here in Houston…if you know how to find it. I had a hard time narrowing down this list to the top ten – so the restaurants included are those that go beyond merely providing a ‘special night’ out. If you are looking for an intimate environment, these are some of the most romantic spots in town. Numerous proposals, engagements and anniversary dinners have been experienced at these beautiful and enchanting spots – so make reservations if you have an upcoming event, and count on the manager to make suggestions for an unforgettable occasion.
CRAPITTO’S CUCINA ITALIANA 2400 Midlane Street, Houston TX, 77027 (713) 961-1161 Hours: Mon-Thurs 11:00-10:00pm, Fri 11:00-10:00pm, Sat 5:00-11:00pm
Crapitto’s is a very romantic place for a cozy and quiet dinner, provided you can find it. The Building itself is a house built in 1915 and restored. It offers indoor and outdoor dining. But if the weather is nice, I suggest outdoors. The feel here is nostalgic. The food is great with servers who aren’t overly aggressive. You won’t be rushed through your meal here, even at lunch. The authentic Italian food is superb. Crapitto’s recommends reservations with outdoor seating available upon request.
Estimated price per person for dinner=$17-$35
Holiday Schedule: New Years Eve-Open, New Years Day-Closed, Valentines Day- Open, Easter-Closed, Thanksgiving-Closed, Christmas Eve-Open, Christmas Day-Closed
MORTON’S 500 Westheimer (Centre@ Post Oak), Houston, TX 77056 (713) 629-1946 Hours: Mon-Sat Bar opens 5:00pm; Dinner served 5:00-11:00pm, Sunday 5:00-10:00pm
Morton’s ambiance is punctuated with its highly professional and knowledgeable wait staff. Once you’ve enjoyed an evening at Morton’s, it will always be on your mind. The food, wine and service are superior. I had the privilege of talking with employee John Vamvakias who conveyed that Morton’s provide the most exquisite dining experience in town, expounding that “we have regulars who look to us for enhancement of special occasions as well as a great dinner”. Morton’s been the setting for many a marriage proposal. While Morton’s may be one of the most high profile chains, it also carries the reputation of superior quality. This is what Morton’s lovers have come to expect on a consistent basis. Make reservations. Estimated cost per person for dinner=$75-$100
Holiday Schedule: New Year’s Eve-Open, New Year’s Day-Closed, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Closed, Thanksgiving-Closed Eve-Open, Christmas Day-Closed
Brenner’s is a classic restaurant for the romantics at heart. They are most popular with rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions and anniversaries. This place offers a warm welcoming feel. The food is succulent with a wide variety and terrific wines. Brenner’s has been serving fine French Quarter inspired dishes for almost 40 years. They just recently started offering cooking classes for couples. Don’t leave without trying a desert. The dress is business casual. Brenner’s recommends reservations at all times with a few weeks additional allowance during the holiday season.
Estimated cost per person for dinner = $50-$80
Holiday Schedule: New Years Day-Closed, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Open, Thanksgiving-Open, Christmas Eve-Closed, Christmas Day-Open
MICHELANGELO’S 307 Westeimer Road, Houston, TX 77006 (713)524-7836 Hours: Mon-Thurs 11-10pm, Fri & Sat 11-11pm, Sun 11-9pm
Michelangelo’s has been a long time fixture here in Houston. The restaurant’s most interesting feature is a huge Oak Tree that grows through the roof. The beauty and artistic design is only a small part of this romantic nook. The wine selection is ample with California and Italian brands. The pasta dishes with seafood are outstanding. Staff and service are excellent. Reservations are always recommended here.
Estimated cost per person for dinner= $35-$45
Holiday Schedule: New Years Eve-Open, New Years Day-Open, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Open, Thanksgiving-Open, Christmas Eve-Open, Christmas Day-Open
When it comes to Vargo’s, all I can say is ‘WOW’. A long renowned spot for romantic evenings in Houston, the grounds are elegant with beautiful parading peacocks showing off their wares. With numerous weddings and receptions having been hosted here, this place is considered ‘cream of the crop’ for elegant and romantic night. The menu is extensive with great choices like seafood and steak with great pasta picks as well. Chocolate Roll Cake tops the list of tasty desserts. Reservations and nice dress are recommended.
Estimated cost per person for dinner=$35
Holiday Schedule: New Year Eve-Open, Valentines-Open, Easter-Open, Thanksgiving-Closed, Christmas Eve- Open, Christmas Day-Open
THE BROWNSTONE 2736 Virginia Street (Westheimer Road), Houston, TX 77098 (713) 520-5666 Hours: Mon-Fri (lunch) 11:30-2:00, (dinner) 5:30-9:00pm, sat 1:00am
You will be truly impressed by the ambiance at The Brownstone. Each room has its own great feel. The food is spectacular with a lunch menu that is affordable for an everyday visit. The Brownstone has a collection of 8,000 wines from around the world. The true beauty is the warm feeling you will experience here with lavish crystal chandlers and a grand piano. An eclectic collection of beautiful antique pieces from around the globe add to the old world feel. Private rooms are available of with dance floor and separate entrance if necessary. Reservations are recommended on weekends and holidays.
Estimated cost per person for dinner=$20-$40
Holiday Schedule: New Years Eve-Open, New Years Day-Open, Valentines-Open, Easter-Open, Thanksgiving-Closed, Christmas Eve-Open, Christmas Day-Closed
THE RAINBOW LODGE 2011 East @ TC Jester, Houston, TX 77008 (713) 861-8666 Hours: Mon-Closed (except December), Tues-Fri 11:30am-10:30pm, Sat-6:00-10:30pm, Sun 10:30am-10:30pm
This enchanted lodge plays host to weddings, private parties and corporate events. It has an acre of beautifully landscaped grounds with a majestic feel. The Lodge is known for its ambiance, making it the most romantic setting. The menu is comprised of wild game dishes that bring this restaurant into a class all its own. While most would hardly attempt to make wild game a niche, the Lodge has mastered the art. A true favorite here is the Medallion Grilled Duck Breast with a Wild Boar Chop. They have a five course meal called The Wild Game Safari. Desserts run as far a field as the main course with Jack Daniels Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie. Chocolate lovers are welcome to the warmly served ‘Triple Chocolate Torte’. Rainbow is a great choice for anyone seeking a truly unique experience.
Estimated cost per person for dinner=$75-$100
Holiday Schedule: Thanksgiving-Open, Christmas Eve-Open, Christmas Day-Closed, New Years-Open, Valentines Day-Open, and Easter-Open
Buon Appetito is a moderately priced Italian bistro that is adored by customers for excellent pasta and seafood. This intimate restaurant is situated in a quaint two-story wood frame house that also features patio dining. The cozy ambiance and friendly staff make for an intimate dining experience at an affordable price. A guitar player strolls around and serenades each table. The warmth of the restaurant is unforgettable. Just make sure you get a cannoli before you leave.
Estimated cost per person for dinner = $20 - $30
Holiday Schedule: New Years Day-Closed, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Open, Thanksgiving-Open, Christmas Eve-Open, Christmas Day-Closed, New Years Eve-Open
MARK’S AMERICAN CUISINE 1658 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77006 (713) 523-3800 Hours: Mon-Fri 11-2pm (lunch), Mon-Fri 5-10pm (dinner), Sat 5:30-12:00pm, Sun 5-10pm
The true tranquil beauty of this restaurant is apparent from the moment of entry. The building itself is a church. Mark’s has managed to turn a blessed building into a blessed business. In fact, reservations are recommended two to three weeks in advance. Mark Cox is the proprietor and Chef. He promotes a well-rounded experience by offering the finest culinary delights. Chef specials are offered by seasonal availability. Top quality food makes Mark’s a most sought-after destination. Copper River Salmon and Duck are sure to exceed discriminating expectations. Setting their food apart from the competition, Mark’s wants only the freshest for their customers. The spoken menu changes several times a day depending on what fresh items have most recently arrived. Dessert selections are aplenty, but the raspberry shortbread tart is sure to be a favorite.
Estimated cost per person=$100
Holiday Schedule: Thanksgiving-Closed, Christmas Eve & Day-Closed, New Years Day-Closed, Valentines Day-Open, and Easter-Closed
MASRAFF’S 1025 South Post Oak Lane, Houston, TX 77056 (713) 335-1975 Hours: Sun 10:30-3:30pm, Mon-Thurs 11:00-10:00pm, Fri 11:00-10:00pm, Sat 5:00-11:00pm
Ambiance, music and food comprise a wonderful romantic setting at Masraff’s. The staff is pleasant and non-intrusive. The entrees consist of beautiful continental cuisine assembled in a most artistic manner, with dishes as flavorful as they look. A favorite dessert is the Floating Island and Bananas Foster with Apricot sauce. Masraff’s offers a Sunday Jazz brunch. Reservations are recommended.
Estimated per person for dinner=$25-$40
Holiday Schedule: Thanksgiving-Closed, Christmas Eve-Open, Christmas Day-Closed, New Years Eve-Open, New Years Day-Open, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Open
The Top List of Romantic Restaurants - Houston, TX