Last updated: 2025-03-21
Athens’ date night scene blends classic Southern charm with creative flair. From the intimate ambiance of Five and Ten to the historic charm of Last Resort Grill, couples find their perfect evening among the brick-lined streets of downtown.
Whether sharing small plates at The National, catching an indie film at Ciné, or taking aerial dance classes at Canopy Studio, Athens offers unique ways to kindle romance. The local wine selection at Shiraz and board games at The Rook and Pawn add playful touches to evening plans.
Discover Classic City romance in our guide below!
Featured Date Night Spots in Athens
- Urban Sanctuary Spa
- Canopy Studio
- Ciné
- Five and Ten
- Last Resort Grill
- Athens Haunted History Walking Tours
- Porterhouse Grill
- The Foundry
- The National
- The Place
Romantic Dinner in Athens
Five and Ten
What to Expect
Historic Hawthorne House Setting
Description
Five & Ten is a renowned farm-to-table restaurant located in the historic Hawthorne House. It offers an elevated approach to traditional American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The restaurant features multiple dining rooms, a spacious bar, and patio seating. On Sundays, it transforms with a contemporary Mexican-inspired menu. Its rich legacy and modern Southern cuisine make it an ideal setting for a sophisticated date night.
Where: Athens | More Info: Five and Ten
Last Resort Grill
What to Expect
Historic music club turned restaurant
Description
Last Resort Grill offers Southwestern-inspired Southern cuisine in a historic setting. It features a full bar and an outdoor wine and beer garden. The restaurant's eclectic history as a former music club adds to its charm, making it a standout choice for a memorable dining experience.
Where: Athens | More Info: Last Resort Grill
Marker 7 Coastal Grill
What to Expect
Historic coastal seafood restaurant
Description
Marker 7 Coastal Grill is a seafood haven located in a historic home in Athens, offering a diverse menu of fresh seafood and non-seafood options. The restaurant features dishes like grouper nuggets and fish tacos, with a cozy atmosphere suitable for both indoor and outdoor dining. Its coastal charm and welcoming service make it an ideal spot for a date night.
Where: Athens | More Info: Marker 7 Coastal Grill
Porterhouse Grill
What to Expect
Elegant American Steakhouse
Description
Porterhouse Grill offers a sophisticated dining experience in downtown Athens, featuring a variety of steaks, seafood, and sandwiches. Its elegant atmosphere makes it ideal for special occasions like rehearsal dinners or romantic evenings. The restaurant also hosts live jazz music on Wednesday nights, adding to its charm. With a full bar and extensive wine selection, it provides a refined setting for any date night.
Where: Athens | More Info: Porterhouse Grill
Royal Peasant
What to Expect
British-themed pub with international beers
Description
Royal Peasant is a British-style pub offering a cozy atmosphere with an English-themed menu featuring updated British dishes and Indian influences. It boasts a selection of UK and international beers, along with a heated patio perfect for a relaxed evening. The pub's warm ambiance makes it an ideal spot for a casual yet memorable date night.
Where: Athens | More Info: Royal Peasant
Shiraz Fine Wine & Gourmet
What to Expect
Extensive wine selection in a historic setting
Description
Shiraz Fine Wine & Gourmet offers an extensive selection of over 600 wines and specialty foods, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. The store is located in the historic Leathers Building, providing a charming backdrop for a wine and gourmet evening. With a wide range of wine and food-related accessories, it's an ideal spot to find everything needed for a memorable date night.
Where: Athens | More Info: Shiraz Fine Wine & Gourmet
South Kitchen and Bar
What to Expect
Southern-inspired cuisine
Description
South Kitchen and Bar offers a blend of Southern charm and modern flavors, featuring dishes like fried green tomatoes, pimento cheese, and Low Country shrimp and grits. Its cozy atmosphere and diverse menu make it an ideal spot for a date night.
Where: Athens | More Info: South Kitchen and Bar
The Foundry
What to Expect
Historic iron foundry setting
Description
The Foundry offers a unique blend of Southern cuisine and live entertainment in a historic iron foundry setting. It features elevated game day fare, including dry-rub wings and blackened catfish tacos, alongside a rustic ambiance perfect for a lively date night. The venue provides outdoor seating and a full bar, making it an ideal spot to enjoy music or watch sports.
Where: Athens | More Info: The Foundry
The National
What to Expect
Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with local flair
Description
The National offers a sophisticated dining experience with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, crafted cocktails, and a global wine list. Its intimate setting, complete with a covered patio, makes it an ideal spot for a romantic evening. The menu highlights local seasonal ingredients, ensuring a fresh and varied dining experience.
Where: Athens | More Info: The National
The Pine
What to Expect
Wood-fired oysters and patio dining
Description
The Pine offers a sophisticated atmosphere with tapas, wood-fired oysters, cheese & charcuterie, and an excellent wine selection. Its patio provides a charming setting for a romantic evening. The full bar complements the dining experience, making it an ideal spot for a date night.
Where: Athens | More Info: The Pine
The Place
What to Expect
Locally sourced seasonal menu
Description
The Place offers a cozy dining experience with a focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu fluctuates seasonally, ensuring a unique culinary experience each visit. Its intimate setting makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed dinner date.
Where: Athens | More Info: The Place
Athens Entertainment Activities
Ciné
What to Expect
Independent Art House Cinema
Description
Ciné is a restored historic venue offering independent and international films, documentaries, and classic movies. It features two cinemas, a full bar, and a versatile event space. This art house cinema enriches the cultural landscape of downtown Athens by providing thought-provoking films and a unique community movie-going experience. It is an ideal setting for a sophisticated date night, combining art, culture, and entertainment.
Where: Athens | More Info: Ciné
Relaxation and Spa in Athens
Urban Sanctuary Spa
What to Expect
Eco-friendly spa treatments
Description
Urban Sanctuary Spa offers a serene retreat with natural and eco-friendly treatments. It features 10 spa rooms, 4 semi-private waiting lounges, and 2 tea bars across three floors. Specializing in massages like deep tissue, couples, and prenatal, along with advanced facials, it provides a tranquil atmosphere ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. It's a great spot for couples looking to unwind together.
Where: Athens | More Info: Urban Sanctuary Spa
Other Activities in Athens
Athens Haunted History Walking Tours
What to Expect
Historical storytelling with paranormal themes
Description
Athens Haunted History Walking Tours offer a 2-hour exploration of Athens' rich history and paranormal tales. Led by local historian Jeff Clarke, the tours delve into stories of love and loss, weaving history with storytelling and theatrics. This engaging tour is ideal for those interested in history and the supernatural, making it a compelling choice for a unique date night.
Where: Athens | More Info: Athens Haunted History Walking Tours
Canopy Studio
What to Expect
Flying Dance Trapeze Classes
Description
Canopy Studio offers flying dance trapeze classes and workshops, providing a unique and adventurous experience. It is an ideal spot for couples looking for a thrilling and memorable date night activity. The studio also hosts performances and offers private lessons.
Where: Athens | More Info: Canopy Studio
The Rook and Pawn
What to Expect
Extensive board game library
Description
The Rook and Pawn is a board game cafe offering over 800 tabletop board and card games. It provides a unique setting where visitors can play games while enjoying food, coffee, tea, and spirits. The cafe features a Victorian-era themed environment, making it an ideal spot for socializing and interaction. It stands out as a place where people can disconnect from digital devices and engage in meaningful conversations.
Where: Athens | More Info: The Rook and Pawn
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