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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Venice

Authentic date spots

You want a night out that feels genuine and avoids the polished, artificial feel of a typical tourist trap.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant offers oceanfront views and a quiet, hidden setting with a chill, welcoming atmosphere. Outdoor seating provides a peaceful retreat from the lively boardwalk, accompanied by soothing Peruvian music. The vibe blends cozy elegance with a strong sense of community.

Dishes feature authentic Peruvian flavors like leche de tigre, choclo, and maรญz cancha. Staff provide genuine hospitality that complements the carefully prepared and perfectly seasoned meals.

Ceviche stands out with a spicy kick that recalls flavors from Peru, prepared fresh right in front of diners. The menu pairs well with a passion fruit drink, making it a solid choice for a date spot.

People are saying

"This ceviche tastes just like Peru."

"I found the Peruvian food and hospitality to be delicious and authentic."

"The ceviche and lomo bowls are amazing date spots."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the boardwalk inside the Gingerbread House.

2

Expect prices to be around $30 for most dishes.

3

Parking is available nearby but can be limited during busy times.

02
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Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant offers fresh food made from scratch with homemade gochujang and authentic street flavors. Atmosphere features great music and a welcoming vibe with tables to eat at. Portions are generous and prices remain affordable, attracting those seeking genuine Korean dishes like bulgogi and spicy pork.

Authentic Korean local flavors shine through with homemade kimbop and dishes made from great ingredients. The food captures true Korean taste and quality.

A warm couple runs the spot, creating a welcoming vibe that feels like home. The passionate Korean street food sparks great conversation and connection during dates.

People are saying

"This Bulgogi is the best I've ever had, truly a masterpiece."

"The food here is amazing, especially the spicy pork tacos."

"I tasted authentic Korean local flavors here."

Good to know

1

Everything is made fresh onsite each morning by the owners.

2

They only have a limited amount of kimbap, so arrive before 5pm.

3

Expect big portions at affordable prices.

03
Casablanca image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a vintage movie theme and live solo music creates a dynamic, vibrant atmosphere. Margarita cart serves drinks tableside, adding to the lively experience. Handmade tortillas prepared in view enhance the authentic feel.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with homemade tortillas and a delicious, homemade taste throughout. The ambiance matches the food with a beautiful, authentic vibe.

Offers a perfect setting for dates and get-togethers with a relaxed atmosphere. The spot feels intimate and suits couples looking for a comfortable place to connect.

People are saying

"I found the warm, freshly made tortillas to be the best."

"The food and drinks here are fantastic for Date Spots."

"I loved the authentic Mexican food and the incredible tortillas."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak dinner hours, especially on weekends.

2

Parking at Casablanca can be tight, so arrive early if driving.

3

The restaurant offers a special 'hidden' menu not listed publicly.

04
Sushi Enya Marina Del Rey image 1

Sushi restaurant features a wide open, creative space with a beautiful sushi bar and big tables. The atmosphere is inviting and cozy with a modern, relaxed vibe but can be loud due to minimal sound absorption. The place draws a crowd seeking authentic, top-quality sushi and an approachable yet elegant dining experience.

The spot offers a genuine sushi bar experience with food that stays true to traditional flavors. It serves authentic sushi that reflects local standards well.

Seating offers a quiet, intimate setting but service can be slow, with long waits before anyone offers water. Parking nearby requires some effort, which might affect the flow of the date.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be excellent and fresh."

"The staff made my birthday dinner incredibly special and memorable."

"I found the sushi and sashimi here to be really authentic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5:30pm to 6:30pm Tuesday to Thursday and 5-6pm on Sunday.

2

Parking in the area is limited to 1 hour on the street.

3

Valet parking is available for $300.

05
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Italian restaurant

Outdoor tables face the ocean with a sunset view and live music nearby, creating a relaxed, friendly vibe. Simple seating fits the Venice Beach atmosphere, though wind can affect comfort. Pasta here is authentic and highly praised, making it a standout spot for Italian food by the beach.

Fresh pasta and authentic flavor sauces highlight the menu. Food comes from a small kitchen hatch, delivering a friendly Italian vibe with genuine ingredients.

Outdoor seating offers a few tables and chairs accessible by walking. Dishes include spaghetti pesto and Bolognese, with scallops and vegetables also served. The sauce has an eggy richness balanced by guanciale grease and parmesan for smokiness and sharpness.

People are saying

"The fresh pasta here is outstanding and truly authentic Italian food."

"I loved the fresh pasta and authentic Italian flavors."

"The pasta here is outstanding and incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but arriving early is recommended to avoid running out of pasta.

2

The shop closes early if they run out of pasta, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect large portion sizes for the price paid.

06
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Thai restaurant

Open-air Thai restaurant sits beside a canal with a gorgeous water view and pleasant outdoor terrace. Atmosphere feels cozy and atmospheric with live jazz music and patio heaters creating a warm, inviting vibe. Space is large and relaxed, avoiding the bustle of trendier spots.

Broth in the tom yum noodle is rich and authentic. Pad Thai and Tom Yum Kong deliver classic Thai flavors. Rare authentic Thai dishes appear on the menu.

Offers a great date night atmosphere with a vibe that suits couples looking for a relaxed evening.

People are saying

"I found the Thai food here to be the best I ever had."

"I found the Thai food here to be the most authentic and delicious."

"The food here is delicious and outstanding for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

There is no parking available around the restaurant.

2

Siamese Garden offers great vegan options.

3

The location along the canal provides outdoor seating options.

07
ลŒwa image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music and a curved bar top for cocktail service. The space feels classy and meticulously maintained, blending trendy lighting with engaging energy. Cocktails feature Japanese whiskeys and sake, complementing fresh sushi and unique vegan options.

Atmosphere feels inviting and calm with a genuine authentic vibe. Food tastes fresh and authentic, matching the place's organic feel.

Winding bar creates a unique dining experience while a backroom offers a more intimate setting for date nights. The spot suits happy hour and impressing out-of-towners with its cute, hip vibe.

People are saying

"These date spots have incredible flavors and textures."

"The bar staff is so attentive and knowledgeable about the menu."

"The food here is so fresh, balanced, and authentic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available every day, including weekends, from 4-6 PM.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to all bills without prior notice.

3

Credit card payments incur an additional 3% fee.

08
Wirin Thai Restaurant image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, cozy space with basic decor and a no-frills atmosphere creates a friendly, local vibe. Noise from nearby street traffic adds to the gritty, old-school feel. Known for reasonable prices and generous portions, it attracts those seeking authentic Thai food in a casual setting.

Flavors stay authentic and fresh with traditional Thai dishes. Some might find the taste true to classic recipes, while others may see it differently.

Strong red curry with chicken stands out as a flavorful option. Some dishes like the basil chicken can be off-putting, and the food's richness may cause discomfort afterwards.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is tasty and authentic."

"I thought the Thai food here was very authentic and fresh."

"The food here is amazing and beautiful, perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

The lunch specials are available until 4 pm and are very affordable.

2

Parking is limited and often has suspicious activity nearby.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals for 4-5 people costing around $70.

09
El Huarique Venice image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Small open-air restaurant with patio tables and a beachfront view creates a cozy, relaxed vibe. Outdoor seating fills with a busy, charming atmosphere near the promenade, often accompanied by good music. Family-run feel adds warmth to the casual, walk-up service experience.

Authentic Peruvian dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado come in well-portioned servings. Some dishes capture the traditional flavors clearly, while others do not taste as authentic.

Fish tacos and ceviche come with a delightful array of spices, corn, and sweet potato. Friendly service makes the experience feel personal. Even picky eaters find the food enjoyable.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are so flavorful and crispy, I couldn't stop at one."

"The fish tacos here are excellent, truly the best."

"I loved the authentic Peruvian dishes, especially the ceviche."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $10 for three hours at a nearby lot.

2

The restaurant allows customers to bring their own alcohol.

3

A combo meal costs $23, including a burger, fries, and a drink.

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Venice, Los Angeles

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