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Cool date spots in Downtown Riverside

You are looking for a date spot that is genuinely cool rather than just trying to be.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
Stray Dogs Coffee image 1
Stray Dogs Coffee image 2
Stray Dogs Coffee image 3
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Minimalist coffee shop with bright spacious interior and dog-friendly atmosphere welcomes both people and pets. Ample seating options include large tables, cozy corners, and outdoor spots, creating a relaxed vibe. Decor features Polaroids of visiting dogs and farm-style touches, adding charm to the space.

Banana pudding matcha appeals even to those who usually avoid matcha. Drinks like the corn latte and cold foam stand out for their flavor, making it a cozy spot for a coffee date.

A very cool vibe fills the space, enhanced by an acoustic guitar available for anyone to play. The atmosphere feels relaxed and inviting.

People are saying

"The corndog latte was heavenly and a great new flavor."

"You'll love their delicious lattes and matcha for date spots."

"The vibe here is so cool, with couches and a guitar to play."

Good to know

1

Stray Dogs Coffee hosts worship nights monthly.

2

They cater parties and events with a coffee cart.

3

Parking can be challenging; street parking is available on 2nd Street.

02
Killer Queens Social House image 1

Spacious cocktail bar with comfortable couches and low lighting creates an elegant yet chill vibe. Live music, DJ sets, and a stage for karaoke add lively energy without overwhelming noise. Games like pool upstairs offer relaxed entertainment alongside well-crafted cocktails.

Low lighting and a quiet atmosphere create a cigar lounge vibe that suits intimate conversations. The drink menu includes custom whiskey options, but prices can vary without clear upfront notice.

Vibes feel cool and relaxed with a good mix of music and people. It works well as a spot to grab a drink and hang out during nightlife.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is super welcoming and knows their stuff."

"It's a cool spot to hang out with cool people."

"The service here for Date Spots is so sweet and attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Salsa and bachata lessons are held on Tuesday nights with food specials.

3

Thursday nights feature salsa dance classes and a lively atmosphere.

03
The Lobby Cocktail Lounge & Kitchen image 1

Chic cocktail bar with an open-air patio and an upstairs lounge that feels like a Traphouse. Atmosphere stays lively with live DJs from midweek through the weekend, blending club energy without dancing. Crowd enjoys carefully crafted specialty cocktails and a comfortable space for conversation.

The atmosphere creates an intimate vibe ideal for a date night or a mellow evening. Weekday nights offer a casual cocktail setting suited for adults seeking a relaxed date spot.

Creative cocktails stand out with unique flavors and presentation. The owner brings passion and a cool vibe that shows in the attentive service and overall atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the appetizers and pasta."

"The drinks here are legit, and the bartenders know what they're doing."

"I thought the drinks here were super cool and quality."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is drinks only, running from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

The comedy club hosts live shows on the last Wednesday of each month.

3

Bottomless mimosas are $25 per person for 90 minutes.

04
Riverside Game Lab image 1
Video arcade

Arcade space combines vintage pinball rooms, modern VR games, and a full bar for a lively mix. Atmosphere stays loud and dark, with a clean environment and an adult vibe. Visitors range from kids to adults, enjoying classic and cutting-edge games in private booths or open areas.

Competitive games create a lively atmosphere for a date night. Pricing stays reasonable, making it easy to enjoy a fun evening together.

Retro arcade games create a cool vibe with old school gameplay and neat decor. It offers a fun spot to hang out, play games, and enjoy drinks.

People are saying

"It's a cool spot with a great collection of pinball machines."

"It's really Kid Friendly; my kids had a blast playing games."

"It's a cool arcade with lots of retro games."

Good to know

1

Parking costs only $5 and is super close.

2

The policy change now excludes minors from visiting Riverside Game Lab.

3

They offered a Happy Hour when they opened, during which the credits to play were halved.

05
URBAN DRIPP image 1
Donut shop

Small donut shop with trendy decor and a large outdoor patio creates a vibrant atmosphere. Lighting and artsy donut displays set an inviting, upbeat vibe. The space blends nostalgic and contemporary elements, making it a lively spot for enjoying unique donuts and drinks.

Freshness and variety stand out with a wide selection of donuts. Sharing multiple donuts adds a fun, casual vibe to the date experience.

Trendy decor and a cool patio set a fun, vibrant vibe. The spot also offers pretty cool T-shirts that add to its appeal.

People are saying

"I loved their vegan donuts; the vanilla cake was amazing."

"The coffee here is amazing and creative."

"These Date Spots have the most insane variety of donuts and yummy coffee."

Good to know

1

Pre-ordering at Urban Dripp allows customers to avoid waiting in line.

2

The store often closes before their scheduled closing time.

3

Individual donuts cost $6 or more, making them pricier than average.

06
Arcade Downtown image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers stylish modern design with all-hard-surfaces creating an echoing atmosphere. It maintains a calm vibe on weekday middays but can be busy with loud music at other times. The space feels like a cozy European cafรฉ with outdoor seating available.

Two couples arrive together, showing it suits group dates. The menu features sparkling matcha and a burger that gets good feedback. Options like not avocado toast add variety for different tastes.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was great and delicious."

"The coffee and drinks here are amazing for Date Spots."

"The coffee and cold brew here are unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

Arcade Downtown doesn't accept cash; only card payments are accepted.

2

They serve breakfast and lunch all day, making it a versatile dining option.

3

Parking can be tough, so plan to arrive early.

07
Palenque kitchen by Mezcal image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant combines dark, lively interior with two dance floors and a central bar. Music energizes the space, creating a family-friendly yet vibrant atmosphere. Colored lighting and Mexican art add to the trendy, festive vibe.

Frequent celebrations mark this spot as a solid choice for date nights and special occasions. It offers a mix of great music and food that fits both intimate and group gatherings.

A cool vibe fills the space with a pretty cool atmosphere. Salsa and bachata dancing on Tuesday nights add a unique energy to the place.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good."

"The food and drinks here are delicious and cooked perfectly."

"I loved the cool vibe and atmosphere here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6:30 PM with $10 margaritas and discounted appetizers.

2

Palenque offers bottomless mimosas on Sundays.

3

The restaurant has only one restroom for all guests.

08
Taco Station image 1
Mexican restaurant

Gas station-themed Mexican restaurant offers an open outdoor area with a large patio and outside bar featuring live music and a massive drink selection. Atmosphere is fun and inviting, with heaters and misters making it comfortable year-round. Vintage gas pumps and car-shaped topiary add unique charm to the setting.

Popular choices include the carne asada taco plate and enchiladas. Nachos also stand out as a shared favorite. Meals typically cost around forty dollars for two.

An Automotive Service Shop theme sets a unique and cool atmosphere. The building and vibe stand out as a cool taco spot with a distinct style.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has a cool vintage service station theme."

"The outdoor seating has a fun, funky decor with old gas pumps."

"You'll love the tasty tacos and carne asada plate here."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features discounted tacos and is popular among locals.

2

Happy hour offers half-price drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can fill up quickly during peak hours.

09
Fuego Hibachi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Indoor space combines cherry blossoms and wooden accents with lively, loud music creating an energetic atmosphere. Seating includes both inside and outside options with interactive chef bar adding entertainment. The vibe feels more like a club than a typical restaurant.

Hibachi plates with steak, chicken, and seafood offer a solid meal for couples. The menu includes California rolls and options like salmon, with attentive service that sometimes limits availability early in the day.

A friendly atmosphere sets a cool vibe here, blending good food with live music for a lively experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"It's a cool spot with delicious food and a friendly atmosphere."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6 PM, offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

A 3% surcharge is added to the bill without prior notice.

3

Expect an 18% large party fee, even for small groups.

10
Estrella Taqueria Lounge image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant blends traditional and modern decor with an upscale Tulum vibe and intimate, family-style seating. Atmosphere features loud live music that energizes the space but can make conversation difficult. Tables are close together, and dancing happens between them rather than on a dance floor.

Offers a versatile setting suitable for first dates, family outings, or casual brunches. Fits well for a special night or any night with friends or loved ones.

Cool vibe fills the space with a relaxed energy. A spot in the back offers Instagram-worthy photos and adds to the ambiance.

People are saying

"The food here is really tasty and delicious."

"The food here is amazing, crafted with care and passion."

"The vibes here are so cool, it's got great ambiance."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until closing with great prices on drinks.

2

Karaoke takes place every Thursday from 7 to 11 PM.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere with live music on Tuesday nights.

11
Yoli's Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with authentic decor and Catrina theme creates a welcoming, homely atmosphere. Loud jukebox music adds energy while tables remain intimate and cozy. Strong, varied margaritas and Paloma flights stand out as signature drinks.

Great service and a warm atmosphere create a nice setting for special occasions. The menu features delicious dishes like Menudo and Pozole with hot homemade tortillas.

Cool decor sets the tone with unique decorations. The overall vibe feels enjoyable and the ambience stays consistently great.

People are saying

"Their homemade salsas are an absolute must-try."

"The mole and Paloma flights make this a great spot for a date."

"The mole sauce here is so sweet and flavorful, it tastes like candy."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of two hours during busy lunch hours, especially after church.

2

Chips and salsa are not complimentary and must be paid for.

3

A mandatory gratuity charge applies for parties of 5 or more.

12
Las Campanas Mexican Cuisine & Tequila Bar image 1

Outdoor patio offers shaded seating with misters and heat lamps to adjust comfort in warm or cool weather. Live Spanish guitar music adds a relaxed, pleasant atmosphere complemented by sounds of water and birds. Drinks, especially margaritas, receive consistent praise for quality and flavor.

Relaxing environment suits dinner dates well. Atmosphere feels comfortable for special occasions like birthdays.

Outdoor seating features misters that cool the patio during warm weather. Walls display nostalgic art that adds a unique vibe. The spot works well for a quick outdoor bite with a relaxed feel.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is gorgeous and beautiful with lots of greenery."

"The tableside guacamole and margaritas are a must-try for date spots."

"The atmosphere is cool, beautiful, and captivating with lush greenery."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy events like the Christmas Light festival.

2

The restaurant has only outdoor seating, which may be uncomfortable in cold or rainy weather.

3

Valet parking costs $20, which is on the higher side.

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Downtown Riverside, Riverside

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