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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Downtown Riverside's best

Date and dinner spots

You want a dinner spot that sets the right tone for a date without feeling forced.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
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Updated May 2026
01
Palenque kitchen by Mezcal image 1
Palenque kitchen by Mezcal image 2
Palenque kitchen by Mezcal image 3
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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.

Dinner here features great food and careful drink recommendations. Staff stay patient with large groups and help create memorable birthday dinners.

People are saying

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

"Our server Eddie kept checking in and made sure we had everything."

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

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.

02
Mandi Xpress Yemeni Restaurant and Coffee image 1

Spacious restaurant decorated with murals and cultural paintings offers a warm, family-friendly vibe and laid-back atmosphere. Outdoor patio provides space for hookah services and casual seating. Foosball table adds a touch of entertainment while dining.

Warm hospitality from Chef Hagar and Cesar creates a welcoming vibe for couples. The authentic Mandi chicken with rich sauces stands out as a favorite dish for date nights.

Offers Halal food suitable for family dinners and late-night meals. Serves delicious Yemeni dishes that work well for lunch or dinner.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and delicious."

"This is a great spot for date nights, the food is so flavorful and fresh."

"The food at these dinner spots is so fresh and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant uses organic ingredients and extra virgin olive oil.

2

Expect a clean and well-kept dining environment.

3

The restaurant grills with real coal for added flavor.

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.

Dinner features a Mac and short rib dish that stands out for its flavor. The spot pairs well with drinks for a relaxed evening.

People are saying

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

"The service at dinner spots is so welcoming and pleasant."

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

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
El Pollo Taco Peruvian Cuisine image 1

Bright, clean space with modern decor and a colorful, peaceful vibe. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and casual, with self-seating and a gelato bar adding to the relaxed setting. Music choice leans toward American 80s, which contrasts with the Peruvian theme.

Dinner here features tasty beef dishes like Lomo Saltado and other flavorful options such as Tallarรญn Verde. The setting suits a relaxed evening after a long day.

Quick seating and attentive service stand out even when it's busy. The spot works well for both lunch and dinner with a steady flow of guests.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very tasty and flavorful."

"The Tallarรญn Verde is delicious and a favorite dish."

"The dinner spots here are fantastic, especially the Lomo Saltado."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early during peak hours.

2

The restaurant does not sell alcohol, so plan accordingly.

3

Vegetarian and vegan options are available on the menu.

05
Duane's Prime Steaks & Seafood image 1

Colonial-era structure with antique warmth and rich wooden accents creates an elegant, romantic atmosphere. Well-spaced tables offer privacy in a quiet, comfortable setting. Bar and lobby areas serve carefully curated cocktails enhancing the upscale vibe.

Ideal for a dinner date with a loved one, the spot encourages dressing up and feeling good. It offers a setting that suits a romantic evening well.

Dinner features prime steaks and seafood with a standout filet noted for quality. Service is excellent, making it suitable for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays.

People are saying

"The filet here is a top favorite for a perfect date spot."

"The steak was seasoned and cooked perfectly to taste."

"Dinner spots here can take forever, like two hours for food."

Good to know

1

Weekend reservations are a must.

2

Parking needs validation.

3

Valet parking is available with a discount for diners.

06
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.

Dinner here is tasty and filling with options that satisfy after events. Expect to spend around $65 per person for dinner with drinks. It works well for family dinners and casual nights out.

People are saying

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

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

"It's my go-to spot for dinner, and the food is very good."

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.

07
Mission Inn Hotel & Spa image 1

Spanish architecture and European castle style create an elegant, historic atmosphere with beautiful Christmas lights enhancing the charm. Rooftop pool offers stunning views while live music adds to the festive energy. The setting blends unique, detailed design with a cozy, refined vibe.

Beautiful setting creates a relaxed vibe for spending the afternoon or evening. It suits both dates and hanging out with good friends.

Reservations are common for dinner and special occasions like Thanksgiving and anniversaries. Dining on the patio offers a pleasant setting for meals and drinks.

People are saying

"This historic hotel is beautiful and has a unique charm."

"The architecture and charm here make for beautiful dinner spots."

"It's a beautiful and historic gem for date spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for breakfast at the hotel.

2

The hotel charges an undisclosed resort fee at check-in.

3

Expect cleanliness issues in the rooms and bathrooms.

08
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.

Steak hibachi dinner bowls offer a delicious and satisfying meal option. The dinner setting focuses on flavorful grilled dishes served in a casual style.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The dinner spots here have delicious food and generous portions."

"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.

09
Mariscos Ixtapa Riverside image 1

Small restaurant with live weekend music and old-school Banda vibe creates a lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere. Dim lighting adds a cozy feel while families, couples, and friends share the space. Seating is cramped, with a family area on one side and a bar on the other.

Dim lighting and old-school Banda music create a cozy vibe for couples. The menu includes dishes like chicken mole and seafood, with meals and drinks suitable for special occasions.

Dinner here suits birthday celebrations with karaoke that stays at a comfortable volume. Service can be slow or poor around 8 pm.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes like homemade."

"The food here is excellent, and the drinks are great for Date Spots."

"The dinner spots here are great, especially the chilaquiles."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Friday night from 8pm until 1am.

2

Live entertainment is available on weekends, including impersonators.

3

Parking can be very difficult to find near the venue.

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.

People are saying

"The food here is really tasty and delicious."

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

"The dinner here is delicious; I couldn't resist coming back."

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.

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