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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to University Heights

Date spots

Made for those who prioritize a shared meal as the primary way to connect with someone they are getting to know.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Fortuna Ristorante Italiano image 1
Fortuna Ristorante Italiano image 2
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Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant blends modern design with traditional elements in a warm, inviting ambiance. Outdoor seating offers heated, shielded comfort ideal for conversation, while indoor space feels lively and energetic. Seating inside can be uncomfortable due to chair design.

Authentic Italian cuisine shines here with consistently fantastic food and service. The dishes deliver a true taste of Italy that stands out in the city.

Offers a cozy atmosphere ideal for a relaxed dinner. Serves authentic Italian cuisine that suits a Saturday night date or casual outing.

People are saying

"The Italian food here tastes straight out of Italy."

"The food here, especially the pappardelle, is pure harmony on a plate."

"The handmade pasta here is incredible for date spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food and service provided.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can get crowded during weekends.

02
Khachapuri image 1
Georgian restaurant

Warm, rustic dining space with colorful walls and traditional music creates a cozy, familial vibe. Guests enjoy authentic Georgian dishes and imported wines in a setting that feels like a welcoming neighborhood gathering. Atmosphere encourages lingering and catching up with friends.

Food features rich flavors and varied textures that keep you eating even when full. Dishes deliver authentic Georgian tastes that impress first-timers and regulars alike.

Couples often choose this spot for celebrations and special occasions. The atmosphere suits intimate dinners and enjoying Georgian cuisine together.

People are saying

"You absolutely have to try the Khachapuri food here."

"The Georgian wine here is authentic and perfectly spiced."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful near the restaurant.

2

Khachapuri offers a variety of vegan and non-vegan food options.

3

The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

03
Hatsuzakura image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, cozy Japanese restaurant with sakura-themed decor and an atmosphere that feels like stepping into Japan during cherry blossom season. Relaxed and inviting vibe suits pairs or small groups, with beautifully styled dishes and cups enhancing the authentic experience. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs, adding to the casual charm.

Authentic Japanese cuisine shines with karaage and salmon onigiri standing out. Food and drinks come reasonably priced and consistently improve over visits.

Cute and beautiful setting creates a charming atmosphere. It suits a girls' date or any casual romantic outing.

People are saying

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

"The desserts here are phenomenal and delicious."

"The chicken karaage here is light and crisp, perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Hatsuzakura closes briefly from 3 to 4:30 pm.

2

Street parking can be difficult during peak hours.

3

On Sundays, expect a wait for the menu when they open at 11 am.

04
Loving Hut San Diego (North Park) image 1

Mid-century modern design shapes a clean, chic interior with relaxing, quiet atmosphere and welcoming vibe. A large TV screen shows nature videos, adding to the calm setting. The place draws a crowd seeking creative vegan dishes in a casual yet polished environment.

Vegan dishes focus on flavor and satisfaction without meat. Food tastes absolutely delicious and consistently impresses with its quality and care.

Ocean tacos and crispy spring rolls stand out as shared favorites. The umami garlic fried rice and Cha Cha noodles add flavorful variety for couples exploring vegetarian options.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and full of flavor."

"I found the vegan food here to be absolutely delicious."

"The fried rice here is incredible for date spots."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is 100% vegan with a diverse menu.

2

Happy Noodle Hour offers special deals on select dishes.

3

Lunch prices can reach nearly $25 per person.

05
Pomegranate image 1
Georgian restaurant

Cozy sit-down space with Russian-themed decor and handwritten menus creates a nostalgic, authentic vibe. Candlelight sets a warm mood, but the atmosphere grows loud after 8 pm, making conversation difficult. Tight, cramped layout adds to the intimate yet bustling energy.

Authentic Russian-Georgian cuisine shines with consistently phenomenal flavors and perfect execution. The menu offers a rich variety that keeps people coming back for more.

Candlelight creates a delicate, intimate atmosphere ideal for a date night. The setting suits dining alone, with friends, or a date, offering versatile seating options.

People are saying

"You'll find unique dishes like khachapuri and beef stroganoff."

"The food here is delicious, hearty, and feels like home."

"The food here is so good, it reminds me of home."

Good to know

1

Parking is very tight in this neighborhood, making it hard to find a spot.

2

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets very busy.

3

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

06
VULTURE image 1
Restaurant

Speakeasy-style restaurant with unique, otherworldly decor and a red curtain entrance creates an intimate, elegant atmosphere. The vibe blends 80's music with a warm, inviting energy that suits a night out. Fully vegan menu offers plant-based fine dining with standout cocktails and memorable dishes.

Food here delivers a fine dining experience with incredible vegan dishes that stand on their own without qualifiers. The menu offers next level flavors that consistently impress.

Beautiful, fancy vegan restaurant with a speakeasy vibe suits special occasions. It works well for date nights with a fine dining feel.

People are saying

"I can't wait to return for the amazing vegan options."

"I found the food here to be amazing and creative."

"The food here is amazing, especially the vegan steak."

Good to know

1

A reservation is needed to dine at VULTURE.

2

VULTURE adds an automatic 20% gratuity on all checks.

3

Many items on the menu were unavailable during my visit.

07
Tacos El Flaco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck setup with charcoal grill aroma creates an authentic Tijuana-style taco experience. Atmosphere feels lively and festive with faint mariachi music, though outdoor seating is limited and tight. Bright, blue-shifted patio lights add a distinct visual element.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with tortillas packed full of meat. Staff shows kindness by sharing extra dishes, adding to the warm, soulful experience.

Tacos here offer a smoky Asada and addictive Birria flavor that draws couples back for seconds. The casual vibe includes simple moments like the cashier handling change during payment.

People are saying

"These tacos are amazing and exactly what I wanted."

"I found the food to be the best tacos I've ever had."

"I was blown away by the tacos; they were some of the best I had."

Good to know

1

Each taco costs $3.50, which is considered an exceptional value.

2

There are only a few seats available, and most people buy their tacos to go.

3

The dining area is dirty, which may affect your experience.

08
Bahia Mexican Food | Mouthwatering Authentic Mexican Food image 1

Small, colorful dining area offers a cozy, friendly atmosphere with huge screen TV showing soccer. Customers serve themselves from a variety of sauces and find reasonable prices alongside accommodating spice preferences. The place welcomes small groups and pets, creating a casual, inviting vibe.

Food arrives quickly, often within 5-10 minutes, especially when called ahead. The menu features authentic Mexican dishes prepared by a skilled cook, with consistently mouthwatering flavors and friendly, fast service.

Offers a cozy setting for couples and small groups with dishes like tender carne asada fajitas and flavorful fish tacos. The atmosphere suits intimate dining and casual parties.

People are saying

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

"The seafood burritos here are some of the best I've ever had."

"The food here is authentic, bursting with flavor, and mouthwatering."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but calling ahead can ensure your food is ready.

2

Expect food to be ready in 5-10 minutes if you order ahead.

3

Open free parking is available for customers.

09
Beginners Diner image 1

Old-fashioned diner charm blends with a 1940s-inspired design and antique decor to create a spacious, authentic atmosphere. The place hums with a classic diner vibe and offers 24-hour service, making it lively at all times. Outdoor seating by the pool adds a relaxed option alongside the retro indoor setting.

Large portions of meatloaf, grilled cheese, latkes, and pimento dip make the food fun and satisfying. The dishes elevate typical diner fare with a cozy vibe and consistently delicious flavors.

Dinner around 7 PM offers a casual atmosphere with options like wagyu French dip and grilled cheese with fries. Seating choices may favor couples arriving later.

People are saying

"The diner breakfast here is surprisingly good, especially the hash browns."

"The food here is delicious and nicely presented."

"The food at these Date Spots is so good and fresh."

Good to know

1

Beginners Diner is open 24/7 inside the Lafayette Hotel.

2

Parking is available via valet or on the street with metered parking.

3

Brunch is offered on weekends with a special menu.

10
Good Omen Coffee Co image 1

Cafe offers a spacious layout with both indoor and outdoor seating surrounded by gorgeous murals and plants. Atmosphere balances cozy and lively vibes, welcoming people and dogs alike. Local art and handmade accessories create a community-focused environment that invites browsing and connection.

Coffee stands out with great flavor and quality. Breakfast foods pair well and come at fair prices. Service supports a pleasant dining experience.

Banana bread latte and hazelnut latte offer flavorful options for couples. Some orders, like the cortado, can be disappointing.

People are saying

"This Local Spot's banana bread latte is unmatched and delicious."

"The food and coffee here are so good."

"The coffee and banana bread latte here are delicious Date Spots."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop opens early and stays open until 5:30pm.

2

Parking is easy to find near the coffee shop.

3

The cafe is dog-friendly and offers treats for pets.

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University Heights, San Diego

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