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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Ana

Dinner date spots

A dinner reservation that feels like a deliberate choice for the evening rather than just a place to eat.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Restaurant

Small restaurant with only seven tables creates an intimate, romantic atmosphere. Decor blends elegance and warmth featuring velvet drapes and detailed accents. Guests share tapas-style small plates paired with quality Spanish wine in a cozy, personable setting.

Charming atmosphere suits intimate date nights and small gatherings. Food offers tasty bites ideal for sharing, with easy parking nearby.

Offers a casual vibe suited for small parties and dinners with friends. Serves well for post-work drinks and relaxed gatherings.

People are saying

"The wine here is served with such a welcoming and helpful attitude."

"The small plates and tapas are great for sharing at these dinner spots."

"The cheesecake here is the platonic ideal for a basque style."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to guarantee a seat due to limited capacity.

2

Parking is available around the building, but metered parking may be necessary.

3

The menu features changing items, offering new dishes regularly.

02
Kebab Kurry Express image 1
Afghan restaurant

Cozy Afghan restaurant with traditional decor and soft lighting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Family-run with spacious seating and Afghan art displayed on walls. Quiet environment with gentle music supports relaxed dining and authentic cultural experience.

Single to-go orders serve a family of three, making it easy to share. The coconut chicken stands out as a yummy dish that impresses.

Cozy and inviting ambiance with traditional Afghan decor sets a relaxed mood for dinner. Suitable for intimate dinners or gatherings with friends and family.

People are saying

"I found the Afghan food here to be really delicious and authentic."

"The Mediterranean food here is amazing, especially the tender and flavorful kebabs."

"The food here is delicious and authentic, perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

A single to-go order feeds two to three people.

2

Prices are generally higher compared to other Afghan restaurants in the area.

3

Expect to pay around $147 for a meal for four.

03
Gokumi Ramen & Yakitori image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen and bar seating facing the skewer grill creates an authentic Japanese izakaya vibe. Atmosphere is cozy and lively, often featuring DJs and groups enjoying themselves. Sake selection is notable, complementing the well-crafted yakitori and ramen offerings.

Several date nights focus on sharing ramen dishes like black truffle and Yuzu Shio. The spot suits couples who prefer non-spicy options and enjoy trying different flavors together.

Late weekend hours make it easy to grab dinner even when plans run late. The spot offers a chill atmosphere ideal for relaxed meals with friends.

People are saying

"The yakitori here is some of the best I've had outside of Japan."

"The ramen, sushi, and yakitori dinner spots here are all delicious."

"The Date Spots here have amazing ramen and sushi quality."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

3

Expect to spend over $100 for two people on average.

04
Papi Tacos & Churros image 1
Taco restaurant

Bright, clean space with large windows and a cozy industrial style layout offers seating for small and large groups. Atmosphere shifts from quiet afternoons to busy, lively times with modern Mexican music playing. Halal Mexican food draws a diverse crowd seeking flavorful tacos and birria.

Huge burritos and authentic Mexican dishes create a solid setting for a date night. Sharing a burrito with smaller sides works well for couples trying the cuisine together.

Offers a quick and satisfying option for last-minute dinners. Suitable for family meals and casual dining with Mexican-inspired dishes.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so flavorful and packed with meat."

"The birria tacos and consome are flavorful and exceptional."

"The chicken burrito here is top tier for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

On weekends, they have a pop-up BBQ menu served from the side window.

2

The burritos are made with halal meat, but certification is not visibly displayed.

3

The place is very clean, providing a pleasant dining experience.

05
Papa K's Mediterranean Kitchen image 1

Small restaurant with authentic Egyptian dรฉcor and a clean, cozy atmosphere offers a welcoming, friendly vibe. Indoor seating dominates with some outdoor tables and free self parking available. Music and big screen TVs add energy, and occasional dancing follows dinner.

Couples find the Mediterranean dishes well-prepared and flavorful. The shrimp comes perfectly seasoned, making it a solid choice for a date night.

Menu offers variety for all occasions from romantic dinners to casual lunches. Portions come large enough for leftovers and the space includes room to dance after dinner.

People are saying

"This Mediterranean food is delicious and generously portioned."

"The pita bread here is fantastic, puffy and hot."

"The chicken kebabs for Date Spots were so moist and tender."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially for special menu items after 7 pm.

2

The restaurant is closed during lunch hours, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect large portion sizes that provide good value for the price.

06
Bangkok Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Small dining space creates a cozy, upbeat vibe with clean, tidy surroundings and a hip atmosphere. Music playlist adds to the lively energy, while the kitchen's strong aromas sometimes affect comfort. Walls display photos of main dishes, enhancing the casual, intimate setting.

Dishes like Pad See Ew and Yum Woo Sen offer flavorful options for couples. The papaya salad can be spicy, but spice levels vary between diners.

Dinner here pairs well with sticky rice for a next-level meal. Arriving before the lunch and dinner rushes helps avoid the crowd.

People are saying

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

"The staff here are so kind and friendly for your Date Spots."

"I loved my yummy dinner, every dish was a 10/10."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant has about 10 tables, making it cozy but potentially crowded.

3

Expect to pay around $100 for a family of four without appetizers or desserts.

07
El Barco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Black-painted walls create a super aesthetic Mexican restaurant with a laid-back, fun atmosphere. Music comes from a jukebox featuring 80's hits and oldies funk, adding to the bussing energy without overwhelming noise. Seating accommodates big parties, making it a lively spot for groups.

A laid-back, clean atmosphere sets a relaxed tone for date nights. The tostadas de aguachiles earn high marks, and the bar offers a solid meal with good beers to enjoy together.

Suitable for occasional dinners with friends or family, offering a relaxed spot to catch up. Local beer and drinks pair well with the dinner options.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is fresh and authentic."

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

"The food at these dinner spots is delicious, especially the pasta and ceviche."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Karaoke is available on Thursdays starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

3

There is ample parking available for guests.

08
An Noodles and Pho image 1

Small, modern space offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with comfortable seating and spotless interiors. Guests enjoy unlimited noodle refills and complimentary drinks, creating a relaxed dining experience with a homey vibe.

Affordable deals make meals easy on the wallet for couples. Staff offer clear guidance on how to get the most value. The menu features flavorful options like bulgogi garlic noodles that appeal on dates.

Clean and welcoming atmosphere suits casual dinners with friends and family. Expect a possible wait during the dinner rush and a small extra charge for takeout pho at dinner time.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has an amazing, flavorful broth."

"The food here is amazingly good, especially the deeply flavored broth."

"The pho broth here is rich, aromatic, and made with care."

Good to know

1

They are currently running a buy one, get one for $1 deal on pho.

2

Expect unlimited noodles with your pho order during the promotion.

3

The buy-one-get-one for $1 deal excludes the House special pho.

09
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill - Santa Ana, CA image 1

Casual dining space with Mediterranean decor and comfortable seating offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with Greek music playing softly. Lighting is bright and the vibe suits casual gatherings or celebrations. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed option.

Couples find a welcoming spot with a cozy atmosphere and Mediterranean flavors that suit shared meals. The setting supports relaxed conversation and enjoying food together.

Dinner options come with huge portions that often leave leftovers. The spot closes early, shutting down by 8 pm, so dinner service is limited.

People are saying

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

"The dinner portions here are huge; you'll have leftovers!"

"The food here is so fresh and delicious, perfect for a date."

Good to know

1

There was plenty of parking space available.

2

The restaurant is very clean, including the restrooms.

3

It was easy to park nearby.

10
I Can Barbecue- Korean Grill image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Robot servers deliver food and drinks, adding a unique tech touch to the experience. Korean cultural dรฉcor creates a cozy, vibrant atmosphere with music and laughter filling the space. Spacious seating and cool air keep the environment comfortable without feeling crowded or stuffy.

Unlimited taco kits come with the all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue, mixing flavors for a fun date night. Friendly service adds to the relaxed vibe for couples enjoying a night out.

Dinner offers excellent Korean grill with weekend pricing all day. Seating is quick even on busy days.

People are saying

"This Korean BBQ is fresh, flavorful, and worth the money."

"The wagyu here is so marbled and decadent, it's a perfect date spot."

"The robot bringing dinner spots' meats was a neat feature."

Good to know

1

Dinner pricing applies all day on weekends.

2

The all-you-can-eat option is available for $50.99 per person.

3

A service fee of $80 is automatically added to the bill.

11
Antonello Ristorante image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant with intimate, romantic ambiance and mid-century modern decor offers private dining rooms and tableside pasta preparation. Atmosphere feels rustic yet elegant, with old time rock & roll music adding to the vibe. Space includes upstairs and downstairs seating, creating a roomy but cozy setting.

Ideal for special occasions, this spot suits dates and birthday celebrations well.

Every course impresses with amazing quality and thoughtful preparation. Guests receive attentive service that makes dinners feel special and memorable.

People are saying

"The fresh pasta here is made daily and melts in your mouth."

"The dinner spots here treat you like royalty and make you feel welcomed."

"The food here is spectacular, truly a culinary masterpiece."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights like Saturday.

2

The restaurant has private dining rooms available for larger groups.

3

Expect to pay a $35 corkage fee if you bring your own wine.

12
Perla Mexican Cuisine image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers live mariachi music that creates a lively atmosphere with occasional loud moments. Outdoor seating provides a bohemian vibe with Spanish music in the background. The space feels well-designed with good table spacing and a unique locale.

Live mariachi music sets a lively mood for dates. The atmosphere makes for an awesome time together.

Dinner arrives promptly even when busy. Staff provide helpful service and create an intimate atmosphere with fun, not too loud music.

People are saying

"The live Mariachi music really made the Mexican food experience amazing."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"The dinner spots here are amazing; the staff went above and beyond for our event."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounts on drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

2

Mariachi bands perform on weekends, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Parking is available at a garage right behind the restaurant.

13
Dvine Mediterranean Experience image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a clean and bright space with a quaint outdoor patio that feels cozy and inviting. The atmosphere stays laid back and lively, supported by a great music selection that encourages dancing. It suits casual lunches or dinner dates with friends and family.

Mediterranean food offers a flavorful backdrop for dates. The atmosphere stays casual, fitting for lunch or dinner with a relaxed vibe.

Dinner offers a casual vibe suited for dates and quick meals. Baklava serves as a notable sweet finish that can be enjoyed later as a small lunch.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food, especially the kebabs and hummus, was fantastic."

"The service at these Date Spots is so friendly and courteous."

"The chicken shawarma pita pocket for dinner is yummy."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample, but it gets busy around lunchtime.

2

The best time to visit is before or after the lunch rush.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of grilled meat and side options.

14
Benjies NY Deli image 1
Restaurant

Old-style New York deli with classic diner ambiance and retro booths creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. 70s music plays, enhancing the nostalgic vibe while a small, intimate bar adds a unique touch. Seating options include counter, booths, and dining tables, attracting families and lively conversations.

NY-style delicatessens create a classic vibe for dates. The menu includes items like a triple decker sandwich and a $17.95 tuna salad.

Dinner offers hearty options like a large Ruben sandwich and a corned beef and cabbage St. Patrick's dinner served with pea soup. Portions suit both lunch and dinner needs.

People are saying

"This deli's pastrami and corned beef sandwiches are piled so high."

"You'll find generous portions of delicious food here, perfect for Date Spots."

"I found the Ruben sandwich at this dinner spot to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

2

Expect prices around $19-$20 for sandwiches.

3

Children eat free with an adult entree on certain days.

15
DIN KY Vietnamese Restaurant image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Spacious dining room with beautiful decoration and a cheerful, clean atmosphere welcomes groups comfortably. The place offers flavorful, homemade-style pho and unique dishes like goat curry not commonly found elsewhere. It stays open late, creating a lively spot for late meals.

Pho stands out as a highlight for couples here, with rich flavors that impress. Service can be uneven, with occasional missed drinks and issues like undercooked chicken in dishes.

Late hours make it easy to grab a late-night dinner. Prices stay affordable and the place stays uncrowded during dinner on both weekdays and weekends.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic Vietnamese."

"The dinner spots here serve delicious, authentic Vietnamese dishes."

"This place has great Date Spots, I loved the pho."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 2 am on weekends.

2

Parking is limited; consider parking next door.

3

A take-out fee and tip fee are automatically added to orders.

16
Fresh Off the Boat Fish Grill South Coast image 1

Eclectic Mediterranean spot offers outdoor patio seating with warm candlelight and dark red cushions, creating a cozy vibe. Indoor space features a bar with large TV for sports viewing and a lively atmosphere with loud music. Dining resembles fast-casual style with varied seating options including tables, bar, and patio.

Food choices include Kabob and other dishes that satisfy both people. Multiple visits show it works well for casual date meals.

Offers dinner options suitable for eating out close to home. Serves meals that encourage repeat visits and family sharing.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The dinner spots here have delicious, flavorful seafood and great sauces."

"The food here is fantastic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a great variety of tacos at discounted prices.

2

Dine-in specials on Taco Tuesday are not available for takeout.

3

Happy hour starts after 3:00 pm with beer specials.

17
The Boiling Crab image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with open doors creates a loud, chilly atmosphere filled with a friendly, chill vibe. Families enjoy the life-size shark decor and casual setting while watching sports on TV. The place stays busy without feeling chaotic, offering bibs for messy meals and a simple, clean design.

Ordering a pound of spicy whole shabang shrimp and lemon pepper wings stands out as a popular choice. The spot offers a casual seafood experience that some find memorable for shared meals.

Dinner here draws large crowds, often requiring a two-hour wait without a reservation. It suits groups like families or friends looking for a casual meal together.

People are saying

"I found the seafood boil here to be the best I've tried."

"The food here is amazing, especially the flavorful shellfish."

"The seafood dinner spots here are so fresh, especially the oysters."

Good to know

1

During celebrations like Fatherโ€™s Day, the waiting time can be up to 2 hours and 30 minutes.

2

On weekends, you have to make a reservation to dine there.

3

The restaurant opens at 3 PM on weekdays.

18
MasalaCraft - Santa Ana image 1
Indian restaurant

Bollywood movie posters and videos create a themed atmosphere with a friendly, homey vibe. Seating includes plentiful outdoor patio space alongside basic indoor arrangements. Free toppings like fried onions and chutney add a unique touch to the dining experience.

Service stands out with attentive staff who offer extras like additional rice when sharing meals. Allergy considerations are present, but occasional issues like foreign objects in food have occurred.

Dinner offers good food suitable for a quick meal. Outdoor seating provides a relaxed atmosphere. Staff members like Edward assist with menu choices.

People are saying

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

"Edward's service for dinner spots was great and attentive."

"The service here for Date Spots is really good and helpful."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available on Saturdays from 11 am to 5 pm.

2

The lunch special with garlic naan and an order of samosas costs around $16.

3

Parking is generally easy on Sundays.

19
Denny's image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a clean, cozy environment with a warm and inviting atmosphere. It stays quiet and relaxed during the day, suitable for meals any time. Service is attentive, and the place feels welcoming for casual dining.

Long, unhurried conversations happen easily here, with no pressure to leave or feel rushed. Friendly service and enjoyable food support a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere for couples.

Dinner service features attentive staff who handle large groups smoothly. The team, including Danielle, Tania, and Gerardo, provides prompt and caring attention during meals.

People are saying

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

"The servers here are amazing and attentive during dinner."

"The servers here are so attentive and friendly, making it a great spot for a date."

Good to know

1

Denny's is open 24/7, making it convenient for any meal.

2

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible for those with mobility needs.

3

Parking accessibility at Denny's is excellent, with ample space available.

20
NORMS Restaurant image 1

Classic old diner with retro 60s-70s decor and a 24-hour vibe offers a lively and fun atmosphere that suits any occasion. The space feels cozy and welcoming, with friendly staff and good music playing over speakers. Weekend breakfasts bring a family feel, while the downtown location adds an urban edge.

Family celebrations and casual meals fit well here with options like salads and varied breakfast choices. The spot holds nostalgic value for some, making it a familiar place for couples to revisit.

Old style dinner decor creates a comfortable setting for meals. Dinner options like the pork chop and ham and eggs with hashbrowns offer filling, flavorful choices suitable for late nights.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always prepared just how I like it."

"The dinner spots here are great because the servers are so welcoming."

"The service here is amazing and wonderful for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

NORMS Restaurant is open 24/7, allowing for meals at any time.

2

On Friday nights, enjoy a two-for-one special for $13.99, including dessert.

3

Expect a wait time of under 10 minutes during busy morning brunch hours.

21
Black Angus Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse with old west interior design and private cozy booths creates an intimate, family-friendly atmosphere. The space feels quiet and peaceful, suitable for calm evenings and catching up with friends. A bar area with sports on TV adds a casual, fun element to the setting.

Steaks come out perfectly cooked, even for those who prefer them well done. Meals create a memorable dinner vibe, fitting for special occasions like Mother's Day or final nights out.

Dinner offers consistent quality with meals enjoyed on special occasions like Mother's Day and birthdays. The menu suits celebratory dinners and memorable final nights out.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here are super delicious."

"It's a quiet place, perfect for conversation."

"The food here is excellent, especially the steak."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy hour specials are available daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks.

3

Kids' meals are priced between $6-8, making it family-friendly.

22
Bari Pasta & Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small dining space with limited seating creates a cozy, crowded atmosphere. Busy and lively energy fills the room, attracting families, couples, and singles alike. Unique skull-shaped pizza dough and Christmas-themed gingerbread bread add a distinctive, fun touch to the experience.

The spot offers a great atmosphere for couples to enjoy meals together. Unique items like pizza skulls add a fun twist to date nights.

Dinner features Bari Pizza skulls and a Caesar Salad option. Seating inside is small, so expect some wait times during busy hours.

People are saying

"You have to try their unique Italian food, the pizza skulls are worth the trip."

"These dinner spots served burnt stoner skulls with pesto."

"You have to try the pizza skulls for your next date spot."

Good to know

1

It's best to order ahead, especially during peak times or holidays.

2

Expect long wait times during busy hours, especially at night.

3

There is plenty of parking available in the lot.

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