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Local picks

Authentic date spots in Riverside

You want a date night that feels grounded and genuine rather than staged or overly formal.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
SENYAI Thai Street Food & Noodle Bar image 1
SENYAI Thai Street Food & Noodle Bar image 2
SENYAI Thai Street Food & Noodle Bar image 3
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Space blends subtle Thai decor with spacious seating and a clean, fresh scent that sets a calm, authentic tone. Background features Thai pop and K-pop music videos projected on walls, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. The vibe recalls bustling Bangkok streets with a modern, chill energy.

Dishes feature fresh ingredients and genuine Thai flavors. The pork kra pow stir-fried basil comes with an authentic classic fried egg.

Proximity to the river creates a romantic atmosphere for dates. Weekday lunch specials offer affordable dining options that couples appreciate.

People are saying

"I found the food to be truly authentic and flavorful."

"The curry here is so flavorful and spicy."

"This is probably one of the best Thai food places weโ€™ve ever been to."

Good to know

1

The lunch special includes a dish, soup or salad, and a drink for a good price.

2

Expect smaller portion sizes for the price compared to other Thai restaurants.

3

They offer unique Thai specialties that are hard to find elsewhere.

02
Pie95 Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Stone oven and exposed 1920s brick create a modern yet historic pizza spot with cozy outdoor seating and a quiet back patio. Warm, friendly atmosphere feels like hanging out in a friend's backyard. Artwork and clean design add to the inviting, charming vibe.

Pizza here matches the authentic Italian style closely, especially the Margherita pizza. It tastes very similar to what you'd find in Napoli, capturing the true flavors of Italy.

Pizza stands out as a go-to dish for couples here, with options like the Barrata Caprese that get positive attention. The spot offers a casual vibe that fits well for a relaxed date night.

People are saying

"I loved the meatballs with honey and Parmesan."

"The pizza here is so good, I'd rate it a 10 out of 10."

"I found the pizza to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour on Tuesdays features $2 PBR beers.

2

Pizza classes are available for a fun date night experience.

3

Canned sodas cost $2 each.

03
CURRY GUYS image 1
Restaurant

Casual Indian restaurant with a Chipotle-style setup lets diners build their own bowls and wraps. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting with pleasant Indian music and intoxicating aromas. Menu includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options alongside authentic, flavorful dishes.

Food features authentic spices and stays fresh with every dish made on site. Rich, creamy options like Butter Chicken and Tikka Masala offer generous portions and bold flavors.

Portion sizes suit couples well, offering a perfect amount of food for sharing. The menu features Halal options that appeal to those seeking diverse tastes, making it a spot couples return to for more.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The food here is bursting with authentic flavor and tastes amazing."

"Sumit, the owner, is so pleasant to chat with during your Date Spots visit."

Good to know

1

Curry Guys offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options for diverse diets.

2

Prices are very reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

The menu allows for building your own bowls and wraps.

04
Primi Piatti image 1
Italian restaurant

Classic Italian interior creates a quaint, intimate atmosphere with beautiful lighting and a homey style. The space feels romantic and nostalgic, offering a mellow and pleasant vibe. Guests enjoy a small, clean setting that emphasizes authentic Italian charm.

Dishes like chicken Parmesan and fettuccine Alfredo taste fresh and cooked to order. The food delivers an explosion of authentic Italian flavors that feels true to Italy.

Date nights include dancing after closing and enjoying dishes like Chicken Parmigiana. The atmosphere supports spending hours having fun and sharing a good meal.

People are saying

"The angel hair pasta here is freshly made and cooked just right."

"It feels like family here, a truly great spot."

"The food here is so authentic, it transports you straight to Italy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends due to limited seating.

2

Expect a warm, family-like atmosphere during dining.

3

The restaurant is known for its authentic Italian cuisine.

05
EZ Eatz by Yaya image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open, bright interior with padded booths and spacious outdoor seating under string lights creates a comfortable, family-centered atmosphere. Soft, calming music plays, enhancing the warm and inviting vibe. The environment balances a cozy feel with an appealing, clean aesthetic.

Moroccan cuisine offers flavorful and authentic dishes, especially the saffron rice and tangines. The food delivers genuine tastes and the people add to the authentic experience.

Shared plates like lamb chops and dishes such as chicken kabobs with saffron rice create a cozy and versatile setting. Options like the lamb and beef shawarma bowl add variety for a relaxed date night.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I experienced flavorful, authentic Moroccan cuisine here."

"The food here is so flavorful and fresh, perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

The portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

2

Vegan options are available on the menu.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

06
HolySmoke Barbeque image 1

Barbecue restaurant with a laid back atmosphere and a backyard BBQ family vibe. Music plays softly while people enjoy their meals, creating a chill and welcoming energy. Known for perfectly smoked ribs and brisket, it often sells out of popular items by day's end.

Barbecue here tastes truly authentic with a delicious flavor that matches what you'd find in North Georgia. The style stays very close to true authentic barbecue traditions.

Food sparks nonstop praise with flavorful BBQ that stands out. Couples find it a solid choice for a memorable meal together.

People are saying

"The brisket here is smoked to perfection and incredibly tender."

"The pulled pork here is tender, juicy, and melts in your mouth."

"I found the BBQ here to be the most authentic I've had in a long time."

Good to know

1

Ribs cost $4 each.

2

We waited no longer than 10 minutes for our food.

3

There was limited parking available.

07
Don Eduardo Cocina Mexicana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with beautiful flowered ceiling and large paintings creates a calm yet lively atmosphere enhanced by live music. The space feels like a little transport back to Mexico with fresh, vibrant decor. It attracts those seeking an enjoyable dining experience with a fun vibe.

Dishes have an authentic and non-processed taste true to the region of Mexico. Every item is extremely flavorful and reflects the cuisine experienced in Juarez.

Cleanliness stands out right when you walk in. The menu offers large, delicious burritos and well-seasoned chicken, making it a solid choice for a date night or casual hangout.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The food here is huge, flavorful, and really good."

"The Mexican food here is so flavorful and authentic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $2 off house margaritas until 7 pm on Saturdays.

2

Latin nights occur every Friday with live music and dancing.

3

The restaurant has a 20% auto gratuity added to the bill for larger parties.

08
904 Tacos Five Points Jacksonville image 1

Open patio with covered seating and live music creates a vibrant yet comfortable atmosphere. Interior features authentic Mexican decor with a calm, creative diner style. Space suits both family gatherings and casual dates, with lively energy balanced by quieter moments.

Tacos feature tender meats with authentic flavors. The spot serves authentic tacos and margaritas in a simple Mexican-style setting with paintings.

Calm interior decor sets a relaxed mood for dates. Menu highlights include the Birria Pizza and Quesadilla Campechana, both praised for flavor and portion size.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is the best I ever had."

"The birria tacos here are juicy and full of flavor."

"The food here is delicious and full of authentic flavors."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features 2-for-1 margaritas and $3.99 tacos.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere on Taco Tuesdays with special drink offers.

3

Parking is generally easy to find in the area.

09
S & R Dim Sum image 1
Chinese restaurant

Dim sum and Chinese dishes come fresh and authentic with rich flavors and perfectly steamed dumplings. The space feels relaxing and set up for family-style meals, creating a no-rush vibe. It connects to a milk tea spot, adding a casual touch to the experience.

Dim sum offers authentic flavor and fresh quality with each bite packed full of traditional taste. The food reflects genuine Chinese cuisine reminiscent of what you'd find in China or California.

Serving area creates a cozy atmosphere ideal for dates. Pineapple bun stands out as a favorite treat enjoyed during visits.

People are saying

"The dim sum here is amazing, truly a hidden gem."

"Donald's humor makes the fried rice experience hilarious."

"I found the food here to be truly authentic Chinese."

Good to know

1

Parking at S & R Dim Sum is often full; the store across the street has plenty.

2

Reservations are not needed unless you have a party of eight or more.

3

S & R Dim Sum offers vegan choices on the menu.

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Riverside, Jacksonville

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