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Date and dinner spots in Riverside

A dinner out with someone special requires a setting that feels intentional.

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.

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

Dinner service runs smoothly even during the rush with only the owner and chef working. Staff greet and assist promptly, making it a reliable spot to rotate for lunch and dinner.

People are saying

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

"These dinner spots serve authentic, fresh Thai food that's full of flavor."

"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
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.

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

Dinner features beautifully cooked dishes with amazing, mouth-watering flavors. The owner, George, often engages with diners, adding a personal touch to the experience.

People are saying

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

"George makes you feel like family during dinner."

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

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.

03
Lola's Burrito & Burger Joint image 1

Mexican restaurant with funky decor and wooden bench seating creates a casual, chill vibe. Old school RnB music plays alongside TVs showing sports, blending relaxed and lively energy. Patio welcomes dogs, and margaritas, especially Key Lime and strawberry, stand out as popular drinks.

Frequent visits show this spot works well for couples. Friendly service and a comfortable vibe make it easy to celebrate special moments like birthdays.

Special accommodations handle large groups smoothly, making it a solid choice for group dinners. Dinner to go offers a chance to try something different without missing the celebration vibe.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the tacos and burritos."

"I loved my dinner; the food was amazing and delicious."

"It's a great spot for a girlfriend's birthday celebration."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all night on Wednesdays for select drinks.

2

Taco Tuesday offers $1 off all tacos.

3

Trivia night happens every Tuesday with fun activities.

04
Nacho Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with outdoor seating only featuring shaded picnic tables under umbrellas and awnings. Atmosphere is friendly and inviting with background music and a bustling but not chaotic vibe at lunch. Offers a hole-in-the-wall feel with a quaint, well-presented setup ideal for enjoying cool evening breezes.

Couples find a mix of vegetarian and meat options that satisfy both. The spot suits quick bites and relaxed evenings with outdoor seating under the stars.

Options include both vegetarian and meat dishes that satisfy different preferences. Take-out meals come deconstructed and separated to keep everything fresh for dinner later.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and delicious."

"The dinner spots here have so much flavorful, quality meat."

"The food at this Date Spot was amazing and always on point."

Good to know

1

Nacho Taco is takeout only, with no dine-in service available.

2

They offer a variety of vegan options that cater to different tastes.

3

Parking is limited, so plan accordingly when visiting.

05
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.

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

Rib tip dinners come with five bones and two sides. Ribs also come as a rack to take home for dinner.

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 loved the rib dinner; the ribs were super tender."

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.

06
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.

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.

Dinner here features hearty lamb kabob platters and beef and lamb shawarma with sides like saffron rice and hummus. The setting suits a cozy date night or a relaxed family outing.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The food here is fresh, savory, and beautifully presented for dinner."

"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.

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.

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.

Dinner offers a chance to enjoy careful service with staff who listen to preferences. The bar features wings and drinks with a fantastic bartender. It suits both date and family dinners.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

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

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

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
Carolina Jax image 1
American restaurant

Small, crowded restaurant with cozy, tight space and fun pig decor creates a relaxed, family-friendly vibe despite a loud, bustling atmosphere. Sidewalk seating offers an alternative to the cramped interior. Walls display art and history, adding unique character to the old building setting.

Burgers come perfectly cooked and well seasoned, with options like the Hurricane Burger and Black Mountain. Staff remember orders and offer friendly service that makes the experience smooth.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always seasoned perfectly."

"The burgers here are cooked to perfection, with crispy edges."

"These dinner spots serve some of the best burgers I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so expect to walk if you canโ€™t find a spot.

2

Dining during lunchtime on Fridays is nearly impossible due to long lines.

3

Expect about 15 minutes in line to order and another 30 minutes for food.

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Riverside, Jacksonville

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