Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Arlington Heights

Authentic date spots

Made for those who require a genuine, unpretentious atmosphere for their most important evening outings.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
CHENNAI CENTRAL - South Indian Kitchen image 1
CHENNAI CENTRAL - South Indian Kitchen image 2
CHENNAI CENTRAL - South Indian Kitchen image 3
View all

South Indian restaurant with authentic Chennai decor including statues and meme posters creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Walls covered with Tamil cultural elements and a photo booth with Polaroids add unique touches. Space feels a bit cramped but warm, reflecting genuine South Indian spirit.

Dishes deliver authentic South Indian flavors with a focus on Chennai staples. Food consistently tastes true to Tamil Nadu cuisine and offers a genuine experience.

Deeply flavorful dishes like the Thalapakatti Goat Biryani and the Ooty Gobi 65 stand out for date dinners. Options include a veg thali and ghee masala dosai, offering variety for shared meals.

People are saying

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

"The Thalapakatti Goat Biryani is deeply flavorful and aromatic."

"The Ooty Gobi 65 is the best fried cauliflower."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a Thursday night dosa buffet as part of their weekly specials.

2

Buffets are available only on special occasions like festivals and events.

3

On weekends, a Grand Thali is available with extra varieties and special dishes.

02
Taqueria El Comalito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with authentic vibe and handmade tortillas. Indoor and outdoor seating is limited, creating an intimate setting. Family owners add to the atmosphere by playing guitar outside, enhancing the cultural experience.

Fresh, homemade dishes capture authentic Mexican flavors closely. Tacos and other offerings taste genuine and affordable, reflecting traditional recipes.

Exceptional tacos like lengua and carne asada quesadillas stand out. The steak torta and enchiladas also draw praise, making it a solid spot for a casual date with flavorful Mexican dishes.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has amazing seasoned chicken and steak."

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

"The Date Spots here have delicious, perfectly seasoned carne asada."

Good to know

1

The restaurant primarily offers takeout service with limited seating available.

2

Prices are very affordable for the quality of food provided.

3

The taqueria serves fresh, homemade, authentic Mexican food.

03
Kahala Koa Tiki Bar image 1

Tiki bar features classic tropical decor with traditional lighting and themed mugs for drinks. Atmosphere feels like a vacation to the tropics, lively and fun with detailed island theming. Drinks include large group cocktails served in unique cups, enhancing the festive vibe.

Strong, well-crafted tiki drinks stand out here. The bar features fantastic decor and many authentic items that create a true tropical vibe.

Fun vibe suits date night or girls night. Pineapple chicken stands out as a dish. People return for special occasions like birthdays.

People are saying

"The pizza crust here is extra crispy with a slight char."

"It's like going on vacation to the tropics with these authentic tiki drinks."

"The drinks here are excellent and totally worth it."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking can be tight, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

An 18% gratuity is added for parties of 4 or more.

04
Curry NaanStop Indian Grill image 1

Open, spacious dining area combines industrial style with an Indian cultural twist creating a warm, laidback atmosphere. Background Bollywood music and videos add lively cultural flavor. Friendly staff support a casual vibe suited for quick meals or relaxed hangouts.

Authentic Indian dishes feature a perfect amount of spice and properly cooked basmati rice. Daily-changing buffets offer a variety of subcontinent flavors including desserts at reasonable prices.

Chicken Butter Masala and Chicken Biryani stand out as flavorful choices for a date meal. The menu also offers a well-liked fish curry that adds variety to the experience.

People are saying

"The buffet here has so many delicious options."

"The Indian curry here is rich and flavorful."

"The flavors here are so fresh and satisfying for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

The lunch buffet is available from Friday to Sunday for $14.99.

2

A dosa buffet is offered every Thursday.

3

The weekend buffet is popular, so reservations are recommended.

05
Fausto's Italian Kitchen image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy space with old-country Italian charm and family-style atmosphere offers both indoor and covered patio seating. Friendly, casual vibe feels like a warm kitchen with personable service and inviting decor. Small size keeps it intimate, perfect for gatherings and enjoying authentic Italian meals.

Offers a wide variety of authentic Italian dishes including salads and pasta. Food tastes delicious and true to traditional recipes.

Takeout offers a delicious menu that suits at-home dates well. The cannoli and lemonade stand out as pleasant treats to enjoy together.

People are saying

"The pizza and focaccia here are so fresh and delicious."

"The focaccia here is so good, it's a must-try for Date Spots."

"The food here is authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Fausto's Italian Kitchen can accommodate around 32 guests for events.

2

Catering services are precise, with timely food delivery and generous portions.

3

The restaurant offers a diverse menu catering to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians.

06
Taco Maya image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers vibrant atmosphere with colorful decor and a salsa bar featuring various options. Outdoor patio and party room add to the spacious setup. Fusion tacos and margarita flights highlight the menu.

Dishes deliver authentic flavors that feel genuine and satisfying. Every bite bursts with traditional taste that stays true to its roots.

Couples enjoy sharing the taco plate with rice and beans or trying the fresh-made chimichanga. The spot offers a casual way to relax and eat together during busy times.

People are saying

"I loved their fusion tacos, especially the Indian-inspired ones."

"The food here is delicious and bursting with authentic flavors."

"You will not be disappointed with these date spots."

Good to know

1

Taco Maya offers $1 tacos on Mondays.

2

Free taco Tuesdays provide a great deal for visitors.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers.

07
Parea Greek Kitchen image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers beautiful new Greek decor and outdoor seating in the shade with complimentary valet parking. Atmosphere is cozy and lively, with Greek music enhancing the vibe. Staff provide attentive service and occasional traditional touches like Metaxa shots.

Food features authentic Greek flavors with fresh ingredients like Kalamata olives and calamari. Gyros come packed with genuine taste reflecting traditional recipes.

Comfortable setting suits both date night and family dinners. Menu features tender bifteki, fresh branzino, and excellent salmon.

People are saying

"The food here is absolutely delicious and amazing."

"The Greek food here tastes so authentic and fresh."

"The food here is great, especially the tender chicken."

Good to know

1

Parea Greek Kitchen offers complimentary valet parking.

2

Monday night specials are available.

3

The menu offers a very wide range of options.

08
Tamaleria y antojitos chepis image 1

Small space with limited seating and a long table by the window creates an intimate setting. Warm and welcoming atmosphere suits mostly takeout-focused visits. Known for authentic Mexican tamales and standout birria, it offers a distinct taste experience in a modest environment.

Food offers great taste and uses authentic recipes with fresh ingredients. Every dish delivers flavorful Mexican cuisine true to its roots.

Excellent food sets the tone for a date here. Nachos and quesadillas stand out as favorites.

People are saying

"I found the tamales here to be perfectly steamed and flavorful."

"I found the food here to be really authentic Mexican."

"The birria tacos and tamales here are delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is primarily for takeout with limited seating for about five people.

2

Prices are competitive, with meals averaging around $40 for two.

3

The menu lacks clear pictures, making it hard for newcomers to navigate.

09
Crazy Quesadilla Mexican restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with a super cute aesthetic and extensive holiday decorations creates a lively vibe. Live music and DJ sets energize the space, especially on weekends with karaoke. The atmosphere feels great for parties and casual dining alike.

Food shows strong authentic Mexican flavors with a menu that stays true to tradition. Decor matches the vibe, enhancing the genuine experience.

Quesadillas with grilled, lean meat and birria filling stand out for date nights. The menu offers 12-inch carne asada quesadillas that pair well with a casual dining vibe.

People are saying

"I found the quesadilla to be delicious and loaded with flavor."

"I found the food to be delicious and very authentic."

"The food here is amazing, so flavorful and fresh."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a BOGO deal on tacos.

2

Karaoke happens every Friday and Saturday night.

3

Live music is featured on weekends and select evenings.

10
Thlaco Taco Tijuanense #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with a family-friendly atmosphere and loud reggaeton music that fills the space. The vibe is authentic and cozy, attracting those seeking Tijuana-style tacos and flavorful dishes. The environment feels lively and welcoming, with a focus on genuine Mexican flavors.

Tacos here have a genuine Mexican flavor and the dishes stay true to traditional recipes. The overall menu and preparation reflect a high level of authenticity.

Couples visit multiple times, often enjoying the food together. Some experience stomach problems after eating, which affects repeat visits.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is super authentic and delicious."

"I found the tacos here to be the most authentic Mexican."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Birria tacos are 3 for $10 on Wednesdays, a great deal.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait for food during peak hours.

3

The menu often has items unavailable, so check before ordering.

11
El Tacazo Grill image 1
Restaurant

Large space with bold colorful decor and traditional Mexican music creates an authentic, inviting atmosphere. A huge bar adds an open, casual vibe. The place feels clean and bright, with reasonably priced offerings.

Bold and colorful tones fill the space with woven textiles on the walls and traditional Mexican music playing softly. The menu features authentic Mexican cuisine like Chilaquiles with red hot sauce and Carne Asada, all prepared cleanly and full of flavor.

Burritos stand out with better flavor than a known competitor. Gorditas come without sauce, which some find lacking. Food safety concerns arise from a case of food poisoning.

People are saying

"The food here is made and served really fast."

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and flavorful."

"The food here is fantastic and flavorful for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

The prices are reasonable and budget-friendly.

2

There is plenty of parking available.

3

They offer many vegetarian-friendly options.

Discover more

Arlington Heights, Illinois

Area guide
Loading Map...