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Best of Southwest Minneapolis

Food and date spots

You want a meal that sets the right tone for your evening. You aren't looking for a distraction, but a place that complements the company you keep.

Based on 801 Opinions
+798
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Updated April 2026
01
Tosca image 1
Tosca image 2
Tosca image 3
Restaurant

Cozy and casual with an upscale feel, the space offers a comfortable atmosphere highlighted by live music and a romantic interior. Regulars enjoy the back patio for warm evenings and a small, focused menu featuring standout Italian dishes. The vibe suits neighborhood gatherings and reliable date nights without pretension.

Food features fresh, seasonal ingredients with rich flavors and thoughtful, expert preparation. Presentation is exemplary and every dish tastes delicious.

Cozy and romantic interior creates a warm atmosphere for date nights. The spot stays reliable for couples looking to enjoy a quiet evening together.

People are saying

"The pasta here is fresh, homemade, and delicious."

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and expertly prepared."

"The focaccia here is the best bread I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a small, seasonal menu with a few mainstays.

2

Parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

02
Prima image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian bistro with an open kitchen and cozy, rustic vibe creates an inviting atmosphere. Lighting stays soft but adequate, supporting easy conversation in a casual, intimate setting. Space feels long and narrow with both front and rear entrances, blending charm with a lively energy.

Italian dishes stand out with authentic flavors and careful preparation. Meals come at a reasonable price and pair well with a selection of fine wines.

Staff handle special dietary requests well, making it easy to accommodate picky eaters. The atmosphere suits a modest date night with attentive service and easy reservations.

People are saying

"The rotini con pollo pasta platter is a huge hit."

"The food here is fresh and reasonably priced."

"It's a fantastic place for a date night out."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and high demand.

2

Expect a 45-minute wait during peak dinner hours on weekends.

3

Parking is available off-street behind the restaurant.

03
AMA Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, cramped interior with limited patio seating creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, with dank lofi music adding a relaxed vibe. Popular spot known for fresh, high-quality sushi and affordable prices.

Food features delicious flavors and beautiful presentation with attention to detail. Service complements the meal, creating an overall amazing dining experience.

Many couples choose this spot for date nights because it offers a casual vibe and is close to other restaurants and bars. It works well for both dining in and take-out, making it a flexible option for small groups or intimate evenings.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so good, I didn't dislike a single item."

"The food here is great, especially the sashimi which was really fresh."

"The sushi here is unbelievably amazing for date spots."

Good to know

1

AMA Sushi does not accept reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

2

Expect a quick wait time despite the restaurant being busy.

3

They offer great lunch deals that are affordable.

04
La Estancia Steakhouse, Argentinean & Uruguayan image 1

Small, quaint dining room with beautiful decor and screens showing scenes from Uruguay and Argentina creates an upscale yet cozy atmosphere. Music complements the romantic and elegant vibe throughout the space. Elements of South American culture are present everywhere, enhancing the authentic experience.

Authentic Rio Platense cuisine shines through with Uruguayan dishes that bring a true taste of home. Every bite delivers excellent flavor and quality, making the food consistently outstanding.

Offers a romantic atmosphere suited for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays. Serves Argentinean and Uruguayan cuisine that fits a casually refined dinner setting.

People are saying

"These empanadas are the best I ever tasted."

"The food here is delicious and high quality."

"The beef empanadas here are insane, totally worth it."

Good to know

1

This restaurant is the only place in the Twin Cities that has chivito.

2

The restaurant can handle large parties easily.

3

Expect a 20% service charge added to your bill.

05
Ena image 1
Latin American restaurant

Small, quaint Latin American restaurant with a cozy, homey atmosphere and patio seating. Music adds a lively touch, though it can be loud, creating a relaxing and casual vibe. Known for unique dishes and luxurious food, it suits both celebrations and casual nights out.

Food comes out thoughtfully prepared with amazing flavor and impeccable quality. Prices match the high standard of the dishes and drinks served.

Celebrations and special moments happen here with dishes like egg pasta and seafood and a heavily peppered salmon cooked just right. Drinks include a notably good margarita that stands out.

People are saying

"The food here is unique with complex flavors and a frequently changing menu."

"The sea bass here is so good, especially the pistachio crusted."

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to ensure a table.

2

Expect higher prices, with some dishes like Chilean sea bass costing $42.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options and mocktails.

06
The Harriet Brasserie image 1
American restaurant

Historic fire station building offers a charming indoor space and a lovely outdoor patio with live music. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming but can be loud during busy times. Neighborhood vibe adds to the comfortable and friendly setting.

Food stands out for its unique options and consistently excellent quality. Dishes deliver a level of cuisine suited for experienced culinary enthusiasts at reasonable prices.

Shared dishes like lentil soup and Tofu hash create a cozy vibe for couples. Options like Fettuccine without shrimp cater to specific tastes during a relaxed dinner.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was simply incredible."

"You have to try the duck tacos; they're a hidden gem."

"These date spots have wonderfully prepared dishes and great service."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets busy.

2

Parking can be difficult to find in the area.

3

A $1.50 fee is added for credit card payments.

07
Taqueria El Patron image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere with festive, lively music and beautifully illustrated walls and upholstery. Outdoor patio features shaded seating with TVs and a place to enjoy mango margaritas. The space feels warm and welcoming, creating a fun and authentic vibe.

Food features delicious tacos and horchata with a focus on authentic Mexican flavors. Staff handle food allergy requests carefully and the dining area stays clean.

Dining in suits couples well with a relaxed vibe, making it easy to enjoy meals together. Take-out options also fit lazy afternoons alone, offering flexibility for different moods.

People are saying

"This takeout is so affordable and always fresh."

"I thought the food was amazing and delicious."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted margaritas and appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesday offers $2 tacos with a variety of protein options.

3

The dining area has plenty of seating, including a covered patio.

08
Our Kitchen image 1
American restaurant

Small diner with about 20 seats offers a cozy atmosphere and counter seating that lets diners watch food preparation. Outdoor patio and dog-friendly amenities add to the homey vibe. Known for scratch-made pancakes and standout hash browns, it draws a steady breakfast crowd despite limited space.

Food stands out with exceptional corned beef hash, fresh potato hashbrowns cooked to perfection, and amazing French toast and pancakes. Coffee and counter service match the high quality of the dishes.

Breakfast offers a home-cooked feel with pancakes that get praise. Some eggs may be undercooked, so caution is advised during morning dates.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and the portions are huge."

"The pancake here is old school delicious and huge."

"The hash browns here are irresistible and wonderful."

Good to know

1

Bring cash because you get a discount on your bill.

2

Expect a wait time of 10-20 minutes before being seated.

3

Parking is limited, so arrive early.

09
Tilia image 1
American restaurant

Open kitchen and cozy interior create an intimate setting with a cute patio tucked in a calm side alley. Atmosphere shifts from quiet early to lively bar area with challenging acoustics. Known for unique salads and standout dishes, it suits family brunches and date nights alike.

Food arrives promptly and is well presented with excellent proportions. The menu stays true to quality, offering consistently phenomenal dishes enjoyed by all.

Low lighting and attentive service create a cozy atmosphere for couples. Staff offer dessert options proactively, adding a thoughtful touch to the evening.

People are saying

"The food here is always great and delicious."

"I thought the brunch here was top-notch and as good as it gets."

"The food and drinks here are among the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during busy brunch hours to avoid long waits.

2

The kitchen closes at 9 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6 PM on weekdays.

10
Cร phin Minneapolis image 1

Cozy cafe with modern Vietnamese decor and a youthful vibe featuring an Instagram-worthy wall. Small space fills with lively energy, making it a social spot rather than a quiet workspace. Unique offerings include authentic Vietnamese coffee and a house rabbit adding charm.

Food offers good quality with a solid variety. Drinks and the overall atmosphere add to the enjoyable dining experience.

Strong choices for drinks include the strawberry matcha and creamy egg coffee. Pastries like the original doughnut and Ube Dream add variety. Limited seating near outlets may affect laptop use during dates.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese coffee here is phenomenal and perfectly balanced."

"This banh mi food has the perfect crunch and well-balanced flavor."

"The Ube Dream and strawberry matcha are amazing date spots."

Good to know

1

Meet and greet events with Bao Bao occur on select weekends; check the schedule.

2

Cร phin Minneapolis hosts events supporting local businesses regularly.

3

Parking can be tight, especially during busy hours in the strip mall.

11
Wooden Ship Brewing Company image 1

Small taproom with an intimate, neighborly vibe and lively atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers dog-friendly space with frequent local food trucks and events. Background music features 90s R&B, enhancing the cozy, welcoming energy.

Food trucks appear regularly here, offering a variety of good options. They are available throughout the summer and often on other days as well.

A standout for date nights is the juicy IPA, rated 5 out of 5 by IPA lovers. The place offers a solid selection of patterned pieces that add a unique touch to the experience.

People are saying

"They have a great beer selection with unique styles."

"This charming neighborhood brewery is a great spot for a date."

"The food trucks here are really good."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

There is only street parking available near the brewery.

3

Parking can be tough to find close to the brewery.

12
North Star Deli image 1
Sandwich shop

Small sandwich shop with hockey memorabilia and 1980s music creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Space is cramped inside with limited seating, including a few outdoor tables and bar stools. Energy is lively and fun, attracting a friendly, neighborhood crowd.

Food comes with generous portions and stays hot and delicious. Sandwiches offer a good amount of food for the price and the overall experience feels like an old school deli with friendly service.

Sandwiches like the Cuban, pastrami, and vegan options stand out here. Expect a 40-minute wait for orders during busy times.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were some of the best I ever had."

"The food here is spectacular, hot, and delicious."

"The sandwiches here are enormous and delicious, especially the goat cheese."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially during busy lunch hours.

2

Prices are on the higher side, with sandwiches costing around $20.

3

The deli is small, so takeout is recommended during peak times.

13
The Patty Wagon image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant offers a fun, family-friendly atmosphere with themed nights and a wall of celebrity mugshots. Bright LED lighting contrasts with arcade games and pinball machines that add lively entertainment. The vibe suits dinner or bar hangouts, blending relaxed and lively energy.

Burgers and fried foods come made from scratch, including fresh batter and fried chicken. Fries, onion rings, tater tots, and cheese curds arrive fresh and hot with good portion sizes.

Quiet enough to hear your companion clearly, making conversations easy. The menu includes items like a Belgium waffle and an Italian stuffed burger, served with polite and attentive staff.

People are saying

"I ordered the Hellion Burger with jalapeรฑo and chipotle mayo."

"I found the food here to be really great."

"The burgers here are awesome for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Bingo night happens every Tuesday with great prizes.

2

Happy hour offers 2 for 1 drinks and food specials.

3

Parking can be limited, especially during busy hours.

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Southwest Minneapolis, Minneapolis

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