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Local picks

Date spots and food in Maplewood

Made for those who view dining as an essential component of a successful date and prioritize a shared meal.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Porta Rossa Pasta & Provisions image 1
Porta Rossa Pasta & Provisions image 2
Porta Rossa Pasta & Provisions image 3
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Open kitchen occupies most of the space, showcasing fresh pasta preparation. Cozy, intimate setting includes a secluded courtyard with outdoor seating surrounded by foliage. Atmosphere feels welcoming and clean, blending casual comfort with quality craftsmanship.

Food here is consistently delicious and offers a generous portion size for the price. The atmosphere encourages lingering over meals and playing games, making dining a relaxed experience.

Pasta dishes with fresh truffle stand out for a date night. The spot works well for a quick date or starting dinner with delicious meals.

People are saying

"You have to try the homemade pasta; it's the best I've had."

"I had the most delicious homemade pasta I've ever tasted."

"The homemade pasta here is outstanding for a date spot."

Good to know

1

Private wine dinners are always sold out, and reservations are recommended well in advance.

2

The menu rotates frequently, so check online for current offerings before visiting.

3

Seating is very limited, and it's best to arrive early to secure a spot.

02
Perla Oyster Bar image 1
Oyster bar restaurant

Small space offers an intimate, cozy vibe with lively, loud music that challenges conversation. Design details and seafood selection create a fun, hip atmosphere. Tight seating at bar and tables invites close interaction and showcases chef's approachable style.

Food here is exquisite and beautifully plated, with a style that rivals Manhattan quality. Dishes arrive promptly and taste amazing, supported by attentive service and a relaxed atmosphere.

Perfect for date night with a cozy vibe that suits anniversaries and special occasions. Food quality stands out, making it hard to pick a single favorite dish.

People are saying

"The oysters here are insanely fresh and packed with flavor."

"The food here is just so fresh and delicious."

"The food here is so fresh and delicious, it's hard to pick a favorite."

Good to know

1

Perla is a BYOB spot, so bring your favorite drinks for the meal.

2

The restaurant partners with a local liquor store for quick delivery of beverages.

3

Expect a tight seating arrangement; outdoor seating is available when weather permits.

03
The Sandwicheria Eatery - Peruvian Street Food image 1

Small, warm space with dim lighting and a large flat-screen TV creates a cozy, casual vibe. Seating is plentiful and arranged efficiently for dining in. Modern Peruvian design and artisanal touches set it apart from typical Latin American eateries.

Food arrives fresh and fast with bursts of flavor from meat and sauces. Yuca fries stand out as a notable item, and portion sizes are generous. Bowls offer a great option for dining in.

Pulled beef sandwich stands out as a flavorful choice that impressed a hungry date. Ordering involves a confirmation number process that requires coordination between partners.

People are saying

"I found the lomo saltado sandwich to be very flavorful."

"The food here is authentic Peruvian street fare, perfect for date spots."

"I found the food here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

There is a public parking lot behind the eatery on Prospect.

2

The eatery offers bowls with cilantro rice and your choice of meats or vegetables.

3

Several vegetarian options are available on the menu.

04
Maplewood Country Club image 1

Elegant, timeless setting with immaculate greens and well-maintained golf course creates a wonderful atmosphere. Spaces offer great views and support a variety of events and outings for families and friends.

Food features excellent quality and exceptional variety including hors dโ€™oeuvres, dinner, and late-night stations. Service matches the food with an amazing experience that guests remember well.

A strong sense of intimacy fills the space, making it easy to be fully present with your partner. The setting supports meaningful moments with family and friends around.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly the best I've ever had."

"The team's warmth and professionalism made our Date Spots experience perfect."

"I found the golf course and greens to be immaculate."

Good to know

1

The golf course is well maintained, providing a beautiful setting for events.

2

The venue is ideal for family outings and gatherings with friends.

3

Consider the club for hosting weddings and milestone celebrations.

05
Corner Slice image 1
Pizza restaurant

Simple pizza spot with counter service and a beautifully designed space featuring nostalgic decor and a solid sound system. Atmosphere feels joyful and inviting with friendly staff and a community vibe. Space fills quickly on weekends, attracting families and casual date nights.

Food delivers on every level with excellent quality and lives up to the hype. It stands out as a great addition to the local scene with consistently impressive dishes.

Great for casual date nights with a relaxed vibe. Offers varied pizza slices like pepperoni, buffalo, and a mix-topping option alongside drinks like vodka.

People are saying

"The pizza here has delicious crispy crust and great flavors."

"The food here is fantastic, truly above the rest."

"I thought the pizza here was special and delicious."

Good to know

1

The price for a slice ranges from $4.50 to $6.00.

2

Parking can be quite difficult near the location.

3

Delivery is available for those who can't visit in person.

06
Barn Bird Kitchen image 1

Modern restaurant with rustic decor and cozy atmosphere offers a quiet, relaxed vibe and generous portions. Seating is comfortable but close to the door, which can make it chilly inside. The place draws people looking for bold, flavorful chicken dishes and a simple, tasty menu.

Food features freshly prepared dishes with quality homemade recipes and flavorful taste. Portions come with attentive service in a cozy setting.

Couples enjoy sharing the chicken sandwich and salmon dishes here. The spot offers a relaxed setting for a meal together.

People are saying

"This chicken sandwich is crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned."

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

"The chicken sandwich here is juicy and fried to perfection."

Good to know

1

Big portions and very reasonable prices.

2

The menu offers a variety of chicken options, including sandwiches and salads.

3

The space is smaller with limited indoor and outdoor tables.

07
Ani Ramen House image 1
Restaurant

Ramen restaurant with cozy atmosphere and chill hip hop and R&B playlist creates a warm, welcoming vibe. Tables sit close together, fostering an intimate setting despite occasional noise. Lighting suits photography, enhancing the overall relaxed experience.

Food here is fresh and flavorful with a cozy atmosphere that adds to the experience. The dishes deliver delicious, satisfying flavors that create moments of connection and joy.

A laid-back, clean atmosphere pairs with great service and intimate hospitality that makes date nights feel special. Dishes like the spicy ramen and pork belly ramen offer rich, comforting flavors without being too pricey.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and flavorful."

"John and Kayla made our ramen experience feel truly special."

"The food here is so flavorful and perfectly cooked for date spots."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation during the weekend is recommended because it can get busy.

2

Parking in the area is usually simple and easy.

3

The restaurant is located across the street from the Maplewood NJ Transit station.

08
ARTIE'S image 1
Pizza restaurant

Renovated industrial space with an open kitchen featuring brick ovens creates a fresh, clean environment. Upbeat music raises the noise level, encouraging lively conversation in a laid-back atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes a patio and bar area serving drinks, enhancing the social vibe.

Food arrives quickly and stays fresh with consistently tasty Italian dishes. Service matches the quality of the food, making the overall experience impeccable and worth the wait.

Smooth service and a family friendly vibe make it cool enough for date night. The pizza stands out, and the kale Caesar salad surprises even those who usually avoid kale.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be extraordinary."

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

"I kept returning for their perfectly balanced mocha latte."

Good to know

1

On the evening we visited, there was an oyster pop-up on the terrace outside.

2

ARTIE'S opened for breakfast every day at 8am.

3

ARTIE'S does not currently accept reservations.

09
Restaurant Lorena's image 1
Modern French restaurant

Modern French restaurant offers an elegant setting with live jazz music that enhances a romantic and lively atmosphere. Seating varies from casual bar areas to formal dining rooms, creating distinct vibes within the space. The ambiance suits both late-night drinks and relaxed brunches.

Food here is delicious and original with a consistently terrific taste. Service complements the meals well, making the dining experience smooth and enjoyable.

Oysters and mussels feature as standout dishes, with the oysters described as great and the mussels well-liked. A petite ribeye comes with complimentary desserts, adding a sweet finish to the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is spectacular, especially the duck and halibut."

"The live jazz music makes brunch here so charming."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is from 3-5:30pm Tuesday to Thursday.

2

Jazz brunch with live music is available on Saturday mornings.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events and large parties.

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Maplewood, New Jersey

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