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Local picks in the CBD

Salad and date spots

Made for those who prefer to keep their evening dates light, fresh, and focused on conversation.

Based on 592 Opinions
+589
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Updated May 2026
01
The Palm - Downtown Houston image 1
The Palm - Downtown Houston image 2
The Palm - Downtown Houston image 3
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Upscale steakhouse with Italian flair and old-school dining style offers private themed rooms and live piano and vocal performances. Ambiance ranges from quiet and cozy in private spaces to lively with music in main areas. Booth seating and a comfy bar create relaxed spots for dining or drinks.

Salads come in fresh, good-sized portions with options like the Caesar salad and the Gigi salad standing out for their quality and flavor.

Special occasions get attention with memorable birthday dinners and thoughtful service. The menu includes dishes like wagyu lasagna that stand out for a date night.

People are saying

"The food and ambiance at these dinner spots are exceptional."

"The specialty drinks, especially the Mrs. Claus cocktail, were so good I ordered two."

"Tony surprised us with samples of a delicious strawberry dessert."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available, which is helpful in downtown Houston.

2

The restaurant offers a July promotion of 50% off all wines over $100.

3

An 8 oz fillet costs $56, and a side of mushrooms is $16.

02
Zaranda image 1
Mexican restaurant

Space combines stylish interior with inviting patios and a lively u-shaped bar. Atmosphere blends luxury Baja feel with Boho chic vibes, creating a cool and elegant setting. Crowd includes groups and couples, with amenities like high chairs and private event spaces enhancing accessibility.

Tableside preparation makes the Ensalada Caesar stand out as a tribute to the original Caesar salad from Tijuana. The salad's flavor often invites seconds, showing its strong appeal.

Celebrations and date nights fit well here with a menu featuring whole fish and unique dishes like Taco De Pato, a Peking Duck twist with date mole and duck skin chicharron. The spot blends Chinese influence with local flavors for a memorable dining experience.

People are saying

"The fresh seafood, especially the oysters, was my favorite."

"The empanadas and Brussels sprouts here are phenomenal for Date Spots."

"The tableside Caesar salad is an ode to the original."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers after work.

2

Valet parking costs $12 and can be paid at your table.

3

Zaranda has two private event spaces available for booking.

03
Tom's Watch Bar image 1
Sports bar

Expansive space filled with giant TVs offers top viewing quality for NFL games and other sports. Energy shifts between loud DJ music during commercials and game sound, creating a rowdy atmosphere. Large patio area connects to the open concept bar, enhancing the social vibe.

Chicken salads feature rotisserie and grilled breast options that are well seasoned and moist. Greens come with avocado, feta, berries, tomatoes, and house-made croutons that taste like sweet corn bread. Portions lean toward small starter sizes rather than full meals.

Staff notice and adjust drinks to preferences without being asked, like removing jalapeรฑos from a spicy margarita. Seating happens quickly, and attentive service stays consistent throughout the visit, creating a relaxed atmosphere for couples.

People are saying

"I thought the food was great."

"Anya's amazing service makes this a great spot for date nights."

"The service here is attentive and really nice."

Good to know

1

They offer a free shuttle to and from Minute Maid Park.

2

Parking is not free and validation is not provided.

3

They charge a 4% 'Just Because We Can' fee on everything ordered.

04
MKT Bar image 1
New American restaurant

Casual seating with Formica tables and metal chairs creates a relaxed setting for groups. Live music featuring jazz, oldies, and brass bands energizes weekends, though volume can be loud. The vibe blends cozy, chill atmosphere with bursts of fun and busy energy.

Fresh salads feature romaine, cucumber slices, and red grapes. Options include a haloumi tomato salad topped with grilled shrimp and an MKT salad with salmon. Salads arrive quickly alongside main courses.

Offers a cozy atmosphere suited for date nights and first dates. Features lamb waffle and Spanish red wine options that complement a relaxed evening.

People are saying

"The grocery store has an awesome bakery and a great salad bar."

"The food and wine selection here is solid for Date Spots."

"I enjoyed that delicious salad with grilled shrimp."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a nearby free garage for Phoenicia customers.

2

MKT Bar closes at 8 PM daily, except on Sundays when it closes at 6 PM.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties, as they can grow quickly.

05
Cellar7 image 1
American restaurant

Eclectic mid-century style restaurant with cozy vibe and bubbly decor offers both indoor and nice outdoor seating. Atmosphere is stylish and lively, though loud music can make conversation difficult. Frequented for tasty food and a great bar with well-crafted cocktails.

Salads feature Asian seared salmon and Brussels sprouts with fried goat cheese. Dressings like garlic lemon vinaigrette add bright flavors to options like the kale Caesar and house salad.

Paella stands out with its rich flavors. Chicken dishes, including a Chicken Chipotle option, offer bold, savory tastes that complement the meal well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and of excellent quality."

"The salmon dishes here are delicious and cooked perfectly."

"The salads here are fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with special drink prices.

2

Cellar7 offers a variety of finger foods during happy hour.

3

Parking is free at the nearby 601 Travis St parking garage.

06
Bayou & Bottle image 1

Upscale hotel bar with an elegant, cozy atmosphere and prominent bar area alongside intimate booths. Guests enjoy top-notch bourbon selection and creative cocktails in a stunningly beautiful setting. A Top Golf simulator adds a unique entertainment option beyond typical bar offerings.

Fresh and flavorful, the Peach Burrata Salad offers a well-balanced taste. It comes at a higher price but stands out for its quality ingredients.

Frequent visits highlight its appeal as a good date night spot. The Peach & Burrata salad stands out as a favored dish.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great cocktails and food here."

"The Date Spots here have amazing food, like the Lobster Quesadilla."

"The peach burrata salad was amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Bayou & Bottle is located inside the Four Seasons Hotel.

2

The restaurant offers a Wednesday special that is the best deal available.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during Astros weekend.

07
Brasserie Du Parc image 1
French restaurant

Glass walls offer quiet people-watching with views of a green park outside. The space feels cozy and elegant with tasteful decor and a calm, pleasant atmosphere. Seating near the bar can be lively with foot traffic and music, while other areas remain peaceful.

Salads come as a solid appetizer option here, served fresh and complementing dishes like escargot well. The Caesar salad stands out as a straightforward, classic choice.

Dinner dates feature well prepared beef and duck dishes and attentive service that goes above and beyond to make occasions special. The atmosphere supports a wonderful dining experience for couples.

People are saying

"The French food here, especially the steak frites, is perfectly cooked."

"The food here is immaculate, especially the steak frites."

"I really enjoyed the Caesar salad."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

2

Happy hour specials are available only in the bar area.

3

The restaurant participates in Houston Restaurant Week with a special menu.

08
Toro Toro image 1
Steak house

Open-concept dining space with floor-to-ceiling windows offers stunning city views and a classy yet chill vibe. Festive decor and live music create an elegant atmosphere complemented by well-crafted cocktails and a comfortable layout.

Watermelon and tomato burrata salads stand out with fresh, vibrant flavors. The menu offers a variety of salads alongside seafood and sandwiches, adding light, refreshing options to the meal.

Intimate dinners feature ribs and smoked old fashions. Celebrations include bourbon and a cozy atmosphere for couples.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal, especially the empanadas and desserts."

"The food here is amazing, especially the perfectly cooked steaks."

"I found the salad here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy events like restaurant week.

2

Valet parking is available but can be expensive; check for validation options.

3

An automatic tip is added to the bill, which may lead to double tipping.

09
McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks image 1

Private booths with curtains offer quiet privacy in a gorgeous, upscale setting. A huge shaded patio invites larger groups for outdoor dining. The atmosphere ranges from comfortable and beautiful to occasionally loud with blaring music.

Salads here stand out with the Wedge Salad offering crisp, fresh greens. They pair well with hearty dishes like the pork chop and flatbread, making the salad a solid part of the meal.

Seafood dishes create a romantic atmosphere for date nights. Thoughtful gestures like a sweet treat from the manager add a special touch. Reservations at prime dinner times help set the mood.

People are saying

"The seafood here is great, and the servers are genuinely one of the best."

"The Date Spots here have flawless lemon drop martinis and exceptional grilled oysters."

"The salads here are thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6:30 pm with great drink specials.

2

Taco Tuesday offers excellent deals on tacos during happy hour.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially during busy times.

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Central Business District, Houston

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