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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown SA

Authentic date spots

A date night that feels like a real discovery instead of a predictable, rehearsed experience.

Based on 665 Opinions
+662
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Updated May 2026
01
Olla express cafe image 1
Olla express cafe image 2
Olla express cafe image 3
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Coffee shop set in a charming casita with unique interior design and thoughtful decor featuring local goods and fun art. Atmosphere stays cozy and warm, perfect for relaxing or focusing with indoor and outdoor seating available. Dog friendly space offers table games and free samples, creating a welcoming vibe.

Coffee captures authentic Mexican flavor with a taste matching cafes in Mexico. The menu features specialty Mexican style coffee that stays true to tradition.

Offers a cozy spot for couples with Cafe de Olla and Monjita drinks. Food and coffee varieties invite repeat visits for shared tasting experiences.

People are saying

"I've never tasted so many amazing flavors in one coffee."

"It's a cozy spot with a warm, welcoming vibe."

"The coffee here is so flavorful, it tastes like authentic Mexican traditions."

Good to know

1

Parking is across the street from the cafe.

2

They are vegan friendly and offer vegan tacos on Sundays.

3

Olla Express Cafรฉ allows dogs inside.

02
The Golden Goose image 1

Small restaurant with jade green finishes and convex mirrors creates a cozy, low-key atmosphere filled with artwork and Korean posters. Music and puzzles add to the casual, welcoming vibe. Seating includes outdoor options and window views.

Freshly prepared dishes showcase authentic Korean cuisine with traditional flavors. The menu features Korean-style fried chicken and somaek, capturing a genuine taste experience.

Friday nights offer a relaxed vibe for couples. The menu includes a good curry that fits well for a date meal.

People are saying

"The Korean fried chicken here is fantastic and amazing."

"These Korean Date Spots have tender, flavorful meat and comforting, cozy meals."

"I found the Korean fried chicken here to be truly authentic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Brunch is served on Sundays from 10am to 2pm.

3

Parking at the garage on Laredo St. is free for 2 hours with validation.

03
Los Weyes de la Asada image 1
Taco restaurant

Food truck park offers authentic atmosphere with live mariachi music and a playground for kids. Seating includes benches with umbrellas and views of the river. The vibe is welcoming and lively, attracting those seeking flavorful tacos in a casual setting.

Tacos feature authentic flavor with very authentic tortillas and Carne Asada that tastes true to Mexican roots. The atmosphere matches the food, creating a very authentic vibe throughout.

Casual nights work well here with a relaxed vibe for hanging out. The tacos stand out, especially the one with pineapple, which gets a lot of attention.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were among the best I ever tasted."

"I loved the authentic carne asada tacos with that smoky, charcoal flavor."

"You'll love the fresh, flavorful tacos at these Date Spots."

Good to know

1

The food truck is open seven days a week for convenient access.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Prices for street tacos are around $7 each.

04
kapej image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy coffee shop doubles as a local art gallery with indoor and outdoor seating surrounded by plants. Warm, relaxing atmosphere invites slow enjoyment and quiet work or study. Frequented by those seeking a peaceful escape with fast Wi-Fi and unique art for sale.

An authentic vibe fills the space, paired with authentic coffee that stays true to its roots. The overall feel is genuine and unpretentious.

Coffee draws couples from different areas, making it a common spot for dates. Staff pay attention to details, like offering to remake food if it's not enjoyed, adding to the experience.

People are saying

"I tried the tres leches coffee and it was very good."

"The service here is amazing, and the staff are super friendly."

"I experienced an authentic vibe and coffee here."

Good to know

1

Parking is available behind the building for customers.

2

They have free parking in their lot.

3

The shop is located right across from the dog park and is pup-friendly.

05
Bowls N Go / Healthy Foods image 1
Health food restaurant

Modern health food spot offers clean, vibrant atmosphere with a beautiful patio for outdoor dining. The place serves Mediterranean-inspired bowls with clearly labeled toppings and proteins, attracting those seeking nutritious, flavorful options in a lively food hall setting.

Cuisine offers amazing, authentic flavors with a focus on fresh ingredients. Food consistently tastes very authentic and good.

Couples build their own bowls with options like curry chicken and shredded lamb. The menu includes a fitness bowl choice, making it easy to find something for different tastes.

People are saying

"The healthy foods here are fresh and bursting with flavor."

"The food here is so yummy and fresh."

"I found the food to be authentic and fresh."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available for two hours with a lunch purchase.

2

Portion sizes are generous, suitable for big appetites.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of healthy and flavorful options.

06
Texan Sizzle image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small hole-in-the-wall diner with a cozy atmosphere and pleasant background music. The space fills quickly, featuring a handful of small tables inside and some outdoor seating. The vibe is friendly and homey, focusing on quality food rather than elaborate decor.

Homemade dishes deliver authentic Tex Mex flavors with genuine warmth. Meals feel non-touristy and support a small business at a great price.

Couples enjoy a variety of dishes together, often ordering multiple plates to share. The spot offers a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu options that suit leisurely meals during special occasions.

People are saying

"This sandwich was delicious, with tasty and juicy meat."

"These Date Spots have tasty burgers with fresh ingredients."

"I found the food here to be authentic and homemade."

Good to know

1

There is no parking available, so visitors will need to walk.

2

The location is small, with only a couple of indoor tables and very limited street parking.

3

The breakfast portions are unexpectedly large.

07
KK Thai Lao & Sushi image 1
Asian restaurant

Small, cozy space filled with real plants creates a calming, comfortable atmosphere. Quiet and family-friendly, it suits long conversations and offers a classic small-town Thai vibe. Tight seating limits large groups or wheelchair access.

Food delivers 100% authentic Thai flavor with dishes that capture traditional tastes clearly. The menu focuses on genuine Thai ingredients and preparation methods.

Dishes like Pad Basil, Panang Curry, and pineapple fried rice with shrimp arrive quickly, making meal timing smooth for couples. Options include chicken pad Thai alongside other flavorful choices.

People are saying

"I thought the curry sauce was the best I've ever had."

"I thought the food was super good and seemed 100% authentic."

"The food here is delicious and well made for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Thai Thursday features special menu items not available on other days.

2

Prices are higher than average, with meals costing around $56 for two.

3

The restaurant is small, seating about 35 people, which can lead to tight spaces.

08
Rita's on the River image 1

Restaurant offers great views of the Riverwalk with a loud, hectic, and fun atmosphere energized by an outstanding DJ. Guests enjoy top-notch margaritas and some of the best guacamole, queso, and tacos around.

Dishes burst with authentic Tex-Mex flavors and showcase true authentic Mexican street food. The kitchen staff focuses on beautiful presentation alongside genuine taste.

Margaritas, especially the piรฑa margarita, stand out for couples looking to unwind. The Original Beef Enchiladas and original enchilada offer solid meal options for a relaxed date by the river.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and came out fast and hot."

"The service at these date spots is attentive and makes the occasion magical."

"The food here is authentic and delicious with the right amount of spice."

Good to know

1

Rita's on the River offers a 10% discount for military personnel.

2

Expect high prices, with tacos costing around $18 for four.

3

The kitchen may run out of popular menu items like pork and quesadillas.

09
Poblanos Mexican Restaurant and Catering image 1

Mexican restaurant with retro decor and a cozy, inviting atmosphere featuring live country western music. The space balances pleasant music volume and warm service, attracting a crowd for breakfast and lunch with fresh, authentic dishes and strong, well-crafted margaritas.

Tacos and breakfast dishes deliver authentic Mexican flavors with high-quality ingredients. The menu offers traditional Spanish Mexican cuisine at affordable prices near the Riverwalk.

Staff are attentive and friendly, creating a comfortable atmosphere. Drinks like the mango margarita are well-liked and add to the experience.

People are saying

"The breakfast tacos here have incredible, fresh tortillas."

"This lunch spot's Mexican dishes are fresh and mouthwatering."

"The margaritas here are amazing for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Sunday is menudo day, offering a special dish for visitors.

2

The restaurant closes at 2 pm from Monday to Wednesday.

3

Poblanos is open until 7 pm from Thursday to Saturday.

10
Historic Market Square image 1

Outdoor and indoor market spaces showcase authentic Mexican artifacts and colorful decorations. Live music fills the air, creating a lively and fun atmosphere that keeps people dancing. Food vendors and shops offer traditional Mexican snacks and drinks, enhancing the vibrant cultural experience.

Colorful, festive market offers authentic Mexican cuisine with spicy enchiladas and handmade tacos. Vendors sell a huge variety of authentic products and street food treasures.

Sitting with a beer while someone shops at the Mexican market creates a relaxed date vibe. The market offers jewelry and similar items that add interest during visits.

People are saying

"This Mexican market feels authentic with beautiful handicrafts and local food."

"I found authentic Mexican food, clothing, and crafts reflecting the city's spirit."

"I loved exploring the cute shops and authentic items."

Good to know

1

During Fiesta week, expect live music and dance performances at Historic Market Square.

2

Parking can be difficult to find due to ongoing construction in the area.

3

The market features a variety of unique handmade gifts and local art.

11
La Margarita Mexican Restaurant & Oyster Bar image 1

Live mariachi bands roam a spacious patio overlooking a market square, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The setting combines nostalgic decor with lively music, drawing a busy crowd that often sings along. Tables offer ample space, supporting a relaxed and engaging dining experience.

Mexican dishes here have authentic flavor and Tex-Mex roots. A live mariachi band adds a festive, genuine vibe to the lively atmosphere.

Fresh oysters stand out, with large portions like the cabrito dish made for sharing. Attentive service adds to the experience, and dishes like fajitas complement the meal well.

People are saying

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

"I loved sitting on the patio, watching the market and listening to music."

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

Good to know

1

Each song requested by the mariachis costs $10.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and snacks.

3

Parking discounts are available with a stamped ticket from the adjacent lot.

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