Romantic Dining in Greensboro: My Top Picks for an Unforgettable Date Night

I travel often and write about food and places, I’m always seeking that perfect balance of atmosphere, cuisine, and intimacy—especially when it comes to a romantic evening. Greensboro, North Carolina, might not always be the first city that comes to mind for a dreamy date night, but after spending several weeks exploring its culinary scene, I can tell you with full confidence: it’s a hidden gem.

From candlelit courtyards to artful Southern dishes, Greensboro has plenty to offer those looking for a night out that’s both refined and heartfelt. Whether you’re a couple visiting from out of town or locals looking to rediscover romance, here are my absolute favorite spots for a memorable dinner with that special someone.

1. Print Works Bistro – French Elegance in a Garden Setting

📍 Address: 702 Green Valley Rd, Greensboro, NC 27408
💰 Price Range: \$30–\$60 per person
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes:

• Duck Confit – tender, slow-cooked duck with a crisp skin, served over creamy lentils and seasonal greens.
• Shrimp & Grits – a Southern twist done the French way, with saffron broth and heirloom grits.
• Lemon Tart – tart, buttery, and perfectly portioned.

Why It’s Perfect for Romance

Stepping into Print Works Bistro feels like entering a Parisian garden cafe. The dim lighting, soft jazz, and indoor-outdoor seating make this one of the most romantic venues I’ve experienced in the South. My partner and I celebrated our anniversary here, and we were seated next to their glass wall facing the garden—twinkling fairy lights included. The ambiance was quietly elegant, and every dish was a celebration in itself.

Their wine list is extensive, but don’t miss their seasonal cocktails. I had a lavender-infused gin martini that was both refreshing and subtly floral—ideal for a spring evening.

Guest Reviews

• “Absolutely enchanting. We felt like we were in Europe.”
• “The food was divine, but it’s the atmosphere that makes it magical.”
• “Perfect spot for an anniversary or engagement dinner.”

Booking & Saving Tips

• How to Reserve:
  Use OpenTable for seamless reservations—especially if you’re aiming for a garden view table.
• When to Go:
  Weekday evenings are less crowded, and you’re more likely to get a quiet corner.
• Deal Tip:
  Join the QW Hotel loyalty program (since the restaurant is part of Proximity Hotel) for occasional dining credits and early reservation perks.

🛎️ Travel Booking Tips (for out-of-town couples):
If you’re visiting Greensboro for a romantic getaway, consider bundling your hotel and flight via:

• Expedia – Great for package deals and frequent flash discounts.
• Booking.com – Offers flexible cancellation and frequent price drops.
• Kayak – Excellent for comparing flight + hotel combos.
• Resy – Another good platform for upscale dining reservations.

2. Green Valley Grill – Mediterranean Romance in the Heart of Greensboro

📍 Address: 622 Green Valley Rd, Greensboro, NC 27408
💰 Price Range: \$28–\$55 per person
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes:

• Wood-Fired Lamb Chops – juicy, smoky, with a rosemary red wine glaze.
• Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi – light pillows of handmade gnocchi in a sage butter sauce.
• Crème Brûlée Trio – classic vanilla, dark chocolate, and espresso variations.

My Experience

Green Valley Grill feels like an old-world European courtyard tucked into a modern boutique hotel. The arched windows, detailed wood interiors, and al fresco seating under trellises wrapped in greenery immediately set the tone. It’s refined, without being uptight—ideal for long, unhurried conversations.

I remember watching the sunset here while sipping on a citrusy white sangria. My partner and I shared a slow, three-course meal without ever feeling rushed. The service was impeccable—our server gave us thoughtful recommendations and ensured our glasses were never empty.

Guest Reviews

• “Perfect blend of upscale dining and relaxed charm.”
• “The patio is magical in the evening.”
• “The wine pairing was spot on—especially with the lamb.”

Booking & Budget Tips

• Where to Book: OpenTable or direct via the official website
• When to Go: Friday evenings are lively but book well in advance.
• Deal Tip: They offer fixed-price menus around holidays and special occasions like Valentine’s Day—book early to lock in a deal.

3. Undercurrent Restaurant – Sophisticated and Quietly Seductive

📍 Address: 327 Battleground Ave, Greensboro, NC 27401
💰 Price Range: \$35–\$70 per person
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes:

• Seared Scallops with Sweet Corn Risotto – elegant and bursting with flavor.
• Duck Breast with Blackberry Gastrique – bold yet balanced.
• Flourless Chocolate Torte – rich, smooth, and shareable.

What Made It Special

Undercurrent is where modern American fine dining meets Southern hospitality. The lighting is dim, the tables spaced generously, and the ambiance encourages hushed tones and focused attention on each other. We went on a rainy night, which somehow made it even more intimate—candlelight reflecting off the glass windows, soft piano in the background.

The attention to detail was outstanding. From the cloth napkins to the locally sourced ingredients, everything was done with intention. Our server was so knowledgeable she practically narrated the dish’s origin story—it elevated the entire experience.

Guest Reviews

• “Ideal for proposals or milestone celebrations.”
• “Quiet, romantic, and excellent wine selection.”
• “Each plate was a masterpiece.”

Reservation & Deal Hacks

• Best Platforms: Resy or direct website
• When to Book: Avoid Saturdays unless you reserve 2 weeks ahead
• Budget Tip: Look out for special tasting menus on weekdays—they’re often better value.

4. Hops Burger Bar – Casual, Cozy & Surprisingly Romantic

📍 Address: 2419 Spring Garden St, Greensboro, NC 27403
💰 Price Range: \$15–\$30 per person
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes:

• Carolina Burger – topped with chili, slaw, and cheddar.
• Truffle Parmesan Fries – crispy and addictive.
• Craft Beer Pairing Flight – locally curated and refreshing.

Why It Works for Casual Romance

Now, you might not think “burger bar” when you think “romantic,” but let me tell you—this place has charm. Dim lighting, vintage music, and the buzz of happy conversation create a relaxed and inviting vibe. Perfect for a low-pressure date where you want to keep things light and fun.

We sat in a booth near the window and ordered a build-your-own burger combo. There’s something deeply comforting about sharing fries and laughs without formality. It reminded us of our earlier days—playful, spontaneous, easy.

Guest Highlights

• “Best burgers in town with a cozy vibe.”
• “We go here every month for a fun date night!”
• “Service is quick, food is quality, atmosphere is chilled.”

Booking Tips

• Walk-ins Welcome – but arrive before 6:30pm on weekends
• Delivery Platforms: Uber Eats, DoorDash
• Savings Tip: Check their social media for weekday deals or limited-time menus.

5. 1618 West Seafood Grill – Upscale Coastal Dining with Soul

📍 Address: 1618 W Friendly Ave, Greensboro, NC 27403
💰 Price Range: \$40–\$75 per person
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes:

• Crispy Oyster Lettuce Wraps – sweet, salty, and crunchy.
• Lobster Mac and Cheese – decadently rich with real chunks of lobster.
• Bourbon Bread Pudding – sticky, warm, and unforgettable.

A Love Letter to Seafood and Southern Flair

This is where we went on our last night in Greensboro, and it was the perfect farewell. The interiors are stylish without being overdone—modern art on the walls, mood lighting, and quiet, upbeat jazz in the background. But the true star is the seafood: fresh, flavor-packed, and beautifully plated.

We shared a few small plates, sipped on a smoky mezcal cocktail, and toasted to a week of discovery. It felt indulgent but earned. If you’re seafood lovers like we are, this one’s a must.

What People Are Saying

• “Best seafood I’ve had outside the coast.”
• “Date night heaven—don’t miss the cocktails.”
• “Refined, relaxed, and absolutely delicious.”

How to Book & Save

• Reservations: Recommended on OpenTable
• Best Time: Late evenings midweek—quieter and sometimes discounted small plate nights
• Savings Tip: Sign up for the 1618 email list for early notice of tasting nights and prix fixe events.

💡 Final Travel & Booking Advice for Romantic Evenings in Greensboro

Whether you’re local or traveling in for a special weekend, here are some tips to help you make the most of your dining experience:

📍 Best Booking Platforms

• OpenTable – easiest for most restaurants here
• Resy – especially for boutique, upscale spots
• Yelp – great for browsing and last-minute changes
• Tock – used for chef’s tables or tasting menus

🧾 How to Save More

• Use Groupon for dining coupons in Greensboro
• Check credit card reward portals like Chase Dining or Amex Offers
• Call restaurants directly and ask about prix fixe menus, especially for Valentine’s Day or anniversaries

✈️ Traveling In?

If you’re flying or staying overnight for your Greensboro date:

• Use Expedia, Hotels.com, or Priceline for combo hotel + flight deals
• TripAdvisor can also give you updated traveler reviews and availability alerts
• Google Flights is excellent for last-minute air travel planning

❤️ Small Town, Big Romance

Greensboro might not be Paris, but it surprised me in the best possible way. It’s a city with heart—offering intimate corners, passionate chefs, and thoughtful service that all come together to create the perfect backdrop for love. Each of these restaurants added something unique to our time here: elegance, ease, indulgence, and joy.

So if you’re planning a romantic evening in North Carolina, don’t overlook Greensboro. Light a candle, share a dessert, clink your glasses—and let this charming Southern town be the setting for your next beautiful memory.