There’s something inherently romantic about fire—its warmth, its glow, and the intimacy it creates. When combined with exceptional food, open flame cooking elevates a dinner date from memorable to magnetic. Across the country, upscale restaurants are using live-fire kitchens to enhance both flavor and ambiance. Here’s a curated list of romantic spots where open flames set the stage for unforgettable evenings.
- Zaytinya – Washington, D.C.
Curated by Chef José Andrés, this Eastern Mediterranean restaurant uses wood-fired grills to craft tender meats and smoky dips. The glowing open kitchen adds visual flair to every meal.
Link: Zaytinya - Lilia – Brooklyn, NY
Chef Missy Robbins’ Italian restaurant in Williamsburg is beloved for its open wood-burning hearth, where fire-roasted clams and grilled vegetables set the tone for a cozy, candlelit dinner.
Link: Lilia - Girl & the Goat – Chicago, IL
A buzzy but intimate space where open fire grilling adds a rustic-yet-sexy charm. Try the wood-roasted oysters or grilled broccoli with garlic vinaigrette.
Link: Girl & the Goat - Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse – Nationwide
With premium steaks cooked to perfection over high heat and a refined setting full of dark wood, leather booths, and low lighting, Del Frisco’s makes fire-kissed luxury feel intimate.
You can get rewarded at Del Frisco’s with a discounted gift card from Fluz. - The Charter Oak – St. Helena, CA
Chef Christopher Kostow’s upscale-yet-earthy spot is built around a massive open hearth. Dishes like ember-roasted beets and grilled short ribs bring the heat—literally and figuratively.
Link: The Charter Oak - RPM Italian – Multiple Locations
A modern Italian restaurant known for sleek interiors, perfectly charred steaks, and smoked cocktails. Ideal for couples craving upscale energy and classic romance.
Link: RPM Italian
Saving money on upscale date nights
While dining at upscale spots doesn’t come cheap, savvy diners are finding ways to cut costs without cutting corners. Before making a reservation, check whether your restaurant is a Fluz partner. You can save money on date night by buying a gift card for the exact amount due—often while earning instant cashback.
