The Most Romantic Meals for a Date Night in NJ

There’s something about Palmer Square after sunset that feels quietly cinematic. Brick walkways glow under warm lights. Shop windows soften. Conversations are slow. It’s the kind of setting that invites you to linger, wander, and settle into the moment together.

At the Nassau Inn, we’ve watched countless date nights begin with a stroll through the Square and end with dessert under the stars. Over the years, our team has developed a deep appreciation for the romantic restaurants in NJ that make these evenings memorable. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, a birthday, or simply a well-earned night out, this is where magic happens.

These are our staff’s favorite romantic meals in the heart of Princeton, places where atmosphere, flavor, and experience come together effortlessly.

Yankee Doodle Tap Room

We’ll admit it, we’re biased. The Yankee Doodle Tap Room along with its rich historical significance is the heart of the Nassau Inn and one of the most iconic dining rooms in NJ. With its historic murals and intimate booths, it feels tailor-made for close conversation and unhurried dinners.

Dating back centuries, the Tap Room has hosted everyone from Princeton scholars to visiting dignitaries. Today, it remains a place where romance feels timeless rather than trendy.

Share-Worthy Dishes Made for Two

Some dishes are simply better when shared and date night is the perfect excuse.

Burrata Appetizer

Creamy burrata paired with roasted garlic crostini, garlic-herb honey, pistachios, and olive oil creates an indulgent yet light beginning. It’s the kind of starter that encourages slow bites, laughter, and the natural rhythm of conversation.

Wild Boar & Wagyu Ragù

Handmade pasta layered with a slow-cooked ragù feels deeply comforting and special all at once. The richness of wild boar and Wagyu makes this dish ideal for an anniversary or birthday dinner– elevated, rare, and quietly luxurious.

Beer-Braised Short Rib

A dish made for lingering. Fork-tender short rib, creamy mashed potatoes, and glazed carrots pair beautifully with a shared bottle of red. This is classic date-night comfort, done with care.

Wild Mushroom Strudel

Earthy mushrooms, spinach, feta, balsamic glaze, and roasted red pepper coulis create a beautifully balanced vegetarian entrée. Elegant, flavorful, and visually striking, it’s a favorite among couples who want something lighter without sacrificing romance.

Related: If you love vegetarian dining, explore our guide to Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants in Princeton.

Whether you’re splitting a few starters or settling into a cozy entrée-and-wine kind of night, the Yankee Doodle Tap Room makes romance feel easy– warm lighting, historic character, and dishes that invite you to linger a little longer.

View the Yankee Doodle Tap Room full menu.

Mediterra Restaurant and Taverna

Mediterra Restaurant and Taverna brings a European warmth to Palmer Square, especially in the warmer months when outdoor seating transforms dinner into an experience. Soft lighting, polished stone, and Mediterranean aromas set a relaxed yet intimate tone, ideal for couples who enjoy savoring each course.

Mediterranean Dishes Perfect for a Romantic Evening

Daily Oyster Appetizer

Oysters are a classic for a reason. Fresh, briny, and indulgent, they pair beautifully with a crisp white wine and invite couples to slow the pace of the evening.

House-Made Pappardelle with Mushroom Bolognese

Handmade pasta always feels intentional. This earthy mushroom bolognese strikes a perfect balance between comfort and refinement, making it an easy favorite for date nights.

Paella Clásica (for two or more)

Few dishes feel as celebratory as paella. Designed especially for sharing, it encourages conversation and connection. Bright saffron rice, seafood, chicken, and sausage creating a memorable centerpiece for the table.

View Mediterra’s menu.

Winberie’s Restaurant & Bar

Winberie’s brings a relaxed sophistication to Princeton dining. Known for its extensive craft beer selection, regional wines, and curated spirits, it’s ideal for couples who enjoy great food paired with a thoughtfully chosen drink.

What to Order for a Romantic Night Out

Autumn Flatbread

Caramelized onions, fig jam, prosciutto, grapes, and blue cheese hit that sweet-savory balance couples love. Light, visually appealing, and perfect for sharing.

Braised Beef Short Ribs

Rich and satisfying without feeling heavy, this entrée pairs beautifully with a bold red wine and an unhurried evening.

Steak Frites

A timeless bistro classic. Sliced hanger steak, truffle aioli, and crisp fries create a familiar yet indulgent date-night experience.

View the Winberie’s menu online.

Finish the Evening With a Romantic Dessert

No romantic meal is complete without something sweet. Palmer Square offers plenty of options worth the walk.

The Bent Spoon is beloved for small-batch ice creams, seasonal flavors and their famous, decadent hot chocolate.
Halo Fete offers whimsical French patisserie-inspired ice cream cakes that feel celebratory. You can also sip and savor gourmet coffees from Philly’s La Colombe while you satisfy your sweet tooth.

Romantic Gift Ideas to Complement Your Night

A thoughtful gift can extend the magic of the evening. Palmer Square makes it easy.

Lindt Chocolate and Thomas Sweet Chocolate are classics for a reason; simple, indulgent, and heartfelt.
Olsson’s Fine Foods offers cheeses, specialty goods, and gourmet staples perfect for creating a cozy charcuterie board at home.
Princeton Corkscrew Wine Shop features an expertly curated selection of wines to commemorate the evening.

Experience Romance at Palmer Square

Palmer Square remains one of the most romantic places in NJ, not because it tries to be, but because it simply is. Between historic dining rooms, thoughtful shopping, and quiet moments under the lights, it invites organic connection.

Whether you’re planning a first date, an anniversary dinner, or a spontaneous night out, romance unfolds easily here; one meal, one stroll, one shared moment at a time.