Rochester is simply overflowing with places to dine, drink, and play. Whether you’re looking for an elegant dining experience, classic cuisine paired with craft cocktails, or a fun, light-hearted atmosphere, a date night is in your future at these local favorites.
Upscale Dining
Black & Blue
Black & Blue Steak and Crab offers fine dining and quality food with gracious hospitality. They pride themselves in their “Trust Our Fish” program which allows you to trace all the details on where your meal came from, from boat to plate! Their award-winning beverage program includes creative cocktails, specialty beers, unique spirits, and an exceptional wine list.
Good Luck
Chef Dan Martello prepares "Food to Share," specializing in house made pastas, dishes from the smokehouse, and vegetable preparations reflecting the best the region and seasons have to offer. Enjoy the energy of the bar and award-winning craft cocktail program, as well as our dining room with a group of friends or for a special date.
Next Door by Wegmans
Next Door by Wegmans presents handcrafted sushi, entrees, and starters made with only the freshest ingredients. All menu items are natural, sustainable, and organic, ensuring customers they receive a top-quality meal. Also, don’t miss out on their extensive signature cocktail menu.
The Revelry
Established in 2013, The Revelry is a restaurant and bar in the Neighborhood of the Arts in Rochester, New York. They serve honest American cuisine that honors owner Josh Miles' upbringing in the mountains of Lowcountry of South Carolina. The spirits, wine, and beer they offer reflects a passion for artisanal, high-quality producers who put their heart and soul into the making of their product.
TRATA
TRATA provides the upscale feel of fine dining, but with a rustic twist for a more relaxed atmosphere. The vast menu of American fare guarantees everyone in your party will find something they to enjoy, along with a fun wine and beer wall where guests can serve themselves.
Velvet Belly
At Velvet Belly, Chef Jeremy Nucelli prepares dishes inspired by coastal cuisine from around the world. They also serve up whimsical and fun-loving cocktails in a lively bar atmosphere. Velvet Belly is proud to be part of the thriving food and beverage community within Rochester’s Public Market.
Craft Cocktails
The Cub Room
The Cub Room is your go-to, family-owned, American restaurant. Here, you will find only the freshest ingredients coming from local and regional vendors, and a menu rotating around the seasons. The main attractions at The Cub Room are their unique, speakeasy-style cocktails that come with a prohibition-inspired presentation just as divine as the cocktail itself.
Grappa
Grappa puts a modern twist on traditional Italian cuisine, whether you’re looking for an extravagant night out, or just want to grab a casual bite to eat with your significant other. The menu features pizzas, pastas, and “market” where you can order top quality steaks and fish. While you’re there, also be sure to try one of their famous craft cocktails, the “Cosmopolitan Bianca” or the “Manhattan Nero.”
Jojo Bistro & Wine Bar
Jojos has two locations in the Rochester area, Pittsford and Webster. The elegant yet fun atmosphere is the perfect spot for a date night if you’re looking to enjoy tasty food and relaxation. They are well known for their craft cocktails and wood-fired pizza, with something for everyone to indulge in.
Dining With Entertainment
The Playhouse // Swillburger
The Playhouse // Swillburger is all about fun and food, so if you’re looking to channel your inner child, this makes for the perfect date night. Swillburger is a modern, American burger joint with beef from local farms and buns from local bakeries. After indulging in your juicy burger, grab a milkshake or drink from the bar and head to the arcade, where you can spend hours playing over 30 classic games!
Radio Social
Radio Social is the perfect spot if you want a balance of good food, drinks, and entertainment. The venue not only offers a full dinner menu, but there is also Sunday brunch if you’re in more of a sweet mood. The craft cocktail bar and whiskey bar both offer specialty drinks and the basics, so there’s something for everyone. Last but not least, the 34 bowling lanes, outdoor and indoor games, and several lounge areas make for the perfect night out.
Tapas 177
Tapas 177 provides a unique atmosphere with a mix of a casual urban and elegant European vibe. Many nights, you can find live Latin music as well as other artists. Feel free to sit back and enjoy the tunes with dinner or get up and dance on the dance floor! The menu also includes a wide variety of cultural foods, and the vibrant bar scene provides a welcoming environment for all.
For more indulgent ideas for two, visit: www.visitrochester.com/restaurants.