Austin, TX, January 28, 2026
OpenTable has announced its 2026 list of the Top 100 Romantic Restaurants in the U.S., determined through an analysis of over nine million diner reviews. The list highlights restaurants recognized for exceptional dining experiences, making it the perfect guide for couples seeking romantic settings. Leading the list is Ci Siamo in New York City, known for its authentic Italian cuisine and ambiance. The annual rankings not only celebrate culinary excellence but also emphasize the economic impact of dining establishments on local communities.
OpenTable’s 2026 List of America’s Top 100 Romantic Restaurants
Explore the Best Dining Experiences Across the Nation
Austin, TX – OpenTable has recently released its list of the Top 100 Romantic Restaurants in the United States for 2026, showcasing restaurants recognized for providing exceptional dining experiences tailored for special occasions. This annual list is built on an extensive analysis of over nine million diner reviews collected between December 1, 2024, and November 30, 2025. The reviews are assessed based on diner ratings, reservation trends, and the frequency of “romantic” tags, underscoring the relevance of customer sentiment in the restaurant industry.
The 2026 list serves not just as a guide for couples seeking the perfect dining setting for anniversaries, proposals, or romantic evenings but also highlights the prowess of restaurateurs and chefs committed to delivering memorable experiences. These culinary establishments contribute significantly to their local economies, influencing both tourism and community pride.
Notable Rankings and Highlights
Topping the list is Ci Siamo, a modern Italian restaurant located in New York City, celebrated for its authentic Roman pasta dishes and a romantic atmosphere. Several other notable establishments that made the list include:
- 71Above – Los Angeles, CA
- Jeune et Jolie – Carlsbad, CA
- Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch – Santa Barbara, CA
- The Marine Room – San Diego, CA
- FARM – Palm Springs, CA
- Gary Danko – San Francisco, CA
- Bern’s Steak House – Tampa, FL
- The Olde Pink House Restaurant – Savannah, GA
- Tidepools at Grand Hyatt Kauai – Poipu, HI
- Butcher & Singer – Philadelphia, PA
The Economic Impact of Dining Establishments
Restaurants are often pivotal in boosting the local economy through job creation and attracting patrons from other regions. The hospitality sector, especially fine dining and romantic restaurants, contributes significantly to economic growth, particularly in vibrant cities like Austin. These establishments not only provide culinary delights but also enhance the community’s overall appeal. The reduction of red tape surrounding small business operations can further invigorate local dining scenes, allowing innovative entrepreneurs to thrive.
Furthermore, romantic restaurants often serve as venues for celebrations, thereby playing an integral role in the local social fabric. They nurture local suppliers and create a ripple effect of economic opportunities in adjacent sectors, benefiting the entire community.
Recognizing Culinary Excellence
The recognition for being listed among America’s top romantic restaurants often leads to increased visibility, higher reservations, and greater customer loyalty. This accolade acts as a badge of honor for chefs and restaurant owners who pour their passion into their dishes and experiences. It encourages other local businesses to elevate their standards to achieve similar recognition.
As community-centric venues, these romantic restaurants exemplify the spirit of hospitality and innovation. They serve as a testament to the resilience of small-business owners, adapting to challenging economic climates while maintaining high standards of service and culinary excellence.
Call to Action
Austin residents and visitors alike are encouraged to support these remarkable establishments that contribute to our local economy. Dining at these top-ranked restaurants not only provides an exceptional experience but also stimulates economic growth within the community. Additionally, advocating for supportive policies that promote entrepreneurship and reduce regulatory burdens can create an even more thriving environment for local businesses.
As we delve deeper into 2026, let’s celebrate the commitment of local small businesses and their role in shaping Austin’s distinctive culinary landscape.
FAQ
What criteria were used in compiling the Top 100 Romantic Restaurants list?
The list was compiled based on over nine million diner reviews, evaluating factors such as diner ratings, reservation trends, and the prevalence of “romantic” tags in reviews.
Which restaurant topped the list for 2026?
The top-ranked restaurant is Ci Siamo, a modern Italian restaurant in New York City known for its classic Roman pasta dishes.
Why are romantic restaurants important for the local economy?
Romantic restaurants contribute significantly to economic growth by creating jobs, attracting tourism, and enhancing community pride and social interactions.
Key Features of OpenTable’s 2026 Top 100 Romantic Restaurants
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Data Source | Over nine million diner reviews |
| Top Restaurant | Ci Siamo, New York City |
| Other Notable Restaurants | 71Above, Jeune et Jolie, Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch, and more |
| Evaluation Criteria | Diner ratings, reservation trends, prevalence of “romantic” tags |
| Economic Contribution | Job creation, tourism attraction, community appeal |
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Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
