Dream about a date in paradise? Don't we all. For the ultimate tete a tete, take your amour to one of these romantic restaurants around the world, where the settings are as breathtaking as the food.
British Virgin Islands
Sugar Mill Restaurant
Tortola, British Virgin Islands
The unique setting of the Sugar Mill restaurant, the 370-year-old stone sugar mill with a tropical garden, can’t help but create an intimate and dreamy atmosphere. The nightly changing menu is imaginative and varied, and uses local seafood to produce such delights as Lobster bisque with basil croutons. Website.
Croatia
Atlas Club Nautika
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Just the breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the fortresses of Bokar and Lovrijenac will create a date to remember. The freshly caught seafood, regional dishes and impressive wine list are an added bonus. The renowned chef Mario Bunda creates imaginative dishes such as Sea bass with cuttlefish ink sauce using the freshest ingredients. Website.
France
Grand Vefour
Paris, France
Paris is the city of romance and Le Grand Vefour is a Parisienne institution. Located in the arcades of the Palais Royal, it boasts an impressive list of previous diners that includes Napoleon, Victor Hugo and Sartre. The ornate gold ceiling and mirrored interior makes a meal at this restaurant feel like the finest of occasions and the exquisite French food from chef Guy Martin will make it more special. Indulge yourselves and share their famous Palet aux noisettes, a delectable dessert of meringue cake with chocolate mousse, hazelnuts, and salted caramel ice cream. Website.
French Polynesia
Lagoon
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
The St Regis Bora Bora Resort is the ultimate holiday destination, and a meal at the Lagoon restaurant is like dining in paradise. Suspended over the crystal clear waters of the lagoon and with stunning views of Mount Otemanu, this deluxe restaurant delivers exquisite Polynesian and fusion food. Try the Duck à l'orange with crystallized tamarind or the Striped marlin bathed in a coconut and lemongrass broth. Website.
Greece
Ambrosia
Santorini, Greece
Ambrosia (pictured) is set in a small cave house carved into the Oia cliffs and if you are lucky enough to bag one of the 11 tables available on the terraces, dining under the stars will turn this special night into an unforgettable one. For the ultimate romantic meal, the upper terrace provides privacy and a breathtaking view, and inside the vaulted ceiling rooms also offer an intimate setting. The inventive take on traditional Greek cuisine such as Baby calamari sautéed with ouzo and crème fraiche pesto, will make this a memorable meal. Website.
Italy
L'Altro Mastai
Rome, Italy
This famous Roman restaurant with its elegant columns, vaulted ceilings and mosaics provides an intimate atmosphere that is ideal for a romantic date. Chef Fabio Baldassarre produces imaginative dishes such as Pecorino-filled tripe dumplings and Swordfish with cauliflower emulsion in a Beluga caviar and orange sauce. No website. T: +39 06 6830 1296.
Morocco
Le Tobsil
Marrakech, Morocco
This restaurant is set in a gorgeous old house in the medina where guests can dine among lanterns and petals on two levels around a traditional courtyard. The generous fixed menu, featuring time-honoured dishes such as tagine and couscous will satisfy your tastebuds and the gnawa musicians that play throughout your meal create an upbeat atmosphere. No website. T: 212 24 44 40 52.
Mexico
La Zebra
Tulum, Mexico
Enjoy some romance Mexican-style by dining at the La Zebra’s Platform restaurant, which looks out onto a stunning white sand beach. Experience a traditional Mexican feast in the glow of candle-lit chandeliers and savour home-style cooking whilst sipping on a potent Margarita. Dishes such as Fresh lime squeezed ceviche, and Tender slow lamb cooked in banana leaves in a brick BBQ will bring out the passion in you both. Website.
New Zealand
Huka Lodge Dining
Taupo, North Island, New Zealand
Huka Lodge is considered to be an iconic New Zealand retreat, and dining there does not disappoint. There are more than 20 indoor and outdoor private dining venues that offer the perfect ambience for romance. The candlelit Main Lodge, with panoramic views of the river and log fires is a great place to have a cosy meal a deux; however, if you want more seclusion, the Library or Study provide a confidential setting. The food is a fusion of Australian and French, and the menu changes daily according to the best produce available. Signature dishes include Freshwater lobster butter-poached with lemon-infused gnocchi and watercress, and Chocolate cake with espresso ice cream. Website.
United States
One if by land, Two if by sea
New York, US
Located in the heart of the West Village, this restaurant is housed in an old carriage house, which gives it its quirky look and romantic setting. Serving seasonal American cuisine, the restaurant’s candlelit dining room, blazing fireplaces and music from the baby grand piano are sure to put you in an amorous mood. With tuxedoed waiters and dishes such as Grilled octopus with apple, olives, new potatoes, pimento and Anise-dusted John Dory, this is a wonderful place to indulge. Website.
By Constance Cooper