The Day of Love In Columbus

Valentines Day is such a great excuse to make things feel extra special!  If you’re planning to go out to dinner for Valentine’s Day, that’s a classic choice for a romantic celebration! A nice dinner out can set the perfect tone for the evening. Here are a few restaurants we recommend to make your Valentine’s Day extra special:

The Refectory–1092 Bethel Rd. Columbus, OH 43220

Known for its exceptional French-inspired cuisine, elegant ambiance and impeccable service, its perfect for a truly special fine dining experience. Perfect for a more upscale special evening, the calm and serene ambiance makes it ideal for couples looking to enjoy a dinner in a quiet, romantic space. 

Lindeys–169 E. Beck St. Columbus, OH 43206

A European-style bistro known for its warm ambiance, outstanding service, and flavorful dishes. For a cozy yet refined atmosphere and vibe, this a fantastic choice especially if you're looking for a charming, romantic evening combined with excellent food. It strikes a wonderful balance between casual and upscale, making it great for a special occasion without being too formal.

Sushi Tango–1126 N High St. Columbus, OH 43201

For something a little different and fun, Sushi Tango is a great choice for couples who enjoy sushi.  The trendy vibe offers a creative sushi experience with a modern, sleek ambiance. Sushi Tango has a lively yet intimate feel, and the vibrant energy makes it an enjoyable spot for couples who are looking for something fun but still special.

The Top Steakhouse–2891 E. Main St. Columbus, OH 43209

The Top has been serving delicious steaks and a traditional steakhouse experience for decades.  It offers a cozy, old-school atmosphere that’s perfect for an intimate date and is a classic and timeless choice for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. The environment has a touch of elegance but isn’t too formal, which makes it perfect for a special quiet, romantic relaxed night out.

Third and Hollywood-1433 W. 3^rd Ave. Grandview Heights, OH 43212

 An upscale, yet relaxed restaurant located in the Grandview Heights area, offering a trendy vibe with a great menu. The restaurant has a modern atmosphere, with industrial-chic decor and a cozy, intimate setting—perfect for a romantic dinner. It’s not too formal, but it has a refined and polished feel, making it an excellent choice for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day without feeling overly stiff.

Veritas–11 W. Gay St. Columbus, OH 43215

Another great option for fine dining, Veritas offers a refined yet warm atmosphere with exceptional service and a contemporary American menu that focuses on seasonal ingredients and an impressive impeccable wine list. has a chic, modern feel with a cozy, intimate atmosphere. The stylish, minimalistic decor, combined with soft lighting and an open kitchen, creates a welcoming environment that’s perfect for a romantic evening. The space is intimate and upscale without being intimidating, making it a wonderful spot to relax and enjoy a meal together.

Butcher & Rose–155 E. Broad St. Columbus, OH 43215

A fantastic choice for a memorable Valentine's Day dinner in Columbus! Butcher & Rose offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and a thoughtfully curated menu. The ambiance is both modern and intimate but not overly formal, creating a perfect balance for a romantic night out. The candle-lit ambiance adds to the warmth and intimacy, making it ideal for special occasions.

Chouette–66 N. High St. Columbus, OH 43215

Located in the Short North, it’s a cozy, intimate spot with a French-inspired menu that makes for an intimate, romantic and upscale dining experience. Chouette has a chic, modern atmosphere, the decor is elegant yet approachable, and the lighting and ambiance make it a perfect setting for a romantic evening. The intimate and upscale atmosphere, combined with the creative, high-quality dishes, makes Chouette a fantastic choice for a romantic night out. It’s a little more on the sophisticated side, so if you're looking for something refined with a cozy feel, it’s perfect.

Barcelona–263 E. Whittier St. Columbus, OH 43206

Barcelona offers a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere with a Mediterranean-inspired menu. The restaurant has been a local favorite for years and is known for its delicious tapas and creative cocktails. Barcelona has a warm, rustic-chic vibe with lots of natural wood accents and a lively, cozy feel. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an atmosphere that’s both casual and elegant, with a touch of energy that doesn’t make it feel overly formal. It’s great for a romantic but relaxed dining experience.

Valentines Day is one of the busiest days and nights for most of these restaurants.  To ensure your night is extra special and you get the most out of every experience make sure you book reservations early.  Maybe even ask the restaurant if they can do something special for you, like rose petals on the table or a personalized dessert and dress up.  Dressing up a bit more than usual adds to the special occasion vibe. Plus, it's fun to feel extra fancy and enjoy a great time with your significant other!