Date Night
Sex and the Capital City: Austin's top spring date spots
As I mentioned a few columns ago, I’ve joined the ranks of coupledom, forgoing my Friday nights of couch time for romantic dinners and date nights. And with spring finally sprung, there’s no better time than the present to get out and about and enjoy the weather while it lasts.
And while I’m certainly no overnight expert on the matter, I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite sweet spots for a night with your special someone. You know, before the heat prevents you from standing any closer than three-feet apart.
Twinkle lights, French cuisine, and jazz. What’s not to like? This East Austin spot is a hotbed of weekend activity, but its romantic nature makes it perfect for some canoodling in the corner booth. Or something that sounds less vomit-inducing…
Another romantic patio, smack dab in the middle of the SoCo bustle. Enjoy seafood at its freshest, while sipping cocktails like the lemon gypsy and The Passenger. A known aphrodisiac, oysters are the perfect way to kick off this meal, which are available at $0.50 during happy hour.
Once you’ve wrapped up your dreamy seafood date, head on over to the bar at Hotel San Jose, where you can enjoy some of the city’s most refreshing libations from the comfort of a poolside bungalow. Enjoy the Tinto de Verano, a surprisingly delicious concoction that combines red wine with tangerine soda. Plus, there’s a high likelihood that you and your special someone will rub elbows with one of Austin’s visiting celebrities.
There’s something great about a date at the sushi bar — chatting with each other and witnessing sushi mastery. With a slew of friendly chefs behind the knives, you’ll not only eat a great meal, but maybe even make a new friend while you’re at it. Ask for Wantu. He’s the best.
Another patio! It’s beyond important to soak up the sweat-free sun while we can, and Contigo couldn’t be a better place to do it. While this isn’t a spot for the meat-phobic, it’s the perfect place for sampling small plates with your sweetheart. Wait for a table under a cozy blanket, while you enjoy one of the finest Old Fashioneds Austin has to offer.
This is a throwback to my high school self. Not feeling intimate enough for a dinner date? Casual coffee is the way to go, and Mozart’s outdoor setting is the perfect scenario. Break the ice over some iced coffee, from the picnic tables that line Lake Austin.