When it comes to romance and fine dining, Richmond, Virginia offers many of the finest dining experiences for the die-hard romantic. Whether the cuisine is American, French fusion, or somewhere in between, Richmond offers three of the finest and romantic dining experiences I have personally experienced.
The restaurant that tops off the list of the top three most romantic dining experiences in Richmond is The Melting Pot. The Melting Pot is a high-end chain restaurant that offers all of the coziness and candle lit ambiance any couple could ask for. The location I went to is located at Gayton Crossing Shopping Center and was tucked away in an upscale strip mall. Despite going earlier during the day, the ambience after entering the restaurant was very swanky and romantic. We were greeted by a hostess and led to a very private booth with deep seats and low lights and candles. The menu was a fondue inspired experience. The cost is about $85 to $150 per couple and is well worth every dollar. My favorite fondue is the seafood and the dessert, which is simply decadent. The restaurant also has an excellent wine selection and any dinner course can be enhanced by a dinner photo and commemorative frame of the date.
Another restaurant which is excellent for the romantic first date, is the Tobacco Company located in Shockhoe Bottom. This restaurant is classy and offers a very private dining experience with a little metropolitan flair. Reservations are highly suggested. When entering the restaurant, the dark wood interior lets you know the restaurant is definitely a “pull out all the stops” destination. The main dining area is located upstairs and if you and your date take the elevator the view is amazing as you reach the second floor. The host or hostess greets you and seats you and then your waiter arrives promptly. The waiter is able to describe each menu item and provides impeccable attention to you. The appetizers are great and the main course to try is the prime rib au jus. The wine list is comparable to other fine restaurants in the area. Be prepared to spare no expense. A dinner for two will range from about $125 and up.
The last romantic choice happens to be a very low-key restaurant. The appeal of this restaurant is its casual feel and exotic cuisine. It is the Thai Diner off of Broad Street in West End Richmond. The appeal of this restaurant is the food and the way it is served made for sharing. The cuisine is made to order and can be made as spicy or mild as you like. Another signature of this restaurant is the atmosphere is very casual and makes for a romantic anytime of the week date night. The cost is inexpensive for the most part ranging from the mid thirties to about fifty dollars. The diner’s retro feel is a great conversation piece. The best part is many other couples that have some to have a casual but romantic night out will surround you.
