Best First Date Restaurants in Miami for Food, Wine, and Vibes

For optimal romantic ambiance, grab an outdoor table at this beloved Italian gem on Giralda Avenue, where twinkling lights set the scene. Helmed by Chopped champion and James Beard Award nominee Giorgio Rapicavoli, Luca Osteria is celebrated for its vibrant antipasti and freshly made pastas. The cocktails are strong, the wine list is thoughtful, and the portions are just right—especially if you’re not ready to split an entrée on date one.

My go-to? The Pasta al Limone, made with mafaldine, 24-month Parmigiano Reggiano, and plenty of fresh lemon. And I always save room for the pistachio semifreddo.

One of the most elegant spots in Miami, Lido is ideal for a first date where you want to make a lasting impression. Start with drinks at the Champagne Bar—home to the city’s largest collection of bubbly—then transition to the refined dining room, where the understated tropical design feels plucked from the Amalfi Coast.

Chef Marco Calenzo, originally from Florence, offers a tasting menu (with wine pairings) that’s never steered me wrong. It’s a perfect choice when you want the meal to last a little longer—more time for conversation, and more courses to enjoy together.

If you’re after a casual yet stylish backdrop for a first date, ViceVersa hits the mark. I knew it would become a favorite the moment Valentino Longo—one of Miami’s most talented bartenders—joined forces with the team behind Sunny’s Steakhouse (and formerly Jaguar Sun).

The bar focuses on aperitivo-style cocktails made primarily with Italian spirits. Think low-ABV sips like an Aperol Spritz or an Americano—or go bolder with the Martini Doppio, a pitch-perfect blend of a Gibson and a slightly dirty martini. Pair your drinks with a flavorful crudo or a fresh-from-the-oven pizza, and you’ve got all the right ingredients for a memorable first date.

A classic Miami staple, Mandolin offers an intimate patio that feels straight out of a Mediterranean mood board. Once the sun sets, the space glows with soft lantern light, giving the whole evening an extra layer of romance.

The menu is built for sharing, with mezze and mains designed to encourage lingering and sampling. While there’s no liquor license, the wine list is extensive, and the staff is always happy to suggest a pairing based on your order.

Tucked away in North Miami, Edan Bistro is an under-the-radar gem serving Basque cuisine with a modern twist—something you don’t see often in Miami. You can order à la carte, but the eight-course tasting menu is the real standout. At $100 per person, it’s a steal, featuring some of chef Aitor Garate Berasaluze’s signature dishes, including his much-loved Basque cheesecake.

Chef Aitor is often on hand to offer wine advice—he’s also a trained sommelier—which makes the meal feel personal, thoughtful, and like the perfect start to something memorable.