5 Candlelit Restaurants in Arizona Perfect for a Cozy Night Out

Whether you're in the mood for a romantic date night out or an upscale dining experience with loved ones, dim lighting and the flicker of a flame on a white linen-clad table create an intimate ambiance. Candlelit restaurants are typically elegant and luxurious, and even a bit cozy. With cocktails or glasses of wine ordered and beautifully plated cuisine, here are five romantic restaurants in Arizona for a dining experience you won't soon forget.

1. Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill (Sedona)

Owned by Chef Lisa Dahl, one of the top female chefs in the country, Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill is one of Sedona's best restaurants. This restaurant is rated as one of the top romantic restaurants in the country, and it's easy to see why when you dine here. Whether seated in the dining room or out on one of the patios, you'll be able to take in views of the city's famous red rock landscape during the day. And at night, there's an air of romance with flickering candlelight on the table as you dine on tapas and Latin-inspired dishes.

2. Cress on Oak Creek (Sedona)

Picture this: you and your special person are seated outside. There's white linen on the table and a candle glowing as you dine creekside at dusk. Romance is in the air and I can't think of any place better than Cress on Oak Creek for the ambiance you may be looking for. The food is European-inspired and made with fresh, local ingredients. It has also been named one of “The 15 Best Hotels for Food in the U.S.” on the Food & Wine Global Tastemakers List. Located on the L'Auberge de Sedona property, you can take a romantic weekend getaway here and won't have to leave the property.

3. Cafe Monarch (Scottsdale)

Perhaps one of the most romantic restaurants in Arizona, Cafe Monarch is exquisite in every sense of the word. As one of the top fine dining restaurants in the country, you and your special person can enjoy a selection of dishes from its four-course, seasonal pre-fixe menu. There's nothing quite like the dining experience you'll have here at Monarch. If you are unable to dine here, you can always drop by and enjoy a drink at the bar like I do with my friends every now and then.

4. First & Last (Phoenix)

Located in downtown Phoenix, a boyfriend and I went to First & Last on a romantic date, and it did not disappoint! Not only were the cocktails expertly handcrafted and unique but every bite food was better than the last. My absolute favorite dish, however, was the burrata which seemed to melt in my mouth. The ambiance was simultaneously eclectic and romantic, and it's a place I cannot wait to return to. To extend your date night, you can also visit its speakeasy, Little Debbie's, located downstairs.

5. Different Pointe of View (Phoenix)

There's something truly alluring about dining with a view. Add candlelight to a table, and you'll want to have every date night here at Different Pointe of View in Phoenix. Located at the summit of North Mountain at Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort, large floor-to-ceiling windows give way to sweeping views of the mountains and city in the distance. This fine dining establishment isn't just known for its views but many of its patrons rave about the pork tenderloin, lobster bisque, and cocktails.

Which of these romantic restaurants in Arizona have you been to? If you have another favorite restaurant for a romantic evening out, please tell us about it through our nomination page.