5 Candlelit Restaurants in Kentucky Perfect for a Cozy Night Out

Whether you're in an established relationship or trying to woo someone you've had your eye on for a while, food is a quick way to someone's heart. Heading out for an intimate meal is a great way to put a spark into (or back into) a relationship, and we've got plenty of romantic restaurants in Kentucky to choose from. An upscale meal at a romantic storybook restaurant with a cozy atmosphere sounds like a great way to remind your significant other just how much they mean to you. If you're on the hunt for a perfect place to bring your favorite person, we've got you covered with these date night restaurants in the Bluegrass State.

1. Dudley's on Short (Lexington)

Dudley's on Short has been a staple of the Lexington dining scene since it opened in 1981, and it's easy to see why. This award-winning gem uses locally-grown ingredients whenever possible, and you can really taste the freshness and quality of all the food. The restaurant has a more refined section in the back if you're looking for something a little more private than the livelier bar area towards the front of the building. Make sure you save room for dessert: the s'mores featuring homemade marshmallows are absolutely divine and the perfect treat to share with your sweetheart.

2. Rodney's on Broadway (Georgetown)

Not only does Rodney's on Broadway have a cozy and upscale dining room, there's also a warmly-lit patio that's great for a summer date night. The menu is full of a wonderful variety of shareable appetizers to start off your meal on a bright note, and it only gets better from there. The steaks and seafood are definitely worth raving about. If you're a fan of lamb, the award-winning lamb chops are among the restaurant's most popular items, but there's plenty more to choose from, including duck, pork shoulder, and crab cake.

3. Otto's (Covington)

Otto's is one of our favorite restaurants in Northern Kentucky, and it's a bit more low-key than many of the options on this list. Don't let that deter you, though: the food is incredible, and you'll find an intimate atmosphere that's just as good of an option for date night as any fine dining spot. The family-owned restaurant opened more than 20 years ago and serves up amazing Southern eats. You can even enjoy year-round al fresco dining thanks to the outdoor area's heaters.

4. Volare Italian Ristorante (Louisville)

Louisville's Volare Italian Ristorante just might serve the best Italian food in all of Kentucky. The restaurant has received national attention for its incredible selection of pasta and seafood dishes. The elegant interior features romantic candle-lit tables and murals of Italian scenes on the wall. The restaurant's menu changes seasonally to ensure the highest quality, so each visit brings a whole new experience. It might not be quite as romantic as an actual trip to Italy, but it's the next best thing that you can get in the Bluegrass State!

5. 610 Magnolia (Louisville)

610 Magnolia has a simple name (its moniker is also its address), but the menu is full of intricate delights with flavor profiles that will blow your mind. The extensive array of drink choices means you'll always have the perfect complement to enjoy with your food. The selections include Southern classics influenced by other cultures and the tasting menu changes from week to week. Note that reservations are required, so you'll need to plan your date night in advance.

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