1st
The Marc
Service is such an important part of making sure a couple has a great date night. A good server knows (s)he doesn’t want to interrupt the conversation or the mood. But, with the right wine selections, and subtly making sure drinks are refilled, a good server can help the couple’s night go along that much better.
My wife and I have found that The Marc offers that perfect balance; we’ve never felt ignored, but we haven’t been annoyed by servers who want to tell us just how wonderfully their day has gone.
In the evening, The Marc is elegant without being intimidating. The cuisine is excellent, but not stuffy where a couple might feel intimidated because they’re not holding their knives or their stemware correctly. No televisions to distract, and no loud music that you need to scream to be heard over. If it’s a date night or a special event like an anniversary or a birthday, this is a spot that’s always worth the recommendation. -Steven Sandor
9940 106 St., 780-429-2828, themarc.ca
2nd
Rge Rd
Rge Rd is the perfect place to take a date with a more adventurous palate. The ambience is cozy and warm, with plenty of rustic accents, and the servers are attentive and knowledgeable. Kick off the meal by splitting the Kitchen Board; or, if you want the full experience, go for the Road Trip with wine pairings. -Adrianna MacPherson
10643 123 St., 780-447-4577, rgerd.ca
3rd
Corso 32
If you’re celebrating a special occasion, wanting to impress a date or just looking for a nice night out, Corso 32 won’t disappoint. Besides the beloved menu and extensive wine selection, the room, which only seats 34, is softly lit and intimate, and you can actually have a conversation with your loved one amongst the quiet hum. -Breanna Mroczek
10345 Jasper Ave., 780-421-4622, corso32.com
Best Spot for a First Date
Dorinku
If you’re not quite ready to make a romantic gesture and are just looking for a fun place to take a date, check out Dorinku. It’s a lively, contemporary spot with plenty of shareable Japanese fusion dishes, an extensive sake, cocktail and beer menu, and interactive decor – a vending machine and pachinko game – if you need a few talking points to get over any nerves. -Breanna Mroczek
10205 82 Ave., 780-988-9760, dorinku.ca