February 11, 2025

Romanic Restaurants for a Winter Date Night North of Boston

Are you looking for a romantic night out with your S.O. this winter? From charming downtown centers to intimate historic settings, these restaurants bring a cozy ambiance and delicious flavors to your night out. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, planning a first date, or just looking for a special night out, here are some of the most romantic dining destinations north of Boston.

grove main dining area

Grove | Rowley

New American

Grove at Briar Barn Inn is a post-a-beam barn restaurant serving local and seasonal cuisine in a relaxed farmhouse setting. The menu changes frequently, but you'll always find house-made pasta, fresh seafood, seasonal salads and soups, and comforting favorites.

Reservations

 

carmine

Carmine | Newburyport

Italian

Carmine is an intimate Italian restaurant in the heart of downtown Newburyport. Serving traditional but unexpected Italian, Sicilian, and Mediterranean dishes with Fresh Pasta, Seafood and Prime Steak.

PHOTO FROM CARMINE

Reservations

 

settler salem

Settler | Salem

Mediterranean

Settler is a mediterranean-inspired restaurant with influences from Southern France, Italy, Spain, Egypt, and Morocco. Tucked away on Lynde Street in historic Salem, MA, Settler is a cozy but chic neighborhood spot.

PHOTO FROM SETTLER

Reservations

 

hart house

Hart House | Ipswich

New American

Enjoy hearty dishes in their colonial farmhouse or tavern bar. With its combination of historical ambiance and diverse menu, the 1640 Hart House provides a unique dining experience that captures the essence of early American architecture and cuisine.

PHOTO FROM HART HOUSE

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the james

The James | Essex

Irish Fare

The James is a modern Irish gastro pub offering elevated comfort food. Choose from a variety of seating, including a cozy study or charming greenhouse.

PHOTO FROM THE JAMES

Reservations

 

short and main

Short & Main | Gloucester

Pizza & Raw Bar

Short & Main is a contemporary bistro featuring wood-fired pizza, raw bar, and craft cocktails in downtown Gloucester. The restaurant emphasizes high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, crafting a menu that reflects both creativity and seasonality.

PHOTO FROM AFAR

Reservations

 

taku

Taku Sushi Bar | Beverly

Japanese

Taku is an upscale Japanese fusion restaurant serving a variety of traditional and specialty sushi rolls, sashimi, and hot appetizers in a cozy setting. The restaurant is known for its fresh, high-quality sushi and creative menu offerings.

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