A roaring fireplace. Impeccable service. Wonderful food. While each of us probably has a different definition of "romantic," you won't go wrong with any of the following Pittsburgh area restaurants when it comes to a romantic dining experience.
1. Hyeholde
190 Hyeholde Dr., Moon Township, PA
412-264-3116
Long considered one of Pittsburgh's most romantic restaurants, Hyeholde is located on acres of woodland gardens in a castle with slate roofed towers in Moon Township. Small dining rooms and delicious contemporary cuisine provide a luxurious, intimate dining experience. For an extra-special meal, you may want to consider visiting and selecting a particular table in advance as each seating area has its own charm.
2. Isabela on Grandview
1318 Grandview Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA
412-431-5882
This romantic restaurant sits perched atop Mt. Washington with a breathtaking view of the downtown skyline. Even better than the view, however, is the exquisitely prepared food, especially the meats and desserts. The menu is a prix fixe "fixed price" seven course experience, and the small intimate setting (seating 40 on two floors) adds to the charm.
3. The Back Porch Restaurant
114 Speers Street, Lower Speers, PA
724-483-4500
This romantic restaurant ensconced in an antique filled, 200-year-old house, is a popular spot for couples celebrating special occasions. A variety of rooms a cozy dining experience and the menu offers some neat twists on traditional American cuisine. Located about 30 miles south of Pittsburgh in Belle Vernon.
4. Eleven
1150 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA
412-201-5656
A readers pick for “Best Romantic Restaurant” in the Pittsburgh Magazine’s “Best of the ‘Burgh 2010,” this elegant eatery on the edge of the Pittsburgh Strip District features intimate dining in several private dining rooms. The ambience is elegantly casual (you will find some diners in jeans), with delicious, upscale food and an extensive wine list. Each dining room has its own mood, so either pick your favorite in advance, or let them know what you're looking for when you make the reservation.
5. The Century Inn
3023 National Pike, Farmington, PA
800-274-7138
One of the original wayside inns along the National Road, the Century Inn first opened its doors in 1794 to travelers seeking renewed health in the waters of nearby Fayette Springs. Five historic dining rooms are decorated with rare antique pieces and the food is delicious and beautifully presented. To extend the romance, book a room in the inn.
6. Spoon
134 South Highland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA
412-362-6001
Contemporary, warm and inviting, Spoon in East Liberty features a delicious modern American "Farm to Table" menu, driven by local and sustainable products from the Pittsburgh region. A unique cocktail selection, diverse wine list, and outstanding staff round out the entire inviting dining experience.
7. Hartwood Restaurant
3400 Harts Run Road, Glenshaw, PA
412-767-3500
Set amid wooded hills and turn-of-the-century homesteads in Glenshaw, this unassuming building straddles the line between gourmet restaurant and charming library. There are plenty of nooks and crannys for romance, with the most asked for setting the bookstore balcony set with an intimate table for two. The daily changing menu gains inspiration from Pacific Rim cuisine, and is always fresh and fun. If you call ahead and ask, the staff will go out of their way to make any occasion a very romantic one.
8. 17th Street Cafe
75 South 17th Street, Pittsburgh, PA
412-381-4566
One of Pittsburgh's hidden gems, the 17th St Cafe on the Pittsburgh South Side serves up delicious cuisine in an unpretentious, Tuscan-style setting. The ambience is intimate but fun, and it's location a block off the main Carson St. drag helps keep it quiet. It's also a bit more moderately priced than many of the other entries on this list. Reservations recommended, especially on City Theater nights.
9. The Melting Pot
125 West Station Square Drive, Station Square
412-261-3477
Yes, it is a chain restaurant, but something about fondue for two just says "romance." And because there is so much "hands on" involved during the meal, it can especially be good for a date with someone you're just getting to know. Just make sure you leave room for the yummy chocolate dessert fondue!
10. Dish Osteria and Bar
128 S 17th St., Pittsburgh, PA
724-934-3000
If you're looking for something a little more trendy and lively than the typical romantic restaurant, Dish serves up a daily changing menu, great drinks and delectable desserts, in a fun, intimate setting. It's one of those places you could walk right by and not even notice, but the food and atmosphere will bring you back again and again. Reservations a must because this place is tiny!
