From the hustle and bustle of Houston to the serene mountain air of Aspen, LUDC’s twin hometowns offer a plethora of charming restaurants perfect for a memorable date night. The ideal date night spot? Think mouthwatering cuisine, cozy corners with flickering candlelight, gorgeous interiors, and service that makes you feel like the only two people in the room. From Casa D’Angelo to Xochi, let’s explore some of the most intimate and enchanting eateries in both Aspen and Houston. Fall in love all over again—with your city and your partner!
The Most Romantic Restaurants in Houston & Aspen
Casa D’Angelo in Aspen
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First on LUDC Founder and CEO Laura Umansky’s list is Casa D’Angelo. Casa D’Angelo is an Italian restaurant located in Aspen, Colorado. Led by acclaimed chef Angelo Elia, Casa D’Angelo is known for its authentic Italian cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant offers a menu that celebrates traditional Italian flavors while incorporating locally sourced ingredients and seasonal specialties.
Dishes at Casa D’Angelo often include homemade pastas, fresh seafood, and expertly prepared meats—all crafted with a focus on quality and flavor. The restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients shines through in every dish.
The ambiance at Casa D’Angelo is elegant yet relaxed—making it an ideal spot for both intimate dinners and celebratory gatherings. The restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere—combined with its exceptional cuisine and attentive service—has made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike in Aspen.
Catch Steak in Aspen
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Another of Laura’s recommendations is Catch Steak—a contemporary steakhouse also located in Aspen. Part of the Catch Hospitality Group, which has other acclaimed restaurants in New York City and Los Angeles, Catch Steak brings its signature blend of upscale dining and vibrant atmosphere to the Rocky Mountains.
This restaurant is known for its innovative take on classic steakhouse fare—featuring high-quality cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and inventive appetizers and sides. Catch Steak offers a modern twist on traditional steakhouse favorites, with dishes that celebrate bold flavors and creative presentations. Their Wagyu Tartare and Classical Carpaccio are favorites at both Catch Steak Aspen and Catch Steak LA.
The restaurant’s sophisticated ambiance—with sleek decor, upscale furnishings, and a lively atmosphere—makes Catch Steak ideal for date nights. Whether you’re enjoying a perfectly cooked steak in the main dining room or sipping cocktails at the chic bar, the restaurant offers an elegant setting for a memorable dining experience that you and your date certainly won’t forget!
Matsuhisa in Aspen
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Of course, Matsuhisa made Laura’s list of romantic restaurants in Aspen! Founded by world-famous chef Nobu Matsuhisa, the restaurant is part of the Nobu Hospitality group and is known for its exceptional Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine—lovingly dubbed “Nobu style.”
The menu at Matsuhisa Aspen features a diverse selection of dishes that blend traditional Japanese techniques with South American flavors and ingredients. Signature dishes include Nobu’s famous black cod with miso, yellowtail jalapeño, and tiradito (a Peruvian-style sashimi)—among others. The restaurant emphasizes the use of fresh, high-quality seafood and seasonal ingredients to create dishes that are both flavorful and visually stunning.
In addition to its outstanding cuisine, Matsuhisa Aspen offers a sophisticated and intimate dining atmosphere. The restaurant’s sleek design and stylish ambiance make it a favorite among Aspen’s discerning diners and visitors alike.
Keep an eye on their Instagram for the next Aspen Sushi Club pop-up—hosted upstairs at the recently remodeled restaurant.
MARCH in Houston
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MARCH is first on LUDC COO Melissa Grove’s list of date night spots—followed by Le Jardinier, Bludorn, and Nancy’s Hustle. This upscale restaurant is known for its elegant ambiance, innovative cuisine, and impeccable service. Situated in a historic building in the heart of Houston’s Montrose neighborhood, MARCH offers a refined yet approachable dining experience perfect for a memorable date night.
The restaurant’s menu is inspired by French and American culinary traditions—featuring seasonal ingredients and boasting creative flavor combinations. Dishes at MARCH are expertly crafted by Chef Felipe Riccio, who brings a modern sensibility to classic recipes.
What makes MARCH a good date night spot? It exudes elegance and charm, with a beautifully appointed dining room featuring plush seating, soft lighting, and gorgeous decor. The intimate atmosphere sets the stage for a romantic evening. Plus, the staff at MARCH is attentive and professional. From the moment you arrive until the moment you leave, you’ll feel well taken care of.
Le Jardinier in Houston
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According to Patricia Sharpe in an article for Texas Monthly, Le Jardinier is “the best restaurant in Texas, and one of the best in the U.S.” Le Jardinier is a sophisticated fine dining restaurant celebrated for its elegant ambiance and inventive vegetable-forward cuisine. The restaurant is part of the acclaimed Le Jardinier group, with locations in New York City and Miami as well as Houston.
Led by Michelin-starred chef Alain Verzeroli, Le Jardinier offers a menu that celebrates seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on vegetables as the star of the show. Dishes are artfully plated and thoughtfully composed. The restaurant’s name—which translates to “the gardener” in French—reflects its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Le Jardinier strives to minimize waste and maximize flavor, with a menu that highlights the bounty of the earth in creative and unexpected ways.
The restaurant also boasts a sleek and modern dining room designed by award-winning architect Joseph Dirand. The restaurant’s chic decor and attentive service create a memorable dining experience that is perfect for special occasions or intimate dinners.
Bludorn in Houston
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Melissa also recommends Bludorn—an acclaimed restaurant located in Houston that is known for its inventive and refined American cuisine. Opened in 2020 by chef Aaron Bludorn—who previously worked at the three-Michelin-starred restaurant Per Se in New York City—Bludorn quickly gained attention for its exceptional food, warm hospitality, and elegant ambiance.
The menu at Bludorn showcases a creative approach to classic dishes, with an emphasis on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Chef Bludorn’s culinary expertise is evident in every dish—from beautifully plated appetizers and inventive salads to expertly cooked meats and seafood entrees. The restaurant also offers a thoughtfully curated wine list and craft cocktails to complement the menu offerings.
Nancy’s Hustle in Houston
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Melissa and her husband love sitting real close and cozying up to the bar at Nancy’s Hustle. Nancy’s Hustle is a popular neighborhood restaurant located in Houston known for its inventive and eclectic cuisine, laid-back atmosphere, and welcoming hospitality. It has garnered widespread acclaim since opening its doors in 2017.
The menu at Nancy’s Hustle offers a creative blend of flavors and influences, with dishes that range from elevated comfort food to inventive small plates. Highlights include their famous Nancy Cakes, a savory take on pancakes served with house-made butter and caviar, as well as dishes like crispy fried chicken thighs, wood-grilled octopus, and a variety of seasonal salads and vegetable sides.
In addition to its innovative cuisine, Nancy’s Hustle features an impressive beverage program, with a curated selection of natural wines, craft beers, and creative cocktails to complement the menu offerings. The restaurant’s cozy yet stylish interior, with exposed brick walls, dim lighting, and an open kitchen, creates a relaxed and inviting atmosphere perfect for casual dining and socializing.
MF Sushi & Katmai in Houston
LUDC Marketing Manager Michelle Naik recommends MF Sushi & Katmai, Nobie’s, and Coltivare for your next date night! To start, MF Sushi is a renowned Japanese restaurant that is known for its exceptional sushi and traditional Japanese cuisine. Led by Chef Chris Kinjo, the restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring a variety of sushi and sashimi, as well as hot and cold small plates, robata-grilled dishes, and omakase tasting menus.
