Where To: Date Night – The Best Date Night Restaurants in St. George

Southern Utah, with its dramatic red rock scenery and vibrant atmosphere, provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable date night… until you realize there are a measly 17 restaurants on OpenTable. 

You’re in luck: we’ve compiled (and eaten at) some of the best restaurants in town, sharing all the mouth watering secrets. Don’t worry, lovebirds, this guide highlights some of St. George’s most romantic restaurants, offering an ambiance and cuisine guaranteed to make sparks fly.

For the Foodie Couple with a Modern Twist: Wood Ash Rye

Wood Ash Rye – or WAR as we lovingly refer to it – is a date night staple in our house.

Located in the lobby of the Avenire, a cool hotel located in downtown, Wood Ash Rye has plenty of street parking nearby (or if you’re feeling fancy, valet!). Turn around any corner and find yourself amongst some of St. George’s best thrift stores.

The menu changes seasonally, ensuring the freshest, most innovative dishes around. The plates are served tapas style – and the kitchen boasts a mean bakery cooking up billowy biscuits we will never skip. Between the two of us, we often share 3-5 plates.

The open kitchen allows you to witness the culinary magic firsthand, and the knowledgeable waitstaff is happy to explain each dish and recommend perfect wine pairings. Head on over early to grab a craft cocktail at the bar before your reservation (oh yeah, make sure to make one of those!).

A Traditional Feel with an Intimate Dining Space: Aragosta

We had to include a fan favorite on the list, and Aragosta is that location. This upscale restaurant combines American and European cuisine, giving you that traditional “fancy” feeling that’s perfect for anniversaries, birthday dinners, or a nicer date night. The plates are large – making it easier to reach over the table and steal some of your partners dinner.

The extensive wine list boasts options from around the world, ensuring you’ll find the perfect bottle to complement your meal. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet intimate, perfect for conversation and connection, but it can be quiet if you go early and the dining room isn’t completely full.

The only downside? The location. With all the beauty our towns have to offer, this restaurant is located behind… Target. It’s in a parking lot, surrounded by buildings, which feels a little underwhelming when you pull up, but the interior transforms you to an entirely new, romantic place. The ultimate: don’t judge a book by it’s cover.

Be sure to make a reservation in advance, as this spot tends to fill up quickly.

A Nestled New Jewel: Nonna Ina Italian

Craving a taste of Italy? Nonna Ina Italian won’t disappoint. This charming restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening.

Another don’t judge a book by it’s cover restaurant, Nonna Ina is located in a parking lot behind a… gas station. But don’t be fooled, this gem hides yummy dishes behind it’s doors. 

The menu features classic Italian dishes prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. And I’ll be honest: any Italian restaurant with gnocchi is an instant favorite for me, and this one is delicious. For an extra touch of romance, consider splitting a bottle of their house-made limoncello – because they don’t do booze.

Your Tastebuds Will Spin in Hurricane at: Pig’s Ear American Bistro

Less formal, more communal: this location is a household favorite, though it’s further out of the way for these St. George locals. Pig’s Ear is a lively gastropub offering a delightful mix of classic American comfort food with a modern twist.

Juicy burgers piled high with gourmet toppings, like their signature fig and goat cheese creation, or the crowd-favorite Parmesan crusted chicken cutlets on a bed of steaming hot mashed potato. The chef is from San Francisco, which means the flavors are incredible, the dishes innovative, and the bar: full.

They also have an ever-changing selection of creative small plates, perfect for sharing and conversation starters. Local beers and mocktails quench any thirst.

We almost don’t want to to let this little secret out of the bag: go try it while you can get in the door.

And that’s all folks! Don’t worry – we’re not done.

We’re still dining through town and discovering more delicious spots to share with you. Stay tuned for updates – and join our newsletter!