First Date Spots in Bay Area

Buddy is a cozy wine bar in the Mission, where checkered floors, lush greenery and vinyl records spinning all night set the scene for a laid-back first date. Grab a glass of wine and a few small bites, then settle in for good conversation in a space that feels effortlessly cool without trying too hard.

Burdell brings a warm, nostalgic charm to Oakland’s Temescal neighborhood, making it a great spot for a first date over Southern-inspired soul food. Chef Geoff Davis pairs locally inspired cooking with a dining room full of character, from vintage ovens and cane-backed chairs to family photos that make the space feel personal. Grab a seat at the bar, order a glass of wine and get to know each other over a memorable meal.

Corner Bar is a lively neighborhood spot in Mill Valley, where steaks and cocktails make for a relaxed dinner date. Grab a table outside for an al fresco meal, or settle in at the bar for drinks and conversation.

Ethel’s Fancy brings a creative twist to date night in Palo Alto, with a seasonal menu that pairs fresh seafood and local produce with Japanese-inspired ingredients like shiso, yuzu and koshihikari rice. Grab a seat at the bar for a more casual first date, or book a table for a proper dinner together. Weekends fill up quickly, so reservations are recommended.

Ettan is a two-floor Indian restaurant in Palo Alto, and the entrance is through an alley. Inside, a domed skylight and walls lined with intricate blue flowers set the look of the room. It suits a date night or a special occasion, with great cocktails to match.

Penny Roma brings a little Italian romance to San Francisco’s Mission District, with a seasonal menu of handmade pastas and classic dishes like tagliatelle bolognese and agnolotti dal plin. From the Flour + Water Hospitality Group, it’s a great spot for a cozy dinner date or a special occasion worth celebrating over good food.

For a first date with a little adventure, hop on a ferry from San Francisco or Tiburon to Angel Island State Park. Spend the day hiking scenic trails, biking around the island or enjoying a picnic with sweeping views of the Bay. You can also explore the island’s history together at the Immigration Station museums, Camp Reynolds and Fort McDowell. Check ferry schedules before heading out, especially in winter when weekday service is limited, and confirm which park facilities are open.

Anina is a lively cocktail bar in Hayes Valley with a spacious outdoor patio that makes it a great spot for a casual first date. Grab a cocktail, find a table outside and enjoy getting to know each other over drinks.

Cantina Los Mayas brings something different to a first date in San Francisco’s Richmond District, with an exclusively Mexican wine list and Yucatecan dishes to pair with your glass. It's a great spot to discover new wines together over a casual dinner, with plenty to talk about as you explore the menu.

The Bungalow Kitchen brings a little coastal romance to Tiburon, with sweeping views of San Francisco Bay and a breezy, bohemian dining room. Take the ferry over from San Francisco to make the journey part of the date, then settle in for a waterfront dinner featuring seasonal California cuisine. We recommend starting with the tuna tartare, prepared tableside with habanero-sesame oil, pine nuts, garlic, mint and chili.