Date Nights

Elements

I came here solo, first for brunch, indulging in blueberry ricotta pancakes, and was not disappointed. But when I came back for dinner and had their crab and brie fondue I promptly went to heaven and vowed not to withhold Elements from myself for more than a month at a time. Reservations are necessary, as it’s just a little spot, but the food is wonderful. Check out their IG if you want to drool at some stunning and colorful dishes.

Acorn & the Oak

I’m just going to say it, I think this is my favorite restaurant on this side of the river, even though I rarely have an excuse to dine in such fashion. It has the cutest shop of little handmade goods to browse before or after dinner, including a whole floral section to treat yourself to a fresh bouquet, and the menu, I believe is some of the most refined I’ve found since moving from California. It’s all seasonal, and seating is outdoors but enclosed and warm even on a cool day.

The Sedgwick

With one bar-oriented side and one restaurant-oriented side, the Sedgwick gives you options for whatever vibe you're seeking on your date night. It's a tapas-style menu so you get to try lots of small bites, and dabble in new culinary territory with things like bone marrow, escargot and Japanese fried rabbit without breaking the bank. Some girlfriends and I went, and they stated their burgers were the best they've had in the Portland metro (a highly controversial statement, I know.) As for me, I can't get enough of the birria tacos, and their assortment of fun

Amaro's Table

Specializing in floral gin and tonics and creating the *most* instagram worthy drinks, you’ll definitely need a reservation for dinner at Amaro’s, but you might be able to sneak into lunch without them. Their homemade ricotta and fig appetizer is a can’t miss item, but you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu–it’s all delicious but not too eccentric, for the less foodie-types.

La Provence

This French patisserie kind of reminds me of a baby sister of Bottega Louie in LA. Breakfast and Brunch are their specialty, and you can’t leave without checking out their pastry counter loaded with super elegant, giftable desserts including colorful stacks of macarons. The wait on weekend mornings is a doozy, so either get there early or send a representative from your party to get your name on the list while you’re still rolling out of bed.

The Hammond

Owned by the same folks as one of Vancouver's newest restaurants, The Cove, The Hammond Kitchen & Craft Bar is your traditional, solid steak/ burger/fish restaurant that would appeal to the most picky diners.  Transplants from out-of-state, think Daily Grill or Hillstone Restaurant Group, if you're familiar. With shareable apps like crab-filled deviled eggs, an 18 oz Ribeye, and king salmon, there's something for everyone here. A great spot for a first date when you're not sure what your partner is into, yet.