Cities & Towns

Most Romantic Restaurants in Louisville

From Jessica Elliott, former About.com Guide

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As I was making my decision on what places to include in this list of the most romantic restaurants in Louisville, I found myself with a song from the Disney movie Lady and The Tramp stuck in my head. The scene where Lady and The Tramp are sharing a plate of spaghetti is one of my favorite romantic scenes from any movie I've ever watched, even if it is a cartoon and the characters are dogs. If you want to have your own Lady and The Tramp romantic dinner, the following places are the restaurants in Louisville where romance is most likely to occur.

Jack Fry's

Though the restaurant can get cramped and live music on the weekends can make it hard to have a conversation, Jack Fry's in the Highlands is consistently voted as one of the romantic restaurants in Louisville. Jack Fry's has been around since 1933 when it started as a saloon. Sometime in the 70s it was converted to an upscale restaurant, but much of the venue's decor still shows signs of its first life. One reason people love Jack Fry's so much is because the food is consistently delicious--if you're looking for a good steak or pork chop, Jack Fry's is the place to go. Its long run of pleasing people as well as its long list of awards make Jack Fry's a sure bet for a laid-back romantic evening.

Lilly's Bistro

From white tablecloths to amazing food, Lilly's Bistro in the Highlands is definitely one of the most romantic restaurants in Louisville. The staff is friendly and on top of things without being at your table too much. The food is absolutely amazing and prepared with locally-grown produce. They have an extensive wine list and a wonderful selection of desserts and dessert drinks. Additionally, meals at Lilly's can last for hours, so you'll have plenty of time to talk to your sweetheart while you wait for the next course.

Proof on Main

Proof on Main in Downtown Louisville isn't what I would call your traditional romantic restaurant. The dining room can get boisterous with talk because people eat there for all occasions, not just special ones. But if you're looking for a laid-back romantic restaurant, Proof is definitely your place. The cocktails at Proof are absolutely amazing and the food is unlike anything else you'll find in the city. Plus, when you've finished your meal, you can wander around the hotel's art gallery or simply head upstairs to your romantic room.

The Oakroom

From the deep woods and white tablecloths to the romantic atmosphere and always professional waitstaff, The Oakroom at the Seelbach Hilton in Downtown Louisville is basically the definition of a romantic restaurant. The restaurant is the recipient of many national awards for their amazing food and atmosphere--in 2004, Southern Living magazine voted The Oakroom a perfect place to propose to someone.

RIVUE

Set atop of the towering Galt House at the edge of the Ohio River in Downtown Louisville, RIVUE is best known for its revolving floors and amazing views. As you eat with your date, you can watch out of the windows next to your table of at the ever-changing scene below. And at 25-stories up, you can almost see Indianapolis. If you're trying to plan a romantic first date, RIVUE would be a great choice because the scenery is sure to promote good getting-to-know-you conversation.

Old Spaghetti Factory

A romantic dinner at the Old Spaghetti Factory in Downtown Louisville is a tradition for many Louisville couples. The beauty of the old restaurant is one major attraction with its tall ceilings, striking colors, and ornate decorations. Not to mention that Italian food and romance seem to go hand-in-hand. Best of all, just outside of the door on any evening of the year you'll find horse-drawn carriages waiting to take you and your loved one on a romantic ride around our beautiful and historic city centre.

The Melting Pot

What could be more romantic than dipping strawberries, bananas, and marshmallows into chocolate and sharing them with your sweetheart? This is possible at The Melting Pot on Hurstbourne Parkway. Reservations to The Melting Pot can get you a private booth with dim lighting where you can share a meal and, of course, a dessert with your date in a restaurant so romantic you'll feel like a character in a romantic comedy.