Planning a romantic evening out? We found the best date night restaurants in Tyler and East Texas—places with the right combination of ambiance, quality, and service to make your evening special.
From upscale steakhouses to intimate Italian bistros, here are 5 restaurants perfect for date night.
1. Prime 102
📍 Tyler · ⭐ 4.6 · 85 reviews
Tyler’s premier steakhouse delivers on all fronts: exceptional cuts, polished service, and an atmosphere that says “special occasion.” The dry-aged ribeye is legendary.
🍽️ Must-Order: Dry-Aged Ribeye, Pan-Seared Filet Mignon, Lobster Tail
💡 Insider Tip: Make reservations at least a week ahead for Friday or Saturday nights. Ask for a booth if you prefer privacy.
2. Kiepersol Estates
📍 Tyler · ⭐ 4.5 · 63 reviews
Dining at a winery estate elevates any evening. Kiepersol combines excellent food with house-made wines and beautiful grounds—ideal for a memorable date.
🍽️ Must-Order: Ribeye Steak, Grilled Salmon, pair with their house red wine
💡 Insider Tip: Arrive before sunset and take a walk around the estate before dinner.
3. Roma Italian Bistro
📍 Jacksonville (30 min from Tyler) · ⭐ 4.8 · 33 reviews
The highest-rated Italian in the region, Roma brings authentic flavors and a cozy atmosphere. It’s worth the short drive for a truly romantic Italian dinner.
🍽️ Must-Order: Chicken Parmigiana, Seafood Linguine, Margherita Pizza
💡 Insider Tip: The tiramisu is made in-house—don’t skip dessert.
4. Mario’s Italian Restaurant & Club
📍 Tyler · ⭐ 4.4 · 152 reviews
A Tyler institution for Italian dining, Mario’s has been serving the community for years. The atmosphere is classic and comfortable, with white tablecloths and attentive service.
🍽️ Must-Order: Chicken Alfredo, Homemade Lasagna, Meat Lovers Pizza
💡 Insider Tip: They sometimes have live music on weekends—check ahead if that appeals.
5. Uncle Jack’s Kitchen
📍 Tyler · ⭐ 4.7 · 31 reviews
For a more casual but still memorable date, Uncle Jack’s serves Southern-style seafood in a welcoming atmosphere. The quality is high and the vibe is laid-back.
🍽️ Must-Order: Fried Catfish Platter, Gulf Shrimp and Grits, Seafood Gumbo
💡 Insider Tip: Share the seafood platter for two—it’s generous and delicious.
How We Picked These Spots
Date night restaurants need more than just good food—they need atmosphere, pacing, and service that lets you focus on each other. We looked for places with intimate seating, appropriate noise levels, and menus that encourage lingering over a meal.
Last updated: January 2026