Dinner by Occasion
💑 Date Night
Romantic, intimate spots
👨👩👧👦 Family Dinner
Kid-friendly restaurants
🎂 Birthday
Celebration-worthy spots
👥 Groups
Large party friendly
✨ Fine Dining
Special occasion splurge
💰 Budget
Affordable dinner options
Types of Dinner Restaurants
🍝 Casual Dining
Olive Garden, Chili's, Applebee's. Reliable food, family-friendly, moderate prices. No reservation needed.
🥂 Upscale Casual
Nicer than casual but not formal. Good for dates and celebrations. $30-60 per person.
⭐ Fine Dining
White tablecloth, tasting menus, exceptional service. Reservations required. $75+ per person.
🥩 Steakhouses
Prime cuts, classic sides, strong drinks. Perfect for celebrations and business dinners.
🌍 Ethnic Restaurants
Italian, Mexican, Thai, Indian, Japanese, and more. Often best value and authentic flavors.
🍕 Neighborhood Spots
Local favorites, hidden gems, chef-owned. Where regulars go. Check local reviews.
Best Dinner By City
- Reserve popular restaurants at least a week ahead for weekend dinner
- Eat early (5:30pm) or late (8:30pm+) to avoid peak crowds
- Check if the restaurant has a bar area for walk-ins when dining room is full
- Many restaurants post their menu online - review it before going
- Ask about daily specials - chefs often feature their best work
Dinner Price Guide
$ Under $15/person
Fast casual, ethnic spots, casual chains, food courts. Good food without the fuss.
$$ $15-35/person
Casual dining, pizzerias, neighborhood restaurants. The comfortable middle ground.
$$$ $35-75/person
Upscale casual, good steakhouses, chef-driven spots. Date night and celebrations.
$$$$ $75+/person
Fine dining, tasting menus, Michelin-starred. Special occasions only.