Detroit’s Romance Renaissance: 8 Places for a Romantic Date
By Sarah Kittle
Metro Detroit may not be top-of-mind for lovers planning a romantic date night, but it does offer everything you need and more!
Detroit has undergone a breathtaking revival in recent years, blossoming into a vibrant and diverse city with an expanding array of enchanting destinations for a memorable date night. From the pulsating energy of downtown to the scenic waterfront, we look at eight extraordinary places that epitomize metro Detroit’s romantic renaissance in 2024.
Experience Zuzu
Amid Detroit’s growing dining scene, Zuzu emerges as a captivating addition, enticing couples with its innovative cuisine and charming ambiance. Located at 511 Woodward Avenue, Zuzu exudes modern elegance with its lively decor, featuring a blend of global chic and intimate sophistication. What sets Zuzu apart is its eclectic menu, curated by classically trained executive chef, Ivan Aguinaga, renowned for his creative vision of Asian flavors.
The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and seasonality is evident in each exquisitely crafted dish, inviting patrons on a gastronomic journey that delights the palate and sparks conversation. Zuzu’s intimate and beautiful setting, coupled with its tantalizing menu offerings, promises to elevate any date night to a culinary experience that lingers long after the final bite.
Ford Wyoming Drive-In
For a nostalgic yet incredibly charming date night experience, the Ford Wyoming Drive-In Theatre stands as an iconic destination in metro Detroit. As one of the few remaining drive-in theaters in the region, this historic venue offers couples a delightful journey back in time.
Located in Dearborn, just outside Detroit, the Ford Wyoming Drive-In boasts multiple screens showcasing the latest blockbuster movies under the starlit sky. The retro ambiance, complete with classic concession stands serving up popcorn and snacks, sets the stage for a cozy and intimate evening.
Sharing a car and blankets while watching a double feature or catching a beloved film provides an enchanting atmosphere for couples seeking a unique and old-fashioned yet utterly enjoyable date night.
Redford Theatre
Surprise your date with a trip to Redford Theatre, a retro movie theater on the outer edge of Detroit. Nestled in the heart of the charming Old Redford neighborhood, the Redford Theatre stands as a cherished cultural gem and a perfect spot for an unforgettable date night in Detroit.
This historic theater, a mini version of the Fox, is adorned with ornate décor reminiscent of a bygone era, exuding timeless elegance. Known for its classic film screenings and live organ performances on the original Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, the Redford Theatre offers a nostalgic and immersive cinematic experience. You can see screenings of classic films from all decades, ranging from the silent film era to indie classics from 20 years ago.
The theater’s meticulously preserved interior, including its stunning ceiling mural and intricate details, transports visitors to a cinematic paradise. Attending a movie screening at the Redford Theatre allows couples to relish the magic of classic cinema while reveling in the theater’s rich history, making for a truly enchanting and romantic evening.
Third Man Records
Situated in Detroit’s historic Cass Corridor, Third Man Records holds a magnetic allure for music enthusiasts and couples seeking an offbeat yet captivating date experience. Founded by musician Jack White, this iconic record store and vinyl pressing plant embodies the city’s musical legacy.
Beyond being a haven for vinyl aficionados, Third Man Records doubles as a performance venue where local and touring artists grace the stage, providing an intimate setting for live music. With its retro-chic interior adorned with vintage recording equipment and an extensive collection of vinyl records, the store invites patrons to immerse themselves in Detroit’s vibrant music culture.
Couples can spend quality time exploring the eclectic music collection, attending live performances, or even participating in workshops and record-cutting sessions, fostering a shared appreciation for music and creating lasting memories in the city’s thriving music scene.
Checker Bar
Checker Bar, located at 124 Cadillac Square, and POP + Offworld Arcade upstairs, serve as an enticing fusion of retro arcade gaming and delectable dining, offering couples an unconventional and entertaining date spot in Detroit’s downtown core. Combining the nostalgia of classic arcade games with a vibrant bar and restaurant atmosphere, Checker Bar together with Offworld Arcade creates a unique experience.
Couples can relive their childhood memories while engaging in friendly competition over a wide array of vintage arcade games, from pinball machines to iconic video game cabinets. The inviting ambiance, complemented by Checker Bar’s mouthwatering burgers and craft beer selection, encourages a relaxed and enjoyable time. This dynamic venue encourages playful interaction and shared laughter, making it an ideal spot for couples seeking a laid-back yet spirited outing in the heart of Detroit.
Prism (Hollywood Casino Greektown)
Prism, located within the Hollywood Casino in Greektown, stands as a sophisticated dining destination, offering couples a luxurious and upscale experience in the heart of Detroit’s Greektown district. With its sleek and modern décor, Prism exudes an aura of elegance and refinement. The restaurant’s ambiance, combined with its panoramic views of the cityscape, sets the stage for an intimate and romantic evening.
Prism’s menu, curated by acclaimed chefs, showcases a tantalizing array of fine American cuisine with a contemporary twist, featuring prime steaks, seafood delicacies, and gourmet dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. This upscale dining establishment provides impeccable service, an extensive wine list, and a delectable dessert selection, ensuring that couples can savor a memorable and indulgent culinary experience amid the allure of the casino atmosphere.
Revel Steak (MotorCity Casino Hotel)
MotorCity Casino’s culinary landscape has been elevated to new heights with the introduction of Revel Steak, the ideal destination for an enchanting date night in Detroit. A stylish departure from tradition, Revel Steak embraces steakhouse elegance without the formality. Expect to find traditional dishes and attentive yet relaxed service in the comfortably modern dining room. Picture an intimate table bathed in soft lighting, where couples can savor the romance of the evening while indulging in the finest cuts of prime beef. With its combination of delectable cuisine, elegant atmosphere, and the thrill of being at MotorCity Casino, Revel Steak emerges as the perfect haven for couples seeking a romantic and indulgent date night in the heart of Detroit.
Highlands Detroit
Located on the 71st floor of the Renaissance Center, Highlands opened in 2019. With a great view of the Detroit/Windsor skyline and a movie scene story to boot (George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez filmed a romantic bar scene here for the movie Out of Sight), it’s a great place to go on a date.
Perched atop the Renaissance Center, Highlands Detroit offers couples a refined and elevated dining experience in a setting that overlooks the city’s skyline and the Detroit River. As Detroit’s only AAA Four Diamond restaurant, Highlands boasts an unparalleled ambiance, blending contemporary elegance with panoramic views that create an intimate and romantic atmosphere.
The menu showcases a sophisticated blend of modern American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors. Couples can indulge in exquisitely prepared dishes, complemented by an extensive wine list and impeccable service. The combination of breathtaking vistas and culinary mastery at Highlands Detroit promises an unforgettable dining experience, perfect for celebrating special occasions or creating cherished memories on a date night.
While this list is by no means exhaustive, it is a great place to start. Happy Valentine’s Day to all!