5 Romantic Restaurants in Needham, MA

June 12, 2015

It’s no secret that Needham offers some of the best dining digs available in the Bay State. With so many options available, how do you find the one that’s the right fit for your next date? These five restaurants offer great romantic options, from the classic to the unexpected, that are just right for couples with discerning tastes.

The Center Café

American

$$ – Average

Address: 1027 Great Plain Avenue, Needham, MA 02492

Phone: (781) 455-8800

Website: thecentercafe.com

Formerly a commuter rail stop, this popular upscale-casual restaurant boasts friendly service and a lively atmosphere not far off from the ‘Cheers’ hit sitcom. If you’re looking for classic New England American fare in a neighborhood setting, this is the place for you. The full-service bar offers a wide variety of wines that provide just the right pairing to your meal. They also offer Gluten-free menu options.

The Farmhouse

New American

$$$ – Expensive

Address: 970 Great Plain Avenue, Needham, MA 02492

Phone: (781) 449-6200

Website: thefarmhouseneedham.com

Silverware sign language and tuxedos not your thing? Don’t worry, there’s a new way to sport the white table cloth with your sweetheart. Meet The Farmhouse, a fresh urban take on rustic elegance and service with a lot of heart. Their cuisine features fresh farm-to-table food with a hint of French, Italian and American notes. Everything is homemade, from the meals, to the bread and butter, right down to the cocktails that they custom-blend just for you. It’s like eating mom’s cooking at home, only better. Another bonus: the chefs preparing your food all wear charming bandanas!

Mandarin Cuisine

Chinese

$$ – Average

Address: 238 Highland Avenue, Needham, MA 02494

Phone: (781) 455-8801

Website: mandarincuisine.com

Considered by some to be ‘the best in metro West,’ Mandarin Cuisine isn’t your typical Chinese restaurant. Their unique Asian themed décor and mesmerizing fish tank make a distinction that’s sure to impress your lover. Don’t have much to shell out of your wallet? No problem here. Mandarin Cuisine’s affordable prices offer great food for a successful date night on a low budget. Insider’s tip: come out during Chinese New Year – they offer an even greater array of options.

The Rice Barn

Thai, Asian Fusion

$$ – Average

Address: 1037 Great Plain Avenue, Needham, MA 02492

Phone: (781) 449-8300

Website: thericebarn.com

With elegant lighting, signature dishes, and a contemporary California vibe, The Rice Barn offers some of the best Thai food available in the Needham area. In addition to Thai, their delicious dishes offer a modern twist to traditional Asian Rim cuisine. It’s a great spot to enjoy an intimate lunch or dinner with your significant other. They are experienced at accommodating vegetarians, special diets and food allergies, and they even offer a Gluten free menu upon request. And the best part to your romantic outing? You might catch some live piano music during the evenings!

Sweet Basil

Italian

$$ – Average

Address: 924 Great Plain Avenue, Needham, MA 02492

Phone: (781) 444-9600

Website: sweetbasilneedham.com

A top favorite of the locals, this cozy restaurant is a refreshing reminder of what genuine Italian fare is. Low lighting, fresh flowers, and a bottle of water at every table add the finishing touches to a memorable night for two. The homemade pasta and dinner dishes are simply divine, if you can get past the fresh bread and pesto first. Planning to share a special wine bottle during the evening? Go for it – Sweet Basil will uncork any bottle you bring for only a small fee. Local’s tip: Since Sweet Basil doesn’t schedule reservations, be sure to come early to take advantage of this amazing restaurant.

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