Robyn Lane

Robyn Lane

Robyn Lane

.(Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images)

I thought putting together a list of the most romantic restaurants in South Jersey was going to be easy. I was wrong.

During the course of my research, and when I say research, I mean asking people from South Jersey about their favorite romantic restaurants, I quickly found out two things:  Number one, romantic and intimate are not mutually exclusive, and number two, romantic dining seems to be a state of mind between couples.

How so? There were a handful of people suggesting local pubs and bars as places they go for a romantic evening without the kids. That’s cool!

I really did my best to come up with a list of restaurants from the folks who have offered more traditional suggestions. In some cases, where you eat is less important than who you are dining with. Ain’t love grand?

  • Carlucci's Waterfront - 876 Centerton Rd, Mt Laurel Township, NJ 08054

    Carlucci’s is located on the banks of the Rancocas Creek. Nadine from Marlton loves this place! She was married here and she told us Carlucci’s has incredible food, exceptional service, and desserts to die for. Her top pick for a romantic evening out with her husband.

  • ITA101 - 20 S Main St, Medford, NJ 08055

    Holly A. from the South Jersey Food Scene group on Facebook nails the romance part with this really appealing farm to table eatery. Complete with a chef who wants to share with you his passion for authentic Italian cuisine and bring to your table a little piece of Italy. They offer cooking classes as well.

  • Caffe Aldo Lamberti - 2011 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002

    Upscale dining with superior service is how Dina describes her  favorite romantic place to dine. Inside you’ll find a large inviting space constructed in a California art deco style. If you’re into dining al fresco, they have a spacious outdoor patio and deck.

     

  • Annata Wine Bar - 216 Bellevue Ave, Hammonton, NJ 08037

    Not just for lovers, but for lovers of great wine, there are 125 to choose from, along with artisan scotches, signature martinis, and a great imported beer selection. The food choices look divine and the surroundings look casual and comfortable.

     

  • The Chop House - 4 Lakeview Dr S, Gibbsboro, NJ 08026

    Joel G. from the Jersey Food Scene group said, “The Chop House is not intimate, but it is romantic.” The Chophouse overlooks Silver Lake which is a lovely enhancement to your dining experience. There’s an indoor firepit to keep you cozy and warm. Steak, lamb, poultry, and seafood entrees as well as a nice variety of appetizers, side dishes, and desserts. The Limoncello cake is recommended by Esther B.

     

  • Franklinville Inn - 2526 Delsea Dr, Franklinville, NJ 08322

    What a charming place in an area steeped in rich history. Joseph D. wasn’t the only one to suggest this place, but he was the first. Carly P. was the second and noted that she celebrates her anniversary here every year. Exemplary service, great food, and a warm, cozy atmosphere make this place perfect for a romantic encounter.

  • Filomena's Lakeview - 1738 Cooper St, Deptford, NJ 08096

    John C. has offered many suggestions, including this place, which was once named “The Lakeview Inn,  a stagecoach stop in the 1700’s. A lovely dining room with intimate lighting, and what appears to be a very large bar with plenty of seating. I looked at the photos on the website, and the outdoor dining area is beautiful. If the food tastes as good as it looks in the photos, this may be the place you choose for your next night out with your paramour.

     

  • The Smithville Inn - 1 N New York Rd, Absecon, NJ 08205

    I love going to Smithville! You’ll never run out of reasons to head to Smithville. The quaint shops that sell everything from candles to homemade jams and jellies, to the cute lunch spots and scenery that looks like it was created for romantic strolls. Don’t forget to pick up a bottle or 2 of wine made with grapes and blueberries grown right here in the Garden State. To go with the wine you’ll need cheese. You can grab some at Magnifico’s Say Cheese gourmet grocery store. Now on to the romantic restaurant. If you want rustic charm,  an evening of romance, and a place loaded with appeal, try the Smithville Inn. According to Sherri’s review, The Smithville Inn is a place like no other. It has the ambiance, impeccable service, and incredible food. A very romantic restaurant. Don’t skip Smithville!

     

  • Il Villaggio - 211 Haddonfield-Berlin Rd, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034

    This was on the list for John C. , Emily L.,  and lots other people who all claim they don’t have to get all gussied up to visit this classy restaurant. A button down shirt and slacks or nice jeans will do. I actually like getting dressed up for romantic dinners, but it’s good to know that business casual is an option. Delicious Italian gourmet food and a very attentive staff. Old world atmosphere with emphasis on quality and style.

    IL Villaggio | Italian Restaurant in Cherry Hill, NJ

    Our team provides comfortable old world atmosphere with an emphasis on quality and style, with special attention to preferences.

  • Ye Olde Centerton Inn - 1136 Almond Rd, Elmer, NJ 08318

    This is among the oldest restaurants in America. It’s been in continuous operation since 1706! A world class wine list and 6 dining rooms that transport you back in time. Reservations are a must unless you choose to sit at the bar. The bacon scallops with horseradish mustard sauce on the appetizer menu had me squealing with delight. The steak fromage with a decadent bleu cheese sauce would be my first choice from the main course portion of the menu. In fact, the whole darn menu looks appealing, especially the Centerton Inn cocktail specialties.  I love a cocktail with my romantic meal,  Kristin L. says, this is definitely a couples kind of place.

    fine dining, Ye Olde Centerton Inn Pittsgrove, NJ Home

    Ye Olde Centerton Inn has been one of South Jerseys favorite restaurants since 1706! We are conveniently located near Vineland, Millville and Mullica Hill.

  • Blue Monkey Tavern - 2 S Center St, Merchantville, NJ 08109

    By the name of this establishment, I don’t get romantic vibes, but John C. had this on his list of places, and so did Marion from Tom River. It must be a good place if Marion and her sweetheart are traveling over an hour from Ocean County to Camden County for a meal. Craft beer, artisan cocktails, and the best burger in Camden County according to N.J. com’s Peter Genovese. Carol W. rated this place on Google reviews last week. It read: Very cozy! Great vibes! Good food and music, excellent service! Kait was extremely personable and friendly, and a terrific server! Not sure if this will register as a romantic restaurant to the general public, but I included it anyway.

     

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