Date Night Ideas in Austin: Sweet, Savory, and Unforgettable
Looking for the perfect date night in Austin? Whether you’re on a budget, looking to splurge a little, or planning a truly unforgettable evening, this city has options for every couple. Here’s a curated list of ideas organized by price category so you can plan your night (or nights!) with ease.
Under $20: Sweet Treats & Late-Night Bites
Sometimes the best dates don’t need to break the bank—they just need a little flavor and fun.
Zed’s Ice Cream (East Austin & West Austin)
End a night in with a sweet treat at Zed’s Ice Cream. With inventive flavors and creamy, dreamy scoops, it’s perfect for strolling, chatting, and indulging in a little sugar-fueled romance.Lil’ Easy (E Cesar Chavez, Wed–Sat, 10–11pm Reverse Happy Hour)
If you’re a night owl, head to Lil’ Easy for their reverse happy hour. A relaxed vibe and late-night drinks make it ideal for a spontaneous evening without stretching your wallet.Better Half (Tues–Fri, 3–6pm, $6 Burgers)
For a casual early evening date, snag a $6 burger at Better Half. Affordable, delicious, and the perfect pairing with a walk around East Austin or West Austin neighborhoods.
Under $50: Quirky Fun & Scenic Moments
Want to get a little more adventurous while keeping costs reasonable? These spots give you a memorable experience without the stress of a big bill.
Bureau de Poste at Tiny Grocer (M–F, 5–6pm, “Tiny Happy Hour”)
Sip and unwind during happy hour at Bureau de Poste.Bonus points: browse the incredible selection at First Light Books next door, open until 9pm, for a quiet, romantic detour.
Spread & Co at Laguna Gloria (Sat–Sun, 9am–3pm)
Pick up a Date Box from Spread & Co and head to hike Mt. Bonnell. Nothing says romance like a picnic with breathtaking views of Austin’s skyline and the Colorado River.
$50–100+: Splurge-Worthy Experiences
For those nights when you really want to impress—or just treat yourselves—Austin offers experiences that are unforgettable.
Murray’s Tavern (Wednesdays, Steak Night)
Wednesday nights mean steak and frites for $35, plus martinis to match. Perfect for a classic date night vibe that feels indulgent but not over-the-top.Pasta Bar (Omakase-style Italian experience)
For a truly special occasion, Pasta Bar offers a hyper-exclusive experience: only 10 seats per sitting and three seatings per night. The tasting menu is $235, with optional caviar for $60, standard wine pairings for $145, or reserve wine pairings for $225. Flip the card and you’ll find seven wines by the glass—perfect for savoring each bite and each sip.
Austin is a city full of charm, hidden gems, and unique spots for connecting with someone special. Whether you’re scooping ice cream under $20 or indulging in a hyper-exclusive tasting menu, there’s a date night here for every mood—and every budget.
Jennifer Carey
Realtor and Agent Success Manager at Open House Austin, real estate investor, and renovation enthusiast with Wimberley Airbnbs. She loves mid-century modern design, hiking Austin with her dogs, yoga and pilates, and has been enjoying gardening at her new home in East Austin🎶✨
