Date Night in Fountain Square: Going All Out



We’ve covered ways to have a pretty affordable, yet impressive date night in Fountain Square, for under $75. But what about the times when money isn’t an issue and you want to go all out to impress your date? Where do you go? Here are some great ideas in the Fountain Square and Fletcher Place districts for an unforgettable romantic night out.

Drinks at Repeal

The first stop on your romantic date night should absolutely be stopping into Repeal for a few pre-dinner drinks. This prohibition-style speakeasy is the perfect place to enjoy unique cocktails. You’ll find a huge, revolving variety of retro-themed cocktails, plus whiskey and other spirits to enjoy. If cocktails aren’t your thing, definitely try their whiskey flight.

Repeal also has amazing food. While this they aren’t on the itinerary for dinner, feel free to split an appetizer or two.

Dinner at Bluebeard

If you’ve never eaten at this acclaimed Fletcher Place restaurant, you’re sorely missing out. Your date will be ecstatic to dine here (just make sure you make a reservation to avoid long wait times). This restaurant is loosely themed off of Kurt Vonnegut’s writing, so it makes it an excellent spot for lovers of his work.

While their menu is always updating, you can never go wrong with their cheese plates or oysters to start out with. There’s really nothing on their menu that isn’t beloved, so get adventurous and try their bouillabaisse (octopus, squid, mussels, and shrimp), duck rillette, or pappardelle (pork bolognese). Their desserts also vary from day to day, but you definitely don’t want to skip them!

Browse Local Art

Stop by the Andy Chen/Jeffrey Morgan Studio on Virginia or visit Primary Colours in the Murphy Arts Building to explore some of the area’s newest and best local artists.

If it’s First Friday, you’re in luck, because there will be plenty of additional studios and art galleries to explore. Stop into any participating local stores, businesses, restaurants, and coffee shops to uncover your new favorite artist.

Of course, you’ll find art in many forms in Fountain Square, so don’t forget about Heartland films on Virginia. Stop in and check out an independent film or plan your date around a classic film you’ll both enjoy.

Grab a Nightcap at Thunderbird

After exploring Fountain Square for a bit, head just south of the center of the square to Thunderbird for a nightcap. This eclectic and bustling small bites and craft cocktail gastropub will end your evening on a high with it’s slightly funky, yet sophisticated energy. Meet up with friends or enjoy an intimate late night drink alone.

If the night is still young, be sure to check out what’s going on at the Fountain Square Theatre, White Rabbit Cabaret, or HiFi, all within a block or two of Thunderbird.