The Rusty Pelican photo
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Five South Florida restaurants are feeling the love this year (in addition to these wonderful romantic restaurants in Miami and Fort Lauderdale).
According to Yelp’s 2026 ranking of the Top 100 Romantic Restaurants in the U.S., five South Florida restaurants (three in Miami, one in Fort Lauderdale, and one in Delray Beach) have earned a coveted spot on the list, as voted on by Yelp Elite reviewers. The annual ranking highlights restaurants across the country that consistently deliver date-night magic, from candlelit patios and waterfront views to cozy historic homes and transportive cuisine.
For South Florida, romance comes in many forms: a breezy Aegean courtyard in the Design District, an Argentinian hideaway in Edgewater, a sunset-kissed oceanfront table in Fort Lauderdale, skyline views on Key Biscayne, and a twinkle-lit garden in Delray Beach.
From waterfront sunsets to candlelit courtyards, here’s where to book your next reservation with your significant other.
Mandolin Aegean Bistro photo
No. 30 – Mandolin Aegean Bistro, Miami
Set inside a charming 1940s house, Mandolin Aegean Bistro is known for its authentic Greek and Turkish meze and sun-drenched courtyard beneath blue-and-white awnings. Guests savor grilled seafood, spanakopita, and bright Mediterranean flavors that feel straight out of the Aegean coast. The relaxed, transportive atmosphere makes it one of Miami’s most timeless date-night destinations. The restaurant holds a 4.5-star rating on Yelp with 2,548 reviews. 4312 NE Second Ave., Miami; 305;749-9140; mandolinrestaurant.com.
No. 34 – Bunbury, Miami
Cozy and candlelit, Bunbury serves homemade empanadas, expertly grilled meats, and pours from an impressive wine list. The rustic Argentinian bistro ambiance is ideal for an intimate dinner or lingering happy hour. Yelpers rave about the lively service and rich, house-made chimichurri that keeps regulars coming back. Bunbury boasts a 4.5-star rating on Yelp, based on 968 reviews. 5 NE 14th St., Miami; 305-333-6929; bunburymiami.com.
Casablanca Cafe photo
No. 40 – Casablanca Cafe, Fort Lauderdale
With sweeping ocean views, Casablanca Cafe blends Mediterranean-American fare with breezy beachfront charm. Diners flock for seafood paella and sunset cocktails on the scenic patio. Live music and salty air elevate the romance factor even further. Casablanca Cafe carries a 4.0-star Yelp rating with 2,748 reviews. 3049 Alhambra St., Fort Lauderdale; 954-764-3500; casablancacafeonline.com.
The Rusty Pelican photo
No. 51 – Rusty Pelican, Miami
A longtime waterfront favorite, Rusty Pelican – Miami is beloved for panoramic skyline views and expansive outdoor dining. Open daily for lunch, dinner, happy hour, and weekend brunch, it specializes in seafood and steaks. Popular picks include the surf-and-turf board for two, crab cakes, and Chilean sea bass. The restaurant has a 4.0-star rating on Yelp with 3,045 reviews. 3201 Rickenbacker Cwy., Key Biscayne; 305-361-3818; therustypelican.com.
Dada photo
No. 81 – Dada, Delray Beach
Housed in a historic home, Dada is a quirky, creative favorite serving inventive New American cuisine. Guests dine beneath twinkle-lit trees while sipping craft cocktails. Dishes like duck sliders and artisan cheese boards make it a playful yet intimate escape. Dada holds a 4.5-star Yelp rating with 3,280 reviews. 52 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach; 561-330-3232; sub-culture.org/dada.
