Best Date Night Spots in DeKalb County

Best Date Night Spots in DeKalb County
Written By Emma Goggans

February is the season of love—and lucky for you, DeKalb County is full of places that make date night feel effortless, memorable, and a little magical. Whether you’re planning a candlelit dinner, a night of live music, or a sunset picnic with unbeatable views, these spots are perfect for turning an ordinary evening into something special.

Local Favorites with Unique Menus
Some of the best dates start around the table. From cozy mountain cafés to elevated dining experiences, these local favorites serve up memorable meals, inviting atmospheres, and just the right setting for great conversation and even better food.

Wildflower Café – Mentone

Step into the Wildflower Café—the hippie-chic heart of Mentone—and you’ll quickly see why it’s been voted Best Café. Between the welcoming atmosphere, great music, friendly service, and unforgettable food, this spot checks every date-night box. The menu offers everything from decadent, hearty dishes to healthy, organic options, with gluten-free and vegan choices available. One tip: whatever you order, do not skip the tomato pie.

Elevation Bistro – Mentone

Elevation Bistro brings an elevated dining experience to the mountain. With a warm, intimate ambiance and a menu curated daily using seasonal ingredients and local produce, every visit feels fresh and thoughtful. The flavors are bold, the presentation is beautiful, and the experience leaves you happy, satisfied, and already planning your next visit—perfect for a cozy, memorable date night.

Moon Lake Kitchen – Mentone

Located on the historic Moon Lake Campus, Moon Lake Kitchen is a locally owned favorite serving the Mentone community with care and creativity. From breakfast to dinner, the menu features Cajun and Creole-inspired dishes made with thoughtfully sourced ingredients and house-made bread. In the evenings, an upscale cocktail and spirits menu sets the tone for a relaxed but refined date night you’ll want to savor.

Southern Harvest- Fort Payne

Located atop Lookout Mountain off Highway 35, Southern Harvest offers a comforting mix of Italian dishes, steaks, seafood, and classic Southern comfort food. Locally owned and full of charm, this restaurant pairs great food with Southern charm service. Doors are open Wednesday through Sunday, with breakfast served on weekends—making it a great choice for either a romantic dinner or a relaxed brunch date.

Live Music & Good Food
Dinner is great—but dinner with live music is even better. These spots pair delicious food with toe-tapping tunes and lively energy, making them perfect for couples who love a fun night out with a soundtrack.

Mater’s Pizza & Pasta Emporium – Fort Payne

Looking for dinner with a side of fun? Head to Mater’s Pizza & Pasta Emporium in historic downtown Fort Payne. Enjoy mouthwatering pizza, cold beer, and live music that creates the perfect laid-back date night vibe. Whether you’re hanging out inside or enjoying the patio, it’s a spot where good food and good times go hand in hand.

Little River Burgers & Brews – Fort Payne

Little River Burgers & Brews is a downtown favorite that brings energy to Friday and Saturday nights with live music and a lively atmosphere. The burger menu ranges from classic favorites to creative options like the brunch burger—and every order comes with fries you can customize with different seasonings. Our recommendation? Garlic Parmesan fries with a side of ranch. Trust us.

Vintage 1889 – Fort Payne

Dine inside one of Fort Payne’s oldest buildings at Vintage 1889, located in a 133-year-old structure with a fascinating past. Enjoy a wide variety of soups, sandwiches, and drinks. Weekends bring live music and a lively atmosphere to this historic building, making it a date night win with charm!

Sunset Picnics
For the adventurous couples who prefer mountain views over menus, DeKalb County has you covered. If your idea of romance includes fresh air, wide-open views, and watching the sun dip below the horizon, these scenic overlooks are perfect for an unforgettable date night adventure.

Brow Park – Mentone

Perched atop Lookout Mountain, Brow Park offers panoramic views of the Appalachian foothills and one of the best sunset spots in the county. Bring a picnic, relax at one of the tables, or enjoy the view from your car as the sky fills with color. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and effortlessly romantic.

Little River Canyon National Preserve

The overlooks along the Little River Canyon Rim Parkway in Little River Canyon National Preserve each offer a unique perspective of the canyon’s rugged beauty. From quiet pull-offs to wide, open views, every stop invites you to slow down and soak it all in. With picnic tables scattered throughout the overlooks, you can make an evening of this drive and explore more than one—you won’t regret it.

Most Unique Date Night Spots
Looking to shake things up a bit? These one-of-a-kind spots offer experiences you won’t find just anywhere, and are perfect for couples who like their date nights a little different.

Enthusiast Wine Bar – Fort Payne

Chic, modern, and full of character, Enthusiast Wine Bar located in historic downtown Fort Payne is the perfect place to slow down and connect. With a jazzy vibe and a carefully curated wine selection, it’s a space designed for lingering conversations and shared moments—where friendship, warmth, and good wine flow freely.

The Pickin’ Post – Fort Payne

For couples who love live entertainment, The Pickin’ Post delivers. This intimate venue hosts big-name acts, local favorites, and everything from country and bluegrass to gospel and comedy. A night here is energetic, fun, and full of Southern hospitality—perfect for a memorable date night.

Sweet Treat to End the Night
No date night is complete without a sweet treat! Thankfully, here in DeKalb County we have plenty of options for whatever your sweet tooth is craving. 

Lookout Mountain Creamery – Fort Payne
The Lookout Mountain Creamery is a local favorite. With delicious homemade ice cream and desserts, It’s the perfect stop to satisfy your sweet tooth and end the night on a high note.

Caramelo’s Homemade Ice Cream – Rainsville
Enjoy homemade ice cream and authentic Mexican antojos packed with flavor at Carmaleo’s Homemade Ice Cream. This colorful, welcoming spot adds a fun twist to dessert—and is always worth the stop.

The Hideout – Fort Payne
Whether you’re craving coffee, a snack, or something a little different, The Hideout has you covered. With a cozy atmosphere, international bites, and indoor or outdoor seating, it’s an easygoing way to wrap up the evening.

Angel’s Sweets & Treats Fort Payne
From creamy homemade ice cream to irresistible baked goods, Angel’s Sweets & Treats serves happiness one scoop at a time. Made with love, local flavor, and plenty of sweetness, it’s a charming way to end your date night.

Whether you’re planning your very first date, celebrating an anniversary, or just looking for an excuse to get out and explore together, DeKalb County offers endless ways to make date night feel special. From cozy dinners and live music to sunset views and sweet treats, every spot on this list invites you to slow down, connect, and create memories worth repeating.

So grab your favorite person, pick a place (or two), and let DeKalb County set the scene for your next great date night.