This Austin restaurant was just named the most romantic in the country

A new study by Mando Media has crowned Jeffrey’s in Austin, Texas, the most romantic restaurant in the U.S.

The ranking is based on a deep dive into nearly four million Google reviews across 2,500 top-rated eateries. Jeffrey’s came out on top with a romance score of 39.89, edging out fine-dining spots and cozy neighborhood gems across the country.

So what makes it number one? Jeffrey’s has been a fixture in Austin’s Clarksville neighborhood since 1975, and it’s long been known for polished French-American cuisine and impeccable service. Think prime steaks, an award-winning wine list and a hushed dining room that sets the mood. It also holds a rare perfect 5.0 rating on Google Maps, based on more than 1,100 reviews. That combination of culinary precision and genuine warmth is just right for a romantic dinner.

The study’s “romance score” blends overall ratings with how often diners use romantic language in their reviews. The team tracked 10 keywords, including “love,” “atmosphere,” “intimate,” “cozy” and “candlelight,” measuring how frequently they appeared per 1,000 words. In other words, this isn’t just about star ratings. It’s about how people feel when they’re there.

The data also named Austin the most romantic dining city in America, suggesting the Texas capital has become a go-to for couples seeking more than just barbecue.

There's no single formula for romance, as indicated by the rest of the top 10 list. Seattle’s Brimmer & Heeltap takes second with its intimate bistro charm, followed by Vittorio’s in Huntington Beach, a classic Italian spot built for long, lingering dinners. Miami lands on the list twice with the playful Dolores But You Can Call Me Lolita and Mediterranean-inspired ZOI Restaurant & Lounge. Portland’s a Cena Ristorante, San Diego’s Kettner Exchange, Chicago’s Steak 48 and Denver’s Ocean Prime represent the upscale winners. The most unexpected entry? Madison’s Melting Pot, where shared fondue adds a little interactive spark.

Interestingly, price isn’t everything. While Jeffrey’s sits in the $100-plus range, the study found romance scores vary only slightly across price brackets, with the $50 to $100 range emerging as a sweet spot.

Ten most romantic restaurants in the country

1. Jeffrey’s—Austin, TX
2. Brimmer & Heeltap—Seattle, WA
3. Vittorio’s Italian Restaurant—Huntington Beach, CA
4. Dolores But You Can Call Me Lolita—Miami, FL
5. a Cena Ristorante—Portland, OR
6. Kettner Exchange—San Diego, CA
7. ZOI Restaurant & Lounge—Miami, FL
8. Steak 48—Chicago, IL
9. Ocean Prime—Denver, CO
10. Melting Pot—Madison, WI