Australia's most romantic restaurants - Where will Aussies celebrate Valentine's Day?

Love is in the air … and so is the smell of sizzling steaks and decadent desserts. This Valentine’s Day, Australians aren’t just whispering sweet nothings over candlelit dinners; they’re also clinking glasses with their best mates and saying cheers to love in all its forms.

According to new data from restaurant online booking platform OpenTable, dining reservations for February 14 are up significantly compared to last year, and spots are getting snapped up faster than a box of heart-shaped chocolates. With Valentine’s falling on a Friday this year, the hospitality industry is bracing for a full house. And, it’s not just couples who are setting the table for romance – Galentine’s Day, the much-loved February 13 tradition, is also booming, with a 32% increase in bookings year-over-year.

February 14 feasts: For flirts and friends

Forget cliche teddy bears and last-minute bouquets – this year, the hottest Valentine’s gift isn’t wrapped in a box. OpenTable’s research found that 53% of Aussies don’t expect to receive anything for Valentine’s Day, and those who do prefer an experience over a tangible present. Whether it’s a date night, a dinner with friends, or even a solo splurge, Aussies are putting their money where their mouth is – literally.

It turns out, lovebirds aren’t the only ones feasting this February. A quarter of Australians plan to dine out with friends on Valentine’s Day, and 18% will celebrate Galentine’s Day over a meal. The trend is particularly strong among Gen Z, with 43% opting to skip the lovey-dovey vibes and enjoy a group dinner instead.

Soul mates to solo, mate

If you’re single and ready to mingle, you’re in good company. Half of single Aussies said they’d be open to a first date at a restaurant on Valentine’s Day – because nothing says “potential soulmate” like how someone handles a shared dessert.

With last year’s data showing an 18% rise in Valentine’s Day dining, 2025 is shaping up to be even busier. If you’re hoping to score a table, you’d better act fast – 56% of reservations have already been booked. And with 24% of Australians planning to splurge more on their Valentine’s meal this year (and 36% planning to tip more generously), restaurants will be positively buzzing.

50 of Australia’s most romantic restaurants

Whether you’re planning a romantic rendezvous, a Galentine’s feast, or a group celebration, here are some of the hottest spots to lock in a reservation across the country.

New South Wales