The Best Stillwater Restaurants for Date Night

One of the best parts of a vacation or a quick weekend getaway is discovering new dining options, and the selection of Stillwater restaurants is fantastic. Ranging from refined fine dining rooms to relaxed neighborhood favorites, there’s something for everyone on the banks of the St.Croix River in Minnesota. The culinary scene in our historic river town is diverse; you can enjoy everything from Irish pub classics and farm-to-table cuisine to locally inspired dishes, all within a few walkable blocks of downtown Stillwater.

With St. Patrick’s Day just around the corner, one of the most festive Stillwater restaurants to join the celebration is Charlie’s Restaurant & Irish Pub. Irish favorites are featured on the menu year-round, including Irish Egg Rolls, a house-made patty melt, traditional fish & chips, shepherd’s pie, and Mulligan beef stew. Live music and a lively atmosphere make it a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors alike, especially during St. Paddy’s Day in Stillwater.

One of the best ways to celebrate safely on this fun holiday is by booking a room at the Water Street Inn, one of the top-rated and most welcoming hotels in Stillwater, MN. With 61 lovely rooms and suites, you’ll be ready to dance the night away with a comfortable guest room awaiting your return, just a quick elevator ride away. Book your lodging in Stillwater today!

Traditional Fish Fry and pint at Charlies, one of the best Stillwater Restaurants.

The Best Stillwater Restaurants

If you’re planning a date night or romantic getaway, Stillwater restaurants offer an impressive range of ambiance and flavor. Many restaurants in downtown Stillwater feature sweeping views of the St. Croix River, creating a memorable backdrop for craft cocktails, delicious dishes, and attentive service; the makings of a perfect evening out.

As a guest at our Stillwater Hotel, you’ll want to check out our on-site restaurants.

Our on-site pub, Charlie’s, offers a fusion of Irish-American cuisine in a charming Victorian setting. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Charlie’s Restaurant and Irish Pub is known for its warm dining room, lively tavern, and riverfront patio. Live Irish music fills the space on Friday and Saturday evenings, perfect for large group gatherings. It remains one of the most popular Stillwater restaurants for St. Patrick’s Day festivities.

Located on the fourth floor of our historic Hotel in Stillwater, Papa’s Rooftop is a seasonal rooftop bar and restaurant with panoramic views of the St. Croix River and downtown Stillwater. Guests can enjoy a curated wine list, creative and classic cocktails, and a menu featuring seasonal flatbreads, sandwiches, salads, and shareable dishes. The Pioneer Press consistently ranks us as Stillwater’s best rooftop dining, making it a must-visit Stillwater restaurant in the summer.

Beyond our doors, several exceptional Stillwater restaurants are just a short walk away:

  1. Brick & Bourbon is known for its inviting patio, flavorful burgers, and shareable plates, perfect for a relaxed meal with friends.
  2. For nearly 20 years, Domacin Restaurant & Wine Bar has built a loyal following with its extensive wine list and globally inspired pairings, making it an ideal choice for an elevated date night.
  3. Howard’s Bar offers a classic small-town feel with elevated pub fare, a great choice if you are craving comfort food in a welcoming setting.
  4. Lolo American Kitchen serves everything from smash burgers and hot dogs to tacos and rice bowls with creative flavors and unique preparations.
  5. Feller, located in a historic former brewery building on Main Street, focuses on seasonal ingredients and refined farm-to-table cuisine for a more upscale dining experience.

Sandwich and Cocktail on table at Papa's one of the best Stillwater Restaurants.

Romantic Places to Stay in Stillwater MN

Located in the historic waterfront district, our Stillwater Hotel offers guests a blend of Victorian-era charm and modern amenities. Each of its 61 distinctive guest rooms and suites is thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and luxury. Staying at the Water Street Inn is like experiencing Stillwater’s history firsthand, giving you a chance to step back in time, slow down, and relax.

Guests can choose from various room types, including Tower Suites with king beds and views of downtown Stillwater and the St. Croix River, king balcony riverview rooms featuring private balconies overlooking the river, spacious King Rooms with city views, and Two Queen Rooms accommodating up to four guests. All rooms are equipped with modern bathrooms, mini-fridges, and desk spaces for the most comfortable stays.

Guests can indulge in on-site dining at Charlie’s Restaurant & Irish Pub, enjoy panoramic views from Papa’s Rooftop during the warmer months, and enjoy the inn’s proximity to Stillwater’s dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Staying at our hotel puts you in the perfect location to explore the other nearby Stillwater restaurants! Start planning and book your lodging in Stillwater today!

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