Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Yelp has released its list of the Top 100 Romantic Restaurants for 2024—and two St. Louis favorites made the grade.
Coming in at Nos. 26 and 27, respectively, are Polite Society and Olive + Oak, two of St. Louis’ most beloved restaurants, both known for their delectable cuisine, elevated drinks, and upscale-yet-comfortable dining rooms.
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The two restaurants are the only Missouri dining establishments to make the list. Top honors went to Penumbra, a Latin-inflected steak-and-seafood spot in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood. Pane & Vino in Miami and Café Monarch in Scottsdale rounded out the top three.
Located in the heart of Lafayette Square, Polite Society has been an area favorite since it opened its doors in 2017. Known for its beautifully executed seasonal cuisine (the pork osso bucco is a perpetual favorite), the restaurant has cemented its reputation as the sort of cozy, intimate neighborhood gathering place that’s just as suited for a romantic date night as a casual drink and snack at the bar.
“We’re always incredibly fortunate to have these nice things said about us; knowing it comes from our guests is especially great,” says Brian Schmitz. co-owner of Be Polite Hospitality, which operates Polite Society, The Bellwether, SubDivision Sandwich Co. and Intergalactic Burgers. “This specific kind of occasion and holiday holds a special spot in our hearts and minds because it speaks directly to what we are trying to do – and that is to make people feel comfortable and help them celebrate the best moments of their lives. Whether it’s an anniversary or first date, we know that we are a part of celebrating their most important days. More and more, especially around Valentine’s Day and the weekends before and after we are seeing a lot of people who had first dates with us a few years ago. It adds a layer to it and is special because we are a part of those memories and continue to be part of their ongoing lives.”
Olive + Oak also embraces that elevated neighborhood restaurant feel. The Webster Groves hot spot might be perpetually packed, but its stunning cuisine (overseen by James Beard Award–nominated Jesse Mendica Risk), outstanding cocktails, and polished dining room always manages to feel intimate. The oysters, among the freshest in town, add to the romantic mystique.
“It always defaults to the experience we are trying to create,” says Mark Hinkle, owner of Olive + Oak. “We are always trying to look and pay attention to what our guests are doing and why they are here, and we find ways to make them feel comfortable – and the hearts everywhere certainly help.”
Yelp created its list by identifying restaurants with a large concentration of reviews mentioning words and phrases such as “romantic,” “date night,” and “valentine.” It then ranked those spots according to factors such as the total volume and ratings of reviews mentioning those keywords.
Those hoping to secure a last-minute Valentine’s Day reservation at Polite Society, Olive + Oak, or any of St. Louis’ romantic dining spots are down to the wire—though if all else fails, you can grab a takeout heart-shaped pizza.
