Whether you’ve just secured a babysitter, recently met on Hinge or have been practicing this sacred ritual for decades, a real good date night calls for ambiance. It’s not quite like hitting up the local sports bar (unless, of course, that’s your thing), but often demands a certain elegance, a quiet intimacy and a lack of looming screens. Downtown Salinas is situated nicely for date night. Within casual strolling distance—this is no occasion to rush— there are options to fit any mood. EUROPEAN Nowhere beats Patria on Main for a date night experience. Everything here suits a romantic evening out: calm and elegant ambiance with teal velvet booths, farmhouse wood panels and a comely glow; service that is reserved yet friendly, knowledgeable yet laid-back; and food so excellent that it doesn’t matter which dish you choose–you inherently know that each has been doted on by a precise and thoughtful chef. Every indulgent bite of lobster ravioli lets the delicate seafood shine in an even more delicate creamy vodka pink sauce. The jaeger schnitzel is crisped golden brown and complemented by braised purple cabbage with hints of exotic spices, tempered by handmade spaetzle–egg noodles for the gods. If you’d prefer to share a small plate, don’t skip the artisan pizza like “The Farm,” featuring skirt steak, garlic flakes and ricotta cheese emphasized by sweet caramelized onion. Even the salad is a work of art. The dish that makes you linger is the triple chocolate mousse with Belgian chocolate and unsweetened whipped cream. It’s heaven on a plate, and perfect to enjoy with your loved one. Patria, 228 Main St., Salinas. 424-5555, patriaonmain.com MEXICAN If you’re feeling funky and flavorful and up for a slightly busier vibe, Villa 10 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® EAT + DRINK 2025-2026 GETTING OUT For date night, downtown Salinas offers couples a number of great options. By Taryn Yudaken Patria on Main NIK BLASKOVICH
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