A Dozen Cozy Spots for a Romantic Winter Date Night

Winter is prime time for slowing down and treating yourself to a cozy meal with your loved one, and Fairfield County has no shortage of unique, locally owned restaurants ready to set the mood. Tucked across Central Ohio, these spots serve up comfort food, warm lighting, and the kind of atmosphere that turns an ordinary dinner date into a full-blown romantic dinner. If you’re hunting for cozy restaurants perfect for a winter date night, you’re in the right place.

Lancaster 

Lancaster has a way of making winter feel charming instead of chilly. Its historic downtown, brick-lined streets, and mix of locally loved spots create the perfect backdrop for a romantic night out. Whether you’re craving comfort food, craft drinks, or a quiet corner to linger a little longer, Lancaster’s dining scene is packed with cozy, character-filled restaurants ready for your next winter date night.

Ale House 1890 – 149 W Main St. | (740) 277-6053 | Check website for hours

Ale House 1890 brings the charm of historic Downtown Lancaster to life with a glow that feels tailor-made for a winter date night. Housed in a landmark building that’s been serving spirits and good times since 1890, this spot blends vintage character with a fresh, modern edge. The menu leans into made-from-scratch comfort food crafted from locally sourced ingredients—perfect for couples who want their dinner date to feel hearty and heartfelt. With 18 beers on tap, handcrafted cocktails, and an atmosphere that stays warm no matter how cold it gets outside, Ale House 1890 stands out as one of Central Ohio’s truly cozy restaurants. It’s an easy pick for a romantic dinner or a relaxed, cozy meal that lingers long after the plates are cleared.

O’Huids Gaelic Pub – 167 W Main St. | (740) 422-8850 | Check Facebook for hours

O’Huids is a local gem that feels perfect for a winter date night. This family-owned Irish pub serves hearty comfort food with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, from classic bangers and mash to Irish twists on pub favorites. With live music, a thoughtfully curated beer and cocktail selection, and friendly service, it’s one of Central Ohio’s cozy restaurants where a simple dinner date can easily turn into a romantic dinner. Settle in for a cozy meal, enjoy the lively charm, and let O’Huids make your night out feel special.

Cherry Street Pub – 202 N Cherry St. | (740) 654-7828 | Check website for hours

Cherry Street Pub combines centuries-old English pub charm with modern American comfort food. The menu is packed with homemade comfort food made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, featuring standout dishes like chicken and waffles, lobster mac, and classic fish and chips. Pair your meal with one of their craft beers or cocktails, and enjoy one of the few locally owned restaurants in Lancaster open on Sundays—a perfect spot for a cozy winter date night. Don’t miss the colorful Fancy Booth—full of personality and available on a first-come, first-served basis—which adds a playful touch to your dinner date. With its historic bar and inviting atmosphere, Cherry Street Pub is a place where winter evenings feel both casual and special.

Alfonso’s Italian Steakhouse – 3100 Country Club Rd. SW | (740) 277-6727 | Check website for hours

Tucked inside the Lancaster Golf Club, Alfonso’s Italian Steakhouse brings the warmth of a family-run Italian restaurant straight from northern New Jersey to Fairfield County. The menu is full of hearty, made-from-scratch comfort food featuring seasonal, farm-fresh ingredients—perfect for a cozy meal or a romantic dinner. Choose from inviting indoor seating, including the piano room or bar & grill, and let the relaxed atmosphere set the tone for a winter date night. With signature pastas, flavorful pizzas, and desserts made with care, Alfonso’s combines timeless recipes with local ingredients for a dining experience that feels both indulgent and homegrown.

Rhonemus Cellars – 1511 George Rd. NE | (740) 785-9900 | Check website for hours

Rhonemus Cellars is more than a winery—it’s a labor of love and a celebration of home. Nestled on the grounds of The View Golf Club, this destination spot combines a working vineyard with an inviting restaurant, bar, solarium, and tasting room, making it a perfect winter date night escape. Enjoy a cozy meal or romantic dinner in the bright, all-glass Greenhouse, where the outside world feels a little closer, and the warmth of good food and hand-crafted wines fills the room. With thoughtfully made wines, locally inspired dishes, and an atmosphere built on family, community, and hospitality, Rhonemus Cellars offers a memorable setting for couples looking to relax, unwind, and share a truly special evening in Central Ohio.

Millersport 

Small but mighty, Millersport knows how to serve up big comfort in the colder months. This lakeside community has that slow-down-and-stay-awhile energy—just right for a casual winter dinner date. It’s the kind of place where you can warm up, unwind, and enjoy a cozy meal without overthinking a thing.

Hometown Hotdogs – 12031 Lancaster St | (740) 467-1310 | Check Facebook for hours

Hometown Hotdogs brings a burst of nostalgia to Buckeye Lake’s shoreline—a place where the old-school charm that locals love meets a fresh, reinvigorated menu crafted by its young, energetic owners. The classics are still there, but the updated dishes and warm service make every visit feel even more welcoming. It may not be your typical romantic restaurant, but it is the kind of spot where a winter date night can turn into something unexpectedly memorable. Grab a cozy meal, settle into the familiar, friendly atmosphere, and enjoy comfort food that hits the spot. For couples who love a laid-back dinner date with plenty of heart, this little Millersport staple deserves a place on the list.

Pickerington

Pickerington brings a little modern flair to the winter dining scene, with an eclectic mix of global flavors, creative menus, and inviting atmospheres. It’s a great spot for couples who love trying something new or mixing up their go-to dinner date routine. From bold bites to laid-back favorites, this corner of Fairfield County has plenty to explore.

Jhapali Kitchen & Bar – 859 Windmiller Dr. Suite 300 | (614) 694-0300 | Check website for hours

Jhapali Kitchen & Bar brings a burst of flavor and warmth to Pickerington with a menu inspired by Nepalese and Indian comfort food. From rich curries and tandoori classics to dishes like Chicken Kadhai and Navratna Korma, this spot is perfect for couples craving something a little different for their winter date night. The cozy atmosphere pairs beautifully with bold, aromatic dishes—an easy way to turn a simple dinner date into a flavorful, romantic dinner. And if you want to keep the adventure going, wander next door to GN International Grocery for spices, snacks, and fun finds that make the night feel even more memorable.

Hangry City Grille & Spirits – 1252 Hill Rd N | (614) 626-0036 | Check website for hours

Hangry City Grille & Spirits is all about creativity, comfort food, and a laid-back vibe that makes for a fun winter date night. Their ever-changing lineup of specialty sliders lets you mix and match your favorites—perfect for couples who want to share, sample, and try something new together. Pair your picks with homemade mac-n-cheese or parmesan herb fries, then settle into the cozy sports-bar atmosphere with a craft beer or cocktail from the full bar. It’s an easygoing dinner date spot where bold flavors, friendly service, and playful combinations make for a memorable (and delicious) evening out in Central Ohio.

Sugar Grove

Nestled near the rolling foothills that lead toward the Hocking Hills, Sugar Grove is built for peaceful escapes and slow, scenic evenings. It’s the perfect stop for couples who want their winter date night to feel just a bit more tucked away. With its relaxed countryside charm, this community sets the tone for intimate sips and unhurried conversation.

Valley View Hills Winery – 29176 Klump Rd. | (740) 746-8704 | Check website for hours

Valley View Hills Winery brings a little Hocking Hills magic to every glass, making it a dreamy spot for a cozy winter date night. The views are stunning year-round, but there’s something extra special about settling in with a romantic dinner and a flight of handcrafted wines while the hills stretch quietly outside. Their menu leans into comforting, seasonal dishes that pair beautifully with everything from velvety reds to crisp, refreshing whites—ideal for couples chasing a relaxed, intimate dinner date in Central Ohio.

If you’re looking to stretch your evening into a full getaway, their deluxe cabins offer an inviting retreat tucked into the wooded landscape. Whether you’re sipping sangria during their all-day weekday happy hour or sharing a cozy meal fireside, Valley View Hills Winery creates the kind of atmosphere that turns a simple stop into a memorable winter escape.

Baltimore 

Baltimore brings that small-town warmth everyone hopes to find on a cold winter night. Friendly, welcoming, and full of hometown flavor, it’s an easy pick for a cozy dinner date. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back pub vibe or a meal that feels like a local secret, Baltimore’s got you covered.

Baltimore Pint House – 108 N Main St. | (740) 400-4548 | Check website for hours

Tucked inside a historic downtown bank building, the Baltimore Pint House is one of those places you wander into once and immediately add to your “we’re coming back” list. It’s a laid-back spot with cozy farmhouse touches—old wooden floors, a warm fireplace, and a friendly staff that makes every visit feel easy.

The menu is packed with crave-worthy comfort: juicy burgers, wings, wraps, fish and chips, and all the pub classics that hit the spot after a long day. Fresh craft beer is always flowing, and the patio with its firepits and heaters is a gem in the colder months. If you’re looking for a relaxed, low-key date night with great food and zero fuss, the Baltimore Pint House delivers every time.

Papito’s Kitchen – 101 N Basil St. | (740) 400-5026 | Check Facebook for hours

Papito’s Kitchen serves up fresh seafood with a dash of Latin flair, making it a flavorful spot for a cozy winter dinner date. From cod and catfish to salmon and walleye, their platters, sandwiches, and appetizers are all crafted with care, perfect for sharing with someone special. The family-oriented atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with owners and staff who make every guest feel appreciated. Save room for dessert and enjoy nightly specials or weekend seafood buffets—the kind of touches that turn an ordinary dinner date into a memorable experience in Baltimore.

Lithopolis

Small but full of character, Lithopolis offers a charming escape for couples looking to explore a unique corner of Fairfield County. The town blends quaint streets with unexpected gems, like Das KaffeeHaus von Frau Burkhart—a European-inspired café where cozy comfort meets adventurous flair. Whether you’re stopping in for a warm coffee, indulging in freshly baked pastries, or sharing a cozy meal with your partner, Lithopolis provides a perfect backdrop for a memorable winter date night.

Das KaffeeHaus von Frau Burkhart – 45 E Columbus St. | (614) 837-8837 | Check Facebook for hours

Das KaffeeHaus von Frau Burkhart is not your typical coffee spot—it’s a bold, edgy European-inspired café where modern German coffee culture meets cozy comfort. The atmosphere blends café, bakery, Biergarten, and pub-style elements, creating a lively yet intimate space perfect for a winter date night. Sip their proprietary German-style coffee or Italian espresso while sharing freshly baked pastries or light bites, all handmade daily. With eclectic music, vibrant décor, and a sense of European flair, this café offers a unique setting for couples to enjoy a cozy meal, linger over drinks, and soak up an experience that feels both adventurous and inviting in Lithopolis.