Whether you’ve been together for years or are about to go on your first date, Uptown New Orleans has a plethora of places to explore for date night. Allow me to guide you through just a few of the many romantic options that you can enjoy.

Go Grab a Drink at Snake and Jake’s

Image Via Bucket List Bars.

This first one is near and dear to my heart, as I had my first day with my boyfriend there a year ago today (happy anniversary, Manuel)! While you may see a dive bar, I see a place with character that allows for a fantastic date between you and your partner. Cheap drinks, a nice outdoor patio area, and a “Christmas year round” theme makes this place ripe for some romance. I can attest to it, I promise. 

Head to the Fly with a Picnic

Mercedes with the previous year’s Editor in Chief, Jordana Comiter and Senior Editor Joely Fishman.

This one is for lovers and friends alike. Some of my favorite memories have been packing up some sandwiches, drinks, and snacks and setting up shop at the Fly right as the sunset starts. Grab some blankets and a speaker and just relax. I feel like we don’t appreciate the Mississippi enough for its beauty… There is just something about it that is alluring. Bring some cards or maybe a soccar ball to pass around and you’ll have hours of relaxing fun all within walking distance of campus.

Go to a Sunday Morning Movie at the Prytania 

Mercedes and her friends at the Prytania’s annual Oscars Watch Party.

As a frequent visitor of the Prytania Theatre, I feel a sense of happiness when I get my Coke Icee, the lights go down, and I can watch a movie in a room full of strangers. Movies really are funnier when you have a group to laugh along to them. The Prytania is constantly showing movies at 10am, which is when they screen their Classic Movie Series. There will be less people, you won’t be exhausted from the day yet, and you’ll be able to sit back with your partner and enjoy a nice Sunday morning movie. Maybe a little brunch can commence afterwards? That’s a great idea! In fact…

Get Brunch at Panola Street Cafe

Image Via Panola Street Cafe.

A spot that is often overlooked but close to my heart is Panola Street Cafe on the corner of Panola and Burdette. I feel like a lot of students don’t utilize this spot because they simply don’t know about it, but hopefully that changes soon… or maybe it’s good everyone stays away so that the wait times don’t get crazy. It’s a toss up. 

They have a great selection of burgers, sandwiches, and (the shining star) their breakfasts will always hit the spot. Think classic diner food but just around the corner. I can’t tell you how many times I showed up to Panola Street Cafe with a raging hangover and a desire for pancakes, and somehow they get it right everytime. Head over with your partner for some eggs and bacon, and don’t forget to share a romantic cup of coffee. Did I mention that they serve mimosas as well? If that doesn’t make you want to stop by, I don’t know what will.  

Go To Blue Cypress Books and Pick Out Each Other’s Books

Image via Blue Cypress Books.

Straight out of a Wattpad fanfiction, this idea is sweet and a fun way to give your partner a gift they will cherish without breaking the bank in the process. Perhaps your love is a fan of romance novels? Get them something obscure from the bottom of the shelf. Maybe you fell in love with a photography lover? Blue Cypress has some great photo book options. But be careful, this activity will show how much you’ve been paying attention to your partner… for better or for worse. 

Whatever you do with your date, make sure you have fun and explore this great city that we live in. You never know when you’re gonna walk into a dive bar with an acquaintance and walk out with a person you want to see again and again.

Featured image via @kemmiethecat on Instagram.

About Mercedes Ohlen

Mercedes was The Crescent’s Editor-in-Chief from 2022-2023. She graduated from Tulane with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. She enjoys going to the movies, fashion, and writing about the great city of New Orleans. She will be pursuing a career lifestyle journalism, publishing, or a job within comedy upon her graduation from Tulane. No topic is too obscure, and no story too niche. Roll Wave!

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Mercedes was The Crescent’s Editor-in-Chief from 2022-2023. She graduated from Tulane with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. She enjoys going to the movies, fashion, and writing about the great city of New Orleans. She will be pursuing a career lifestyle journalism, publishing, or a job within comedy upon her graduation from Tulane. No topic is too obscure, and no story too niche. Roll Wave!