3 Romantic Restaurants in Hattiesburg, MS

Every city has those places. You know the ones is mean- the places that are packed every Valentine's Day, the places every woman wants to go to on an anniversary, the places that practically scream "This is a romantic beginning to a beautiful night!!" Those kinds of restaurants have acquired that reputation for a good reason. And Hattiesburg, with its wide array of eateries, is not lacking for fine, romantic dining. Here's just a few places one can go to start the night off right.

Purple Parrot Cafe, 3810 Hardy Street, Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39402

- As far as high class dining in Hattiesburg goes, you can't do much better than this place. The dining area is small and quiet, perfect for a couple looking to lose themselves in each other, and the menu itself is not only extensive in its selections, but has received numerous awards and recognitions. Even the wine list has won awards! Menu choices cover everything from seafood (lobster, tasso, shrimp, red fish), to meats (lamb, steaks, veal, short ribs), to the appetizers and salads that fall in between. The Purple Parrot gets huge points for atmosphere as well. Not only is it a small, intimate setting, which helps provide top notch service, but fresh cut flowers and fine art help to complete the setting. An experience like this is a little pricey, likely costing at least $75 if you consider appetizer, meal, wine and tip. But it's a night that won't quickly be forgotten! The full menu, hours, and other info can be viewed at www.nsrg.com. Note- The Purple Parrot is attached to its sister restaurant, the Crescent City Grill. Crescent City boasts the same wine list and a slightly different, somewhat less expensive menu that also covers a wide variety of selections. Crescent City is an excellent eatery, but not exactly romantic since it is often full and can get quite loud. However, for people on a smaller budget who still want a fantastic meal, it is a great choice for a night out.

Brownstone's, 103 E. Front Street, Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39401

- This downtown Hattiesburg restaurant is not only cozy and romantic, it serves some of the best seafood you can find in the city. The theme is New Orleans style food, and it doesn't disappoint at any time. Menu selections include fried alligator, crab claws, tuna steaks, cajun pasta, gumbo- the list goes on and on. Romantics can choose to sit downstairs in the main dining area (a booth under the stairwell is the most secluded!) or upstairs in the bar area. There's even a balcony with limited outdoor seating. Regardless of what kind of setting you're specifically looking for, Brownstone's will likely be able to accommodate you. The setting is small, without feeling cramped, and an open kitchen adds to the relaxing atmosphere, instilling a feeling of belonging. Prices here are somewhat less than Purple Parrot, but you're still looking to spend in the $50- $60 range. However, Brownstone's offers something that I've never seen at another restaurant- half-size portions, at almost half-price. It's a perfect choice for those with small appetites. Brownstone's menu and information can be viewed at www.brownstones.com.

The Sake Cafe, 6097 US Highway 98 W, Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39402

-OK, so I threw this one to get a little bit of variety to the food I was suggesting. It definitely fits the bill as a romantic restaurant though. When you walk in, it's easy to forget that anything or anyone else exists outside the doors. The website describes the setting as "peaceful" and a more apt word couldn't be found. Couples can sit at a booth, in the dim lighting, and enjoy each others company without any distractions. The menu is one of the most extensive I've ever found at a sushi restaurant, with a plethora of specialty rolls available (The New Orleans roll, the Jazz Roll, the Tiger Roll), as well as the more common, less adventurous staples like the California roll and sashimi. Other menu choices include tempura, teriyaki, udon noodles, and many other things common to Japanese restaurants. Service here has always been excellent as well. How much you'll spend varies greatly on how much sushi you and your date can eat, but with most menu items averaging around $12, the total bill here can easily run in the $40- $50 range. Their website is www.sakecafe-hattiesburg.com and has a link to their complete menu.

These three restaurants are just a small sampling of the romantic choices in Hattiesburg. There is literally something for every taste and budget. For a night out, that could possibly lead to a night in, the possibilities are endless!!