6 Best Restaurants in Decatur, IL for Valentine's Day Dinner (2023)

Our team polled locals to find out which restaurants are winning Valentine's Day spots. We're excited to share 6 amazing options we have here in Decatur, IL that are sure to impress your Valentine in 2023.

The Gin Mill

The Gin Mill won our poll, with 34% of respondents saying it's their top Valentine's Day dinner choice. This fine dining restaurant is located in downtown Decatur, and they accept reservations. With that said, you better call now to reserve your spot, because they're sure to book up!

If you’re looking for incredible lobster bisque, steaks, seafood, and some triple chocolate cake, The Gin Mill is the Valentine’s Day destination for you. They also offer a full bar featuring top-shelf spirits.

Visit The Gin Mill on Facebook to stay informed on any updates.

TapRoot

Next up is TapRoot, which is the top pick of 25% people who answered our poll.

Located on historic Merchant Street in downtown Decatur, TapRoot is a great place to go for a fresh take on classic cuisines.

Their menu features dishes like Bourbon Glazed Salmon, Duck Tacos, and Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms. They also offer some exciting signature cocktails, such as the New York Sour (Journeyman Rye Whiskey, lemon juice, a splash of Pinot Noir, maraschino cherry) and Merchant St. Martini (Raspberry vodka, Elderflower liqueur, a splash of Moscato, lemon twist).

TapRoot accepts reservations, and again, you need to call now to ensure you get a spot before they're fully booked!‍

Visit TapRoot on Facebook to stay informed on more updates.

Abe's Hideout & Saloon

The third most-recommended restaurant for Valentine's Day dinner, with 11% of the votes, is Abe's, located in Mechanicsburg, IL. While not in Decatur, it's worth the drive! Locals rave about the incredible slow-cooked, smoked ribs, which are worth every penny.

The idea behind the creation of Abe’s Hideout draws heavy inspiration from classic American taverns – a traditional place to drink beer and eat good food.

For Valentine's Day, you can enjoy steak, ribs, pork chops, catfish, or whatever your heart desires. The menu is diverse and has everything from salads to pasta to barbecue.

Check out Abe's Website

The Beach House

Coming in fourth place is The Beach House, located on beautiful Lake Decatur. This restaurant hosts events and offers catering.

Their menu is divine, featuring fresh seafood, hand-cut Angus steaks, and the most amazing chicken alfredo lasagna.

‍Follow The Beach House on Facebook for updates leading up to Valentine’s Day.

Coney McKane's

Coming in 5th place with 5% of the vote from locals is Coney McKane's, an American eatery with a wide selection of salads, sandwiches, and entrees. This family owned and operated restaurant is known for its secret pie crust recipe that will transport you to a time when your own grandma was whipping up desserts in the kitchen.

For Valentine's Day, Coney's is doing a dinner for two from 4pm-7:30. The $50 special includes two bacon wrapped filets, a choice of soup or salad, and asparagus with twice baked potato casserole. Call and reserve your spot for Valentine's Day as reservations are limited!

Be sure to follow Coney McKane's on Facebook for more updates!

Benny’s Grill

And coming in 6th place for the most votes from locals is Benny’s Grill, a casual, comfortable atmosphere serving up classic American and Italian cuisine.

Benny's Grill pays attention to the details that count from grinding their beef daily to a wide variety of microbrews.

Their dinner menu features everything from Benny’s Favorite Reuben to Horseshoes to Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo.

‍Visit Benny’s Grill on Facebook to stay informed on any updates.

Honorable Mentions

There are many fantastic restaurants in the Decatur, IL area, and we would be remiss if we didn't give a few honorable mentions. If you can't get a reservation at any of the above (or they're just not the Valentine's Day spot for you) here are some other great options to consider:

• Bobby Lane's BBQ
• Bistro Five Thirty Seven
• The Wagon
• Robbies Restaurant
• Diamonds Family Restaurant
• HOME!

Several individuals who answered the poll voted to stay home and cook dinner for your significant other. Sometimes, the best meals are the ones you've made with love.

Conclusion

If you're not sure which restaurant to choose for Valentine's Day this year, we hope this list helps narrow things down.

Have a great Valentine’s Day!