Photo courtesy of Luna Creative
Fresh off earning the distinction as Texas’s only restaurant recognized on TripAdvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Best Date Night Restaurants in America list, Cabernet Grill is elevating the art of date night with three distinctive romantic experiences designed for couples seeking unforgettable moments in the Texas Hill Country.
The “Best of Texas Date Night” features an interactive cocktail experience at Gin Mill Lounge, an award-winning six-course tasting at Cabernet Grill, and intimate accommodations at Cotton Gin Village. Couples can enjoy all three elements together for the ultimate romantic escape, or swing by the Cabernet Grill for a drink and dinner.
“Being named the only Texas restaurant on TripAdvisor’s Date Night list validates what our guests have been telling us for years – there’s something truly special about the Cabernet Grill experience,” said Ross Burtwell, owner and executive chef of the Cabernet Grill. “We created the ‘Best of Texas Date Night’ experiences to celebrate our award and give couples the ultimate Texas date – whether it’s an anniversary, special celebration, or just because you deserve an extraordinary night together.”
Photo courtesy of Team Rawls
SIP: Gin Mill Lounge “Couples Blend” Cocktail Experience
Starting in December, couples can enjoy their own “Couples Blend Cocktail Experience” at the Gin Mill Lounge. This hands-on mixology adventure starts with a base of Texas-made spirits – Dripping Springs Gin, Texas Ranger 1823 Whiskey, or Ranch Vodka – that are customized using an ever-changing selection of local Candelaria artisan mixers, bitters, and fresh garnishes. From Grilled Pineapple Simple and Ginger Pear Simple to Cherry Tobacco Bitters and Blood Orange Purée, each couple muddles, stirs, and samples until they’ve built their signature drink.
Photo courtesy of Luna Creative
SAVOR: Award-Winning Six-Course Date Night Tasting Menu
After cocktails, couples stroll across the picturesque Cotton Gin Village property to Cabernet Grill for the evening’s culinary centerpiece. Also available in December, the specially curated Date Night Tasting Menu showcases the restaurant’s commitment to Texas ingredients and innovative Hill Country cuisine, paired with exceptional Texas wines. The six-course journey includes Cabernet Grill’s signature soup shooter, House mole almonds, and a selection of appetizers, salads, and entrees, culminating with a shared dessert experience.
Each course is thoughtfully paired with wines from acclaimed Texas vineyards, including McPherson Cellars, Texas Heritage Vineyard, Fall Creek Vineyards, Lost Draw Cellars, and Llano Estacado Winery, showcasing the best of the state’s wine country.
Photo courtesy of Team Rowls
STAY: Spark Winter Romance at Cotton Gin Village
After an evening of cocktails and award-winning cuisine, couples can enjoy a short, romantic walk to one of the 14 charming cottages and beautifully restored cabins with covered porches. Cozy up by the fireplace with your sweetheart, then wake to a homemade, hot breakfast delivered to your door in a three-tiered basket, allowing couples to enjoy a leisurely private morning at their own pace.
During the weekdays from January 19 through February 25, 2026, the Cotton Gin offers its “Best of Texas Date Night” special at just $199 per night and includes a $50 dining credit to Cabernet Grill during the stay.
“For the ‘Best of Texas Date Night’, you can begin with cocktails at Gin Mill Lounge, stroll to an intimate dinner at Cabernet Grill, then walk just steps to your private cottage. Or choose just the elements that work for you – the flexibility makes it ideal for any romantic occasion,” Burtwell said.
Award-Winning Excellence
Cabernet Grill’s recognition as one of America’s “Best Date Night Restaurants” places it among the top 1% of restaurants worldwide on TripAdvisor. The restaurant was one of only three Texas establishments honored across all 2025 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award categories, cementing its status as a must-visit culinary destination in the Texas Hill Country.
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