2 VA Restaurants Among Most Romantic 'Hidden Gems' Survey Says

VIRGINIA — Two Virginia eateries were recently included on a new list that highlights the most romantic "hidden gem" restaurants in the United States.

Sacramento-based restaurant Zinfandel Grille surveyed 3,168 diners to find out where the nation’s most romantic and "enchanting" restaurants were located.

From hidden basement bars to historic home-turned-dining destinations, diners craved eateries that offered authentic charm and local flavors over five-star dining reservations.

Two Virginia restaurants offered this experience to couples, according to the survey.

Cedar Knoll in Alexandria came in at No. 57 on the list. Located at 9030 Lucia Lane, Cedar Knoll stands on land purchased by George Washington in 1760 and is housed in a building constructed in the early 1800s. The restaurant serves American and French cuisine with beautiful waterfront views.

Coming in at No. 78 on the list was The Alley Light in Charlottesville. Tucked away in the side streets of Charlottesville's Downtown Mall, The Alley Light offers classic French shared plates, craft cocktails and small grower wines in a casually elegant atmosphere, according to the restaurant's website.

The top 10 most romantic hidden gem restaurants included on the list were:

1. Moon and Turtle (Hilo, Hawaii)
2. Cap's On The Water (St. Augustine, Florida)
3. Mama D's Italian Kitchen (Newport Beach, California)
4. La Cave (Las Vegas, Nevada)
5. The Hidden House (Chandler, Arizona)
6. La Noxe (New York City)
7. Wonder Bar Steakhouse (Clarksburg, West Virginia)
8. Grappa '72 (Albany, New York)
9. Wild Goat Bistro (Petaluma, California)
10. Il Lusso (Tallahassee, Florida)

See the full list on Zinfandel Grille's website.