Clueless’s Cher meets Bridgerton’s Daphne meets…Emma at the DCPA.

Jane Austen’s romantic and sharp comedy takes the stage in an irreverent, modern take on matchmaking, mischief, and marriage. Now this is date night material.

While there is a plethora of restaurants in the downtown area near the Arts Complex, which ones are best suited for date night? The choice can be daunting.

Bistro LeRoux

Of course, the DCPA has several restaurant partners within a few blocks of the Complex, many of which provide special offers for Theatre Company patrons. These might range from a complimentary cocktail to valet parking. Some romantic spots are The Corner Office, Bistro LeRoux, and STK Steakhouse.

Besides DCPA restaurant partners, here are some of the many gorgeous restaurants and bars downtown that come highly recommended. Try Emerald Eye, Tavernetta, The Cruise Room at the Oxford Hotel, ChoLon, or Urban Farmer.

A unique option for dinner would be to visit the Milk Market, located at the Dairy Block near Union Station. This food hall allows you each to order from different restaurants, or to get a little bit of everything. If you go early, explore the Dairy Block’s shops or swing through Union Station.

But maybe you’re looking for something a little more special than dinner, drinks, and a show. Maybe you have a whole day to spend together, and there are some simple ways to make the most of it.

Tamayo

Staying near the Complex, peruse the stores in and around Larimer Square. Buy your date a drink at Tamayo and enjoy the sunshine on their patio. Browse some new wardrobe options at the local shops, like Garage Sale Vintage. Then, grab a scoop of ice cream at Van Leeuwen’s, because you know you want one.

If you’re willing to venture a little further from the Complex, make a reservation at Upstairs Circus in LoDo. DIY meets happy hour in this unique date spot, where you can choose a project from their menu and enjoy a cocktail while you flex your creative muscles.

Maybe art is your thing – or holding hands, wandering through corridors is more like it. There are several museums nearby. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art or the Denver Art Museum. For something a little more niche, try the Clyfford Still Museum or the Kirkland Museum.

If you have matinee tickets to Emma, you have the unique opportunity to have a picnic lunch before the theatre. Sculpture Park, located just behind the Arts Complex, is a wonderful spot to bring a blanket (and some sunscreen), sit down and enjoy feeding each other little sandwiches and snacks. Fair warning, be sure to check the weather before you set out.

No matter how you begin your day together, Emma is the perfect option to cap off a romantic evening.