Welcome to your new favorite date night spot. Deke treated me to dinner at Garten a while back, and it absolutely lived up to the hype. It had been on my “must-try” list for ages, and after finally experiencing it firsthand, I get why people rave about it: incredible food, impeccable service, and the coziest ambiance that makes you want to linger and order “just one more thing.”
Garten is known as a modern beer + wine garden in Severna Park, and it’s from the folks behind Preserve in Annapolis so you already know the food and hospitality are going to be dialed in.
If you’re building a list of date-worthy spots in Anne Arundel County, Otani in Gambrills belongs on it too, a Japanese restaurant with a $65 omakase, hibachi, and specialty rolls that makes a real evening out of it.
The vibe: intimate, warm, and effortlessly date-night
What I love most about Garten is that it feels special without trying too hard. Outside, you’ll see the “garden” energy – patio seating and that relaxed beer garden feel—while inside feels warm and inviting.
It’s the kind of place that works for a cute weeknight date, celebratory dinners that still feel relaxed, and “we need a cozy place with good drinks” nights.
What we ordered (and loved): dish-by-dish
Everything we tried was a hit—no regrets, no misses, just “wow” after “wow.”
- Shrimp Ceviche ($19): Ft garlic poached shrimp, lime, cilantro, jalapeño, peas, and tortilla chips. Think bright and ridiculously refreshing.
- Baby Gem Wedge Salad ($16): If you love a wedge moment, this one’s a must. Super satisfying, lots of texture, and the dressing is chef’s kiss.
- Chicken Schnitzel ($24): Brined, breaded, and fried chicken cutlet served with an arugula salad finished with lemon, capers, and dutch lebneh. Crispy, juicy, perfectly seasoned, and the portion was HUGE.
- Sausage Platter ($26): your choice of two griddled sausages served with mashed potatoes, braised red cabbage, beer-braised kraut, pork jus, curry ketchup, and Garten mustard. This one is SO fun for sharing. It’s hearty in the best way, and all the sides/condiments make every bite different.
If you’re looking for a cozy, polished, food-forward spot that still feels warm and approachable, Garten is a must. Everything we tried was delicious, service was spot-on, and the ambiance is exactly what you want for a date night that feels a little more special. We’ll 100% be back.
Another great Anne Arundel County option for date night is Nonna Angela’s Italian Bistro in Crofton, where the food is made from scratch and the vibe is exactly the kind of warm, sit-down dinner that makes for a really nice evening out.
📍 849 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Severna Park, MD
⏰ Tuesday–Sunday, 11 AM–9 PM
For more of yum eats in Severna Park, click here.