A Romantic Meal out in Downtown McMinnville

An elevated meal at Nick's Italian Cafe and other McMinnville Restaurants

Fall is the perfect time to explore Oregon’s wine country, especially in the charming town of McMinnville. It is, of course, a busy season, with the annual harvest well underway in the top Willamette Valley Vineyards, including our own at Youngberg Hill. Fall, though, is also a wonderful season of change and the perfect time of year to escape somewhere romantic with the one you love. From romantic dinners at McMinnville restaurants like Nick’s Italian Cafe and others to cozy afternoons sipping wine, fall presents an ideal time of year for wine lovers to visit.

Great food and delicious wine so often go hand in hand—and that’s certainly the case with McMinnville restaurants like Nick’s Italian Cafe, not to mention those spread far and wide throughout the Willamette Valley. There’s also something special about carving out the time to enjoy these finer pursuits in life with your special someone. The romantic atmosphere of the Willamette Valley goes far beyond charming restaurants and elevated wine-tasting experiences, though. Stroll through McMinnville’s historic downtown, take a beautiful drive through the countryside, and enjoy fireside chats over a fantastic glass of Pinot Noir. 

Elevate your stay further with a luxurious stay at our top-rated McMinnville Bed and Breakfast. There’s only one place in the entire valley that offers a comprehensive experience with upscale guest rooms, exquisite wine tasting (complimentary with every stay), and our breathtaking hilltop views looking out over the valley. It’s the perfect place for romantic getaways in the heart of Oregon’s Wine Country. Book your stay today!

Sharing a glass of wine over a romantic meal at McMinnville restaurants like Nick's Italian Cafe

Romantic Meal at Nick’s Italian Cafe

There are plenty of fantastic McMinnville restaurants to enjoy this fall, but Nick’s Italian Cafe is one of our favorite go-to’s for a romantic meal out. In perfect contrast to some of the more modern restaurants in Willamette Valley, Nick’s Italian Cafe does a wonderful job of blending old-world charm while still offering a modern, elevated twist on Italian classics. It’s located right off 3rd Street, downtown McMinnville’s main shopping street. Nick’s Italian Cafe has long been a wine-country staple, offering a cozy atmosphere perfect for date night. 

The interior of Nick’s Italian Cafe may be simple, unassuming, and the atmosphere relaxed, but their menu is a delight. It focuses on traditional Italian dishes made with local, seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying handmade pasta, a perfectly grilled steak, or a wood-fired pizza, each dish is crafted with attention to detail that elevates the dining experience. Pair your meal with a bottle from their extensive wine list, which features some of the best local Pinot Noirs, and you’ll have a dining experience that’s hard to forget.

More Great McMinnville Restaurants

Nick’s Italian Cafe is fantastic, but it’s just one of the many incredible McMinnville restaurants worth visiting this fall. Each offers something distinct – and we’ve listed a few more favorites below. 

  1. One of the newest and most acclaimed McMinnville restaurants is Okta. The chef has earned two Michelin stars and was recently nominated for a James Beard Award. The menu is fresh and farm-to-table, a perfect example of the bounty awaiting you in Oregon’s wine country.  
  2. Enjoy a romantic meal of Spanish Tapas at La Ramba, another favorite among McMinnville restaurants. They also offer an impressive selection of local wines to choose from. 
  3. Another great spot on downtown McMinnville’s Third Street is Pura Vida Cocina. This vibrant spot brings the flavors of Latin America to McMinnville with its fresh, lively dishes and is perfect for a casual yet refined evening. 
  4. We also love Humble Spirit, which is focused on seasonal produce from around the valley in a delightful range of down-to-earth menu classics. 
  5. If you’re in the mood for a delicious fusion of international flavors, head to one of our favorite McMinnville restaurants, Cypress. With everything from Middle Eastern flavors to touches from Southwestern Asia and Northern Africa, every meal here is delicious. 
  6. Mac Market houses some fantastic McMinnville restaurants, including Hayward and Honey Pie Pizza. It’s the perfect dinner destination, especially if you’re having trouble agreeing – or maybe just want to try a taste of it all. 
Learn More About the Best Pinot Noir at our Willamette Valley Winery

The Best McMinnville Bed and Breakfast for Romantic Getaways

As you explore Oregon Wine Country this fall, treat yourself to an upscale getaway at our McMinnville Bed and Breakfast. Perched on a 50-acre estate, this McMinnville Bed and Breakfast provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains, making it an unforgettable retreat. With just nine luxurious guest rooms, guests can enjoy a peaceful and private escape while being centrally located near over 100 of the best Willamette Valley wineries – including, of course, our very own.

Our beautifully appointed rooms come with luxury amenities like fireplaces, soaking tubs, and private balconies, perfect for unwinding after a day of wine tasting. Whether you’re relaxing on the veranda with a glass of our estate wines or enjoying a gourmet breakfast with vineyard views, our McMinnville Bed and Breakfast prides itself on creating an unparalleled experience for every guest who stays with us.

Aside from the elevated guest rooms and gorgeous views, one of the best reasons to stay at our McMinnville Bed and Breakfast is the wine-forward experience. Our vineyards are certified organic and biodynamic, creating exceptional wines that capture the essence of the Willamette Valley. As a guest, you’ll have access to complimentary wine tastings, where you can sample our acclaimed Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other varietals, all while learning about the winemaking process from experts. The inn also offers exclusive vineyard tours, adding a unique, immersive element to your stay in Oregon Wine Country. 

Don’t miss your chance to enjoy the best of Oregon wine country this fall. Book your stay at our top-rated Bed and Breakfast in McMinnville today! 

Member Only Sunday

This Sunday, April 21st, our tasting room will be closed to the general public for a member-only event. non-club members are welcome to join us for $50 per person.