Date Night Guide
Create the perfect romantic evening: Mediterranean cuisine, live jazz, craft cocktails, and intimate ambiance
Looking for a date night that goes beyond the usual dinner-and-a-movie? Carnys offers an unforgettable romantic experience combining authentic Mediterranean cuisine, live music, craft cocktails, and the unique experience of premium hookah in an intimate, upscale setting.
Whether it's a first date, anniversary, or spontaneous evening out, this guide will help you plan the perfect romantic night that stands out from typical Encino date spots.
Why Carnys for Date Night?
Authentic Cuisine
Share Mediterranean mezze, fresh kebabs, and Persian specialties. Our chef-prepared dishes provide conversation starters and memorable flavors.
Live Entertainment
Enjoy live jazz, acoustic sets, or Mediterranean bands 5 nights per week. Music creates ambiance without overpowering conversation.
Unique Experience
Share premium hookah flavors in an upscale lounge setting. It's an interactive, social experience that sets us apart from typical restaurants.
Craft Cocktails
Our bartenders craft signature cocktails like Persian Garden and Midnight in Encino, plus curated wine selections to complement your meal.
Intimate Ambiance
Dim lighting, plush seating, and thoughtfully designed spaces create a romantic atmosphere perfect for meaningful conversation.
Open Late
We're open until 2am daily. No need to rush - linger over dessert, enjoy another round, or just savor the moment together.
Your Perfect Evening Timeline
7:00 PM - Arrive & Settle In
Arrive 5-10 minutes early to secure your table. Request a quieter section if you prefer intimate conversation. Take a moment to appreciate the ambiance and review the menu together.
7:15 PM - Start with Drinks & Mezze
Order craft cocktails or wine. Begin with 2-3 shareable mezze plates (we recommend Hummus Trio, Baba Ganoush, and Cheese Borek). Sharing food naturally encourages interaction and conversation.
8:00 PM - Main Course
Choose your entrees - the Mixed Grill Platter is perfect for sharing, or order individual kebabs. Our staff can recommend pairings if you have different taste preferences.
9:00 PM - Add Premium Hookah
Order a premium hookah to share. Try Mediterranean Breeze (citrus mint rose) or Midnight Jazz (grape mint spice). Hookah creates a relaxed, lingering atmosphere perfect for deep conversation.
9:30 PM - Live Music & Dessert
Enjoy live music (check our events calendar for tonight's performance). Share Baklava or Kunafa with Persian tea or Turkish coffee. The perfect sweet ending.
10:30 PM - Linger or Continue
No rush! Stay for another round of drinks, continue your hookah session, or transition to our late-night lounge vibe. We're open until 2am.
Menu Recommendations for Couples
Mezze to Share
Hummus Trio
Classic, roasted red pepper, and cilantro jalapeño
Baba Ganoush
Smoky roasted eggplant with pomegranate
Cheese Borek
Crispy phyllo pastries with feta cheese
Fattoush Salad
Fresh greens with crispy pita, sumac dressing
Main Courses
Mixed Grill Platter
Koobideh, joojeh, lamb chop - perfect for sharing
Lamb Chops
Herb-crusted, perfectly grilled, impressive presentation
Joojeh Kebab
Saffron chicken, tender and flavorful
Zereshk Polo ba Morgh
Persian chicken with saffron rice and barberries
Romantic Cocktails
Persian Garden
Gin, rose, cucumber, elderflower - light and elegant
Midnight in Encino
Bourbon, pomegranate, orange - rich and sophisticated
Ventura Sunset
Vodka, passion fruit, lime - tropical and refreshing
Hookah for Two
Mediterranean Breeze
Citrus, mint, rose - refreshing and aromatic
Midnight Jazz
Grape, mint, spice - smooth and mysterious
Encino Sunset
Orange, passion fruit, peach - sweet and tropical
Pro Tips for an Unforgettable Night
Make a Reservation
Call (818) 489-2557 or book online, especially for Friday/Saturday nights or when live music is scheduled. Mention if it's a special occasion - we love celebrating with our guests!
Best Times to Visit
Early Evening (7-8pm): Quieter, perfect for conversation. Prime Time (9-11pm):Live music, energetic but not loud. Late Night (11pm-2am): More lounge vibe, perfect for ending the night.
Check the Events Calendar
We feature live jazz Thursday-Friday, acoustic sets on Sundays, and Mediterranean bands on Saturdays. Plan your visit around your preferred music style for the ultimate romantic atmosphere.
Dress to Impress
Smart casual to dressy. Think date night, not dive bar. Jeans and nice tops work, but many couples dress up to match the upscale ambiance. No athletic wear or beach attire.
Try Something New Together
If you haven't tried hookah before, your date night is the perfect opportunity. Our staff will guide you. If you're adventurous eaters, explore Persian specialties like Ghormeh Sabzi or Zereshk Polo.
Ready to Plan Your Date Night?
Make your reservation now and get ready for a romantic evening that goes beyond the ordinary.