Is there a better excuse for a romantic date night than seeing “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” at the Fox Theatre? The correct answer is no, there is no better reason.  

Here’s why: “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” is all about love. It celebrates the magic, passion, and frenzy of the main characters’ love story. It’s also simply spectacular: From the set design to the costumes to the updated music, this show is dazzling.

Based on the Baz Luhrmann film of the same name, this award-winning musical is playing an extended two-week engagement in Atlanta from April 19th through the 30th. You can purchase your tickets to the Fox Theatre show here, and to help you make a date night of it, consider going to one of the restaurants below either before or after the show. 

Since “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” takes place at the famed cabaret and music call in Paris, it could be fun to head to a French place for your meal. Here are some suggestions for French restaurants in Atlanta: 

Le Bilboquet: 
This is an excellent destination for a proper fancy night out. Located in the Buckhead Village District, Le Bilboquet has the white table cloth atmosphere, the right level of service, and outstanding food. I highly recommend the avocado and crab salad to start, the duck for your main entree, and profiteroles to end your meal on a sweet note. You’ll spend some $$$, but it’ll be well-worth it. Make sure to make a reservation before you go.

Bistro Niko: 
Also located in Buckhead, this restaurant looks like what you would expect a restaurant in Paris to look like. With a gilded ceiling, a glorious bar inside, and a great outdoor patio overlooking Peachtree Street right in the heart of Buckhead, it’s the perfect place to feel transported to Paris. 

Bread & Butterfly: 
For lighter fare, head to this darling Inman Park cafe. You’ll feel like you’re on a Parisian sidewalk while noshing on items like potato & raclette gratin and duck parmentier for dinner, or quiche and jambon beurre for brunch. 

Anis Cafe & Bistro: 
This charming Buckhead restaurant is more reminiscent of Provence than Paris. Picture exposed brick and patina walls, a garden-like patio, and cute old-school bikes parked out front. The menu focuses on seafood and fresh veggies – think salade nicoise and moules (mussels) marinieres – and boasts an extensive French wine selection. 

Petite Violette: 
This Atlanta institution is worth visiting. I’ll be honest – the interior decor could use some updating. But the food menu is comprised of classic, authentic French dishes that stand the test of time. We’re talking boeuf bourguignon, steak frites, coq au vin, you get the idea. During Atlanta’s one week of gorgeous spring weather — which is when “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” is playing at the Fox Theatre this year — you can enjoy your meal on their outdoor patio, surrounded by twinkling lights. 

I hope you enjoy your French-themed date night and watching “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” while it’s playing in Atlanta!