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Dinner and a date
Where to go for the perfect blend of food and romance
ASHLEY WRIGHT

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The awkwardness of finding topics of conversation for a first date is tough enough for a couple, let alone having to yell over loud music or feel intimidated by an overly stuffy atmosphere.

What if you’re romance veterans looking for a restaurant that will add some sparkle to an important evening from celebrating an anniversary to popping the question?

Whatever your date need, there is an eclectic mix of the area’s top restaurants that offer a perfect range for anything from first date fixers to an unforgettable romantic evening for two.

Best First-Date Restaurant: The Tuscan Oven
Get a seat at the bar, and watch a few pairs of busy hands go to work making Southern Italian-style pizzas right before your eyes. Prices are reasonable, it has a great, busy, yet causal ambiance, and if conversation drops, you can always have an attention getter in the restaurants centerpiece — a 2-ton, hardwood-fired oven.

Best Romantic-Date Restaurant: Tre fratelli
This little-nook of a restaurant provides an intimate atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic evening for two. Stepping into this Italian restaurant is like stepping into a little piece of Italy itself and offers a variety of cuisine that would make any taste-buds water. Outside seating is also available, with a great view into Seville Square, creating a great ambiance for any occasion.

Best Date-on-a-budget Restaurant: O’Zone
Although it tends to fill up fast during typically dining peak hours — so get there early or maybe a little later than you usually would — this restaurant offers great prices and an interesting atmosphere. Where else can you say you’re eating pizza and having a beer in a historic hospital? Great beer is also a plus here.

Best Double-Date Restaurant: Global Grill
This downtown restaurant offers a perfect hybrid of class and comfort. Self-proclaimed as an “upscale tapas bar and restaurant,’’ it serves up the perfect atmosphere for a double date, including an innovative and yummy variety of tapas creations that are perfect for sharing. Tapas are typically intended as appetizers and were originally a Spanish cuisine tradition. The combination of bar/restaurant is also a great pairing for a casual drink before dinner.

Best All-around Date Restaurant: The Fish House/Atlas Oyster House
It’s a local staple, and once you’ve been there, you’ll know why. One of the best views any restaurant can offer in the area and savory dishes to fit almost any palate — with that combination, this restaurant can be almost unbeaten. For a more upscale experience, take your date to the Fish House, which is right next door to its fraternal twin, Atlas, which offers a friendly and more relaxed atmosphere.





 

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