Keeping It Fresh

[Tam]

I am really tired of going to the same old fast food/chain restaurants with my husband for a supposed romantic dinner. Can anyone give me any creative ideas for a lovely local evening out ALONE that of course doesn't cost a fortune?

[Lisa]

Ever been to Danny's on Peach Street across from Pier One and the mall entrance? It doesn't look like much from the outside, but inside is a cozy, small restaurant that offers affordable good food. I like the chicken alfredo and any of the veal dishes. The wine list is very good, too. It's a great place to linger over dinner. Ask about the homemade desserts.

I also think Serafini's on West 12th Street offers good potential for an inexpensive romantic dinner. We've had a few romantic nights there ourselves, including the night we were engaged.

[Erin]

Hey Tam.....what about the beach at sunset with a picnic---or Sara's buy one get one? Better hurry soon before the snow flies...then that ca-boshes the romance when your teeth chatter. :)

[Mary M]

How about Rosa's Legacy on Cherry and I think Brown? Excellent food, reasonable.

Also, I just tried Casablanca on W. 8th. The food was pretty good, especially the appetizers. It's "Mediterranean" but really middle-eastern is the right description. Reasonable prices and nice service people. Also, you can sit upstairs on the pillowed floor if you would like to step into Morocco for an evening.

As always, if you can spend a bit more, 1201 Restaurant and Wine Bar and Bertrand's are at the top of my list. Have fun and bon appetite!

[marnie]

Petra on West Eighth Street - near Westlake Beer - is an option if you like Middle Eastern Food. Nothing says you need to order appetizer and a meal.

Some of my most romantic memories with my husband involve nothing more than a bottle of wine, a loaf of bread, some good cheese, some good ham (not the boiled variety) and some fruit - figs, apples, pears. Pour the bottle of wine into a thermos and find any beautiful location. you can make sandwiches or just nosh.

Stop by Dolce's gelato in the Colony Plaza (if you live on the west side) for a fun finish to your meal.

[Tam]

Thank you to everyone! I have either only heard of the places you've mentioned and haven't tried them (YET!) or haven't heard of them at all (Rosa's Legacy) but am always willing to try new and exciting things.

I will post back when we've had a few dates! Thanks again!

[Stephanie]

My husband loves board games, like ticket to ride, so we play a game or two once the kids are asleep. Its fun and I learn something new. You can go to Pres. Isle for a walk/ rent bikes. You could take a dance lesson ( groups sessions are like 12 dollars a couple). Just like the movie " Failure to Launch" have him teach you something new/ vice versa even if you think/ know its not your thing. Good Luck!