"The best way to have a first date at this North Beach institution is to grab a seat at the bar. It’s quieter than the dining room, but just as romantic and lit only by some tea lights. It’s also your quickest route to the old-school Italian restaurant’s list of spirit-forward cocktails, including their famous cognac hot chocolate. When you’re ready for solids, the full menu’s offered at the bar, and the stools conveniently swivel when you want to make direct eye contact with your date in between bites of cheesy bucatini." - julia chen 1, lani conway, patrick wong