"Consider this Aria’s little sister. And that isn’t a Game of Thrones reference. Aria Wine Bar in the West Village is one of the city’s premiere first-date spots, and Cotenna (by the same owners) is pretty much a smaller replica. It’s also in the West Village, but it’s just a tad more under-the-radar. If you have to eat on a date, go here. The food is good, inexpensive Italian, and the space is dark enough that no one will see you if your date shows up in flip flops and a misguiding t-shirt that says something like, “Real Cool Person.” Also, service is quick - so you can get in and get out." - bryan kim, katherine lewin