"Townsend used to be in Rittenhouse but relocated to East Passyunk Avenue. It has the general romantic feeling that someone might propose at any minute or start making out at the table. And the menu is exactly what you might expect from an upscale French spot—from seared NJ skate served with a crunchy savoy cabbage to venison swimming in a red wine sauce. The bar closes at 2am, though, so it’s a great place to seek out the three times a year you stay out past 1am. " - candis mclean, alison kessler