There can be many difficult moments throughout a relationship, but none so persistent as trying to decide on where to eat. Read on for three solutions that may not be on your radar – but should be.
Cafe du Jour
Currently in its 21st year of business, chef and owner Paul Krawiec purchased the building that was once a deli and transformed it into a casual, chic, and romantic place to grab unpretentious but delicious and creative food. The most romantic part of Café du Jour has to be the back patio: with twinkling lights, a babbling pond, weaving vines, and maybe even a glimpse of a turtle – the atmosphere is thouroughly enchanting.
Chef Paul entices the palate with flavors from all over the world. The food is prepared with the utmost care and seasoned to perfection. The combination of flavors and textures will have your tastebuds dancing. I suggest you share sensuous roasted mushrooms and truffled burrata with toast, a bright and cooling salad, or one of the best steaks you’ll find in Pittsburgh. Whatever you choose, expect you and your sweetie will be impressed. 1107 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh
The Forge
A lounge located at the beginning of Lawrenceville, The Forge might be one of Pittsburgh’s perfect places for date night due in no small part to its décor and ambience. Low lighting paired with comfortable, soft seating that reminds you more of a living room than a restaurant plus the warmth of the brick pizza oven exudes romance. Take a seat on one of the plush velvet blue couches and order up a draft beer, glass of wine, or a specialty seasonal cocktail. Too distracted by your lover’s eyes to focus on what to get? Order the “Bartender’s Choice” and let one of the experts do the thinking while you focus on what’s most important. Get cheesy and share a pizza (gluten-free and vegan options available), or a few small plates including warm olives, seared Ahi tuna, or falafel with pickled vegetables. Snack on a charcuterie board or a Mediterranean mezze platter and see just how playful food can be.
3345 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh
Girasole
For a lighthearted and warm restaurant experience, clasp hands and mosey down a few steps off of Copeland Street in Shadyside to find yourself in the warm glow of Girasole, which means sunflower in Italian. If you’re lucky, you may even be greeted by Jimmy “Pie” himself, guaranteed to have a glass of one of their great Italian wines in hand. What makes Girasole so special is the feeling you get – friendly service, a comfortable atmosphere, and everyone chatting, laughing, and enjoying the food. You’re sure to feel as if you’ve been transported to the streets of Italy.
Start your meal with a cup of zuppa del giorno, escarole & beans, or share some antipasto. One of the most popular menu items is the spinach and ricotta ravioli, covered in a luscious tomato cream sauce. Be sure to save room for dessert; their tantalizing tiramisu and a frothy espresso are the perfect end to an extraordinary evening. 733 Copeland Street, Pittsburgh
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