Date Dinner Decision-maker

How to avoid that dreaded question: "But where do YOU want to go?"

Choosing a place to eat for a date can be a nerve-racking experience—you don’t want to go to fancy, but you don’t want to seem cheap. You want to go to popular places, but you never know where he or she has a dating history.

There’s no one perfect place, but there are a few rules we here at GO suggest you follow.

Avoid breath-killing dishes

As much as you might like genuine Italian, garlic is a turnoff. You might say you’ll just not eat the complimentary garlic and olive oil appetizer, but trust us… you will.

Top choice: Flame. Steak doesn’t smell and they have mints by the hostess’s stand.

Ambience matters

Greasy spoons are great once you’re comfortable enough to “do a quick lunch,” but they’re not first-date, look-at-me fodder. A high-class, exclusive, sexy environment will definitely play well, whether you’re wooing a guy or a girl. TVs are a no-no.

Top choice: Bijan’s; there’s just something about it that’s aphrodisiacal. Also good: 5 Spice China Grill (non-bar area), Gilardi’s.

Make it gourmet, but keep it reasonable

No one wants to shell out a ton of money on a date that has a 50 percent chance of ending with an awkward lean-hug. You also want to avoid bulging your eyes when you look at the bill (we know, it’s a reflex). Super-pricy is nice for a one-month anniversary, but is wise to avoid right off the bat.

Top choice: Ocean Zen. It’s a top restaurant, but dollar-for-dollar it’s the best value in town. Also good: Mille’s, Touch.

Seating is key

Secluded booths are preferable for privacy’s sake; if things are going well, you’ll sit side by side. Obviously avoid TVs, but also stay away from mirrors and street-view windows, too—distracting movements abound, and getting caught staring over your date’s shoulder is a no-no.

Top choice: High-backed booths at Kai. Also good: Love seats at Touch.

Do drinks (or whatever) beforehand

For optimal effect, you’ll want to have a chance to chat before dinner. Food can make talking awkward, so it might make sense to get the pleasantries out of the way. Choose a restaurant with a comfortable bar and show up a half hour or so before your reservation.

Top choice: Clary’s. Also good: Ocean Zen, Flame.