Romantic celebratory dinner...

[mh4e]

I want to take my boyfriend to a romantic restaurant to celebrate his job promotion. Most important I am looking for really good food. He always takes me to nice places so now is my turn to impress him. Could you tell me what you think of these suggestions I was given and please recommend anything else. I was told that The Wilshire, Grace, and The Cellar in Fullerton were all nice places. Thanks and I would appreciate any help!!

[brentbacher]

If you don't mind driving to Orange, try the Hobbit. Reservations are a MUST. The food, service and wine are superb--some of the best I've ever had. Its a unique dining experience indeed and will impress your boyfriend. there is a dress code.

http://www.hobbitrestaurant.com/

[ns1]

I remember reading zagat reviews for this place. IIRC it was heavily rated by them and diners reported some pretty epic (4hr+) meals there.

[ns1]

Hatfields?

[lawdog262]

My wife and I have had three big celebration dinners in LA in the past six months. We went to Providence for two of them (with one great and one not so great experience) mixed results, and to Melisse for the other, which was stunning. After how off our second Providence experience was, I won't recommend any rest -- even Melisse -- on the basis of one or two visits.

[westsidegal]

my vote is for cafe del rey.
the view is lovely
the tables are comfortable and well-spaced
the service is not rushed
the food is good
one can retire to the pretty lounge area afterward and sit on a sofa in front of a fireplace.
one can stroll among the sailboats and yachts after dinner.

[tigemini]

lots of people like the wilshire, but mostly for group outings. romantic dinner is Nook in west l.a. it's pretty secluded in the corner of a mini-mall. it's really difficult to notice because there a sign for it at the plaza, but in front of the restaurant itself there's only a blue arrow. it's very cute inside. great for a date, good food, great service. i also like sprazzo on westwood for italian and great dessert. it's small and romantic. romantic all depends on what you and your bf likes, cuz i consider small and quiet restaurants romantic, and i also like trendy and popular (like dan tana's) which i think is romantic.

[Obessed]

Ortolon was amazingly romantic and the food was also really great.

[mh4e]

Thank you, I will definitely check it out!

[ba623]

The food was good, but small portions and lots of foam. My girlfriends and I went to Taco Bell afterwards.... seriously.

[nomnomnoms]

I don't know where you're coming from, but if you're willing to come to Costa Mesa... I think Habana at the Lab is romantic, especially the patio area.
They serve Cuban food, and although I've never had authentic Cuban food, I think their take is pretty good. Not really extravagant, but it's nice in the hip sort of way.

-----
Habana
2930 Bristol St Ste A110, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

[ipsedixit]

How about Saddle Peak Lodge?

www.saddlepeaklodge.com

[Emme]

I thought of this after I hit Post. Glad you suggested it.

[mh4e]

Thank you, I've thought of that but is it romantic?

[Diana]

It can be very romantic. Nice patio, rustic indoor area, nice food-very nice in the evening.

Also, my fave, the Chef's Table at Providence!
http://www.chowhound.com/topics/509186

[lawdog262]

Diana - I now see through your link where your loyalty to Providence comes from, and they've earned it. Not looking to rehash the old thread, just wish my experience had been remotely similar to yours.

[Diana]

thanks.
re your experience: me too!

[teach]

I went to the Wilshire for the first time on Saturday and loved it. The patio is fantastic and would be a great setting for a celebratory meal.

[Emme]

I really like Wilshire a lot! The patio is lovely especially in this weather.

Another patio I really like is that at Pane e Vino. It has a Tuscan romantic feel to me.

[mh4e]

Thanks! Do you have to specify you want the patio when making reservations?

[perk]

you should request the patio when making the reservations. it's often the most requested space, and since this is a celebration....better to be safe.