Best affordable restaurant for a birthday dinner?

[cups123]

I'm looking for a nice restaurant for my husbands birthday - one that is reasonably priced but specifically has excellent food. It could be a specialty restaurant (any type of food is fine) as long as it is excellent but reasonably priced. Doesn't have to be fancy, just good food.

Any suggestions??

[cups123]

I liked trattoria toscana based on reviews - any other suggestions maybe somewhere a bit more dressy? I know that probably means paying more but since its a birthday dinner I don't want it to feel like an ordinary everyday type restaurant - I want some nice pics too:)

[cups123]

Any ideas? I'm kinda in the mood for italian but really anything...

[LeahBaila]

You may want to check out Malatesta Trattoria. Reasonably priced and tasty Italian served in a charming atmosphere.

www.thelunchbelle.com

[j. marie]

John's of 12th Street has good Italian food that's reasonably priced. It's also a tablecloth restaurant which makes it nice for an occasion.

[JungMann]

I often recommend Trattoria Toscana for modestly priced Italian. The owner is a gregarious and friendly Tuscan who is happy to fulfill special requests, especially when it comes to his off-the-menu gnocchi in pancetta and cream sauce. It's a charming and quiet respite from the blaring obnoxiousness of other restaurants in the area.

[LeahBaila]

"...off-the-menu gnocchi in pancetta and cream sauce." Wow, this sounds right up my alley. Do you know if it has any relation to the late "La Cantina Toscana?" Thanks.

www.thelunchbelle.com

[JungMann]

There's no relation. Franco's old restaurants were in the EV before he came to the west side, but he's still maintained the same old school hospitality that I find most inviting.

I am not a pasta lover, but his gnocchi has made a believer of me.

[LeahBaila]

Thanks. Sounds delightful and delicious.

www.thelunchbelle.com

[RGR]

People's view of what is "reasonably priced" can differ substantially depending on the depth of their wallets. So, it would be helpful if you would give us your per person budget for food only (drinks, tax & tip additional). Also, any particular neighborhood(s)?

[cups123]

No particular neighborhood - maybe around $25 per person? We don't drink so don't have to worry about that extra cost...