Nice sit-down in Brighton?

[Kitamonster]

A colleague is getting married and I'd like to give her a gift certificate for a nice dinner out. She lives in Brighton, which is not a familiar area for me. A search of the Board found Carlos but she's a nice Italian girl - as am I - and I know we Italian girls already have our favorite places :-) Can anyone recommend something nice but not over-the-top fancy? They are both pretty open to different cuisines.

[rr2035]

A few others to think about, Tasca on Washington St. or also, The Fireplace, Publick House, Washington Square Tavern or Golden Temple all in Washington Square. (Brookline but close)

[CookieLee]

I think The Fireplace, and across the street, Dalia's, in Washington Sq count as "nice". I like the Tavern, but it is VERY NOISY. Publick House is really about the beer. I loved Tasca, v. lively, and v. good tapas.

[iloveporkbelly]

Please please don't send anybody to the Firehouse. For years I tried to give them my business and the have consistently done everything in their power to dissuade me from going back with terrible service and very mediocre food.

[fmcoxe6188]

Not sure of the price range you're looking at, or if your friend is a steak eater-but The Stockyard is in that area as well. I've had some good meals there.

[Joanie]

Does it have to be Brighton? A quick bus ride gets you to Eastern Standard in Kenmore Sq. As mentioned, Jasmine's cute, and Devlin's in Brighton Ctr. is a nice enough spot, but there's nothing super nice in that area.

[Allstonian]

Fair enough - even the best restaurants in Allston and Brighton are more cute/homey/cozy than really Nice.

[Kitamonster]

I didn't think about Kenmore - that is a quick ride in and has good bars to go to before/after as well - thanks!

[Allstonian]

How about Jasmine Bistro in Brighton Center? Menu is an interesting mix of French, Hungarian, and Baluchistani (a bit similar to Afghani.)