Suggestions for not-too-expensive restaurants to take a date to? Preferably in Cambridge/Somerville.

[rosepraline]

I'm looking for restaurants that have a relatively cozy atmosphere for a date (ie, not too loud, yet casual) but also not too expensive, about $15 or (preferably) less for an entree.

Type of cuisine doesn't matter, we're up for anything....but in terms of atmosphere, I'm thinking more "Baraka Cafe" and less "Tavern in the Square." Any ideas?

[cassoulady]

For a low key fun date, I would go to River Gods. The burgers are great. Thave great little potato things that look like tater tots. Good, inexpensive food, plenty of drink choices and you have the makings of a great date.

[yumyum]

If your date is a little more low-key, you might consider the Forest Cafe. It's a little divey but it's definitely in your price-range and depending on your DC, you both might be happy with Allman Bros on the jukebox and a Long Tail on tap.

http://www.theforestcafe.com/Dinner-M...

[cpingenot]

My fiance and I had our first date at Helmand, and although it's been a bit worn around the edges on the last times I've been there, sitting near one of the big fireplace/ ovens is about as cozy as it gets.

[linz]

I like House of Tibet and Amelia's as you approach Teele in Somerville. Amelia's is standard Italian, the food is good (some better than others) but the atmosphere is welcoming and should be quiet. House of Tibet has a nice intimate feel. Namaskar also for Indian (in Davis), second the recs for West Side Lounge and Highland Kitchen.

I wouldn't recommend Tory Row, Cambridge 1 or Miracle of Science simple cause they're usually way too crowded to talk.

[MC Slim JB]

A little nicer, pushing your budget: Garden at the Cellar, The Helmand, Highland Kitchen, West Side Lounge, Casa Portugal, Green Street, Ole Mexican Grill, Vinny's at Night, Addis Red Sea, Tupelo, Koreana, bar at Chez Henri, Temple Bar.

A little more modest: Mulan, Barada, Emma's, Forest Cafe, Cambridge 1, Muqueca, Martsa's on Elm, Rangzen, Cantina La Mexicana, Ronnarong, Mary Chung, Tory Row, Miracle of Science, River Gods, Con Sol.

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[siqister]

Second Highland Kitchen and Tupelo. Not so sure about Tory Row or Miracle of Science as a date spot though.

[TomH]

I like the Ronnarong suggestion. If things go well you can go for a drink after at the Independent or Precinct, or a Margarita at Taqueria la Mexicana.

[rknrll]

I love Ronnarong...they are so nice there, and the tapas menu changed recently and there are even more awesome things on it.

[Blumie]

Con Sol might be a cute date spot but for the risk that you'd be the only ones there, which might be awkward.

[StriperGuy]

West Side Lounge is a great date spot cause it's mellow and the booths are cozy. Food's good too.

[southiesouthend]

I think Garden at the Cellar is a fantastic date spot. I also think the food at Plough and Stars can be pretty good too- and the place is VERY cozy- good lighting. If its earlier in the night (7 or 8) it will still be pretty quiet, but with a good buzz in the air. River Gods might be fun/interesting as well.

[rosepraline]

Many, many thanks! I've been meaning to check out Tupelo, and there a bunch of great ones on there that I haven't heard of.