Friday, 10 February 5.42am
Lists » Christopher Whitmore »

Real Romance


Ok, it is time to face the facts. It's the 21st century and romance is officially dead. In fact, not only is it dead but its beginning to stink - discarded, rotting and fetid in a quiet corner.

Traditional romance with the rose petal showers, cherubs and cologne-scented, slick-haired gentlemen callers is usually enough to cause sane women to gag. So what is a man to do? We know we still need to impress the ladies, but how do we do so without resorting to the cheap parlour tricks of 1950s musicals?

The answer can be found in three easy words: simple, intimate and comfortable.

No one likes a show off, so the best date restaurants are those that provide something a little bit special - a beautiful view, fantastic food or great wines - without all the bells and whistles that make you seem a bumbling jester.

Here then is our top list of venues for laying on the charm without the side of cheese:

1
 
Cafe Sydney
Sydney
This first pick offers the best of all worlds. A stylish bar and quality restaurant under one roof means you can keep it casual when inviting your main infatuation for an after-work drink. Yet, if all goes well, an intimate dinner is only 10 feet away. Ask for a balcony table in summer to stimulate her with the stunning views.

2
 
Mojo's Cafe & Tapas Bar
Bondi Beach
Emanating a funky vibe, this raucous tapas house has more of the comfort of her Mum's place. Cosy enough, with dark nooks to slip into should the mood take you, you can also take solace in knowing that if your date has the curse of the gab you won't be able to hear her anyway. Take a tip from us and keep the sangria flowing.

3
 
Soulmama
St Kilda
As John Tucker Must Die was able to inform us, 'non-violent vegetarian' is women code for 'hippie hussie'. Fortunately, even staunch carnivores will find it easy to entertain such types when the food is this good. Soulmama specialises in vegetarian food for the masses, and the views mean you'll have a ready excuse when nabbed staring into the distance in boredom.

4
 
Eis
Albert Park
Sex and the City is proof skirts love Japanese food. Taking her to a funky, sophisticated, moodily lit eatery will stand you apart from the steak-munching masses and pasta-swirling cliches. The jazzy ambience will make for comfortable conversation. Just make sure you know what you are ordering.

5
 
Anise
City
Canberra has the highest average IQ of any city in the country, so your date is bound to have her wits about her. Stick to what you know. With this iconic restaurant, serving quality cuisine, you just can't go wrong.

6
 
Bluewater Grill
Applecross
Drag the main squeeze to this stylish modern restaurant, and she will be impressed by the breathtaking views of the city and river. You will be impressed by their popular cigar dinners.

7
 
The Red Herring
East Fremantle
Oysters are rumoured to be a powerful aphrodisiac and, if nothing else, it's a theory worth testing. Situated on the water with good food and fine wine flowing, this fine diner will surely help your lady feel the heat.