Boston food insiders share their favorite date night restaurants

“My partner also works in restaurants so it’s rare for us to have a night off together, but when we do we go to Sarma (249 Pearl St, Somerville). We like to sit at the bar and start with one of their awesome house cocktails, and then switch to wine by the glass and eat our way through as much of the menu as possible. Every single thing they serve is delicious. We always end with dessert, Turkish coffee and Amari.” —Lauren Vigdor, River Bar

” My girlfriend Thuy and I love going to Boston Chops (1375 Washington St.) for date night. Chef Chris Coombs and his team make the best steak in town and the space is gorgeous. We love to share sides, especially the poutine baked potato and the broccoli.” — Jason Santos, Back Bay Harry’s and Abby Lane

“Well, since I had my first date with my wife at Steel and Rye (95 Eliot St., Milton), I would have to pick that as my go-to. We love it there and it’s both contemporary and casual in a calm setting with really good food. There is a little booth that we request by the door which is a little like a cove. For first dates, it isn’t too overwhelming and it is just casual enough to make both people relax.” —Andy Husbands, Tremont 647 and the Smoke Shop

“Grill 23 (161 Berkley St.) —I am a traditionalist at heart. For me, there is nothing like a perfectly cooked ribeye with a side of warm pomme purée and the service is always executed perfectly. I would definitely recommend finishing your experience with one of the small bites desserts.” — Robert Differ, Bar Boulud

“This question in my opinion really depends on what kind of a date person are you — do you like quiet and romantic or vibrant and low pressure? I would say Ana Sortun definitely has both covered. For a quiet romantic date my go-to would be Oleana (134 Hampshire St, Cambridge). Sit on the patio in the summer and you’ll feel like you’re in the secret garden. Oleana’s food and wine show Middle Eastern food with so much finesse. Sarma (249 Pearl St, Somerville) would be my go to date spot for a more vibrate and casual date. Also focusing on Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food, Cassie Piuma, Sarma’s chef/owner, creates intense spice driven flavors in a space that is colorful and vibrant to match.” —Deirdre Auld, The Coda Group

“My husband and I had a standing Friday lunch date at the Druid(1357 Cambridge St., Cambridge) for quite some time. We don’t get there as often these days, but it is still one of my favorite places to spend an afternoon with him. A good pint, great food, charming bartenders and a cozy space.” —Jess Willis, The Independent Restaurant Group

“I’ve lived here for over six years and have taken every girlfriend I’ve had here. Always fantastic. Love may come and go, butOleana’s (134 Hampshire St., Cambridge)consistently delicious meals certainly don’t.”— Matt Hummel, Tiger Mama

“Myers + Chang(1145 Washington St.) has been my husband and [my] go-to spot for years. We actually ate our last meal out there the night before we had our son. The food is always on point and the service is so genuine. I could live off the papaya salad. Also, my son really appreciates them letting him throw chopsticks and edamame around without batting an eye. Such a happy place for us.” — Jen Fields, Waypoint and Alden and Harlow

“My wife and I recently made our way to the new Uni (Eliot Hotel, 370 Commonwealth Ave.). It’s dark, sexy and it’s got a great energy.” —Douglass Williams, MIDA

“Kava(315 Shawmut Ave.) in the South End. It’s a great Greek spot, really warm, has the mosthospitable owners and just an all aroundgreat little neighborhood spot.” —Ken Oringer, Little Donkey, UNI, Toro and Coppa

“My boyfriend and I frequentLocal 149 (149 P St., South Boston) in Southie. I love that it’s tucked inside our neighborhood and uses a housemade ginger beer to make unforgettable mules. They have very thoughtful cuisine.” —Courtney Vivian, Coppersmith