This elegant, upscale American restaurant benefits from its proximity to the beautiful Symphony Center (it even extends its hours during symphony season), but it's a swoon-worthy date destination on its own. The charming atmosphere evokes romance, particularly if you can sit in the gorgeous, flower-filled patio out back. Paired with sumptuous food, including pan-seared Maine skate wing with mashed Yukon gold potatoes in a plancha sauce, and grilled farm-raised elk with pumpkin gnocchi, glazed cranberries and juniper jus, Rhapsody practically begs visitors to linger, holding hands and people watching through the glass-encased walls.

Make sure you stay long enough to sample a creation off the dessert menu, which range from the unusual Red Beans and Rice (red bean ice cram with bay leaf rice pudding) to the sumptuous Study of Chocolate (bittersweet chocolate creme caramel, golden chocolate caramel torte and milk chocolate gianduja ice cream). If you’re looking for a more casual brand of romance, you won’t be disappointed at the bar, where you can pair two glasses of wine with a flight of artisanal cheeses.

Average cost: $21-$30

Centerstage Reviewer: Stephanie Kuenn