It’s ~fall~– basic bitches around the world are planning the perfect apple picking insta and your boyfriend is no longer available to hangout on Sunday afternoons. Aside from the minor inconvenience of football season (yeah, I said it), autumn is the ideal season for cuddling and pretending you aren’t going to loathe the cold in 2 months. Beach days are over for the time being, so you might be looking for some fun things to do. Instead of Google, Trip Advisor, and Yelp– I’ve written this post entirely out of personal experience.

First Date.

Coffee Date: Caffe Vittoria – 261 Hanover Street ($)

An unexpected coffee date. Located in the historic North End, Caffee Vittoria is quite possibly one of the most Insta-worthy spots in the neighborhood. Instead of bringing your Tinder (assuming, sorry) date to Starbucks, take them somewhere they’ve walked past a million times without wandering in. This place is perfect for those looking to avoid going out to drinks ($$$), but still looking to hangout at nighttime. The gelato is incredible and comes in silver bowls with petite spoons, and nothing pairs more perfectly with desert than a cappuccino. I would highly recommend requesting a spot near the window, as Hanover street is prime for people watching.

Tip: Don’t forget cash! This place does not take credit cards!

 

Drinks and apps: Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bar – 271 Dartmouth Street ($$)

This is my suggestion if you’re hoping for an after-party for two after the drinks. The ambiance is best described as sexy, and even if things don’t workout between your date and yourself, the guacamole is totally worth the trip to Back Bay. All you can eat tacos on Monday makes for the ideal weeknight date.

Tip: Make sure if you aren’t into sugary drinks to ask for minimal (or no) simple syrup.

 

Casual Dining: Shabu Zen – 16 Tyler Street (China Town) & 80 Brighton Ave (Allston) ($$)

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, there is no better first date than one that has minimal awkward silences. Movies have too much silence, and going to a show with someone you just met isn’t always that fun either. Everyone likes to play with their food, this is evident based on the former popularity of Fire & Ice. Think of Hot Pot as Fire & Ice for the new, mature, you. Cook your own meat in your own broth and have a blast doing it. Plus, if she’s never done hot pot before, she’ll be super impressed by how cultured you are.

Tip: Over mochi for desert!! And don’t hesitate to ask your waiter for suggestions on the menu, HP is something a lot of people are just finding out about.

 

 

Just Because~

Drinks & Live Music: The Beehive – 541 Tremont Street ($$)

The Beehive came highly recommended by more people than I could count, so when my current boyfriend invited me to go on one of our first dates, I was excited to cross it off my Boston bucket list. They offer a few of their own beers as well as an extensive wine list, and have live music 7 nights a week. This place is vibrant and great for all ages (21+.)

Tip: They have a “Jazz Brunch” on the weekends, which you’ll want to book in advance.

 

Something Romantic AF: Bricco – 241 Hanover St ($$$)

Dim lit, foods phenomenal, service is great. Although many Bostonians have already crossed Bricco off their list, those who haven’t already been to this popular spot are likely eager to do so. Bricco is one of the few restaurants in the North End that is known for consistently great food, so if you’re looking for a no-fail recommendation, you’ve found it right here.

Tip: Eggplant Bake for an app ~ highly recommended. 

 

Unique Experience: Wink & Nod – 3 Appleton St ($$$)

Wink & Nod has what they call a “revolving kitchen”, where new chefs come in every six months and completely re-vamp the menu. The current cuisine is definitely unique to Boston, with South East Asian inspiration and “fusion” if you will— the Chef Patrick is from the Philippines and wanted to bring something a little lesser-known to the city. This place isn’t inexpensive, but with lower prices comes less quality, and that is not something the chef would sacrifice. You get what you pay for, its sharing plates… in the South End, it’s reasonable.

Tip: While everything was incredible, the swordfish belly was by far a table favorite.

 

 

 

Time to Splurge!

Birthday Drinks: Liquid Art House – 100 Arlington Street ($$$)

Liquid Art house opened last summer and although its definitely pricey to Boston’s standards, but considering this place has a very New York feel, you probably won’t mind spending a little extra. This spot is a combination of a restaurant and an art gallery– all the decor is for sale. Needless to say your date will be very impressed you know of a place so cool and trendy.

Tip: They have an impressive bar menu, so if you want to meet at 9 and nix the dinner idea, nobody will blame you.

 

STEAK STEAK STEAK: Boston Chops – 1375 Washington Street ($$$)

My experience at Boston Chops was so fantastic that I nearly ran home (in heels) to write a review on Yelp. Although previously hopelessly devoted to (also delicious) Grill 23, Boston Chops is now that current reigning filet minion champion in my book. They also serve popovers as opposed to bread in the beginning, which is even better than it sounds. As far as ambiance goes, this place is straight up sexy without being hookery (i’m talking to you– Strip by Strega.) Instead of hitting up Capital Grill for the 90th time in the 10th different city, try something that can only be found in the South End. You won’t regret it.

Tip: If you’re looking to sit outside but worried it might be a little cold, this place has heat lamps. 

 

If you’re trying to impress her: Mistral – 223 Columbus Ave ($$$)

I had one of the best dates of my life at Mistral. It wasn’t that I was particularly fond of the person sitting across from me, he was alright. Instead it was the lamb shank on my plate that truly had me hot & bothered. Suggesting Mistral is like name dropping, if you’re trying to impress a girl who knows her own city, this place is an easy way to do so. Not only is the food fantastic, but it’s a favorite amongst many Bostonian socialites. With good reason too– everything about this French-Mediterranean bistro is delightful. Babe, lets go.

Tip: If you’ve never had escargot, this is the place to try it. Everyone likes escargot, they’re just too nervous to try it.