Best romantic dining: The Bottle Inn
The intimate wine cellar tables at the Bottle Inn. Photo by Alyssa Morin.
Nestled next to The Strand on 22nd Street in Hermosa is the quaint Bottle Inn, a cozy little Italian spot with Old World charm. The decor is old school, the menu traditional and the space intimate and dimly-lit, making this little gem an ideal restaurant for a romantic night out.
The Bottle Inn has been a local favorite for 37 years. Servers like Helen, who seems to have come with the place, make patrons feel welcomed and pampered. Her warm smile and eager attitude guides your meal every step of the way, and she has mastered the balance of providing attentive service without intruding on an intimate dining experience.
For a special, romantic night out, ask to be seated in the wine cellar, a narrow little corner tucked away from the main dining room. There, among the shelves of great Italian wines, you can enjoy a truly private meal with your betrothed.
26 22nd St, HB (310) 376-9595, www.thebottleinn.com
Runner-up: Palmilla Cocina y Tequila: 39 Pier Ave, HB. 310-374-4440. www.palmillarestaurant.com