Would you like to go to dinner sometime?

Most couples dining out tonight are well beyond their first date, and chemistry deserves most of the credit for that. But Valentine's Day seems the perfect time to discuss another key component to getting a new relationship off and running — picking a good spot for that initial rendezvous.

Some restaurants seem tailor-made for this all-important occasion, which explains why we keep hearing about them all the time from friends.

Take Bizzarro Italian Café, an institution since 1986 in Seattle's Wallingford neighborhood.

With red walls adorned with conversation topics from floor to ceiling, a steady buzz of conversation just low enough to enjoy your own, soft lighting and good food to boot, the restaurant is peppered with couples on first dates amid the crowd of birthday partiers and anniversary celebrators.

You always can tell, said Bizzarro co-owner Michael Easton. It's something in their body language.

"Being the chef I watch people and read their body language all night long, waiting to see if they're having a good time and enjoying the food. There's just something that gives away a first-date couple," he said.

"It's kind of loud in there because it's so small and so busy, and I think people can really relax and feel totally at ease," Easton said. "It's just a fun place to go."

Other spots that come up again and again in conversation: Wild Ginger, the Matador, Racha Thai, Tutta Bella, Crow, Mamma Melina and Tamarind Tree in Seattle; Cactus and Purple Café & Wine Bar in Kirkland; and Bellevue's Twisted Cork.

While it's ideal to select a restaurant with your particular date in mind, let us know your first-date standbys or the restaurant experience that set the stage for the rest of your relationship. Share your picks at seattletimes.com/foodwine.

Karen Gaudette: 206-515-5618 or kgaudette@seattletimes.com