Looking for a place to cozy up to someone special? The places below are some of my favorites.

Downtown Palo Alto's Zibibbo is situated in a renovated old Victorian house and features delicious dishes from Spain, Morocco, Greece and Italy. The interior is modern Mediterranean but warm and there are several rooms, each with their own ambiance, to choose from. Their outstanding wine selection has earned them an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator Magazine. What could be romantic than sharing one of their wine flights and a few small plates?

If you want it to be all Greek to you, then try Evvia, also Downtown. Love the low-lit, rustic interior and hanging copper pots. The Blood Orange Salad with Medjool dates is heaven on a plate as are the Gigantes, wood oven baked giant beans with tomato sauce, leeks & herbed feta ( I know, the musical fruit isn't always the most romantic but share them and you can be musical together!) and the Ravani, orange semolina cake with toasted almonds, I am convinced, has magical aphrodisiac properties!

Redwood City's cultural revival includes all kinds of fantastic new eateries. Tops for romance is Red Lantern. Gorgeous, Asian decor (think exotic: Buddhas and bamboo) and innovative dishes. Come on the earlier side before it gets too loud at the bar and share a pot of tea from their expansive tea menu (don't miss the rose-petal infused variety). To save a few bucks, come for lunch and enjoy one of their $10 Lunch Platter specials which are a deal and a half and include: chicken, fish, beef, pork and tofu entrees accompanied by generous sides of jasmine rice, pawon salad (cabbage with a coconutty vinaigrette), crispy garlic crackers, and orak arik (stir-fried veggies). The Coconut Tapioca with Strawberry Sauce is absolutely fantastic and perfect for sharing after all that spice.