Little Nonna's

One of Philly’s most essential Italian restaurants is also one of its most romantic, thanks in large part to Little Nonna’s so-called “secret garden.” There you’ll find a little oasis in the city adorned with twinkly lights ready for your next date night. The real romance, of course, is in the plate; whether you’re ordering pan-seared gnocchi or branzino with roasted cauliflower, rest assured no matter how the date goes, you’ll at least be falling in love with your food.

This mainstay on Locust Street has a foolproof formula that keeps diners returning. Marcie Turney and Valerie Safran offer Italian-American dishes in a space that boasts a 40-seat outdoor garden area in addition to the indoor dining room. Be sure to try the Sunday Gravy special at least once: it’s slow-braised beef short rib, stuffed meatballs, garlic sausage, and broccoli rabe in pork marinara and comes served over the day’s macaroni with meat on the side.