If you don't feel like a trek into Manhattan, stay in Astoria and go to Brick. It's a great date place - the food is good but expensive. The atmosphere is romantic. But the service is slow and confusing. And, every time I've walked by, they had a 20-minute waiting list. If I wanted to wait, I'd go into the city and eat at Balthazar's.
Pros: Romantic, Good food
Cons: Expensive, Crowded, Weird service
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