New York

Yeah, I know, I'm all about the dive bar but every once in a while I like to class things up a bit, especially when I'm trying to impress the ladies. That's when I bring them (all) to Al Di La. They'll say "I’ve always wanted to go there" and boom, soo money. But, here's the secret: waiting for a table is for suckers, and the main dining room is cramped and not too intimate, that's why the back bar around the corner is your secret weapon. Make sure to sit at the bar so you can chat with the bartender/sommelier about the wines, taste a few before deciding on one and you'll look like you know what's up, but really it's the sommelier making you look like one cool cucumber. Also, the bar has pretty much the same menu as the restaurant up front so you still get a great meal in the comfort of a bar setting. Afterward, she'll be so impressed she won't mind when you take her to your favorite dive to save some money.

Photo:  Andy Heidel