WINNER
NAPLES ITALIAN RESTAURANT
5500 Kingston Pike
* Customers know it as The Blue Room, but to the employees of Naples it's The Love Booth. Whatever it's called -- the tiny, curtained nook-for-two has seen a lot of action.
So if want to snuggle in the corner with your sweetie over a hot plate of veal picatta, book early. Some folks try to reserve prime dates -- Valentine's Day, their anniversaries -- a year in advance, but Naples limits reservations to six months out. However, a week in advance will usually do it.
If you can't get the Blue Room (so named for the blue glow from a neon light on the ceiling above the booth), manager Kelly Campbell still guarantees a romantic dinner.
"There's a cozy feeling to this place that has more to do with our employees than dim lights and corner booths," Campbell says.
"When you're comfortable, it's easier to be romantic."
Just don't get too comfy in The Blue Room -- unless you don't embarrass easily.
"I'm always amazed at what people will do in there," Campbell says.
"But if you haven't paid your bill, we're coming in."
Runners-up: Copper Cellar and Regas Restaurant
September 30, 2001