Your Very First Date? These Italian Restaurants Across India Are Perfect To Get You Started

I don't like cheese, or butter, or cream, or bread, or wine... Said no man ever. Going on your first date and not sure how to make the right impression? Unless you've been living under a rock, almost everyone knows Italian food rules the roost when it comes to setting up a romantic atmosphere. A little wine here, generous shavings of cheese, the buttery goodness of the sauces, and the creamy delight of the pastas, there's almost no ingredient that can disappoint your date (if your date is a foodie, of course. If not, cancel now!).

Can you imagine scooping up dal with roti on your first date, while trying to make conversation at the same time? Or fiddling with a dripping taco while you try to reach for a napkin, smiling the entire time? No? Here are nine Italian restaurants in different cities to give you that little nudge you need on your first date.

New Delhi

1. La Brezza, Jaypee Greens Golf Resort and Spa, Noida, Delhi-NCR

With ingredients specially imported to keep the cuisine authentic, La Brezza is as authentic as it gets. What works is that the restaurant has a beautiful view of the Jaypee Golf Course and there's a spa to relax at before your meal. The antipasti here is to die for and the servers specially pair wines with each meal. 

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2. Olive Bar & Kitchen, Mehrauli

With its calming white decor, beach-stone flooring, and a number of beautiful corners to have an intimate conversation in, Olive Bar & Kitchen remains the undisputed champion when it comes to Italian food. Go for a candle-lit dinner with your date or simply grab a drink, there's a lot to keep you occupied. Bonus points: The restaurant is surrounded by lush greenery and the Qutub Minar is in the vicinity.

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3. San Gimignano, The Imperial Hotel, Connaught Place

The restaurant is named after the city San Gimignano in Tuscany and boasts the very same warm hospitality and service that The Imperial Hotel has built its reputation on. 

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4. La Piazza, Hyatt Regency Hotel, Bikaji Cama Place

The best wood-fired oven pizzas in Delhi are available at La Piazza. You can enjoy your favourite Italian wine while you gorge on some delectable dishes. The warm-toned interiors add to the charm of the restaurant. 

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Mumbai

1. Gustoso, Khar, Mumbai

Gustoso's interior is inspired from the Naples village. Head over here if you like a soft pizza base rather than a crisp one. An evening surrounded by the authentic Neapolitan dishes and decor cannot go wrong for your first date.

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2. Prego, The Westin Mumbai Garden City, Goregaon East

Prego's service has always been top-notch. If you love a creamy ravioli then this is the perfect place for you. Enjoy your food with soothing songs in the background and a peaceful ambience.

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3. Rivea, Taj Santacruz

Want a restaurant near the airport? Well, this is the perfect choice for you then. Go for a long drive with your date to this beautiful restaurant with awe-inspiring decor. They offer you a unique menu with different types of bruschetta and a vast range of seafood which makes them one of a kind.

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4. Trattoria, Vivanta by Taj, Cuffe Parade-Colaba

Trattoria offers you authentic Italian cuisine with the best Italian wine collection. They are well known for their thin crust pizza and zucchini crepes with the best fine-dining experience.

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Bengaluru

1. Alba, JW Marriott, Lavelle Road

This is a must-visit for all the Italian lovers. Food over here would leave you for wanting more. From their appetizers to their desserts everything is to die for. Alba's Tiramisu is definitely a no-miss! So after all your cheese-filled dishes or salads you should save some room for the delicious Italian dessert.

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2. Caprese, Shangri-La Hotel

Caprese is on the 18th floor of the Shangri-La Hotel. It has a mesmerising view of the beautiful city. They have a plethora of cocktails on their menu. The grandeur and hospitality of this place will make you visit this place again and again.

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3. Bene, Sheraton Hotel

They have outdoor as well as indoor seating area. You should order their soups which are a great start to your first date at this amazing fine dine Italian restaurant.

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Chennai

1. Focaccia, Hyatt Regency, Anna Salai

They have an open kitchen, which keeps you interactive with the ongoing activities. Both the quantity and the quality of the food are perfect here. They also serve you complimentary bread with olive oil, which is a great start for your perfect date.

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2. Ottimo Cucica Italiana- ITC Grand Chola, Mount Road

Ravioli here is a must-have! They won't give you any chance for a complaint be it in service or food.

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3. Paprika- Courtyard by Marriott

They have a vast menu for brunch buffet which tastes like heaven. They serve other cuisines as well but their Italian is for sure the best! Do try out their lasagna.

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Assisted by: Shivika Paliwal