Romantic night out (for the female perspective)

So I was reading some article on the 5 most romantic restaurants in Copenhagen. And it gave me some thoughts on the subject. Not that Im planning anything just some thoughts about it.

Im sort of a old fashioned type that believes its up to the man to create the night out. Not that I wouldnt appreciate the female taking the lead in this also, I would actually find that sweet and would really love that.

Okay so the questions.

Everyone knows that atmosphere is important, that its not a family restarant you bring your date to. But how much does atmosphere count for in the overall picture? And in that instance another question comes to mind how important do you find him knowing the restaurant you are going to is? Like what kind of clothes should you wear and so on?

I found a place that only serves one menu but changes it every month, how important is it for you to know that beforehand or do you just take it as an experience?

How important do you find him knowing items from the menu card and recommending them? Do you like for him to have planned a menu beforehand?

What about after the dinner do you like for him to have figured out what you are to do? That he has some suggestions and that you get to pick it? Or that things just happen as they come after the dinner?

What other things do you find is needed for a good romantic dinner, night out?

I know there are many perspectives on this, but please do comment, no comment should be left out.

The restaurant doesn't have to be expensive. It just has to be quiet enough for conversation and private enough to not let other tables overhear you. For a first date, avoid restuarants with candlelight and a roving band. These are "romantic" but too much too soon. I find such restaurants much more suitable for birthdays and anniversaries.

Personally, the date counts more than the dinner. A good night out to me encompasses:
- good conversation
- gentlemanly behaviour from the guy (e.g. opening the door, pulling out the chair)
- attentiveness
- light hearted humour/teasing
- respect for my boundaries

If these elements are missing, it still wouldn't be a good night out even if I were served the best food in the world.

Originally Posted by Rouge

The restaurant doesn't have to be expensive. It just has to be quiet enough for conversation and private enough to not let other tables overhear you. For a first date, avoid restuarants with candlelight and a roving band. These are "romantic" but too much too soon. I find such restaurants much more suitable for birthdays and anniversaries.

Personally, the date counts more than the dinner. A good night out to me encompasses:
- good conversation
- gentlemanly behaviour from the guy (e.g. opening the door, pulling out the chair)
- attentiveness
- light hearted humour/teasing
- respect for my boundaries

If these elements are missing, it still wouldn't be a good night out even if I were served the best food in the world.

I agree with the candlelight dinner on a first date being too soon, this is like for later after you have started the relationship or as a kickstart for the start of a relationship. I should have pointed that out.

For first dates Id go for cozy cafes or the arthouse gallery or arthouse movietheatre.