Start Your Prom Off Right

It's almost prom time and among the decisions you'll have to make, is where to have dinner. There are any number of romantic restaurants in and around Seattle, so if that's your pleasure, check out these suggestions.

Continually rated as one of the best restaurants in the Pacific Northwest, Canlis is the epitome of contemporary Northwest cuisine. Executive Chef Jason Franey is only the fifth person to hold the position since Canlis opened in 1950, and he brings with him an impressive list of credentials. The dining room is tranquil with low-lighting, comfortable seating, and outstanding views of Lake Union. Live jazz and classical music is provided by acclaimed pianist Walt Wagner. Unlike most places in Seattle, formal dress is required, and be prepared to spend at least $150. Reservations are necessary and best made 2-3 weeks in advance for weekend dining. Canlis is the ultimate experience in outstanding service. You will definitely be pampered by a staff that won't hover. It is located at 2576 Aurora Avenue North and has valet parking. Call 206-283-3313 for more information.

If you're looking for something a little less pricey, Il Bistro is a good choice. Using local ingredients, Chef Nathan Louma prepares authentic Italian food to exacting standards. Hidden in a cobblestone alley in Pike Place Market, Il Bistro opened in 1975 and is continually voted Seattle's Most Romantic Restaurant. There is ample parking in nearby garages and on the street; valet parking is also available. Business casual dress is recommended, but you will not feel out of place in formal-wear. Reservations can be made online or by calling 206-682-3049. From the warm atmosphere of the dining room to the rich flavors of the food and the conscientious service, Il Bistro is the perfect start to a memorable prom.

Seastar Restaurant and Raw Bar is another good choice for a special evening. Chef John Howie opened the Bellevue location in 2002, followed by one in Seattle seven years later. Seafood is definitely the draw at Seastar, but expertly prepared steaks, poultry, and pasta are also available. The dining room is contemporary and comfortable with a staff ready to cater to your every need. There are some entrées around $25, but be prepared for a bill around $100. Business casual is acceptable attire, but more formal dress isn't out of the ordinary. The Bellevue location is near the heart of downtown at 205 108^th Ave NE. Reservations can be made online or by calling 425-456-0010. For Seattle dining, call 206-462-4364 for reservations. It's located near Denny at 2121 Terry Ave. Both locations validate parking at nearby garages.

If something less pretentious is more to your liking, try Bizarro Italian Café in Wallingford. It has been featured on the Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives; and most of the entertaining staff is involved in artistic endeavors outside of the restaurant (Waiter Jodi-Paul Wooster is the Co-founder of 14/48, the "World's Quickest Theater Festival". Twice a year it creates fourteen plays in only forty-eight hours). With red stucco walls and furniture suspended from the ceiling, the décor is definitely eclectic. Most of the delicious and creative entrées are in the $15-$20 range, so your bill won't be too high. The downside is that reservations are not available on weekends and you may end up having to wait for a table - outside. But if you're there around the time they open at 5:00, you should be fine. Located at 1307 N. 46^th Street, parking is on the street. Casual attire is fine, but no one will care if you're more formal. Be careful with your cell phone, as signs on the wall proclaim a service fee for using them, though that's probably just a joke.

Where ever you choose to start your evening, your prom night will be unforgettable.