Simple décor, candlelight and the smell of rustic, authentic Italian cuisine make cozy La Sosta a go-to spot for couples celebrating birthdays and anniversaries or just seeking a romantic evening out together. Salumi specials fill many of the tables, as do bottles of wine from an ecletic, esoteric wine list, grilled meats and fish, housemade pastas, and desserts like homemade profiteroles. Just be sure to reserve your table early; this place fills its reservation book early.
2700 Manhattan Ave, HB. 310-318-1556. www.lasostaenoteca.com
Runner-up: Bottle Inn, 26 22nd St, HB. 310-376-9595. www.thebottleinn.com
