Looking to order a carrot cake for my gfs birthday, might just make it but wanted to see if there might be any exceptionally good carrot cake in cinci first..

So, my anniversary is coming up. Our go-to spot for occasions and date nights used to be The Melting Pot. But ever since they remodeled, the vibe is different and, honestly, I feel like the service has declined markedly over the past few years.

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So... I need suggestions for a new place to try. I could just hit Google, but I'm sure you all can give more nuanced suggestions than a standard search. What I'm throwing out is a guide. No place has to hit everything, but at least a couple ticks on the list would be great.

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Preferred vibe would be somewhat laid back - not too formal, stuffy or pretentious. Low lighting for that romantic ambience would be great. Another place that we've enjoyed in the past, if any have been there, is Varanese in Louisville. As such, if the place hosts live music that's calm and/or jazzy, that wouldn't be bad.

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Best bets for cuisine would likely be new American or somewhere that is either seafood-focused or with decent seafood options (beyond fish).

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ETA: Parking on-site would also be a plus. I'm not completely against eating downtown, but would prefer to be able to arrive and walk right in as opposed to walking a block or more to get there.

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I very much appreciate any tips you have.

Looking for fish and chips recommendations. Let me know your favorites.

I’ve got a hankering!

Does anyone know of any restaurants in the area that give you the option of zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta? I’m only aware of Noodles and Co. and a menu item at Through the Garden.