Best Places In Pittsburgh For A First Date

First dates are filled with potential - for romance, meaningful connections and even love. However, there is also the potential for things to awkwardly crash and burn, if the right precautions aren't taken. One of the most important first date "potential-savers" is choosing the right place to go. Here are some of the most romantic places in Pittsburgh for a first date - to make sure that your date meets its full potential. - Julia Mccandless

Firehouse Lounge

2216 Penn Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 434-1230
www.firehouse-lounge.com

Nestled in the heart of the Strip District, this cozy lounge is one of the best places in Pittsburgh to ignite a new romance. Lined with deep velvet booths, throw pillows and candle lighting, Firehouse Lounge provides a warm and intimate ambiance, great for conversing and getting to know someone. In addition, the hand-made cocktails here are deliciously unique, with inventive concoctions like the Eggnog White Russian. While the menu is filled with great choices, you cannot miss the burgers (try the Macdaddy), which are unbelievably priced at under $10. Voted Most Romantic Bar and Best Cocktail and Lounge by Pittsburgh Magazine, the Firehouse Lounge has all the fixings for a great first date. Hours: Monday through Thursday, open at 5 p.m.; Friday, open at 4 p.m.; Saturday, open at 5 p.m.

Duquesne Incline

1197 West Carson Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 381-1665
www.incline.pghfree.net

What is more romantic than a beautiful view of the city? Take the Duquesne Incline up Mt. Washington, where you can see unparalleled views of the Pittsburgh city skyline. This destination was voted 3rd Most Romantic Spot in America by MSN.com, and rightly so. We suggest taking the Incline at sunset and from there trying one of the many fine-dining restaurants at the top of Mt. Washington in an area named "restaurant row." The price for this stunning view is rock bottom as one-way fare is $2, and a round-trip fare is $4. Senior citizens can ride for free, and parking is also free. Hours: Monday through Saturday, 5:30 a.m. to 12:45 a.m.; Sunday/Major Holidays, 7 a.m. to 12:45 a.m.

Isabela on Grandview

1318 Grandview Avenue
Mount Washington
Pittsburgh, PA 15211
(412) 431-5882
www.isabelaongrandview.com

Sit atop Mt. Washington and enjoy panoramic views of Pittsburgh while eating a mouth-watering 7-course meal. Prepared by husband and wife chefs, the food here is made with fresh, local ingredients and served in small portions, allowing you to enjoy all seven courses without undoing your belt. A complimentary selection of fine wines is also offered. The excellent quality doesn't run cheap though, so be prepared to pay upwards of $100. However, if you have the cash to spare, we highly suggest this fine-dining restaurant, as it's quality of service, food and views makes it one of the best places in Pittsburgh for a first date. Hours: Monday through Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.