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What makes for a romantic restaurant, anyway? Is it the intimate atmosphere, the quality food, the attentive service, or the well-executed libations?

Well ... yes.

A restaurant's "romance quotient" is never more important than this time of year, with Valentine's Day approaching (if you're headed out to dinner but haven't yet made reservations, get off your duff and do it NOW). There is something about a fine meal served in the right atmosphere that can really — ahem — melt the ice.

So we went searching for the Dayton's area's most romantic restaurants. It's a subjective list, to be sure, and I can think of some other very strong contenders that could've been included. I'll bet you can too.

So if you're outraged to find your favorite hangout has been omitted, no reason to wad the paper up and throw it across the room. Head here, and tell us your favorite, or why you think we're wrong. Or right.

We came up with this list of romantic dining choices, in no particular order. So make the call, you sucker for romance you. And think flowers. Or chocolate. Or both.

l'Auberge

4120 Far Hills Ave., Kettering

(937) 299-5536

More than a quarter-century of experience and plenty of recognition from Mobil Travel Guides command attention — but so do the food and atmosphere. And the upscale bar even has a dance floor!

Jay's Restaurant

225 E. Sixth St., Dayton's Oregon Historic District

Call (937) 222-2892

This may not be the best restaurant for quiet conversation — when it's crowded, it's noisy — but the beautiful bar area, best wine list in the city, fresh fish and consistently fine service elevate Jay's to a worthy romantic destination. And the decadently rich chocolate mousse is guaranteed to melt a woman's heart.

Savona Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar

79 S. Main St., Centerville

(937) 610-9835

Why it rates: The interior of this restaurant is warm and inviting, but there is adequate space between tables to allow for quiet, romantic conversation. Fine food and a strong wine list, with plenty of wines by the glass, help seal the deal.

C'est Tout

2600 Far Hills Avenue, Oakwood

(937) 298-0022

The glass-enclosed atrium seating area that faces Far Hills Avenue can have a romantic feel to it, at least when the restaurant isn't packed. And the sauces here add a certain sensuality to the French Bistro-style dishes.

Coco's Bistro

515 Wayne Ave., Dayton

(937) 228-2626

This restaurant has carved a strong reputation with its eclectic menu and inviting atmosphere. There's just something romantic about the leopard-skin carpet design and the silver ornaments hanging from the ceiling.

Wellington Grille

2450 Dayton-Xenia Road, Beavercreek

(937) 426-4600

The high-backed and comfortable booths offer a bit of privacy, though you shouldn't assume your neighboring diners can't hear every word you're saying. Consistent service and an elegant atmosphere.

Michael Anthony's at the Inn

21 West Main St., Versailles

(937) 526-3020

The charm here is in the restaurant's atmosphere and its location in the heart of a small town — not to mention the feeling of escape after driving an hour or so from Dayton. And since the restaurant is located in The Inn at Versailles, it doesn't hurt that if desired, you can, quite literally, "get a room." Great wine list, too.

Mr. Lee's Fine Asian Dining

7580 Poe Ave., Vandalia

(937) 898-3860

The soft lighting and rich woods of this new restaurant's interior make it one of the most inviting atmospheres in the Miami Valley. You won't know you're sitting in a former Cooker's restaurant. And the Yellowtail sashimi melts on your tongue like a kiss.

Pacchia Prima

410 E. Fifth St., Dayton

(937) 341-5050

This restaurant has gone through more changes than newborn quintuplets, but the interior still boasts an intimate and inviting atmosphere, and the place always seems to have the right vibe.

Stars/Crowne Plaza hotel

33 E. Fifth St., Dayton

(937) 224-0800

Cincinnati has all those hills and great views, while Dayton — not so much. But if you want to take her breath away, the view from the Stars restaurant and lounge atop the Crowne Plaza hotel will do it — day or night. Why leave such a spectacular view to out-of-towners attending conventions? This is a great place for a late-night drink or Sunday brunch.

Coldwater Cafe

19 E. Main St., Tipp City

(937) 667-0007

This eclectic little restaurant in downtown Tipp City that moved a few doors up the street last year serves up perfectly executed, creative dishes in a charming atmosphere. Funky, great little wine list, too.

The best of the rest

If none of the options above struck your fancy, give these a whirl... The Caroline, Troy; Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Beavercreek; Rue Dumaine, Washington Twp.; Chin's Ginger Grill, Tipp City; Carvers, Washington Twp.; Café Boulevard, Dayton; Melting Pot, Washington Twp.; Amelia's Bistro, Bellbrook

> Find more area restuarants by cusine, price or location

> Send a free Valentine card, take a quiz, vote in polls, find gift-giving guidance and more on our Valentine's Day Guide

Love is in the air — can you feel it? So, where are you going to wine and dine that special someone? Comment on this list (or give us your own!)

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2258 or mfisher@DaytonDailyNews.com.