Juniper Grill   

Located inside a 100-year-old building, this Soulard hot spot was converted by a married couple. The moment you walk past the welcoming green exterior, you enter into the dining area that is romantically lit with friendly yellow walls, which are covered with photographs and paintings created by local artists. Despite the wait on a weekend night (about 20 minutes around dinner time, reservations are recommended), this place has no pretense and is very affordable. The staff is friendly, and the sommelier is knowledgeable about suggesting the perfect wine. With small plates ranging from $4 to $9 and most entrees running $10 to $17, Juniper grill draws crowds mixed with students, young professionals on first dates and families with children having a special dinner (Juniper offers kid's plates). While you're waiting, have one of the 15 wines by the glass and sample the delicious prosciutto-wrapped shrimp or smoked duck pot stickers. Patrons rave about the pesto encrusted sea scallops, but the duck breast sauteed with dried cherries is also notable. Sip sangria with your date, share bananas foster and then stroll around the neighborhood for some Soulard music.