Best (Affordable) Way to Impress a First Date

The Bar at Farallon

450 Post (at Mason), 956-6969, www.farallonrestaurant.com

So you have a hot date with someone you'd like to impress who doesn't know how poor you really are? Don't fret: Take her here. Not everyone can afford to eat dinner in this place, but most of us can afford to get appetizers and drinks, so pull up a comfy stool and hang out in the bar. The ambience is romantic and beautiful, like a soft-pink undersea Disney feature with a Cocteau Twins soundtrack, while the bar is smallish and near the door, all the better to get cozy and people-watch. Plus, the martinis are fantastic, and the kitchen usually offers a distinctive cheese plate (and suggestions for other good cocktail companions). You can get out of here for under $50 for two, and your date will feel some warm, maybe-this-guy-ain't-so-bad-after-all feelings toward you.