At this combo bar and wine shop, friendly and unpretentious dudes will ply you with expert knowledge of funky, offbeat wines that can be purchased by the glass. If the date goes well, buy a bottle off the shelf and drink it at a dimly-lit table over some prosciutto and cheese.

Blue Bottle coffee, light snacks, and sugary waffles are the building blocks to any good relationship. Combined with high ceilings, huge windows, and gleaming white tile, this historic building is a pleasant place to get to know one another. Plus, the fact that there aren't hordes of laptoppers silently using Wi-Fi here (there isn't any) makes it fertile ground for conversation.

Snuggled into Rockridge's main drag, A16 is a great upgrade for a second date. Share pizzas, spirituous cocktails, and antipasti by the glow of the pizza oven, or while looking out onto the idyllic neighborhood streets.

The only two-Michelin-starred restaurant in the East Bay is an obvious choice, and one of the grander gestures available. It's a relaxed vibe with super precise, flavorful food — make a reservation at the chef's counter for a memorable experience and a first-hand look at the action.

Waiting in line can be a strain on a new relationship, but a couple well-versed in each other's mood swings can certainly make it to dinner at this bustling neighborhood spot. Grab one of the excellent cocktails and a snack in the bar, and prepare for ramen greatness.

Breaking up to the sweet sounds of Rod Dibble's piano playing is one of the more poetic ways to end a relationship. This divey saloon is dark, with private booths and stiff drinks, making it the perfect place to cut ties.