Originally Posted by lobsterdog

No, I think you're reading more into my post than I intended. I didn't mention silverware, price or name - just good food and reasonably competent service and a comfortable atmosphere, and the restaurants I named were three places I happened to think of. Restaurant J would be another good choice.

For me at least, an ideal restaurant atmosphere for a date would be comfortable and relaxed, with the balance of a lively dining room but a slightly more private space at the table itself, where you don't feel that every bit of conversation is being shared with strangers at the next table, and you don't feel like you know those strangers by the end of the evening. Le Dessin and A Ta Gueulle have great food and I enjoy going there with friends, but they're too small and the tables are too close together to be ideal date spots.

The economics of Tokyo restaurants mean that you have to pay a premium for more space around your table, which is why you can often get better food for your money at smaller places with bistro-style seating. But sometimes it's nice to spend a little extra for the luxury of more personal space.