Escape to a Romantic Night Out

Often romantic dinners with one's spouse or significant other are relegated to special occasions or holidays, almost making them a chore or something that is expected.

But the true romance in a candelit dinner for two can more properly be found in a spontaneous night out, and the ambience of a cozy local favorite, than in the choreographed plans of a Valentine's or anniversary dinner.

To be sure holidays and special dates should still be observed, but a spur of the moment decision to go out and take it easy over a gourmet meal and bottle of wine can often provide an inspired energy that will really give you the escape you're looking for.

It is with that in mind that we make this week's Great Escape in Swampscott.

The now 3-year-old restaurant of Chef Gregg Brackman, located at 254-256 Humphrey Street, offers a diverse menu featuring Italian, French, Asian and American influenced cuisine meticulously brought to life by Brackman's years of experience in restaurants around the country.

Just as important as the menu is the ambience, and G has that in spades bringing the look and feel of a downtown cosmopolitan bistro to the suburbs, without the 30-minute drive and worry over where you will park and how much it will cost.

"It is just so cute, cozy and initimate it lends itself to the romantic," explains Erica Olandt, a Nahanter who enjoys dining at G, and notes that Nahant has nothing like it.

"I guess I'd choose G most on a nice summer night, so that I could walk along the water. . .stroll along the beach after dinner and enjoy the moonlight."

There is plenty of parking along Humphrey Street to accomodate all guests in the cozy dinig room and reservations are available only by phone at 781-596-2228. G is open from 5 to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and the bar stays open until 11. To check out the menu ahead of time visit the G website at www.grestaurant.com.