One would be hard-pressed to come up with a more romantic place than Dali, located on the Somerville/Cambridge border. Copper ceilings, candles, fresh flowers and warm lighting lead some patrons to refer to the restaurant as an aphrodisiac. Colorful waiters ferry sherry, sangria and Spanish wines from the eclectic bar, where a diverse crowd passes the time (no proper reservations are taken).

Diners don't lack options, as there are more than 40 varieties of tapas and another 10 dishes on the menu. Using recipes from all over Spain, the kitchen churns out dependable interpretations of tapas such as garlic shrimp, chilled vinegary octopus, marinated mushrooms and baked goat cheese. Of the entrees, fish baked in salt, spicy shellfish stew and paella are customer favorites. Light flan and a semisweet chocolate and fruit crepes are among the scrumptious desserts.