Dear EADith,

I’m seeing someone new and I’m pretty keen, but I’m not sure how they feel about me. Where can I take them for dinner that’s date night-ish but doesn’t immediately scream ‘romantic table for two’?

LoverBoy

Dear LoverBoy,

Modern dating sounds tricky. Mr EADith and I often remark that it’s hard to keep up with all you young folk’s bumbling, hinging and grinding. But I do know this: if you’re dating-ish, you can’t go wrong with a table at Italian-ish Little Capo. 

Firstly, you’ll be commended for your good taste. This effortlessly cool hangout is the real deal, with bar seats for a glass of wine and pasta of the day, while elbow-to-elbow little tables give a convivial buzz to the place. The red walls bring any-weather warmth and flood the restaurant with a pinky golden glow which makes everyone look, and feel, good. It’s not obviously romantic, but it’s definitely a little sexy. I defy anyone not to love it, unless perhaps they don’t eat carbs (in which case, dear LoverBoy, swipe left). 

Start with a cocktail to settle the nerves and set the scene. It’s a strong list: Martinis and Spritzes get special attention, with excellent no and low-alcohol options too. Try a Negroni Sbagliato, resplendent with a fat Gordal olive, paired with hot, salty courgette fritti. The starters are sharing-plates style, which is a good way to figure out a potential beloved’s intentions. Will they split a burrata with you? It’s highly recommended: creamy and bouncy with lemony shaved fennel and pistachio.

Little Capo serves real feelgood food, generous dishes and rich seasonal flavours. The hake and mussel stew with orzo and samphire has a delightful depth. Crispy polenta comes with tomatoes, and green and white beans, all accompanied by the most incredible pesto. Wedges of plump focaccia to dunk and mop are always a good idea. 

If your honey stays sweet on you, they may want to hang around for cake and the daily selection always thrills. Think pistachio, lime and berry, or chocolate and cherry: soft, fresh and yielding, perfect with an espresso. Good luck LoverBoy, and if it’s not to be, at least you’ll be well-fed.

Little Capo, 18 Howe Street, Edinburgh; average price for two courses £27.