Carrying on a getting-to-know-you conversation isn't easy, not in this era of Punishingly Loud Restaurants. That's not the case at the Sapor Cafe and Bar, where common design sense prevails in the form of a loft-like, acoustically accommodating dining room (the snug bar is another gem). Not that you'll ever run out of conversation topics, because you can always talk about chef/co-owner Tanya Siebenaler's globe-trotting cooking. Bond over the lemon-tickled beet pizza, then plan a second date by sharing an order of the coconut cream pie. 428 Washington Av. N., Mpls.; 612-375-1971; saporcafe.com
Runner-up: Lounge at La Belle Vie
