Dinner Date Pick: Skyve Wine Bistro

If you’re on the hunt for a romantic dinner spot with delicious food minus the hefty price tags, Skyve Wine Bistro is a sure way to go. Especially with the draw of new additions to the dinner a la carte menu, promising the same, good – if not better – quality modern European cuisine, to impress both you and your date. And it’s all kept below $40. Charming ambience Set within full glass walls and an old school decor with pops of turqoise, the sibling-run restaurant evokes a classy yet casual-chic atmosphere in the old compound of now-defunct Monks Hill Secondary School. Previously the school’s canteen, this space continues to hold the same purpose of satisfying your hunger cravings, whatever they may be. Minus the daily recess bell.

Sous vide so good Breathing new life into the ordinary octopus, the Sous Vide Tako Tataki ($22) is infused in a smoky sweetness of paprika. While it could have been a little less chewy, he nails the sous vide method in the Sous Vide Grilled Duroc Pork Rack ($37). Topped with a crisp of crackling pork skin,the picture-perfect dish comes with alternating layers of greens, cherry tomatoes and sweet corn for that standout flavour. Equally notable mains we've tried include their healthy Pan Seared Grouper ($36), paired with a cream-free dashi risotto and the Ancho Cod ($38) that sits in a tart lima crema.

Classics with a twist Get interactive with the new DIY Seared Beef Tartare ($22), served on a tequila board with various condiments like shallots, gherkins, dijon and truffle oil for you to mix in.

While original beef tartare is usually made with raw meat, Skyve chooses to lightly sear it instead – making the celebrated dish more approachable to first-timers. And for a sweet fix, the classic apple pie gets deconstructed in the Galette-a-Roon ($12). Think caramelized apples and cranberries with vanilla gelato capped with a sticky chewy macaroon shell. Good to know: Besides being a popular venue for wedding celebrations, a live band also croons acoustic tunes on Friday and Saturday evenings. Plus, the restaurant does catering too – perfect for house parties this upcoming holiday season. Text and Images by: Peh Yi Wen See Also: More romantic restaurants to bring your date to More eateries around Newton