Best of Boston

2004 Best Romantic Restaurant, Affordable

Lala Rokh

With Thai food on every corner and henna tattoos sold at the mall, the truly exotic is hard to find anymore. That’s why this atmospheric Beacon Hill restaurant is the perfect getaway for you and your paramour. The mood is set immediately with orchid centerpieces, hanging tapestries, and sitar music. But it’s the food that is truly transporting. Infused with saffron and pomegranate, the homemade dishes will send your tongue on its own magic carpet ride. And with dinner for two including wine and dessert coming in at under $100, it’s the least expensive ticket to the Near East you’ll find.

97 Mt. Vernon St., Boston, 617-720-5511, lalarokh.com