Fair prices, well-prepared and straightforward Italian fare, and a romantic ambience make Restivo Ristorante (209 7th Ave., 212-366-4133) a top pick among same-sex diners on dates or groups of friends supping together before a night of Chelsea bar-hopping at nearby Barracuda, XES Gay Lounge, Splash, or G Lounge. Start off with the signature house salad of smoked salmon, arugula, capers, and onions. Among the mains, consider grilled boneless game hen with wild rice and grilled vegetables. It's right across the street from Regional Thai Taste and around the corner from the Chelsea Savoy Hotel and Chelsea Hotel.


