by Bergen Eppers

With Homecoming just around the corner, proposals made and dresses bought, groups are looking for a nice place to eat out on the special night. Based on price, distance (10 miles and under), and reviews, here are the top 10 restaurants to make your night a memorable (and tasty) one:

1. Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant

Located in on N Fairfield Road, this Tex-Mex restaurant, having a rating of 4 stars, can be the right setting for both groups and dates. Its heaviest business on Saturdays is usually 5pm-6pm; however, they do take reservations. The setting is perfect for someone to walk in with a gown in the hacienda-style modern setting. Pricing of about $30-$40  (includes appetizer, entrée, drink, and dessert) per person, “Abuelo’s offers guests a chance to experience the incredible flavors of Mexico, combining authentic, made-from-scratch standards with the rich, subtle flavors of coastal and interior Mexican cuisine.” (Yelp.com)

2. Olive Garden

If you prefer the classic Italian, family-friendly restaurant, this one is for you. A restaurant great for any occasion, its staff is lively and full of smiles, serving you tasty pastas and salads (not to mention unlimited bread sticks). It also takes reservations and is located on Miamisburg-Centerville Rd. To have an appropriate Italian experience, price per person would range also between $30-$40. Hitting the rating of 4 stars as well, Dave D. on Yelp commented, “It’s rare I can dine somewhere and come away with a perfect experience but I have to say, Olive Garden hit a home run….”

3. Carrabba’s Italian Grill

Another option for Italian lovers, this restaurant is filled with the modern friendly atmosphere. With speedy and polite service, you could be seated casual or formal. Located on Miamisburg-Centerville Rd. as well and pricing of $25-$35 per person, a group or a date dine in would both be comfortable in the setting. “…This place knows how to get things done… Chain or no chain, your dining experience should be reasonably comfortable, clean, cozy… and DELICIOUS!!” said Valerie W, giving a rating of another 4 stars. (I suggest the mezzaluna, my personal favorite.)

4. Bravo! Cucina Italiana

An upscale-casual restaurant, they serve more Italian food, grilled items, and homemade pizzas. Sophisticated servers and classy interior makes this high-end setting perfect for every special occasion. “Fresh ingredients, great presentation, and the interior of every Bravo I’ve been to has been exceptionally clean and beautiful” (Jessica L.)  An average night of fun spent here in Centerville would range $30-$40 as well, with reservations accepted. Ranking of 4 stars, your experience here will definitely give a good start to your night.

5. Longhorn Steakhouse

More of a meat lover? They’ve got you covered. From a variety of grilled beef, Southern steak and American dishes, you can enjoy a delicious meal in the Western-ranch homey setting. Although it is perfect for group meals, formal dates may feel uncomfortable, depending on your preferences. Rated at 3.7 stars, this is one closer in Beavercreek. Ranging from $30-$40 dollars, you just can’t go without their sweet potatoes. Your meal would be incomplete.

6. Bonefish Grill

Leaning more towards the seafood side, this contemporary restaurant also serves steak. Fantastic service and food rewards with a ranking of 4.2 stars; however it is further away, being near the Dayton Mall. It can be perfect for a date night or group with its lively atmosphere. Never a dull moment with the light buzz and activity in the room and waft of many delicious scents. Another range of $30-$40, their food will hit the height of your food list. (The crab cakes and bang bang shrimp are phenomenal).

7. Bd Mongolian Grill

Always a picky eater? Ranked 4.3 stars, this could be the one for you. Choosing your own combination stir-fry, the staff help you through the process. An experience within itself! Create your own sauce and have it specially made for you. This is a great restaurant for groups of friends before a night of dancing, but for one on one…just doesn’t fit well in a more casual atmosphere. Located in The Greene, it is decorated modernly enough; it could fit well with formal group of friends. Theresa F. writes on Yelp, “I don’t go to the Greene often but I do come out of my way to go to BD’s. How can you go wrong here?”

8. Brio Tuscan Grill

Another located in The Greene, this Tuscan-inspired restaurant is one of the many favorites. Beautifully and uniquely decorated, it gives off a warm and relaxed setting for guests. Great for groups, dates, or families to start your evening easy and smooth. Serving Italian eatery and a variety of other options, the staff is always happy to assist you. “Brio remains our go-to restaurant for good food, great atmosphere and service.” (Debbe T.)

9. Sweeney’s Seafood

Rated 4 stars, enjoy a meal of fresh seafood at this family-owned restaurant. While you eat, there are fish tanks around the restaurant you can watch, making the setting comfortable and entertaining. “Sweeney’s has a Key West feel and the menu items reflect that. We have beef and chicken as well. The five large fish tanks make Sweeney’s family friendly.” (Yelp.com). Located in Centerville, your night will not go wrong at Sweeney’s.

10. The Cheesecake Factory

Reservations mostly needed, their plates will not disappoint your taste buds. Serving a variety of dishes, from pasta to fish, the staff always serves you with a smile. Warm modern decor, this restaurant gives a nice feeling of comfort and relaxation. Located in The Greene, you can’t go without taking a cheesecake slice with you. What was the point in going then? “Beautiful decor , great food, and exceptional cheesecake that only a real sweet tooth could possibly eat an entire slice in one sitting …” (Bethany B.)