Another one of my old standby's is Bricco on West 56th between 8th & 9th. I go there after the theater sometimes. Their ante pasta is particularly good, not to mention their pasta. Arte Cafe on West 73rd between Columbus and Amsterdam (not to be confused with Arte Pasta in the Village) is also reliable. It's a good date place, because the tables are well spaced. Their wine list isn't bad, either -- I particularly like the Montepulciano they serve by the glass. I think there's a "garden" in the back, although I've never been seated there.