The Dessert Date

While a date for dessert is as simple as a date for coffee and doesn't cost much more, it remains a very different date. It can have as many layers as a piece of baklava and is less intellectual and a lot more sensual than your basic coffee date. A coffee date is great for exploring what's between a date's ears—a dessert date is about things that are soft, sweet, moist and lick-it-off your fingertips.

At the foundation of a date for dessert is often an important message, "You think this tastes sweet, wait'll you get me home..."

A nice aspect of this date is when you share each other's dessert. One subtext might be "You lick mine, I'll lick yours." And maybe you will, but it's just as likely you'll get home and immediately pass out as your sugar rush comes crashing down.

COST

$20 should more than cover it unless you also have double cappuccinos or after- dinner drinks.

WHERE TO GO

Some towns and cities have their own dessert shops or bakeries solely dedicated to the sweet tooth. Some have shops that specialize in certain types of desserts, like pies, while others run the gamut from flan to tiramasu. A good place to check is the Yellow Pages under "desserts" or "bakeries." You might also call the food critic at your local newspaper. Ask if he or she has any recommendations.

Some restaurants serve great desserts. The same is true for delis and ice cream shops. Why not check them all out?

Wherever you go, be sure to call ahead and ask about their hours. See if you need to make reservations.

LAYERING

We're not much for the idea of combing after-dinner drinks with great desserts, but that's because our great dessert memories revolve around small bakeries that specialize in desserts and have no liquor license. You, on the other hand, may have no such bias and would love a nice port, Grand Marnier, Drambuie, Cointreau or Sambuca with your piece of Marionberry pie.

ALTERNATIVE

If you can make the time and can turn out a respectable dessert, why not have the date at your house? Or you can always pick up dessert ala takeout and save yourself the extra work.

For the truly brave, it is possible to order dessert over the internet:

For cookies, pies, cakes and cheesecake, phone (800)708-0024 or try www.delightfuldeliveries.com. You can even join their "Miss Grace Cake Club" or the "Fruit of the Month Club." How sweet.

Looking for loads of little treats? Try Munchablez at (510)594-8948. They can send you everything from cranberry cake and vanilla cookies to a meat pie and rolls for your sausage.