For those who believe superb things come in large converted basements, there is the Wine Cellar.

Located in Old Town Los Gatos, the Wine Cellar is the place for über chic, ultra romantic dining. In fact, according to newly bestowed awards by Citysearch.com, it is the most romantic restaurant in Silicon Valley and one of the 10 most romantic restaurants nationwide.

However, the Wine Cellar hardly needs words to attest to its romance factor, as the restaurant speaks for itself with tawny, golden walls, graceful, wrought iron decor and smiling, chatting couples tucked into booths.

"We were booked a month in advance for Valentine's Day," says Steve Hauck, one of four Hauck family members that own and manage the restaurant.

Although the cellar is already a staple of snuggling Los Gatans in search of savory Italian and American dishes such as lobster ravioli pomodoro and chipotle barbecue ribs, the Citysearch.com award has certainly brought the restaurant more acclaim and attention.

"We are very excited about the award," says Lisa Hauck.

"Of course we are," adds Steve. "It's huge."

Yet Lisa emphasizes that their "primary focus is pleasing locals. Being in Los Gatos is part of the award. It's really an award for Los Gatos."

The restaurant was completely remodeled several years ago, reopening in 2001 with a modern look that was still reminiscent of a classic Tuscan villa.

The result was an atmosphere that naturally caters to intimacy and romance.

"We don't try to target couples—it just happens," Lisa says of the romance-inducing details, such as corner tables, rich, amber-colored lighting and vineyard accents.

"Being down here is like being a world away," Steve says. "It just washes away stress."

Citysearch.com writer Jim Harrington's online review describes the Wine Cellar as a "cozy restaurant" that "makes use of nooks and crannies to create a comfortable, relaxed ambiance conducive to hand-holding across the table."

Lou and Gloria Paglia of Los Gatos couldn't agree more. They have been married for 25 years and dine at the cellar three to four times per week.

Lou says the cellar is a special spot because "of everything—the ambiance, the food, the company," as he motions to smiling cellar staff.

"It is a beautiful restaurant and very romantic," Gloria says. "The service is excellent; the people here are warm and attentive. We love coming here. It's our favorite."

To continue its romance factor into the night, the Wine Cellar recently extended its hours on Thursday and Saturday nights to include live music and late night dining.

Saturday nights now feature music until 1 a.m. and are accompanied by a late-night menu that includes treats such as smoked salmon and caviar pizza, two types of cheese fondue and a chocolate fondue.

"Fondue is our specialty," Lisa says. "There can't be anything more romantic than that."

The Hauck family is proud of its establishment—not only of its warm, inviting décor but the food as well.

"What we do, we do well," Steve says. "We take pride in that and are proud of our kitchen."

"Although we've been open two years [since the renovation], it's like we are being discovered every day," Steve adds. "Word of mouth is the most powerful" marketing.

The Wine Cellar is located at 50 University Ave., Los Gatos, 95030. Call 408.354.4808 for reservations. For more information, visit www.winecellarlosgatos.com.