In answer to this question I couldn't just give one answer, so decided I'd make it into a blog.

I think candles are a must, especially on the table, make sure it doesn't obstruct your view of each other though. Candles on the mantle or if you have wall sconces, in front of a mirror for reflection is nice. Make sure your home is clutter free and clean with the TV off. If low on candles at least use soft, low lighting, nothing is more unromantic that bright lights.

I once had dinner at a guy friend house on our third date, he had the TV on the whole time, had stopped at the grocery deli for Chinese, we sat on the couch which was probably the least dusty place in the house. I swear there was 1/2 inch of dust on every surface. The most romantic part of that quick date was that he offered the remote to me!

Some soft, sexy music, Marvin Gaye might be a little too obvious, maybe some romantic Latin music in the background. Make the table visually pleasing, a lovely low flower arrangement with slight scent, not so as to overwhelm your food of course. I think a tablecloth and nice tableware, doesn't need to be china, cloth napkins, a wine glass and water glass, all set up sparkling in the candlelight, shows you took effort and care.

Same for yourself, nothing smells better on a guy I think than the just stepped out of the shower smell of soap and shampoo, same for the gal and don't overdo the perfume if you wear it, that can go either way, a turn on or turn off depending on the guy and how much and where you place it.

As to the menu check online for lots of ideas, men often prefer meat, a rare steak, salad, and potato, pasta side dish to make it simple with a delicious desert. As a lady I would prefer a pasta dish and a salad. One of my favorites is a chicken pasta alfredo with mushrooms and zucchini sauteed and added toward the end. This can be heavy depending on your alfredo sauce so no appetizers or make them light.

Have your meal already prepared and warming in the oven so it smells delicious when he or she walks in the door. Offer to take a coat, scarf, etc. and a drink to begin the evening. The guest may bring a gift, often a wine that can be shared with dinner. If I have a man over for dinner I would ask him to do the honors of opening and pouring, thus keeping him busy while you check on your meal.

Daytime can be just as romantic, I would prefer out of doors, perhaps a picnic in the park , at the beach or on your deck or own backyard. Picking up food at a deli is fine here, laying it out on a tablecloth and using your fingers to feed each other can be a great turn-on. Brioche and cream cheese, freshly cut fruits, sparkling cider even in a plastic cup can be romantic. Go somewhere to hear the sounds of nature, next to a creek or a meadow with a breeze, a little wine tasting at your local winery with a picnic lunch, summer music in the park days. or check out your local sights, waterfall, mountains, beach, lake, river, a nice destination can make it a memorable event.

Or if its nasty weather how about the back booth in a little pub, or by their fireplace that's known for good food and low lighting? Check online for restaurant reviews or read your "Most romantic spot for a Kiss in your local area".

One of my most romantic dinners was when a date offered to cook for me and told me to do nothing, he brought everything to my house. He brought the music, a romantic video to watch, candles, white cloth napkins and catered to me while he cooked in my kitchen. It was so relaxing and I felt so pampered, such a nice romantic guy.

I think as long as whatever meal you choose shows you took care to either pick it out or cook it, take time to set the mood and yourself, you can make your evening as romantic as you like.