That's what happened to me one warm, humid Thursday night on the Upper East Side. I was on the prowl for the perfect dining spot, although I didn't know if tacos or curry would be on the menu. Instead of powering up my laptop and Googling ideas to death, I started walking north.

That's another thing I love about New York City...the menus posted on the sidewalk. I love surprises but not when the check comes after a three-course meal and I realize I have to put my handbag collection on eBay to pay it.

So I stumbled upon this great place called Mediterraneo on Second Avenue and 66th Street. It was extremely crowded for a Thursday evening and definitely had a young, very attractive Euro crowd. We were told there was a 20 minute wait and then we sauntered inside to check out their bar. One glass of Savignon Blanc later and we were seated at a cute little table outside next to a beautiful flower box.

The air was warm and so were the people who worked there, who had a million smiles to throw our way. I was instantly impressed by the wide selection on the menu...Tagliolini Ortomare (homemade pasta with shrimp and baby artichokes), Pesce Spada alla Griglia (grilled swordfish and vegetables) and Pizza Arcolbaleno (red and yellow roasted peppers, tomato sauce, basil and parmigiano).

Being that the temperature was close to 80 degrees that night with what felt like 110 percent humidity, we decided to opt out of the heavy, huge entrees and respect our small appetites.

So we shared an order of the bruschetta, which was toasted Tuscany bread, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes and basil, and we also opted for the Insalata del Sole, which consisted of arugala, mango, avocado, hearts of palm and shaved parmigiano. It was a small meal, but who ever said bigger is better?

By 9 p.m. and even 9:30, the restaurant was still abuzz with young people who looked like they might be heading down to Marquee or the Meat Packing District after dinner. Each guy wore an attractive button-down shirt and the girls were dressed as if they just stepped out of a sample sale or showroom visit.

The chic crowd, the light, satisfying, refreshing meal, the cold, crisp wine and the friendly, extremely attentive service made our night at Mediterraneo one to remember.

When we're ready to eat...really eat...we'll be back again (if only for the pizza!!).