I live right by Cardero's in Coal Harbour so I go there pretty frequently. Good service and it's big enough you can usually get a spot. The patio is beautiful this time of year. It's a little pricey and the food is good, but not great. Lift just up the water and past the Westin is also really good too... pricier but great view and slightly better food.
I also really like Central Bistro on Denman, which is just off English Bay.
Trendier places: Chambar (French/Belgian) is pretty good (Beatty St. by the Queen E); Salt Tasting Room (more of an appetizer place) (Gastown); Coast (Seafood heavy but not exclusively) (Alberni off Burrard) .
There are a series of restaurants throughout the city under the 'La Buca' umbrella which is great Italian food.
http://www.labuca.ca/
All of these are good date places.
If you're looking to just hang out and grab some beers and pub food, try The Mill in Coal Harbour or the Elephant and Castle on Burrard and W. Hastings.