The Most Romantic Valentine’s Day Restaurants in Every State
It comes as no surprise that February 14 just happens to be one of the busiest days of the year for restaurants. In fact, almost one quarter of the population will dine out on Cupid’s favorite holiday according to the National Restaurant Association. Not sure where to go? We’ve identified a very special restaurant in each state that will ensure your evening is filled with delectable cuisine—and a taste of romance.
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Table for two
It’s nearly Valentine’s Day, which means it’s time to plan your special date night. According to Open Table, more than 30 percent of people celebrate by dining out, with Italian food being the top choice, followed by contemporary American cuisine. Not sure where to go? We found the most romantic spots in each state. Cooking at home? Try one of these totally original DIY heart-shaped food ideas.
Alabama
Valentine’s Day guests can enjoy a taste of genuine southern hospitality at Cotton Row Restaurant in Huntsville, featuring Chef James Boyce’s modern American cuisine in a setting that exudes comfort and elegance. Choose between the very intimate Wine Cellar or one of the Loft rooms that are designed to provide a more private and personal experience. Diners are offered a champagne toast, roses, and chocolate-covered strawberries, to name a few romantic delights. Menu highlights include Black Winter Truffle Tagliatella Pasta and Moroccan-Spiced Grilled Lamb Belly. Check out these 15 signs that your relationship is solid as a rock.
Alaska
At Seven Glaciers Restaurant, a luxurious mountain-top hideaway with panoramic views of glaciers and the Pacific Ocean in Girdwood, you’ll be offered signature Alaskan entrées in a romantic atmosphere. Your experience begins with a tram ride from the Hotel Alyeska to the restaurant, which is 2,300 feet above sea level. Specials for Valentine’s Day include a three-course meal starting with a crab platter, followed by poached oysters or a winter vegetable salad and then duck ravioli. Be sure to save room for the black forest cake, which is actually white chocolate mousse, cherry caviar, and chocolate sorbet. You’ll also want to check out these 14 dreamiest adventures for couples.
Arizona
Set along the banks of the majestic river, Cress on Oak Creek at the famed L’Auberge de Sedona hotel offers a romantic dining experience perfect for a Valentine’s Day celebration. Boasting candle-lit tables and an interior that truly sets the mood, couples can enjoy dishes by executive chef Michael O’Dowd, who draws upon the earth as inspiration for his ingredient-focused dishes. His special Valentines’ Day menu features a three-course meal including day boat scallops ceviche, farm stuffed quail, poached sea bass, or an Angus filet followed by a dessert for two. This is why the Cheesecake Factory menu is so long.
Arkansas
Located inside Southland Park Gaming and Racing in West Memphis, the Bourbon Street Steakhouse Grill is a culinary gem of the Arkansas Delta. With its intimate ambiance and delectable menu, the restaurant is the perfect place to share an evening with your Valentine. The menu is an eclectic mix of Cajun and Creole-inspired dishes, a favorite is the lollipop pork chop, glazed with a Smokey Mountain moonshine and maple syrup. Finish with the restaurant’s signature Bananas Foster cheesecake; it’s perfect for sharing.
California
The Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil, Rutherford, offers a fine dining experience from one of the best vantage points in Napa Valley. With 11 consecutive Michelin Stars, Executive Chef Robert Curry’s inspired cuisine reflects the natural diversity and rich seasonal produce available in the region. Ingredients are sourced largely from local and regional purveyors and are complemented by one of the most extensive wine cellars in the valley. Feast on delightful appetizers such as sautéed foie gras with pineapple and spiced cashews, and main courses including bacon-wrapped veal with Yukon gold potatoes or Liberty Farm duck with apples, walnuts, currants, and cider sauce. Find out the 9 Valentine’s Day ideas long-time couples swear by.
Colorado
The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs recently introduced new Chef de Cuisine Max Robbins, who creates contemporary European cuisine inspired by the seasons. Set in a classically elegant ambiance with enchanting mountain views, the Broadmoor’s Penrose Room was recently named Best Historic Restaurant in Conjunction with a Historic Hotel by the National Trust for Historic Preservation/Historic Hotels of America, and it’s the only Forbes five-star AAA five-diamond restaurant. On Valentine’s Day, don’t miss the “Chocolate Experience” featuring three decadent chocolate desserts: Milk Chocolate & Passion Fruit Parfait with Hazelnut Feuilletine, Dark Chocolate & Bergamot Marquis, and White Chocolate and Huckleberry Panna Cotta. Find out the most historic hotel in your state.
Connecticut
Ensconced in a beautiful 19th-century Victorian manor house set on three acres of garden and lawn, Homestead Inn – Thomas Henkelmann, Greenwich, is an exquisite boutique hotel located in the prestigious Belle Haven residential area. Its contemporary French restaurant is overseen by renowned Chef Thomas Henkelmann, who along with his wife Theresa, founded the Inn in 1997. Begin your Valentine’s Day feast with oysters, a crab cake, lobster bisque, rack of lamb, swordfish, and filet mignon. Don’t miss these Valentine’s Day gifts women actually want for more inspiration.
Delaware
More than a restaurant, the Green Room in Wilmington’s iconic Hotel DuPont is an experience in grandeur and the perfect place for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner date. With an atmosphere right out of The Great Gatsby, luxury and sophistication are on the menu along with unforgettable, seasonally inspired French cuisine. Savory appetizers include crab cakes with house-made remoulade, and for main dishes, you can’t go wrong with the pan-seared tuna glazed with apple pomegranate vinaigrette and fennel or roasted duck breast with farro risotto.
Florida
At Spencer’s by the Sea at The Reach Resort in Key West, you’ll find beach views coupled with a can’t-miss menu of refined steak dishes and fresh, local seafood. Guests can enjoy a candlelit meal on the outdoor veranda with the sound of crashing waves and a backdrop of swaying palms. For those looking to pop the question on Valentine’s Day, the resort’s newly launched “Proposal Package” comes with private dinner at Spencer’s and a custom sand sculpture. Don’t miss these outrageous marriage proposals you have to read to believe.