I must preface this story by saying that I do not go out on Valentine's Day to eat. Why don't I go out, you ask? Well, I go out almost every night for dinner and the last thing I want to do is go out on a day when most places have a set menu and the restaurants are going to be packed. You'll find me lying in my fuzzy ass robe, on the couch, watching Brooklyn 99 or Dynasty or Magicians or whatever else has a new episode going.
With that being said, I understand why you should absolutely be making plans to go out for Valentine's Day. It is super necessary for many of you to do something special for that person in your life or to hang out with friends. I get that and I think it's a great idea. So, if I were to go out on Valentine's Day, these are the places I would venture to.
Virtu is one of my go to spots. I haven't been in awhile but I always look forward to when I have time to stop in for a meal. The food is always on par and the drinks creative. Seriously some of the best food and a super cute spot, perfect for sharing with someone special. Don't forget to order dessert, I never do at this restaurant!
Personally, I would also want to go to Glai Baan, I doubt they are doing anything special but I wouldn't care because the menu is always special. I know that this isn't the most fine dining restaurant, I mean, it isn't at all but it's good and I love the food. If this is your thing, by all means try it out.
Tratto is always a spot that I recommend for that pasta craving to be satisfied. I'm sure it will be packed for the night, it's a small space and everyone loves Bianco. The pastas and veggies are my favorite at this restaurant.
Atlas Bistro is a place that you can take your loved one to really knock their socks off. It's a BYOB restaurant too but super fine dining and gorgeous plates and tastes. Give a shot, I bet you'll really enjoy it and you'll impress the other person.
Now I'll tap into the resorts because every resort puts on a good show for the V-day dinner. This is just a few of my favorites:
Different Point of View has a most gorgeous view and you feel like you're away from everything, even in the busy restaurant. Be sure to get there for sunset, you won't want to miss that picture opportunity. The food is beautiful, just like the person sitting across from you...
The Omni is always a great spot but why not make it a day of joy and do a couples massage or just get yourself a massage. Here's my full story on that here.
For Valentine’s Day dinner (served from 5:30-10 p.m. on Feb. 14), surrounded by wall-to-wall windows that showcase the breathtaking sunset over Mummy Mountain, guests can savor elements’ four-course, prix-fixe menu by Executive Chef Beau MacMillan. Priced at $135 per person, standout dishes will include Chilled Seafood Quartet of scallop crudo, oyster & caviar, Alaskan king crab and ahi tuna summer roll; King Crab Buccatini with English peas, Thai basil, smoked ham and uni cream; Maple Leaf Farm’s Duck with Hawaiian sweet potato, candied root vegetables and honey hoisin glaze; and Pink Champagne Panna Cotta with passion fruit curd, strawberry consommé and sugared rose petals. The full menu can be viewed here. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 480-607-2300.
Wright’s at the Biltmore: Wright’s at the Biltmore will celebrate love with an elegant four-course, prix-fixe dinner. Guests of the Valentine’s Day dinner will be served four courses that feature dish highlights such as Sashimi Grade Ahi Poke, Roasted Shallot Soup Gratinee, Tuscan Kale Quinoa Apricot Salad, Crispy Skin Ora King Salmon, and Fillet of Beef, among others. For dessert, couples will have the opportunity to select from a Warm Molten Chocolate Cake or a Passionfruit and Wine Poached Pear. ($959 per person; available 5pm – 10pm) 2400 East Missouri Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85016; https://www.arizonabiltmore.com/dining/wrights-at-the-biltmore/; 602.954.2507
For the perfect excuse to splurge, consider Mastro’s Restaurants to take your loved one this Valentine’s Day. As you know, Mastro’s Butter Cake has reached celebrity fame and for the first time ever, Mastro’s will be rolling out a decadent Chocolate Butter Cake ($18) just in time for Valentine’s Day. Yes, you read that right…CHOCOLATE BUTTER CAKE. Just imagine your favorite Butter Cake infused with a molten chocolate center. On top of that, Mastro’s offers nightly live entertainment, world-class service, and highly acclaimed cuisine including a selection of juicy USDA Prime steaks, mouthwatering seafood including oysters for an intoxicating aphrodisiac, and perfectly chilled cocktails.