Love is in the air this time of year (whether you like it or not). Many DC Restaurants offer special menus and promotions to sweethearts (and singles) dining out to celebrate Valentine’s Day. January is coming to a close and the big V-Day, Tuesday, February 14th, is just around the corner, so don’t wait to make your plans. To help, I’ve taken the liberty of providing a few recommendations for every kind of Valentine’s meal. Whether you’re on a budget (and looking for a great-value for under $50 a person), are serious foodies (like me) or even just friends looking for anti–Valentine’s Day celebrations, there is something for everyone.
Budget Friendly Lovers … Under $50 a person
Birch and Barley – This Valentine’s Day the talented team in the back of the house has created a few super special one-night-only dishes available as three or five courses. This is the holiday of love after all, and for those who decide to put their evening in our hands – well, they will do most everything they can think of to make it just right. Special Tasting Menu available Monday, February 14 only and as either three courses for $40 or five courses for $55. 1337 14th Street, NW202.567.2576
Cuba Libre – Inspired by Cuban’s golden age of the early 1950s, Cuba Libre is offering a ‘Golden Age of Romance’ menu with a Cuban twist this Valentine’s Day. Each dish is designed for couples to share and is available Saturday, February 11th through Tuesday, February 14th. Guests can choose two apetitivos, two platos and a duo of desserts designed to share for $78 per couple. 801A 9th Street NW, 202.408.1600 .
Dino – For those diners who wish to avoid the crush of Valentine’s Day itself, Dino, the Cleveland Park neighborhood Italian eatery, is offering a “Sharable Feast” menu, starting Friday February 10 and running thru Monday February 13 served on a single plate for the lovers to share for $99 (for two)or $125 with two flutes of Bella Vista Cuvee Brut. On the 14th, the special “Menu di San Valentino” 4 course menu will run $59 and will feature our house summer tomato essence soup followed by choice of starter, entree and dolce. Dino will open early at 5:30pm and take reservations until the last seating at 10:00 pm. 3435 Connecticut Ave., NW. 202.686-2966
El Centro – Couples looking for a place more lively, or feel that you’re not quite ready for white tablecloths and truffle splurges, now you can can enjoy a 3-course special menu for just $50 per person, filled with Mexican Comfort Foods, topped off with choice of bubbly, a signature margarita or Mexican beer. Indulgences include Lobster Guacamole, Duck Confit Sopesand more. 1819 14th St., NW
Fuel Pizza & Wings: Offering Sweetheart Pizzas from February 10th thru February 14th with a heart-shaped pizza. The 12-inch pies serve two and can be ordered in any of their specialty varieties such as the Riviera Pizza with fresh spinach, kalamata olives, roma tomatoes, artichoke hearts, mozzarella cheese and crumbled feta, or the Spinach, Ricotta and Tomato Pizza for $15, with the Old Bay Crab Bake Pizza available for $18. Fuel’s Heart-Shaped Pizzas must be ordered 24 hours in advance by calling (202) 659-3835 Located at 1606 K St. NW.
Hank’s Oyster Bar DC – Executive chef Jamie Leeds is enticing guests to express their love of oysters with a special lovers sampler this Valentine’s Day, priced at just $32 per person or $60 per couple (tax and gratuity not included), the sampler includes a half-dozen freshly shucked oysters paired with two one-and-a-half pound lobsters. For an additional $30, guests can enjoy a half bottle of Gardet Champagne for the table. Hank’s Valentine’s Day menu is available exclusively Monday, February 13th and Tuesday, February 14th at the DC location only (1624 Q Street, NW).
La Sandia – Enjoy a 3-course tasting menu of Modern Mexican cuisine at La Sandia located in Tysons Corner mall for just $24.95 per person includes a shared appetizer, choice of entree, and shared dessert. A sample of the menu: Tamales Tradicionales / Tableside Guacamole / Chile Relleno / Tamales de Dulce. 7852L Tysons Corner Center, McLean, VA 703.893.2222
Perry’s Restaurant – At this eclectic New American restaurant in Adams Morgan (with an amazing rooftop view of the city), for just $50 per person, enjoy a special Valentine’s Day prix-fixe menu, which includes a complimentary glass of sparkling wine. This menu will be offered Friday, Feb 10th to Tuesday Feb. 14th (please note it will be offered exclusively on the evening of the 14th). 1811 Columbia Rd., NW
Best Bets for Lovers (or lovers to-be) …
701 Restaurant – Executive Chef Ed Witt will offer a scrumptious four-course menu February 14 for $85 per person and includes live jazz for ambiance throughout the evening. Menu highlights include Shenandoah Lamb with Orange-Rosewater & Cardamom Braised Shank, Israeli Cous Cous, or House Made Truffle Agnolotti with Truffle Butter Nage, Black Truffles. 701 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. 202.393.0701
Acqua Al 2 – Acqua Al 2 is offering a special 5-course menu Italian prix fixe Valentine’s Day Menu for $85 per person. Enjoy dishes ranging from fresh, creamy Burrata with grapefruit, roasted pine nuts and honey, Linguine all’Aragosta with lobster, white wine and tomato, and of course, the option to enjoy their famous sauced-up steaks – the Filetto all’Aceto Balsamico with a balsamic glaze, and the Filetto al Mirtillo with a blueberry sauce. 212 7th St., SE.
Art and Soul – All day long Executive Chef Wes Morton and team will be sharing their true loves with you from Day Boat Scallops to Guinea Hen Fricassee and 72 Hour Sous Vide Eye of Chuck Steak in a specialty Valentine’s Day menu you are sure to fall in love with. Share your love for food with those you love with our family style menu and for every table of 3 or more receive a complimentary round of champagne. The 3-Course Valentine’s Day menu is $70 per person and includes a special chocolate treat to-go. Keep the love flowing by adding $30 wine, beer or cocktail pairing. Located in Affinia Hotel Capitol Hill: 415 New Jersey Ave., NW. 202.393.7777 .
Bastille – On February 14th, the intimate eatery features a five-course $115 ($165 with wine pairings) prix fixe menu that features classics in an ambiance that lends itself to lovers. From February 10th through 18th, the restaurant will present a four course Valentine’s Week Gourmand Tasting menu, highlighting many dishes from the Valentine’s Day menu, priced at $65 ($90 with wine pairings) along with Bastille’s regular menu of favorites. 1201 N. Royal Street, Alexandria, VA.
Blue Duck Tavern – Blue Duck Tavern is offering up a special four course Valentine’s menu on Tuesday, February 14th available from 5:30-10:30 p.m. priced at $70 per person. A complete a la carte menu will also be available for the evening with prices ranging from $11 to $17 for appetizers and $16 to $36 for entrées. The Blue Duck Tavern is located within the Park Hyatt Washington. (202) 419-6755
BRABO – Bring your Valentine to Brabo to enjoy an amazing meal by chef, Chris Watson! For $85++ per person, enjoy a sumptuous five course meal. Purchase the wine pairing option for another $45 per person and enjoy the amazing wines, carefully chosen by Brabo Sommelier, David Kurka! See the complete menu under the “menus” tab!
Café du Parc– Experience a romantic gastronomic trip to Paris in downtown DC. On February 14, treat your loved one to a delicious five-course Valentine’s Day Dinner in Café du Parc. Chef Angelo Galang’s Valentine’s menu is priced at $65 per person, or $90 with wine pairing, excluding beverages, tax and gratuity. Seating begins at 5:00 p.m.
Cafe Milano – Enjoy familiar favorites from the regular a la carte menu or try their special four-course prix fixe menu for $75/person, includes one glass of sparkling wine and enter to win roundtrip airfare for two to Italy! The special menu will be offered February 10-14. 3251 Prospect Street, NW, (202) 333-6183
Casa Nonna – Truffle, Champagne & Chocolate Tavola 12 Dinner Experience- February 14th: A dinner that couples will be sure to remember. The unique, exclusive Italian gastronomic experience will feature 12 courses of never-been-served sumptuous cuisine courtesy of Chef Amy Brandwein herself available for $75 per person, or $105 per person with Prosecco pairings. Casa Nonna will also offer a special four-course Valentine’s Day tasting menu to enjoy throughout the rest of the restaurant. 1250 Connecticut Ave., NW. 202.629.2505
Co Co. Sala – Chocolate has been seen as the nectar of the gods for centuries, represented as a symbol of love. Where better to spend your Valentine’s Day than at Co Co. Sala, where chocolate is embraced in all aspects of the menu. Created by Chef Santosh Tiptur, indulge in their special 6-course “Cheese & Chocolate Fetish” menu on Valentine’s evening! $75/person, $105/person with wine paring. Only this special menu will be served on Feb 14th.
Elisir – Executive chef/owner Enzo Fargione’s first Valentine’s day since opening in summer 2011. He’s offering a special Valentine’s Day six-course prix-fixe menu for $95 per person.
Equinox – Join Chef Todd Gray at Equinox for an elegant Valentine’s Day meal with your special someone. Available with three or five courses and the option of wine pairings, menu highlights include Braised Duck Gnocchi with Caramelized Sunchokes, Brussels Sprouts, Foie Gras Broth and Gremolata; Pan Roasted Black Bass with Razor Clam Velouté, Tessa Bacon, Gigante Beans and Black Kale; and Warm Amadei Chocolate for dessert. The full menu is available online. Three courses – $70 per person ($95 with wine pairings); Five courses – $90 per person ($125 with wine pairings). 818 Connecticut Ave., NW. 202.331.8118 .
J&G Steakhouse – Enjoy a romantic Valentine’s Day meal at J&G Steakhouse in the W Washington Hotel. The decadent menu includes highlights such as Warm Kumamoto Oysters with Creamed Basil; Steamed Maine Lobster with Japanese Turnips, Bok Choy and Yuzu Vinaigrette; and Warm Chocolate Cake with Caramel Ice Cream. View the full, prix-fixe Valentine’s Day menu here for $90 per person or $135 available with wine pairings by Sommelier Guy Golan. The regular dinner menu will also be available. 515 15th Street NW, Washington, DC. 202.661.2440
Masa 14 – For $60 per guest, enjoy a special sumptuous Sweetheart prix-fixe menu for Valentine’s Day of edamame, choice of three signature plates (each) and a dessert. Highlights include Fried Oysters and Mole Dusted Tenderloin; however, but be warned, these Latin Asian small plates are designed for sharing- so be prepared to give up several bites of your delicious meal to your date. 1825 14th St., NW 202.328.1414 .
Michel– Enjoy a decadent four-course prix-fixe menu ($95 per person) that includes Yellowtail Carpaccio, Lobster, Filet Mignon, and Michel’s Chocolate Heart for Two, served in addition to Michel’s innovative and elegant a la carte menu. MICHEL’s special Valentine’s Day prix-fixe menu, priced at $95 plus tax and gratuities, will be served Saturday, February 11, and Tuesday, February 14, 5:30–10:30PM. The prix-fixe menu is a special addition to the MICHEL regular a la carte menu . 1700 Tysons Blvd, McLean, VA. 703.744.3999 .
Neyla – Gayot’s “Most Romantic Restaurant” offers Aphrodisiac Cocktails through Valentine’s weekend. Delicious cocktails include The Figo with fresh fig, dark rum and lime juice; The Fraise with fresh muddled strawberries, sage and cherry vodka; and Chocolate Raspberry Truffle with Valrhona chocolate fondue, raspberry infused vodka and Frangelico. 3206 N Street NW, Washington, DC. 202.333.6353 .
Oval Room – Executive chef Tony Conte has prepared a special three-course menu Valentine’s Day tasting menu priced at $85 per person (tax or gratuity not included), with uniquely inspired dishes such as Crudo of Maine Sea Scallops with pickled Rose, Celery and Black Truffle; Spaghetti Flavored with Jalapeno and Smoked Uni Carbonara; American Wagya Rib Eye with Carrots, Coffee and Cardamom as well as Japanese Red Snapper with Reuben Sandwich Garnishes. For dessert, a Vanilla Almond Ice Cream Bon Bon is just one of the many options to choose from. 800 Connecticut Ave., NW (202) 463-8700 .
Rasika – Wwith exotic and sophisticated décor, Rasika, DC’s premiere Indian restaurant offers diners a romantic ambience to enjoy Executive Chef Vikram Sunderam’s specially crafted Valentine’s Day menu. A four-course menu priced at $85 per person will be available from 5:30-10:30 p.m. Wine pairings will also be available for an additional $45 per person. Valet parking is available for $8. 633 D Street, NW (202) 637-1222
RIS – A special four course prix fixe pairing menu ($65.00 per person with either wine or beer pairings $95.00) available the weekend prior to and leading up to Valentine’s Day, Feb. 10 through 14. Included are market fresh favorites from Chef/Owner Ris Lacoste paired with the choice between handpicked wines or beers chosen by resident sommelier Leah Cheston. Menu highlights include Lobster Bisque, Fried Scallop, Filet of Beef on blue cheese toast with caramelized onions, wild mushrooms and red wine sauce, and for dessert Chocolate and Raspberry Crème Brulêe Bread Pudding. 2275 L Street NW (202) 730-2500 .
Smith Commons – Treat your beloved to a sumptuous three-course meal at Smith Commons in the Atlas District on H Street, NE for just $60 per person, all inclusive. The inventive, prix-fixe menu by Chef Carlos Delgado includes highlights such as Smoked Lobster Ravioli with Shrimp Ragout and Celery Paper; Squab with Foie Gras and French Green Lentils; King Salmon with Smoked Salmon, Sorrel and Caviar; and Banana Panna Cotta with Coconut Air, as well as a complimentary glass of champagne.. 1245 H St. NE 202.396.0038
Station 4 – Situated in the Southwest Waterfront, Station 4 is offering a three-course, pre-fixe menu priced at $75 per person from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. this Valentine’s Day. Wine pairings are also available for $95 per person. Valet parking is available for $10. 1101 4th Street, SW, (202) 488-0987
Todd Gray’s Watershed –Located in NoMa, enjoy a four-course, Valentine’s Day tasting menu, with the option of wine pairings. Highlights include a Winter Salad of Maine Lobster with Cara Cara Orange Mizzuna Lettuce and Passion Fruit Vinaigrette; Thirty-Six Hour Beef Short Rib with Parsnip Fondue, Port Wine Cabbage and Crispy Onions; and a Baked Chocolate Tart with Vanilla Ice Cream and Fleur de Sel. Don’t miss Watershed’s specialValentine’s Day cocktails, the “Fool Me Once” (Chamomile Infused Vodka, Rose Syrup, Aperol, Fresh Lemon, Rose Petal) and the “Fall In Love” (Old Overholt Rye, Aperol, House-Made Apple-Pear Cider, Baked Apple Bitters), both available for $11. $55 per person ($80 with wine pairings).
Zengo – This Valentine’s Day, savor the vibrant flavors of Chef Richard Sandoval’s Latin-Asian cuisine. Enjoy 3 signature dishes, $60 per guest. A taste of what’s on the menu: Crispy Shanghai Spring Rolls / Picahna Steak & XO Style King Crab for two / Coconut-Tapioca 781 7th Street NW 202.393.2929
ZENTAN – Located in the ultra-chic Thomas Circle hotel, Donovan House, at will offer guests a four-course, prix fixe Valentine’s Day offering, featuring celebrity Chef Susur Lee and Executive Chef Jaime Montes de Oca’s inventive global Asian cuisine. Priced at $75 per person (tax and gratuity not included). 1155 14th Street, NW, (202) 379-4366
Anti-Valentine’s Day Fetes
Againn – Calling all singles, the disenchanted and fed up! Just when you thought it was over, Valentine’s Day rears its ugly head once again. This year, find your safe haven at AGAINN with an Anti-Valentine’s Day weekend. They guarantee there will be no cheesy, obnoxious romantic clichés…okay, well maybe a little cheese. Don’t have a date? Celebrate! Why spend Valentine’s Day alone watching cheesy breakup movies when you can watch them with your friends at AGAINN? With a prix-fixe menu priced at just $49, you can laugh, cry, and eat your Valentine’s day away. 1099 New York Avenue NW.
Bar Pilar – 2nd Annual Anti-Valentine’s Day Party where you can drown your sorrows with other singles can commiserate together at this 14th Street hotspot. Bar Pilar will serve up a special menu of Bitter and Sour Cocktails and Desserts to commemorate the sappy holiday while playing a roster of breakup songs. Guests can drown their sorrows in Bitter Cocktails (all $10) made with a selection of mixologist Jonathan Fain’s housemade bitters.After a relationship has taken a sour turn, Bar Pilar’s bitter and sour desserts such as their Bittersweet Chocolate Terrine with Burnt Orange Sabayon and Maldon ($7) or the Lemon and Ricotta with Salted Caramel Sauce ($7) are the perfect cure. 1833 14th Street NW, Washington, DC. 202.265.1751
Comments