My Valentine’s Day Picks

I know, I know… most people hate Valentine’s Day. But like it or not it is now an all-encompassing holiday that requires plans for those who have someone they’d like to celebrate with. I always think a nice night in that includes cooking and something low-key is a great way to go, but there are also a lot of spots around town that are romantic yet casual and comfortable that I’d be happy to eat at for the special occasion. Here are some of my picks:

Cork Wine Bar: While they don’t take reservations which can prove challening on an evening like Valentine’s Day, Cork has such a nice bar area that would be a great place to kill time and have some wine flights while waiting for your table. The shared plates make it an even more romantic option and it’s not too loud so you’ll be sure to have a great opportunity for conversation in an intimate setting. Avocado toasts and french fries are a must.
Montmartre: Located on the cobblestone strip of 7th Street SE this lovely French spot is quaint and sure to set the mood for a romantic evening. Great wines, mussels, fresh fish, and traditional dishes such as cassoulet and steak might make you feel like you are in Paris for a minute. Ok, I said a minute. But, still enjoyable food in a small and cozy atmosphere.
1905 Restaurant: I just ate here for the first time this week and was impressed with the charm and vibe of this European style bistro in the U Street/Shaw neighborhood. It’s cute and neighborhoody but because of its small size it makes a great spot for a date.
CityZen Bar: CityZen itself is one of the nicest and most upscale restaurants in Washington located in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. While splurging to celebrate Valentine’s Day at CityZen would be fabulous, my suggeston is otherwise. Go sit at the bar in the restaurant and for $25 per person you can indulge in the dessert tasting which includes four desserts by pastry chef Matthew Petersen who recently made it to the finals of Top Chef Just Desserts. I had a wonderful experience doing the dessert tasting and think it would be a fun Valentine’s Day activity that is affordable, delicious, and in a swanky spot.
BRABO Tasting Room: This is one of my favorite spots in the area. Located on King Street in Old Town Alexandria, the BRABO Tasting Room is the casual and quaint restaurant from Chef Robert Wiedmaier that serves up some of the best mussels and wood fired tarts. The restaurant only holds about 8-10 tables in addition to a small sized bar area and does not take reservations, however next door is a sister spot called The Butcher’s Block which provides wine tastings and some tables with seating. Put your name on the list at the BRABO Tasting Room and mozy on over to The Butcher’s Block to check out their market and sample some wines until it’s time to eat.
Sonoma Restaurant and Wine Bar: Sonoma is always one of my top picks for a date night. The setting is perfect: dimly lit, warm, a wonderful selection of wines, and quiet enough to hear each other speak without being too quiet. I love the idea of starting your Valentine’s Day meal by sharing a cheese or charcuterie board as well as some wine flights, Prosecco, or Lambrusco. Sonoma also offers all of their pastas as small portions so you can try multiple things and maybe even have a Lady and the Tramp moment over a bowl of spaghetti.