by Susan on 01/19/10 at 10:11 am
Make it truly special
Everyone has their own opinion of what makes a restaurant romantic. Some want an innovative or eclectic menu. Others prefer traditional or haute cuisine. Many are looking for breathtaking views. And there are a few that want a casual and comfortable ambiance coupled with personalized service. Whatever your personal preference for romance, what follows are some of the top romantic restaurants in America that fit into one or more of these categories.
Tin Angel–Overlooking the city of Pittsburgh from high atop Mount Washington, the Tin Angel offers a five-course prix fixe dinner with more than a dozen main course choices. Served in a gracious and intimate candlelit setting, each couple will indulge in a heavenly ending to their meal with a serving of fresh pineapple dipped in creme de menthe.
One if by Land, Two if by Sea–
Although there are dozens of restaurants in New York City that are prime locations for romance, this charming lower Manhattan jewel turns up on almost everyone’s list. Chef Samuel Freund relies on area farmers to supply him with fresh ingredients for his prix fixe dinners and chef’s tastings. Check out our interview with Sam Freund to see even more reasons to check it out.
From the 40th floor of the Chicago stock exchange, couples can cozy up and enjoy views of the windy city while dining on a variety of menu options, including three and four course prix fixe dinners. Chef Jean Joho has also been organizing elegant tasting menus for lovers for more than twenty years. Reservations are (of course) recommended.
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With two Michelin stars, five AAA diamonds and a host of other awards and honors, the romance at this Las Vegas eatery features a grand staircase leading to a gorgeous and spectacularly-decorated dining room, adorned with silk, satin, velvet and crystal chandeliers. The superb and sumptuous cuisine of Chef Alessandro Stratta features exquisite flavors to match the romantic ambiance.
With so many New Orleans restaurants competing for the most romantic, Bacco has emerged as one of the city’s most progressive, with an exciting menu and interior beauty. Located in the French Quarter, Bacco has been at the top of most lists with its innovative twist on traditional regional cooking. It’s pampering service makes Bacco the place to dine with your special someone.
The Inn at Little Washington –
With its 14,000 bottle wine cellar and five-star rating, this country inn and intimate restaurant is a favorite destination for romantics in the mid-Atlantic area. Located about 90-minutes from Washington, D.C. in the foothills of the Shenandoah Mountains, this romantic culinary destination features sumptuous classical French cuisine, prepared with local ingredients by Chef Patrick O’Connell.
California’s casual lifestyle has elevated Santa Monica’s Beau Rivage Restaurant to one of the most romantic spots on the Malibu coast, with wide views of the surf from a beautifully landscaped patio (in warm weather) and picture windows and a grand stone fireplace for chilly nights. The Mediterranean menu with French influences has a variety of enticing offerings and romantic sunset views are perfect for cuddling couples.
Chef Hubert Keller has transformed Fleur de Lys into what is perhaps the most romantic restaurant in San Francisco. Despite a devastating fire in 2001, the restaurant bounced back into a more spectacular and opulent eatery than before, and it is a culinary destination for lovers throughout the Bay area. Make it a weekend trip, head to Fleur de Lys and then take a car to Sonoma to make it a weekend you will never forget.
1789 Restaurant Located in a renovated townhouse in the Georgetown area of our nation’s capital, the five cozy dining areas are perfect for intimate evenings for two. Chef Daniel Giusti provides a tasting menu as well as traditional offerings that change daily, based on what is fresh and available. Service is quick and accommodating, so you will have an amazing dinner and just the right amount of time to get home and continue with the celebration.
As one of the top steakhouses in America, this Denver restaurant provides a solid menu and a romantic atmosphere. The plush and private booths, subdued lighting and attentive waiters all work to make a special occasion as memorable as possible.
Wherever your destination this Valentine’s Day, be sure to make reservations early, since this is one of the busiest nights of the year. And if you plan to “pop the question,” then be sure to let the management know. In most cases, they’ll work with you to make it a night to remember!
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