10 Great Restaurants for Ignoring Valentine's Day

There's a lot going on Thursday, February 14th. For instance, it's Dr. Henrik Zinkernagel's birthday and the 46th anniversary of Aretha Franklin recording her cover of Respect. It's also been101 years since Arizona was admitted in to the Union and a few days in to Lunar New Year celebrations. For some, it's also a mildly annoying couples-only holiday based on a third century Roman saint. Whichever one of those matters to you, you still need to eat.

So if you want to go out, but avoid the prix fixe menus and love-bird madness, you'll need to be strategic. To help, we've compiled a list of ten spots that are sure to be delicious — and deliciously oblivious to Eros' big day.

10. Zankou Chicken:

Well, with no heavy petting on the agenda, you are free and clear to get your Zankou on. Garlic sauce? Ask for extra. Who's going to complain? 5658 Sepulveda Blvd., Van Nuys; (818) 781-0615.

Pastrami at Langers; Credit: N. Galuten

9. Langers:

Looking for a little tenderness? Look no further. Langers is here for you. Order a pastrami sandwich and revel in the fact you don't have to share even one perfect bite unless you want to. Self-indulgent gluttony can be good. 704 S. Alvarado St., Los Angeles; (213) 483-8050.

8. Rinconcito Guatemalteco:

This “little corner” Guatemalan spot is run by a grandmotherly woman who will ply you with home-style versions of Central American comfort foods. Try the enchilada — which is different than the Mexican version — or outstanding hilachas , a plate of shredded beef and potatoes that will warm your heart. 501 N. Western Ave., Los Angeles; (323) 463-6602.

7. Good Girl Dinette:

Valentine's Day has nothing on Tết Nguyên Đán, aka Vietnamese Lunar New Year. As festivities wind down, you can still pay homage with a visit to Good Girl Dinette, and indulge in a bowl of Grandpa's porridge. 110 N. Ave. 56., Highland Park; (323) 257-8980.

6. Heidar Baba:

Feeling like some outstanding halal kebobs? How about some ghormeh sabzi. This is Persian food, and you know what that means: raw onion. Halitosis be damned, you should eat all you want.1511 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena; (626) 844-7970.

5. Puro Sabor:

We love going to Puro Sabor, primarily for their deep-fried pumpkin donuts, and then for the chicken. If there is one day of the year it's acceptable to start your meal with donuts, this is it. 6366 Van Nuys Blvd., L.A.; (818) 908-0818.

the lobster at Newport Seafood; Credit: Flickr/cathydanh

4. Newport Tan Cang Seafood Restaurant:

Gather ye rosebuds and head over to Newport Tan Cang for a lobster feast. Get yourselves a large table and get messy. You're not there to impress anyone, you're there to eat. 518 W. Las Tunas Dr., San Gabriel; (626) 289-5998.

3. Lucifers Pizza:

If Cupid is some sort of angel, well, we know who Lucifer was in comparison. If you're feeling naughty, and like your heat, get a pizza from Lucifers and feel a little devilish.1958 Hillhurst Ave., Los Angeles; (323) 906-8603.

2. Lucy's Drive-In:

Sure, Desi loved Lucy, but look where that got them. You can fill up on your own fleeting Lucy love at, well, Lucy's Drive-In. We strongly suggest a few shots of tequila to wash it all down. (After the driving part.) 1373 S. La Brea Ave., L.A.; (323) 938-4337.

JItlada's Crying Tiger Beef; Credit: MyLastBite

1. Jitlada:

The three little words we want to hear on Feb. 14? Crying Tiger Beef. That dish is what true love is all about. Order some to pick up and have yourself a perfect solo night. Dining well is the best revenge. 5233-1/2 Sunset Blvd., L.A.; (323) 667-9809.

And in somewhat related news:

10 Great Restaurants for Valentine's Day

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