Rachael NarinsValentine's Day is almost here and you are going to need some reservations if you want to wine and dine your honey in style. So maybe stop procrastinating.
Last year, we gave you a list of the most romantic restaurants in L.A. You could choose from one of those or go with something different. Turn the page for 10 great places to take your sweetheart this Thursday.
10. Valentino:
Classic sophistication is the hallmark of Valentino, not to mention the wine list that puts most others to shame. As the ultimate special occasion restaurant, you can't go wrong with a reservation here. 3115 W. Pico Blvd., Santa Monica; (310) 829-4313.
9. Cecconi's:
The special menu at Cecconi's on Thursday night is couples-centric with an assortment of dishes designed to be shared. What says I love you more than spicy whole chicken with panzanella from their regular menu or the special turbot “al cartoccio”? 8764 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood; (310) 432-2000.
plate stencil and spice at Rivera; Credit: Anne Fishbein
8. Rivera:
Dark and lovely Rivera is bringing back their Corazones y Rosas menu, based on the passionate love story of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Sigh. $75 per person, with wine pairings additional. 1050 S. Flower St., Los Angeles; (213)749-1460.
The beautiful views, the rustic setting, the cozy room. The 4-course prix fixe menu, featuring their game specialties. Each course includes 3-4 options to select from, including Grilled New Zealand elk tenderloin, or Waygu rib eye. 419 Cold Canyon Rd., Calabasas; (818) 222-3888.
6. The Derby:
Classic L.A., home of flawless steaks and martinis. We love the history and stay for the food. It's the kind of place you can bring someone on Valentine's day this year — and on your 20th anniversary. We approve. 233 E. Huntington Dr., Arcadia; (626) 447-2430.
interior of MB Post; Credit: Anne Fishbein
For a louder, lively scene, head to MB Post. The food is always perfect and the drinks are strong. They will have the regular menu, plus a few special selections to make you swoon. 1142 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach; (310) 545-5405.
4. Osteria La Buca:
If you're heading to Osteria La Buca, you can tangle forks with your paramour.There's just something so incredibly sexy about sharing a bowl of perfect pasta with your one true love. 5210 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles; (323) 462-1900.
3. Il Cielo:
How can you resist one of the most romantic restaurants, anywhere? For $225 per couple, you will dine on a four-course meal of Italian inspired foods like lobster ravioli and prime beef filet. It all ends with their flourless chocolate cake. 9018 Burton Way, Los Angeles; (310) 276-9990.
2. JiRaffe:
Raphael Lunetta's farmers market-driven restaurant has an $85 per person menu that includes braised Jidori chicken and finishes with “sweets for two.” 502 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica; (310) 917-6671.
Salad at Alma; Credit: G. Snyder
1. Alma:
Downtown darling Alma is offering a $80 prix fixe menu “with unique ingredients from our farmers.” Focus on your amour, and leave the food to them. No matter what they serve, it will be good. 952 S. Broadway, Los Angeles; (213) 444-0984.
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