Where to Celebrate Valentine's Day in Philadelphia
Roses? Chocolates? Ho-hum. There are surely more scintillating ways to win his or her heart this Valentine’s Day. We’ve got a roundup of soirees with special sips sure to bring a smile to that special someone’s lips. (Note: many of these events require reservations, so be sure to call ahead to snag your spot.)
Distrito: Turn your día del amor into a fiesta with a $25 cocktail pairing that can accompany either of two prix fixe menus at Jose Garces’ brightly colored West Philly cantina. There’s a Mexi-drink to pair with each of your four courses: a Margarita, an tequila Aviation, a martini done with tequila and the La Chispa (fruit-infused tequila with sparkling wine) for dessert (Tuesday, Feb. 14; $45 or $60 per person; 215-222-1657).
Ela: Valentine of many a Philadelphian’s dreams Jason Cichonski is sending out a special four-course prix fixe menu with an optional wine pairing. If you haven’t had a chance to glimpse the ultra-romantic setting of this Queen Village bistro, it’s worth the splurge (Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 13 and 14; $65 per person, add $30 for wine pairing; 267-687-8512).
Hawthornes: If you’re like us and believe great craft beer is essential to happiness, take your loved one to Bella Vista for a four-course, six-beer dinner featuring holiday-appropriate gems like Italian LoverBeer Madamin, Bell’s Two-Hearted Ale, AleSmith Horny Devil and more. Live music will play as the night winds away (6–9 PM, Sunday, Feb. 12; $75 per person; 215-627-3012).
McCrossen’s: Wine and dine your significant other without batting an eye with the great day of love deal from Fairmount’s classiest tavern. $50 per person brings a three-course dinner from chef Tod Wentz along with well-thought-out vino pairings for each course (Friday, Feb. 10–Tuesday, Feb. 14; 215-854-0923).
Valanni: It’s better in the morning! (Or so it’s said... ahem.) Avoid the V-Day crowds with a special Champagne brunch at this swanky Spruce Street enclave. Each of three courses is paired with a bubbly-based cocktail for just $38 per person (11 AM–3 PM, Sunday, Feb. 12; ).
Varga Bar: Persuade your partner to partake in brew-happy offerings while surrounded by pretty pin-up art at this Wash West gastropub. Four courses include plenty of oysters, lobster and chocolate, each paired with a carefully selected craft beer (Tuesday, Feb. 14; $55 per person; 215-627-5200).
Photo via Flickr user lobstar28
