Discover the best places to celebrate romance in Orange County this Valentine’s Day.
Edited by Whitney Lauren Han.
EVENTS
Storymakery’s Valentine’s Workshop
Feb. 9. Make heartwarming memories with your little ones and loved ones at this family-friendly workshop. Festive happenings for the day include creating a soft cover storybook, art and craft activities, a character poster, chocolates treats and 10 percent off all merchandise in store. All ages welcome. RSVP on website. 6:30 p.m. $30 (excludes tax). Irvine Spectrum, 825 Spectrum Center Dr., Irvine, 949.431.5061. storymakery.com
Valenza Chocolatier’s Pop-Up Shop
Feb. 12-14. Find master chocolatier Amy Jo at The Hood Kitchen Space sharing her chocolate and showcasing the entire Valenza Chocolatier Valentine’s Day Collection plus other customer favorites. The holiday collection features the perfect gift for your loved ones including an exclusive His and Hers gift option. All who stop by will be eligible to win a Valenza Chocolatier Tartaruga gift box from the Valentine’s Day Collection. M-Tu noon-7 p.m., W 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The Hood Kitchen Space, 350 Clinton St., Costa Mesa, 949.891.1206. valenzachocolatier.com
Center 360
Feb. 14. Cuddle up with your valentine at the new Julianne and George Argyros Plaza for the “heART bEAT Singles Mixer” and a deliciously crafted festive menu. This event is the ultimate singles mixer featuring a live karaoke band, giveaways and more. Order from the curated menu which features specials such as a heart “beet” salad and sweetheart sushi, along with romantic cocktails like the Rose Water Manhattan and Chocolate Cherry Martini. 6-9 p.m. Event is free, see website for menu items and prices. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa, 714.338.5166. patinagroup.com
DINING
Antonello Ristorante
Feb. 9-15. Whip up your own romantic dinner at Antonello Ristorante’s cooking class on February 9. Chef/Owner Antonio Cagnolo and his wife Fiorella will offer the fine points of preparing an unforgettable meal after which attendees will enjoy the dinner. Those opting to take their significant other out for a romantic dinner may take advantage of the extended Valentine’s holiday festivities that will be offered the whole week. The special menu features an antipasto plate of thinly sliced octopus and Maine lobster drizzled with olive oil and lemon served with roasted heirloom tomatoes and arugula ($25); heart-shaped lobster ravioli in a saffron cream sauce served with lobster claws and seaweed caviar ($47); three grilled lobster tails served with saffron rice and topped with white wine and butter sauce ($60); and chocolate truffles for dessert ($12). Cooking class 6:30 p.m. $65 per person. 3800 S. Plaza Dr., Costa Mesa, 714.751.7153. antonello.com
BRIO Tuscan Grille
Feb. 9-18. Treat your loved one to BRIO’s Sweetheart Martini, a glass of Prosecco Brut or Brut Domaine Chandon, before starting your meal with antipasti bruschetta or the soup of the day. Entrees offered include lobster and shrimp scampi with oven baked shrimp, lemon, white wine, tomatoes, asparagus and angel hair pasta or Bistecca BRIO containing thinly pounded beef tenderloin, Romano tomatoes, chimichurri, creamy horseradish and arugula. Save room for dessert and try BRIO’s molten chocolate cake. Available during lunch and dinner. Su-Th 11 a.m.-10 p.m., F-Sa 11 a.m.-11 p.m. 774 Spectrum Center Dr., Irvine, 949.341.0380. brioitalian.com
Mozambique’s Valentine Extras
Feb. 9-18. Can’t make it to the Valentine’s Day prix-fixe dinner? Chef Braulio put together a special “extras” menu for diners to enjoy for nine days, excluding February 14. Choose one of these six “extras” to indulge in: 14 oz prime New York strip, New Zealand rack of lamb, halibut, scallops, ahi tuna carpaccio or clams. Happy hour 3-6 p.m. in Shebeen Lounge. M-Th 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; F-Sa 11 a.m.-midnight; Su 10 a.m.-10 p.m. 1740 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.7777. mozambiqueoc.com
Skyloft’s Valentine Extras
Feb. 9-18. Chef Arthur Ortiz has created a Valentine Extras menu featuring appetizers, entrees and desserts. This week-long special spotlights best-selling “off-menu” items that chef Arthur has innovated over the last year. See website for hours. 422 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.1550. skyloftoc.com
True Food Kitchen
Feb. 9-18. Cheers to the weekend with the “Sip with Someone Special” featuring love-themed beverages. Drinks include Hot in the Dark (lime, ixá organic tequila, jalapeño, pomegranate), War of the Roses (rose petal, lime, pomegranate infused vodka, prosecco) and Melts My Heart (bourbon, sweet vermouth, campari ice cubes). See website for hours. Drinks range from $4-$12. 451 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, 949.644.2400. truefoodkitchen.com
Del Frisco’s Grille Irvine
Feb. 10-18. Treat yourself or loved ones to sharable appetizers, savory entrees like bone-in filet mignon and delectable desserts. Start the evening with a sparkling glass of Roederer Estate Brut NV before indulging in a bottle of the vibrantly youthful Robert Foley Griffin red blend. Ask about the exclusive Valentine’s Day dish that’s off-menu. Reservations recommended. M-Th 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; F-Sa 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Irvine Spectrum, 772 Spectrum Center Dr., Irvine, 949.377.0183. delfriscosgrille.com
Bad to the Bone BBQ
Feb. 12-14. Feel the love with Bad to the Bone’s two themed cocktails, Love Potion and Tickled Pink. Love Potion is made with Absolut Raspberri vodka, Chambord and Sprite (garnished with cherry and lime) and Tickled Pink combines Deep Eddy Ruby Red vodka, PAMA Pomegranate liqueur and club soda (served with a sugar rim and a grapefruit slice). 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 31738 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.218.0227. badtothebone-bbq.com
ARC Food & Libations
Feb. 14. Chef Noah von Blom is offering a Dinner for Two menu along with his regular menu for one night only. Sip on cocktails, bubbly or Cabernet Sauvignon and then enjoy wedge salad for two. Entrees include grilled wild salmon and 14 oz filet mignon, both with seasonal vegetables and roasted potatoes. Finish off the night with apple cobbler and two digestifs of Amaro. Reservations required. $200. 3321 Hyland Ave., Suite F, Costa Mesa, 949.500.5561. arcrestaurant.com
ADYA
Feb. 14. Treat your sweetheart to a meal at ADYA curated by executive chef Shachi Mehra that showcases dishes laden with bold spices, flavorful ingredients and fresh Indian flavors. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Anaheim: Packing District of Anaheim, 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., #201, Anaheim; Irvine: University Center in Irvine, 4213 Campus Dr., #P-166D, Irvine, 714.533.2392. adyaoc.com
Andrei’s Conscious Cuisine & Cocktails
Feb. 14. Savor the evening with a three-course prix-fixe menu or the á la carte menu. On the prix-fixe menu, start your night off with one of five options, including Oyster Duo, Maine lobster bisque and others. Entree options include the Australian Barramundi, New Zealand rack of lamb, vegetable ravioli and more. For dessert, indulge in the Poem for the Senses, a dessert made with Chambord-scented dark chocolate mousse, chocolate-dipped black fig, pomegranate macaron and fig balsamic. Reservations required. $65 per person, optional $25 wine pairing. 2607 Main St., Irvine, 949.387.8887. andreisrestaurant.com
AnQi by House of AN
Feb. 14. Feast on a curated five-course menu and enjoy listening to live jazz throughout the evening. Start with an appetizer choice of ossetra caviar with pan-seared day boat scallop or filet mignon potstickers with foie gras. Next, enjoy endive and five-spiced walnut salad or hamachi sashimi, followed by Misoyaki butterfish or An’s famous garlic noodles with colossal tiger prawns. The final savory course is a choice of herb roasted filet mignon or A-5 wagyu steak. Conclude with a dessert duo of dark chocolate raspberry tart with cardamom ice cream and passion fruit parfait with lychee sorbet. 5-10 p.m. $125 per person (excludes tax and gratuity). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.5679. houseofan.com
AVEO Table + Bar
Feb. 14. Enjoy a seaside dining experience prepared by executive chef Collin Thornton. The menu features a four-course dinner with standout dishes including taragon-poached lobster with a saffron-tomato marmalade, brown butter John Dory with ricotta gnocchi and an herb-crusted rack of lamb in a raspberry red wine reduction. The final course is a large macaron filled with Itakuja chocolate mousseline, halved raspberries and finished with a sangria reduction. $89 per person. 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, 949.234.3900. monarchbeachresort.com
Back Bay Bistro
Feb. 14. Treat your Valentine to a romantic evening on the waterfront featuring a gourmet feast courtesy of executive chef Daniel Jimenez and a special performance by vocalist Mandy May Blest. The dinner concert will highlight a five-course, prix-fixe menu and present first course options like the lobster bisque with cognac crème fraiche and main courses such as the rack of lamb with mint jus and herb crusted goat cheese polenta. End your meal with decadent desserts like the vanilla bean crème brûlée with seasonal berries. 5-9 p.m. $85 per person (beverages, tax and 18 percent gratuity excluded). Back Bay Bistro at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, 1131 Back Bay Dr., Newport Beach, 949.729.1144. newportdunes.com
The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove
Feb. 14. With crashing waves and coastal cliffs as the backdrop, Beachcomber has crafted the perfect menu to make the occasion unforgettable. The four-course prix-fixe menu offers starters like Dungeness crab cake with celery puree, red ruby radish, tarragon aioli and shredded crispy phyllo, and entrees such as surf and turf that feature filet mignon, colossal shrimp, potato puree, English peas and hen of woods mushrooms with a port wine reduction. End your evening on a sweet note with dessert choices like homemade chocolate cake with layered ganache and fresh strawberries, or a fresh fruit tart with seasonal fruit and Chantilly cream. $110. 15 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, 949.376.6900. thebeachcombercafe.com
The Blind Pig Kitchen + Bar
Feb. 14. Watch the sunset on a romantic waterfront patio while enjoying a fresh craft cocktail and a delicious five-course prix-fixe dinner prepared by executive chef Karl Pfleider. Reservations suggested. $85 per person. 31431 Santa Margarita Parkway, Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.888.0072. theblindpigoc.com
Bruno’s Italian Kitchen
Feb. 14. Enjoy Italian fare at Bruno’s during a decadent three-course dinner. Begin the meal with the Crudo of Japanese hamachi that is served with shaved fennel, farmer’s market apples, radish and preserved kumquat vinaigrette. For the second course, select from a number of options with the pappardelle Bruno as one of the highlights, braised short ribs paired with roasted mushrooms and homemade pappardelle. Select a dessert to share with your partner such as Budino al Caramello, a caramel pudding with chocolate ganache, whipped cream and hazelnuts. Reservations required. $55 per person (tax & tip excluded). 210 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.257.1000. brunosbrea.com
Cha Cha’s Latin Kitchen
Feb. 14. Celebrate romance with a special three-course menu featuring the eatery’s signature dishes. Perfect to share with your date, the Ceviche Combination is a duo of shrimp ceviche and ahi aguachile or opt for your own appetizer. Select an entree course, with selections including lobster tacos with maseca dusted lobster tail served with jalapeño creme drizzled on top or the pan seared striped bass served with guajillo vinaigrette, cauliflower puree, pasillas and chorizo. Finishing the night with dessert for two—the chocolate decadent brownie with white chocolate horchata sauce, fresh strawberries and vanilla ice cream is a fan favorite. Reservations required. $33 per person. 110 W Birch St, Brea, 714.255.1040; Tustin Market Place, 13126 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 714.408.7819. chachaslatinkitchen.com
CUCINA enoteca Irvine and Newport Beach
Feb. 14. Both CUCINA enoteca locations are spoiling lovers and friends with an á la carte menu full of savory items. In Newport Beach, highlights include marinated oysters, lobster salad, pork belly and prawns, roast duck and pavola for dessert. In Irvine, treat your Valentine with chef Tony Trujillo’s curated menu featuring kumiai oyster, cavatelli carbonara, fennel crusted pork chop, pacific halibut and chocolate espresso torta for two as dessert. Call either locations for reservations. Newport Beach: 951 Newport Center Dr., 949.706.1416. Irvine: 532 Spectrum Center Dr., 949.861.2222. urbankitchengroup.com
EATS Kitchen + Bar
Feb. 14. The delectable four-course prix-fixe dinner will offer a starter selection of either Pacific oysters with cucumber-mint granite or Dungeness crab salad with blood orange vinaigrette. Entree choices include New York steak and short rib ravioli with heirloom carrots, foraged mushrooms and truffle demi-glace; or pan seared sea bass with coconut curry and jasmine rice. Dessert is chocolate crémeux with kumquat marmalade and lavender meringue. Enjoy a complimentary glass of sparkling rosé for two, while a live Spanish guitarist sets the romantic mood. Call for reservations. $49 per person, $59 with wine pairings. 17900 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.225.6780. eatskitchen.com
Five Crowns
Feb. 14. Treat that special someone like royalty this holiday with a romantic five-course menu for two courtesy of executive chef Alejandra Padilla. The prix-fixe menu highlights starters such as steak tartar with truffle chips and the favorite avocado crab mash with lime dressing and pita chips. Entrees offered include Five Crowns’ signature California cut prime ribs of beef with Yorkshire pudding and whipped cream organic horseradish as well as a seasonal seared salmon with purple cauliflower puree, honey roasted beets and pomegranate. 5-9 p.m. $125 per couple. 3801 East Coast Hwy., Corona Del Mar, 949.760.0331. lawrysonline.com
Haven Gastropub
Feb. 14. Located in historic Old Towne Orange, savor European fare with a modern American twist in a special three-course prix-fixe menu created by executive chef Greg Daniels and chef de cuisine Landon Pulizzi alongside their entire regular menu for guests to enjoy. 190 S. Glassell St., Old Towne Orange, 714.221.0680. havengastropub.com
Hendrix Restaurant & Bar
Feb. 14. Celebrate your love with chef Rainer Schwarz’ four-course prix-fixe dinner menu. Guests can look forward to featured dishes such as Scottish smoked salmon and potato blini, greater Omaha black Angus beef filet mignon and Chilean sea bass. This special menu includes a romantic champagne toast. 4:30-9:30 p.m. $69 per person. 32431 Street of the Golden Lantern, Laguna Niguel, 949.248.1912. hendrixoc.com
House of Blues Anaheim
Feb. 14. House of Blues Anaheim will host a special Valentine’s edition of Live in the Lounge, that features local singer/songwriters, two- and three- piece bands plus drink specials. The Foundation Room transforms into a 21+ Bump-N-Grind event with no cover charge that will offer half-off select bottles of wine, a special drink menu and a DJ playing ’90s R&B slow jams. Live in the Lounge 6-10 p.m., Bump-N-Grind 10 p.m. See website for details. 400 W. Disney Way, Suite 337, Anaheim, 714.778.2583. houseofblues.com
Juliette Kitchen & Bar
Feb. 14. Impress that special someone with a romantic evening at Juliette Kitchen & Bar. Executive chef Daniel Hyatt’s hyper-seasonal dishes pair beautifully with the eatery’s small batch and high-quality wines. 1000 Bristol St., North Suite 11, Newport Beach, 949.752.5854. juliettenb.com
K’ya Bistro Bar
Feb. 14. Boasting small plates with an emphasis on sharing, K’ya makes for the perfect interactive romantic date night. The bistro will offer signature dishes such as the braised short rib with mashed potato, spinach and porcini mushroom sauce. $99 per couple. 1289 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 855.990.0281. kyabistro.com
Leatherby’s Café Rouge
Feb. 14. Treat your loved one to an evening at one of Orange County’s most romantic restaurants. A Valentine’s Day Special of one dozen oysters served with a bottle of Patina Cuvee will be available, alongside a full á la carte menu of prime steaks and seafood. The Fleur Du Soleil cocktail is the perfect dinner accompaniment, made with rose petal infused vodka, lavender syrup, grapefruit and lemon. Reservations can be made via OpenTable. 5-9 p.m. $55. South Coast Plaza, 615 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa, 714.429.7640. patinagroup.com
Lighthouse Bayview Café
Feb. 14. Indulge this Valentine’s Day with a decadent three-course meal curated by executive chef Ryan Sumner. Menu highlights include starters such as creamy lobster bisque with tarragon crème fraiche and entrees like crispy skin king salmon with caramelized fennel puree, blood orange fennel slaw and red wine braised Belgium endive. Pair your meal with a selection from the all-new full bar menu. $65. 1600 W. Balboa Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.933.1001. lighthousenb.com
The Loft
Feb. 14. Chef Michael Campbell is stirring up a dinner to wow couples on Valentine’s Day. It begins with a canape duo of burrata spheres and kumamoto oysters. Next, a choice of shaved asparagus salad or lobster bisque. Options for the second course include thyme-seared branzino with pickled saffron rutabaga, curried puffed wild rice and porcini sabayon; certified Angus beef tenderloin with Swiss chard and fingerling potatoes; or hand rolled cavatelli pasta with kale pesto cream and roasted heirloom cherry tomatoes. Desserts like black forest sundae with black cherries, iced chocolate and kirsch foam or pink forest sundae with white chocolate, iced strawberries and kirsch foam round out the dining experience. $175 per person, including a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label per couple. Montage Laguna Beach, 30801 Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.6420. montagehotels.com
Mezzet Mediterranean Cuisine
Feb. 14. Savor Mediterranean fare with a three-course meal and a complimentary glass of bubbly. Live entertainment 6-9 p.m., food available all day. $75 per couple (excludes tax and gratuity). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bear St., Costa Mesa, 714.540.3365. mezzetsouthcoastplaza.com
Mix Mix Kitchen Bar
Feb. 14-17. For those looking to present their valentine with an unforgettable dining experience, chef Ross Pangilinan is offering a four-course prix-fixe menu. The menu will feature stunning dishes including entrees like lobster risotto, seated foie gras and prime beef tenderloin. $65 per person. 300 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.836.5158. mixmixkitchenbar.com
Mozambique
Feb. 14. Chef Braulio Melo features an extensive, festive prix-fixe menu for the romantic holiday. Choose from 11 entree items (plus appetizers, salads and desserts), including crowd-favorite Chilean sea bass, 14 oz. prime New York strip, New Zealand rack of lamb and more. 6 p.m. $75. 1740 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.7777. mozambiqueoc.com
Oak Grill
Feb. 14. For a special holiday dinner, Oak Grill’s four-course prix-fixe menu starts with shared crudo duo of hamachi and ahi, and then a choice of salad with shaved fennel, strawberries and candied pecans or creamy lobster bisque with lump crab and brandy crème fraîche. The third course is 12 oz bone-in filet with sauce bordelaise, shrimp and mussels with a champagne cream sauce or red snapper Milanese—all entrees accompanied by delicious sides. For dessert, share a strawberry au chocolate shortbread with grand marnier cream. A glass of champagne or rosé, plus a budding rose for a special someone, is included. $125 per person (excludes tax and gratuity). 690 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, 949.760.4920. oakgrillnb.com
Old Vine Café
Feb. 14. The award-winning European-inspired restaurant is offering a choice of three expertly crafted four-courses menus with wine pairings. Choose from The Original Tasting Menu featuring sea scallops, tagliatelle al pomodoro, filet mignon and cheesecake with wild berry puree; The Beer Pairing Menu featuring sea scallops, red beans and farro, house baked corn bread with pulled duck leg and pistachio biscotti; or The Vegetarian Tasting Menu featuring baby spinach salad, a wild mushroom medley, polenta and pecan tartlets. Reservations required. $95 per person. Old Vine Café at The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Ste A-102, Costa Mesa, 714.545.1411. oldvinecafe.com
Pacific Hideaway
Feb. 14. Come single and ready to mingle while enjoying food and drink specials all night long. The event will include specialty cocktails such as the Swipe Right (gin, lemon, strawberry, sparkling wine) and 99 Problems… (rye whiskey, Chile liqueur, Nola coffee liqueur, banana). Enjoy these alongside small bites such as the Bang-Bang Shrimp tossed in Pacific Hideaway’s signature “Bang-Bang” plum sauce with an Asian slaw; and Hide & Seek crab cakes with roasted jalapeño, cilantro butter and jicama lime slaw. 3-10 p.m. 500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.965.4448. pacifichideawayhb.com
Prego Mediterranean
Feb. 14. Romance runs rampant at Prego Mediterranean this Valentine’s Day. Chef Ugo Allesina is offering specials including his famous ravioli Cuore Mio, a delicious homemade heart-shaped ravioli filled with ricotta and Swiss chard in a creamy tomato-vodka sauce. Additionally, Prego Mediterranean’s full dinner menu will be available for guests to enjoy. Reservations recommended. 2409 Park Ave., Tustin, 949.553.1333. pregooc.com
Provenance
Feb. 14. Celebrate at Provenance and keep the love local. Chef Cathy Pavlos is serving up a three-course prix-fixe menu featuring your choice of dishes such as black canyon filet mignon and plancha-seared whole boneless wild Greek branzino. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available upon request. Call for reservations. $75 per person with optional $25 or $40 wine pairings. provenanceoc.com
Puesto
Feb. 14. Enjoy the newest sweet treat Churro Cannolis at any of Puesto’s locations. Flavors include chocolate chip and crema, chocolate almond latte and strawberry guava. Order Churro Cannolis after your meal at any of the Puesto locations or suprise your valentine with a box of mini Churro Cannolis that includes multiples of all three flavors for $15. 8577 Irvine Center Dr., Irvine, 949.608.9990; 3311 Michelson Dr., Irvine, 949.608.7272. eatpuesto.com
The RANCH Restaurant & Saloon
Feb. 14. Crafted by executive chef Michael Rossi, the curated four-course menu features a variety of dishes prepared from scratch. Start the first course with one of four options then pick between a baby spinach salad or dungeness crab and champagne bisque. For the main course, choose between Chilean sea bass, 24-hour braised cape grim Tasmanian beef short rib, Beller’s Family farm pork tenderloin or a surf and turf plate. End the night with one of three delectable dessert options. 5-10 p.m. $95 per person. 1025 E. Ball Road, Anaheim, 714.817.4200. theranch.com
Sapphire Laguna
Feb. 14. Whisk away your special someone with a delectable three-course prix-fixe menu. Dishes include crispy duck confit warka, crab and spinach filled Soup de Mer, Dellah’s garam masala roasted lamb loin and espresso pavlova. Reservations are required. 1200 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9888. sapphirelaguna.com
Selanne Steak Tavern
Feb. 14. Chef Josh Severson and his team starts your night off with champagne and amuse bouche of butternut bisque with choux and warm truffle ricotta. First course selections are Hokkaido scallops with hearts of palm, chanterelle and clementine or seckel Tawny Port poached pear salad with gorgonzola dulce flan and walnut vinaigrette. Entrees include Dover Sole with Maine lobster ravioli and saffron beurre fondue or Imperial Farms wagyu tenderloin accompanied by Yukon gold potato galette, veal sweetbreads and Madeira jus. Classic dessert choices are Tahitian vanilla crème brûlée with Griottine cherry and Sicilian pistachio or chocolate mousse with bourbon caramel and hazelnut. $85 per person, or $110 with wine pairings. 1464 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9881. selannesteaktavern.com
Studio
Feb. 14. Enjoy a curated four-course dinner with a view of the Pacific. First up is seared ahi tuna served with shaved root vegetables, shiro-dashigrapes, black garlic aioli and yuzu vinaigrette. Next comes roasted lobster tail with turnips, orange-carrot puree, crispy cabbage and vanilla butter sauce along with one of two main course including Pacific swordfish or beef tenderloin. For dessert, choose between Saint Honoré Chocolate Chantilly or Saint Honoré Rosé Chantilly, both served with vanilla ice cream and caramel. $150 per person, $250 with wine pairings (tax and gratuity not included). Montage Laguna Beach, 30801 Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.6420. montagehotels.com
Sushi Roku
Feb. 14. Share a crudo special for two and an izakaya menu for two in addition to Sushi Roku’s always date-conducive regular menu. The crudo starter features two pieces each of half a dozen items including oyster with uni, caviar and ponzu jelly; amberjack with mango jalapeño; and bluefin tuna with tamari truffle. The set menu presents two glasses of Pommery champagne, Sushi Roku classics such as tuna carpaccio and yellowtail diced chilies, several types of sushi and rolls including a baked crab hand roll, and choice of dessert served with coconut sake. Crudo special $65, Izakaya menu $160. 401 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, 949.706.3622. innovativedining.com
Taco Rosa
Feb. 14. Taco Rosa takes a different approach by offering a special experience instead of a prix-fixe menu. The restaurant, with locations in Newport Beach and Irvine, will offer their regular menu but has partnered with Blue Moon Photography to create an on-site studio where guests can work with a professional photographer to create the perfect photo with their valentine. 13792 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 714.505.6080. 2632 San Miguel Dr., Newport Beach, 949.720.0980. tacorosa.com
Tanner’s Huntington Beach
Feb. 14. Share the love this year over a romantic wood-fired menu. The first course features a choice of ash-roasted beet salad, artichoke soup with bay scallops or yellowtail crudo. For the second course, indulge in a choice of grilled local halibut a la plancha, fired prime flatiron steak or pan-seared scallops. To top of the evening, dessert delivers a hot chocolate molten cake with marshmallow ice cream or seasonal fruit crostada. $75. Paséa Hotel & Spa, 21080 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.698.6130. tannershb.com
Tapas Flavors of Spain
Feb. 14. Heat up your evening with a three-course prix-fixe dinner, a Flamenco show and dancing at the end of the night. The menu includes a Tapas Appetizer Plate (with tortilla espanola, sauteed mushrooms and crab croquettes); a choice of chicken Mallorca, house paella, pasta Sevillana or steak a la rioja; and end on a sweet note with chocolate flan. A glass of sangria is included. Dinner 6-9 p.m.; show 7:30 p.m.; dancing 9 p.m. $38 per person. First level of Kaleidoscope, 27741 Crown Valley Parkway, Suite 221, Mission Viejo, 949.367.0373. tapasflavorsofspain.net
Splashes Restaurant
Feb. 14. Make the evening memorable with a special four-course prix-fixe menu seta against a Pacific Ocean backdrop. Appetizers include oysters, citrus cured snapper, artichoke parfait or foie gras duo. Follow that with either crab bisque or charred Romanesque salad. Then choose one of five entrees including lamb rack, grilled turbot, scallops, filet and sheep’s milk ricotta agnolotti. End the evening with desserts such as pan perdu, Frasier macaron or chocolate hazelnut tart. 5-10 p.m. $135 per person or $185 with wine pairings. Surf and Sand Resort, 1555 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 877.741.5908. surfandsandresort.com
Vaca
Feb. 14. In addition to their regular menu, take your loved one to enjoy Vaca’s special Valentine’s Day menu. Highlights include ceviche mixto, terrina de unagi y foie gras, paella de veira, oysters on the half shell, house cured mediterranean sardines and Valrhona dark chocolate ganache. 5-10:30 p.m. $13-$45. 695 Town Center Dr., Suite 170, Costa Mesa, 714.463.6060. vacarestaurant.com
Ways & Means Oyster House
Feb. 14. Couples can enjoy a romantic, fun and interactive experience together without the headache of pre-set menus. The oyster house will be offering guest favorites such as the signature Ways & Means oysters, served with champagne mignonette and lemon to enhance the ocean-fresh flavors of the oysters. Guests will also be able to imbibe a special Valentine’s Day-themed cocktail called Rose in the Thorns with gin, rose, basil, lime and tonic. Pacific City, 21022 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.960.4300. wmoysters.com
The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
Feb. 14. The Winery in Newport Beach and Tustin will have a special four-course prix-fixe menu created by executive chef Yvon Goetz for you and your Valentine to savor. Prices and menus vary by location. Newport Beach: $109 per person; Tustin: $89 per person. Beverages, tax and gratuity separate. Newport Beach: 3131 W. Coast Hwy., 949.999.6622. thewinerynewport.com; Tustin: The District, 2647 Park Ave., 714.258.7600. thewinerytustin.com
