No matter where you go on Feb. 14, it’s going to be almost as crowded as it is expensive. If you must dine out, choose wisely. Our tips on restaurants for those looking to impress (and even one cheap date option).
Paramour at the Wayne Hotel
139 E. Lancaster Ave.
What it costs: $329 per couple, plus the cost of dinner
Why it’s worth it: You don’t have to drive home. The Wayne Hotel’s overnight Valentine’s Day package includes a king superior room with late check-out, roses, wine, chocolates and a $50 gift card to their Paramour restaurant, along with a guaranteed reservation.
Amada
217-219 Chestnut St.
What it costs: $60 or $75 per person
Why it’s worth it: Even on the busiest night of the year, Amada is unlikely to miss a step. The four-course menu stars dishes such as truffled gratin and lobster with blood orange.
Vedge
1221 Locust St.
What it costs: $50 per person; $75 with wine pairings
Why it’s worth it: This four-course vegan menu ends with egg-less, cream-less red velvet cake with white chocolate frosting — and that’s not easy to pull off.
Lolita
106 S. 13th St.
What it costs: $45 per person
Why it’s worth it: Lolita is BYOB, so the $45 price tag is pretty close to what you’ll pay for three courses of modern Mexican dishes such as mushroom enchiladas verdes and ancho chile-laced pecan cheesecake.
Square 1682
121 S. 17th St.
What it costs: $65 per person
Why it’s worth it: This one is six courses, so there’s no way you’re going to leave hungry — especially with dishes such as Peking duck breast with cannellini bean cassoulet and Spanish chorizo. If you’re drinking, the $100 wine pairing option is a Feb. 14 steal.
Cheap date!
If you’re not trying to impress her, Qdoba restaurants are offering couples buy-one-get-one entrees on Tuesday. No coupon is required, but you will have to kiss one another to get the deal.
Or, do brunch
Valanni
1229 Spruce St.
What it costs: $38 per person
Why it’s worth it: Valanni is celebrating early with a pre-Valentine’s brunch on Feb. 12. With three courses paired with three champagne cocktails, it will totally get you out of the holiday proper.
