The Big V-Day Roundup

For the Baltimore Bound Valentine’s Day:

1. For Valentine’s Day, Chef Chris Ford has created a Valentine’s Day Velvet cupcake available at LAMILL Coffee Baltimore.  The signature red velvet cupcake is topped with a smooth red buttercream and candied rose.  ($2.75 single, $15 half-dozen, $29 dozen). For a lighter option, Chef Ford’s Red and White Macarons are a bite-sized morsel filled with a vanilla buttercream.

2. At PABU IZAKAYA, Chef Jonah Kim has prepared an exotic 4 course pre-fixe menu for Valentine’s Day weekend. The meal starts off with PABU’s signature Happy Spoon served with Goma-Ae, Seaweed Salad and Ahi Poke. The second course presents the Chef’s Selection of local fish for a Five Fish Sashimi, followed by the Maryland Crab Okonomiyaki served with fried egg, pork belly and a mustard mayo. A fourth course offering of Saikyo Miso Viking Village Scallop and Steakidon is rounded out with garlic soy rice.  Completing the meal is pastry Chef Chris Ford’s Rose Mochi and Hibiscus Chocolate Sesame Panna Cotta.  This multicourse menu is $65 per person (plus sales tax & gratuity) with an optional sommelier pairing for an addition $30.

3. Wit & Wisdom, A Tavern by Michael Mina will offer a special 3-course pre-fixe menu beginning Valentine’s Day (Thursday, February 14^th, 2013) through the weekend.  First course offerings include a choice of Greens & Herbs salad dressed in a resurrection ale vinaigrette, Lobster Bisque, Scallop Tempura with a spaghetti squash and ponzu butter or Goat Cheese Ravioli with a smoked salmon tartare. For the second course, selections include Beef Tenderloin with roasted shallots and granny smith apple, Atlantic Salmon with preserved lemon, braised turnips and soft polenta, Maryland Blue Crab Cake orSerrano Ham Wrapped Chicken with creamed spinach, cornbread and french prunes.  Rounding out the meal on a sweet note, pastry chef Chris Ford offers a choice of Chocolates including chocolate cake, chocolate crème and chocolate caramel, a Lemon Parfait with pistachio sorbet and Meyer lemon curd panna cotta, a Sweet Potato Trifle with vanilla bean crème puff, hibiscus and rose or a Mid-Atlantic Cheese Plate.  This decadent menu is $75 per person (plus sales tax & gratuity).

In addition, PABU Izakaya and Wit & Wisdom will offer sparkling Rose by the glass ($14) and sparkling Rose champagnes by the bottle (14% off).  PABU will offer sparkling sake and half bottle specials all weekend, while Wit & Wisdom will offer Valentine’s themed Happy Hour cocktails each day.

Maryland Bound V-Day:

4. Situated in a historic stone cottage with beautifully exposed wood beams, the Angler’s Inn, located at 10801 MacArthur Boulevard, Potomac, MD, is a charming retreat for a romantic Valentine’s Day.  Executive Chef Nick Palermo is preparing a three-course, prix fixe menu priced at $95 per person (tax and gratuity not included).  His menu includes Maine Lobster Bisque with brioche croutons, chives, and sherry; Hudson Valley Foie Gras Torchonwith pineapple chutney, toasted brioche, and candied pecans; Caramelized Day Boat Scallops served with local spaghetti squash, bell peppers, ginger confit, cured foie gras, and yuzu emulsion; Herb Roasted Rack of Lamb with shiitaki mushroom confit, escarole, pine nuts, cipollini onions, yellow squash, poached pear tomatoes, and garlic chips, as well as Pan Roasted Beef Tenderloin with potato boulangerie, haricot verts, crispy shallots, Perigord truffles, and red wine sauce.  For the perfect ending, couples will choose from Classic Crème Brûlée; Passion Fruit Parfait and the Chocolate Duo and Raspberry Torte.  Angler’s Inn’s Valentine’s Day menu is available exclusively on Thursday, February 14^th, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.   For reservations or additional information please call (301) 365-2425 or visit www.oldanglersinn.com.

5.  Jaleo Bethesda, known for its delicious array of tapas and paella ideal for sharing, will offer a variety of specials in addition to its a la carte menu this Valentine’s Day.  Highlights include the Ostras con Aceitunas y Picadillo: Rappahannock oysters on the half shell with olives and capers; Scarola con Manzana Rojo, Granada y Almendres de Marcona: escarole, red apple, pomegranate, fried marcona almonds, cava vinaigrette and roncal cheese; Higado de Pato con Manzanas y Membrillo: foie gras terrine with quince jam and apples; Pollo con Pure de Porro y Trufas Esencia: crisp chicken with leek and white truffle essence, as well as Vierras con Salsa de Caviar: seared sea scallops with crispy potato and caviar sauce.  Prices range from $10 to $16, and up to $55 for the Paella de Bogavante: lobster paella, which is ideal for a couple to share, and serves two to six people.  For the perfect ending, couples can enjoy the Sorbet de Cava con Blackberry Jam with Brioche Torrijas: warm brioche with blackberry jam, cava sorbet and lemon-vanilla syrup priced at $10.  These Valentine’s Day specials will be available from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday, February 14.  Jaleo Bethesda is located at 7271 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 20814; (301) 913-0003.  For additional information please visitwww.jaleo.com.

6.  In honor of Saint Valentine, Assaggi Mozzarella Bar, located at 4838 Bethesda Avenue in Bethesda, MD, 20814, will celebrate lovers the entire month of February by offering a bottle of prosecco at half price, with the purchase of any two entrees.  Then, on Thursday, February 14, Chef/Owner Domenico Cornacchia will offer a variety a la carte Valentine’s Day specials on the restaurants regular dinner menu from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.  Menu highlights include Cured Alaskan King Salmon Carpaccio with watercress and fennel salad and salmon caviar; Maine Lobster Risottowith broccoli rabe pesto; Roasted Lamb Chops with truffled mashed potatoes and porcini mushroom sauce;Roasted Sea Bass in a guazzetto of garbanzo beans and shrimp, as well as Pan Seared Beef Tenderloin with sweet potato tart in a pink peppercorn sauce.  For dessert, guests will savor the Warm Chocolate Tortino with raspberry heart over a white chocolate fondue.  A la carte prices range from $12 to $34 each.  For reservations at Assaggi Mozzarella Bar please call (301) 951-1988 or visit www.assaggirestaurant.com.

For the Suit & Tie Kinda Guy:

7.  Founder and CEO Michael Andrews of Washington’s newest custom clothing shop, Michael Andrews Bespoke, located in the heart of Dupont Circle at 1604 17^th Street, NW, is pleased to feature the “Prefect Pair” package. From February 1st through February 28th, lovers who schedule an appointment for their sweetheart will receive a complimentary set of accessories including a matching silk tie, pocket square, cufflinks, and a pair of socks, valued at $200, with the purchase of a suit from the Primo Collection.  Appointments are perfect for sharing with that special someone and couples can kick their feet up in front of the cozy fireplace while enjoying complimentary cocktails at Michael Andrews Bespoke’s fully stocked bar.  The “Perfect Pair” package must be mentioned while making an appointment to receive this special offer.

For the City Slicker V-day:

8. Zengo will offer an artful blend of Latin-Asian styles and flavors this Valentine’s Day.  On Thursday, February 14, lovers can choose any three plates off the pre-selected menu for $65 per person (tax and gratuity not included).  Menu highlights include Angry Zengo Roll with spicy Yellowfin tuna, cucumber, avocado, wasabi tobiko, and sesame chipotle aioli; Chipotle-Miso Black Cod for Two with daikon, asparagus, kabayaki, and lemon-sake aioli; Seared Hudson Valley Foie Gras with honey plantain bread, passion fruit-orange marmalade and spicy Oaxacan-style peanut; Thai Chicken Empanadas with Oaxaxa cheese, rajas, and red curry-mango salsa, as well as Kobe Beef New York Strip Carpaccio with olive & yellow pepper escabeche, mache, chive and taro ships.  For a sweet finish, desserts lovers will enjoy Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake with yuzu macerated strawberry, pistachio, and rose water ice cream.  Zengo will be serving their Valentine’s Day during dinner service Thursday, February 14, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday, February 15 thru Saturday, February 16, from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 393-2929 or visit http://www.richardsandoval.com/zengodc/index.php.

9.  Masa 14 will serve colorful Latin-Asian cuisine this Valentine’s Day.  Priced at $60 per person (tax and gratuity not included), guests will receive edamame along with a choice of three dinner plates, dessert and a complimentary class of Champagne for toasting.  The menu, prepared by Executive Chef Adam Goldman, includes standout dishes such as Spicy Tuna Temaki with wasabi, tuna, jicama, and scallion;Roasted Beet Salad with arugula, curried goat cheese and soy citrus vinaigrette; Tuna Sashimi Flatbreadwith wasabi aioli, arugula, capers, yuzu, sea salt, and red onion; Hoisin & Chipotle Glazed Salmon with cilantro-mint rice, red Thai curry-coconut sauce, and herb salad, as well as Duck Confit Enchiladas with dark chocolate mole, cilantro-lemon rice and cotija cheese.  For dessert, guests can choose from Salted Caramel Chocolate Flan with house-made s’mores topped with spicy peanuts and blood orange reduction, or theButtermilk Pana Cotta with raspberry confit, mint, candied lemon and lemon kisses.  Dinner will be served, from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday, February 14.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 328-1414 or visit www.masa14.com.

10.  Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the intimate Mediterranean wine bar Tel’Veh Café & Wine Bar, located at 401 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, 20001.  Lovers can enjoy a three-course, prix fixe menu priced at $55 per person, and $80 with wine pairings (tax and gratuity not included).  To begin, each guest will be given three complimentary oysters from the raw bar.  Next, diners can choose any appetizer and entrée off the pre-selected menu.  Menu highlights include Diver Scallops served over polenta with micro cress and basil pesto; Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates wrapped with pastourma and served over baby spinach;Chilean Sea Bass with roasted mild mushrooms, baby asparagus, cipollini onions and cherry demi; Herb Crusted Lamb Chops with root vegetable puree, Brussels sprouts and mint demi, as well as Filet Mignon served with potato gratin and bordelaise sauce.  For dessert, a decadent dessert platter ideal for sharing will be available and includes Baklava, Chocolate Espresso Pot de Crème,and Mixed Berries with vanilla crème.  In addition, Tel’Veh Cage & Wine Bar will offer three special Grower Champagne bottles to help toast on romantic day.  Priced between $72 and $105 each, growers include: Aubry Et Fils, Brut, Montagne De Reims, France; Gaston Chiquet, “Tradition” Brut, Cotes de Blanc, 1er Cru; Pierre Peters, “Cuvée de Réserve”, Blanc de Blanc, Côtes de Blanc, Grand Cru.  Dinner at Tel’Veh will be served, from 4:30 p.m. to 12 Midnight on Thursday, February 14.  For reservations, call (202) 758-2929 or visit www.telveh.com.

11. In Dupont Circle, Agora, located at 1527 17th Street, NW, 20036, offers guests signature Turkish and Greek cuisine this Valentine’s Day.  From 5 p.m. to 12 Midnight, couples can enjoy a four-course, pre-selected menu prepared by Executive Chef Ghassan Jarrouj along with a complimentary glass of Champagne for toasting.  Priced at $55 per person (tax and gratuity not included), the menu begins with Seared Scallops with white truffle polenta and wild mushrooms followed by Poached Maine Lobster Salad with avocado, and baby Mache and orange blossom vinaigrette.  Next guests can choose from Grilled Petite Filet with asparagus and pomegranate reduction, or the Pan Seared Turbot with Jerusalem artichokes, capers, tomato, scallion and olive oil.  For dessert, lovers can choose from a Chocolate Fondant Cake served with vanilla ice cream, or the Kadayif with vanilla milk pudding topped with orange blossom honey and pistachios.  For more information or reservations, please call (202) 332- 6767 or visit the website at www.agoradc.net.

12.  In the trendy 14^th Street neighborhood, El Centro, located at 1819 14th Street, NW, 20009, is offering a three-course menu with choice of shared appetizer, entrée for two and a Chef’s selection of desserts this Valentine’s Day.  Chef-Owner Richard Sandoval and Restaurant Chef Juan Romero have created a special menu highlighting authentic Mexican comfort fare priced at $35.12 per couple (tax and gratuity not included).  Appetizer options include Shrimp Huarache with corn masa flatbread, Mexican cheese and chipotle aioli; Picadillo Empanadas with raisins, toasted peanuts, ground beef, and chipotle sauce, or the Huitlacoche Tamales with Oaxaca cheese, tomatillo sauce and crema fresca.  Next, guests can choose from entrée selections such as Pipian Enchiladas with friend plantains, Mexican rice, roasted pork, and toasted pepitas; Vegetable Chile Relleno with Panela cheese, rojas, chipotle sauce, and crema fresca; Shrimp Alambre Taco with bacon, rajas, roasted corn, pickled chiles and aji Amarillo aioli, as well as Chicken Mole Poblano with Mexican rice, Cotija cheese, sesame seeds, and fried Plantains.  For the delicious dessert feature, lovebirds will enjoy Chef’s sampling of Churros and Tres Leches to share.  El Centro’s Valentine’s Day feast will be available between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. on Thursday, February 14.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 328 3131 or visit www.richardsandoval.com/elcentrodf.

13.  Known for serving seasonal dishes crafted with ingredients from regional farmers and purveyors, Blue Duck Tavern provides couples with one more reason to dine out on Valentine’s Day, Thursday, February 14^th.  Executive Chef Sebastien Archambault and Chef de Cuisine John Melfi have prepared a four-course, prix fixe menu, which will be available in addition to their regular a la carte menu.  Priced at $75 per person (tax and gratuity not included), the menu begins with Seared Foie Gras served with warm carrot cake, candied walnuts, and carrot juice reduction.  Next, couples will enjoy the Poached Lobster Open Ravioli with black trumpet mushrooms, leeks, celery leaves, and Coral Farm butter.  For the main course, the Wood Oven Fired Dry-Aged Ribeye with crispy potatoes and glazed cippolini onions is a satisfying choice.  For the perfect ending, diners can indulge in a decadent Chocolate Ganache Hazelnut Cake with Griottines cherries and cocoa sorbet.  Blue Duck Tavern will be serving from 5:30 p.m. 10:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 14.  The Blue Duck Tavern is located at 24th & M Streets, NW, within the Park Hyatt Washington, 20037.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 419 6755 or visitingwww.blueducktavern.com.

14.  Situated just a block from the White House, The Oval Room, located at 800 Connecticut Avenue, NW, 20006, is offering a three-course menu priced at $85 per person or $130 with wine pairings (tax or gratuity not included).  Executive Chef Tony Conte has prepared a special Valentine’s Day tasting menu with uniquely inspired dishes such asFoie Gras Terrine with concord grape-olive jam and cornbread; Sashimi of Tuna with smoked tapioca, tamarind and buttermilk; Spaghetti flavored with jalapeno and smoked uni carbonara; Braised Lamb Shoulder with rhubarb, ramp and sun dried beets; Kobe Strip with roasted carrots, crispy vegetable roll and black pepper jus, as well as Lobster with celery root, endive and orange carrot vinaigrette. For dessert, theFrench Toast Brioche Soufflé with banana caramel and Grand Marnier ice cream is just one of the many options from which to choose.  The Oval Room’s Valentine’s Day menu will be available exclusively during dinner service on Thursday, February 14, from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.  Valet parking is available for $8.  For reservations please call (202) 463-8700 or visit www.ovalroom.com.

15.  The landmark 701 Restaurant, located at 701 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, 20004, will be offering couples an $85 three-course tasting menu with a choice of appetizer, entrée and dessert this Valentine’s Day.  Executive Chef Tony Conte’s menu includes Tuna Tartare with coconut-lime broth and avocado; Kumomoto Oyster Crudo with passion fruit brown butter vinaigrette; Maple Cured Foie Gras with BBQ lentils and honey peanuts; Grilled Beef Tenderloin with beef-chili, garlic, and parsley; Roasted Pheasant with sweet potato polenta, cipollini onions and bacon, as well as Sake-Miso Glazed Salmon with water chestnut, baby bok choy and soy oil.  For the perfect ending, guests can choose from Chocolate Cherry Dome, Passion Fruit Vacherin, and Champagne Cassis Terrine prepared by Pastry Chef Donald Smith.  The Valentine’s Day menu will be available from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 14^th with live piano and bass entertainment beginning at 7 PM.  701 will also be offering specials off their Valentine’s Day menu for diners on Friday, February 15^th and Saturday, February 16^th.  Valet parking is available for $8.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 393-0701 or visit www.701restaurant.com.

16.  Dubbed one of the “Best New Restaurants in America” by Esquire magazine in November 2010, Bibiana Osteria-Enoteca, located at 1100 New York Ave, NW, 20005, (entrance on 12^th and H Streets side) offers chic décor and tempting Italian fare for lovers on Valentine’s Day.  Executive Chef Nicholas Stefanelli has prepared a four-course, prix fixe “San Valentino” menu, which includes a choice of antipasti, primi, secondi and dessert tasting for two.  Priced at $85 per person (tax and gratuity not included), the menu includes standouts such as Carciofi Artichoke Soup with crispy artichokes and poached Rappahannock River Oysters; Uovo, 45-minute hen egg with mushroom puree and wild mushrooms;Papardelle with duck ragu and parmigiano; Carnaroli Risotto with white chocolate, crispy sweetbread and chicory; Guancie di Vitello, braised veal cheeks with white polenta and roasted parsnips, as well as Branzino Poached Mediterranean Sea Bass with fennel, blood orange, and dill.  For the perfect ending, a dessert tasting is designed to share for sweethearts and includes Tiramisu Gelato, Moscato D’Asti Sorbetto and Gorgonzola Dolce Artigianale with dried pears, honey, black walnuts and bread.  Bibiana’s Valentine’s Day feast will be available from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday, February 14^th.  Valet parking is available for $8.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 216 9550 or visit www.bibianadc.com.

17.  Rasika West End, which was just awarded three stars, and is located at 1190 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, 20037, is offering a specially crafted Valentine’s Day menu. A four-course menu priced at $85 per person, or $130 with wine pairings (tax and gratuity not included) will be available from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.  Prepared by Executive Chef Vikram Sunderam and Chef de Cuisine Manish Tyagi, guests can enjoy the flavorful dishes such as the Non–Vegetarian Sampler Tuna Papdi Chaat with mango, cumin, and date and tamarind chutney; Lobster Balchao with peri-peri masala, malt vinegar, and pao; Bell Pepper and Cheese Uttapam with rice lentil pancake, cheddar cheese, and tomato chutney; Lamb Chop Nihari with caramelized onions, ginger, and nutmeg, as well as the Rasika Thali with kela kofta, miloni subzi, paneer ananas korma, and dal makhani.  For a sweet dessert ending, a dessert sampler with Fig Ganache, Rose Champagne Mousse, Apple Jalebi and Basil Ice Cream will also be available.  Valet parking is available for $8 per car.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 466-2500 or visit www.rasikarestaurant.com/westend/.

18.  At sister four-star restaurant, Rasika Penn Quarter, located at 633 D Street, NW, 20004, guests will enjoy Executive Chef Vikram Sunderam and Chef de Cuisine Niraj Govil’s specially crafted Valentine’s Day fare.  A four-course, prix fixe menu priced at $85 per person, or $130 with wine pairings (tax and gratuity not included) will be available from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.  Lovers will begin the meal with an amuse bouche of Badam Ka Shorba with almond, truffle oil and black pepper mathri followed by a choice of First Course, Second Course, Entrée and Dessert.  Standout dishes include Honey Chili Ahi Tuna with chili flakes and bell peppers;Lobster Bezule with mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chilies and lemon juice; Asparagus Cones with bell peppers, black pepper and chili balsamic; Chicken Pista Korma with pistachios, mace, cardamom, as well as Lamb Chop Kaliya with caramelized onions, rose petal, and fennel powder.  For dessert, couples will enjoy a sweet dessert sampler of Chocolate Malpua, Strawberry Rasmalai, Vanilla Coffee Kulfi and Rose Crème Brûlée.  Valet parking is available for $8.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 637-1222 or visit http://www.rasikarestaurant.com/.

19.  Located at 815 Connecticut Avenue, NW, 20008, one block from the White House, The Bombay Club is offering afive-course, prix fixe Valentine’s Day menu from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 14.  Prepared by Executive Chef Nilesh Singhvi, lovers will begin the meal with an amuse bouche of Asparagus Dhokla with gramflour, mustard seed and cilantro followed by a Chaat Course and then a choice of Appetizer, Entrée and Dessert.  Appetizer standouts include Kokum Scallop with coconut and ginger; Venison Chop with yogurt, chili and garam masala, as well as Makki Badam Ki Seekh with roasted corn, almond and garlic chutney.  Entrées not to be missed include Anjeeri Duck with onion, yogurt, fig, and cashew; Goat Ka Rarra with onion, tomato, coriander, and fennel; Meen Gassi with rockfish, coriander, chili, onion and coconut, as well as Shatavri Murg with chicken, asparagus, garlic, yogurt, and mace.  A selection of decadent desserts including Raspberry Chocolate Cake and Honey Ginger Ice Cream complete the meal.  The Bombay Club’s Valentine’s Day menu is priced at $85 per person (tax and gratuity not included), and is available exclusively during dinner service on Thursday, February 14.  Valet parking is available for $8.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 659-3727 or visit www.bombayclubdc.com.

20.  Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar, located at 801A 9th Street, NW (9th & H Streets), 20001, will offer a special Valentine’s Day menu with a Cuban twist from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday, February 14 and Friday, February 15.  Couples will receive six piqueos designed for sharing as well as their own individual entrée and duo of desserts for $84 per couple (beverages, tax and gratuity not included).  Standout dishes include Ceviche de Hamachi: sliced yellowtail with heirloom tomato salad Thai basil vinaigrette;Pancita de Purcco: honey-soy glazed Berkshire pork belly pinchos with vigorón slaw and chicharrones; Bunuelos de Espinaca: spinach and Manchego cheese puffs with goat cheese-ranch sauce and organic olive oil, as well as Suntanned North Atlantic Salmon with honey-mango glaze, ginat yucca couscous, green squash, wilted greens and a star anise tomato sauce.  For dessert, lovers can enjoy Tocino del Cielo: a traditional Cuban flan with citrus salad, and the Tres Leches de Caramelo: vanilla sponge cake soaked in three-dulce de leche flavored milks with mocha mousse.   Reservations can be made by calling the restaurant at (202) 408-1600 or visiting www.CubaLibreRestaurant.com.

21. Cleveland Park hot spot Ardeo+Bardeo, located at 3311 Connecticut Avenue, NW, 20008, offers diners a chance to enjoy the best modern American cuisine crafted by Executive Chef Nate Garyantes from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. this Valentine’s Day.  On Thursday, February 14^th guests can enjoy a four-course prix fixe menu priced at $65 per person.  Standout dishes not to be missed include Baby Red & Golden Beets with shaved candy cane beets, mint, smoked red onion and pistachio goat cheese; Rock Shrimp Risotto with lobster emulsion and sea beans; Salt Cured Foie Gras with fig mustard and toasted brioche; Pan Roast Duck Breast with rye spaetzle, cider braised cabbage with quince and walnuts, as well as Duo of Beef: Barrel Cut Ribeye with smoked potato mousseline and royal trumpets paired with Wagyu Beef Brisket with horseradish potato salad and “borscht”.  Valet parking is available after 6 PM for $8.  For more information, please call (202) 244-6750 or visitwww.ardeobardeo.com.

22.  Jaleo DC, located in the heart of Penn Quarter at 480 7^th Street, NW, 20004, will also be offering a variety of specials, in addition to the regular a la carte menu, for sweethearts to share this Valentine’s Day.  Spanish tapas not to be missed include Diver Scallop Carpaccio with tomato hearts and sherry dressing; Crab Cannelones with mojo verde; Lobster Rice with saffron, as well as Lamb Chops with cauliflower cous cous.  Prices range from $12 to $18 each.  For the perfect pairing, all three Jaleo’s will be serving romantically themed cocktails including the Love at First Sip, made from a combination of bourbon, Cacchi Americano, Benedictine, cocoa nips syrup, raspberries, chocolate bitters; La Rosita with Bacardi Superior, peach puree, rose water, cucumber, egg whites, simple syrup and garnished with white rose petals, as well as the Charlie My Darling, made with Cazadores Reposado, lime juice, prickly pear pure, agave nectar and garnished with a sage leaf.  Cocktails are priced between $12 and $14 each.  These Valentine’s Day specials will be available from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday, February 14.  For additional information or to make reservations please call (202) 628-7949 or visit www.jaleo.com.

23.  Oyamel Cocina Mexicana invites guests to enjoy an enchanting Mexican Valentine’s Day from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday, February 14^th.  Couples can select two plates off the Little Sips and Nipples menu, two Antojitos, a pair of Tacos and an Entrée for sharing for $108 per couple (tax and gratuity not included).  Standout dishes not to be missed include Ceviche de Marlin Azul con Toronja y Coriandro: ceviche of Hawaiian Pacific Blue marlin toro marinated with grapefruit, coriander seeds and mint; Chayotes Quisados: sautéed Mexican squash with cauliflower, Swiss chard and tequila with tomato and chile arbol salsa; Enmolada de Quajalote: house-made corn tortillas filled with turkey leg confit in a sauce of pecans, almonds, sesame seeds, chiles and a touch of chocolate; Taco de Mollejas con Xec: sautéed veal sweetbreads with a Mayan style relish of lemon, orange, grapefruit, radish, jicama and habanero chile, as well as Pato con Mole Costeño: seared Muscovy duck breast with pineapple pico de gallo and a costeño chile, almond and raisin mole.  Dishes will also be available a la carte with prices range from $4 to $28 each.  Additionally, a selection of romantically themed cocktails including A Rose By Any Other Name with reposado tequila, prickly pear, lime and rose petal ice sphere; Ixchel, the Mayan Goddess of Love with raspberry-jalapeno infused mescal, Poire Williams, cava and rhubarb bitters, as well as Club de Corazon with blanco tequila, Crème de Violette, lemon and egg white will also be available for sipping.  Prices range from $12 to $16 each.  Oyamel is located at 401 7^th Street, NW, 20004.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 628-1005 or visit www.oyamel.com.

24. Zaytinya, located at 701 9^th Street, NW, 20001, will offer a four-course tasting menu showcasing a variety of Mediterranean specials from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. this Valentine’s Day.  Priced at $65 per person (tax and gratuity not included), lovers will enjoy Pharoah’s Foie Gras with Egyptian spiced honey croquant; Lobster Tzatziki with granny smith apples and Greek yogurt; Caviar Salata Airbreads inspired by the classic taramosalata served with California caviar, as well as Grilled Lamb Chop Moussaka for Twowith potato puree, roasted eggplant, tomato braised lamb shoulder and kefalograviera cheese.  For those who choose to forgo the prix fixe option, Zaytinya’s regular a la carte menu will also be available with Valentine’s Day specials priced between $13 and $22 each.  For reservations and additional information please call (202) 638-0800 or visit www.zaytinya.com.

25.  The newly opened Ambar, located at 523 8th Street, SE, 20003, will offer a three-course, prix fixe menu showcasing dishes from the Balkan Peninsula prepared with a modern twist this Valentine’s Day.  Prepared by Serbian-born Chef Bojan Bocvarov, standout dishes include Roasted Squash Salad with mixed greens, panko-crusted mozzarella, crispy bacon and pomegranate dressing; Cheese Pie with phyllo, cucumber yogurt and red pepper spread; Roasted Mushroom Crepe with red pepper emulsion, béchamel and gouda; Slow Cooked Veal Stew with kajmak and sautéed onions and carrots, as well as Sesame Crusted Atlantic Salmon with spicy eggplant jam, sesame crust and horseradish sauce.  The Valentine’s Day menu is priced at $35 per person (tax and gratuity not included).  Couples can select one drink each to pair on the special menu, which is included in the special price.  Drinks include house red, house white, Mango Lemonade, Mojito Classic, Margarita Classic, Grappa Rakia, Corona or National Bohemian.  A credit card is required to reserve a reservation for Valentine’s Day, and guests can cancel up to 72-hours in advance to avoid a $20 per person cancellation fee.  The restaurant will be open from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. from Thursday, February 14.  For additional information please visit www.ambarrestaurant.com.

26.  This February, Legal Sea Foods, located at 704 7^th Street, NW, 20001, is putting guests under its spell with theLove Potion #9 cocktail.  Priced at $10, this captivating libation is made from a combination of Cointreau, sparkling wine, pomegranate, and orange bitters.  To make reservations at the Penn Quarter Legal Sea Foods, please call (202) 347–0007.  Legal Sea Foods is open Monday through Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, from 11 p.m. to 12 Midnight; Sunday, from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.  For additional information please visithttp://www.legalseafoods.com/.

27.  Rosa Mexicano will feature a $62 prix fixe menu featuring highlights such as:

• Tequila ValentinCocktail: Tanteo Cocoa Tequila, Silver Tequila, Cava, Lemon Juice and Strawberry 
• Lobster Tortilla Soup
• Fried Oyster and Pork Belly Tacos with Coconut Salsa
• Duck Enchiladas with Blackberry Mole
• Whole Baby Red Snapper with Passion-Fruit Chile de Arbol Sauce
• Mangos Flameados con Pasion (Mangoes Flambé) served over a Mexican Ice Cream Sandwich; a Rosa spin on a retro classic

The menu will be available at all three DC-area restaurants. (www.rosamexicano.com)

28.  ET VOILA!: BELGIAN VALENTINE’S DAY MENU FOR GOURMANDS

Et Voila! (Palisades): In addition to his loved regular menu, RAMMY-nominated chef Claudio Pirollo is whipping up several specials just for the night, such as the Terrine of Salmon and smoked salmon with celery, hazelnuts and truffles with a Banyuls dressing, Seared Foie Gras with homemade chestnut cream, smoked duck and Speculoos potato chips, a Duo of Scallops and North Carolina Shrimp on a bed of “Deus” Belgian beer risotto, Wagyu Beef Rib Eye with confit potatoes , braised endives and red wine shallot sauce, and a special Lovebirds’ Dessert to share.

Reservations are recommended and available by calling (202)237-2300.  Et Voila! is located at 5120 MacArthur Blvd. NW.

For the Virginia Bound V-Day:

29. Executive Chef/Owner Domenico Cornacchia and Owner/Operator Aykan Demiroglu of the French oasis, Bistro Vivant, located at 1394 Chain Bridge Road in McLean, VA, 22101, are offering an a la carte menu with Valentine’s Day specials from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday, February 14.  Chef Domenico and Chef de Cuisine Driss Zahidi bring the authentic flavors of traditional French cuisine to downtown McLean, with appetizer options such as Seared Hudson Valley Foie Gras with cherry, cured olives and Marcona almonds; Poached Alaskan Salmon with braised leeks and sea urchin; Trio of Caviar with house-made whole wheat blinis, and Spinach Crepe stuffed with jumbo lump crab.  Main dishes include Fillet of St Pierre with artichokes, cherry tomatoes, and black olives; Saffron-Butter Poached Lobster aux Potato Gratin with Wet Aged Hanger Steak aux Leeks Etouffee et Béarnaise, as well as Local Quail stuffed with foie gras et forest mushrooms, cauliflower gratin and blackberries-chocolate sauce. Guests will also enjoy the selection of decadent desserts, which include Tarte Tatin with Spring Valley Farm apples; Lover’s Chocolate Cake and an assortment of seasonal Dolcezza gelato.  Prices range from $16 to $29 for appetizers, $26 to $32 for entrées and $12 for desserts.  For reservations or additional information please call (703) 356-1700 or visit www.bistrovivant.com.

30.  Jaleo Crystal City, located in the heart of Crystal City at 2250 Crystal Drive in Arlington, VA, 22202, will also be offering a variety of specials, in addition to the regular a la carte menu, this Valentine’s Day.  Spanish tapas not to be missed include Canelon de Cangrejo con Mojo Verde: colossal jumbo lump crab “canelon” with mojo verde sauce; Vieiras con Pastel Crujiente de Patata y Salsa de Caviar: seared sea scallops with crispy potato and caviar sauce; Arroz de Mar y Montanya: surf and turf rice with lobster and Catalan sausage, and for dessert, Mousse de Chocolate Blanco con Frambuesas: white chocolate mousse with raspberry sorbet and pistaccios.  Prices range from $8.50 to $16 each.  Jaleo Crystal City will also be pouring Mont Marcal Vinicola Brut Rosado (Trepat) 2009 for couples to toast on this romantic day.  These Valentine’s Day specials will be available from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday, February 14.  For additional information or to make reservations please call (703) 413-8181 or visit www.jaleo.com.

31.  Vinifera Wine Bar & Bistro invites couples to enjoy a candle-lit evening filled with sweet and savory delights, specially crafted by Executive Chef Bo Palker. Upon arrival at the restaurant, guests will receive a fresh cut, long-stem red rose and amuse-bouche, followed by a delectable four course meal.

The special prix-fixe menu, priced at $95.00 per person, exclusive of tax and gratuity, features dishes like Braised Veal Sweetbreads Madeira on arugula and fennel Salad; She Crab Bisque with crème fraÎche; Lobster Ravioliwith mornay sauce and shaved fresh truffle; Baby Winter Greens with monacacy ash goat cheese, Roast Antelope Strip Loin Steak with pasilla pepper sauce, purple potatoes and cauliflower puree; Maple Leaf Farm Duck Breast with toasted sweet potato gnocchi, roasted baby vegetables and port wine sauce; Vin Glace Poached Apricot with champagne sorbet; Chocolate Opus One Cake with Dark Chocolate “Sinplicity” Ice Cream; and much more.

Wine pairings hand-selected by General Manager and Sommelier Jason Meringolo will also be available.

Reservations are available from 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. and strongly recommended. To reserve a table, please call 703.234.3550 or visit www.viniferabistro.com.

32.  Trummer’s On Main hosts “Date Night: Wine & Chocolate Tasting” on Wednesday, February 13. Showcasing a selection of unique varietals and artisanal sweets, expert sommelier Diana Roderique will lead guests through a tasting of perfect Valentine’s Day wines, each paired with a handmade Valrhona chocolate dessert.  Guests will taste four different wines, ranging from a Viognier/Chenin Blanc blend from Pine Ridge Vineyards, Faust Cabernet Sauvignonfrom Napa, Chiarli Lambrusco Centenario Amabile, an off-dry sparkling red, and a port-style Zinfandel from California. Dessert pairings will feature renowned Valrhona chocolate, including aChocolate Cherry Macaron and Chipotle Chocolate Truffle, handmade by the restaurant’s talented pastry team.

Guests may reserve a space at the Date Night: Wine & Chocolate Tasting for $35 per person by calling the restaurant at (703) 266-1623 or emailing droderique@trummersonmain.com. Following the tasting, guests can enjoy $10 glasses of the wines tasted ($15 for the Faust Cabernet Sauvignon) in the restaurant and bar all evening.

For the Strictly Sweets Lover:

33.  Robb Duncan, the artisanal gelato maker and co-owner of Dolcezza, is excited to feature a special, seasonal gelato for Valentine’s Day.  Available Monday, February 11^th through Sunday, February 17^th, the White Chocolate & Berries gelato will be available at all four locations in the Washington, DC area.  The gelato is made by combining Valrhona white chocolate with warm milk, cream and sugar.  Next, strawberries, raspberries and blueberries are cooked down to create jam, and then folded into the white chocolate mixture before freezing.  The White Chocolate & Berries is priced at $5 for a small, $6.15 for a large and $10.50 for a pint.  Dolcezza has four locations: Dolcezza Georgetown, located at 1560 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, 20007, (202) 333-4646; Dolcezza Dupont, located just one block from the Dupont Circle metro at 1704 Connecticut Avenue, NW, 20009, (202) 299-9116; Dolcezza Bethesda, located at 7111 Bethesda Lane in Bethesda, MD, (301) 215-9226, and 2905 District Avenue, Suite 155 in Fairfax, VA, 22031, (703) 992-8701.  For additional information please visit http://dolcezzagelato.com.

Celebrate the Chinese New Year & V-Day Simultaneously:

34.  Ping Pong Dim Sum Invites Guests on Thursday, February 14^th for Love at First Bite (Sin: Lust)

Share a sinful Valentine’s Day with your special snake by sampling the Love at First Bite menu ($60 per couple), which includes aphrodisiac ingredients in each dish.  The menu features two fig and chocolate martinis, and an array of baked, steamed and fried dim sum, including favorites like the honey roasted chicken puffs, spicy basil dumplings, and char sui buns.

Celebrate V-Day the Whole Week:

35.  Love Week at Walker’s Grille

Special Food/Drinks Promotions, Entertainment & Treats All Week:

Monday, February 11 – Girls Night Out

Tuesday, February 12 – Grandparents/Special Persons Night

Wednesday, February 13 – Family/Kids Night (Kids Eat Free/Activities)

Thursday, February 14 – Valentine’s Day. Special A La Carte menu (below). Live Jazz, Complimentary roses for guests
Friday, February 15 – Sugar & Champagne Happy Hour. 3-7PM. Speciality cocktails.

Valentine’s Day A La Carte Menu (February 14, 2013)
Appetizers: Teriyaki Chicken Skewers; Bacon Wrapped Scallops;Grilled BBQ Shrimp
Main: Chesapeake Pasta- Mussels, Shrimp, Scallops; Rockfish Topped with Crab Meat Sauce; Rosemary Chicken w/Italian Polenta & Swiss Chard; Petite Filet w/ Crab Cake
Dessert: Red Velvet Cheesecake; Chocolate Cake; Chocolate Covered Strawberries

36.  TRADEMARK DRINK + EAT: VALENTINE’S DAY ALL WEEKEND LONG

Trademark in Alexandria is celebrating Valentine’s Day all weekend long, with a special Aphrodisiac-inspired menu courtesy of Executive Chef Matthew Miller. Available Thursday, February 14^th through Saturday the 16^th, guests can enjoy a three-course prix-fixe menu ($45) featuring 24 natural aphrodisiacs such as figs, asparagus, honey and hot chilies.

Trademark’s Valentine’s Day Aphrodisiac Menu will feature starters like the FENNEL & POTATO SOUP with crispy gnocci “croutons” and vanilla salt, or the BEET & CARAMELIZED FIG SALAD with arugula, radicchio, beets, prosciutto crisp in a honeyed raspberry vinaigrette, and mains like the 7 oz. FILET MIGNON with bacon hash, broccolini, mustard and cremini mushroom cream, and CACCIUCCO-STYLE SEAFOOD STEWwith rockfish, shrimp, scallops, lobster, clams and mussels in a tomato broth with a hint of chili pepper, served with a grilled garlic baguette. Chef will also prepare special sweets, while Mixologist Chris Bassett will be mixing up $8 craft Valentine’s Day cocktails all weekend.

Trademark’s Valentine’s Weekend menu is available Thursday 2/14 – Saturday 2/16 from 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. for $45 per person and reservations can be made by calling (703)253-8640.TrademarkDrink + Eat is located at 2080 Jamieson Ave. in Alexandria, VA.

For the Aphrodisiac Chaser on V-Day:

37.  FOOD, WINE & CO.: APHRODISIAC MENU + LOVE POTION COCKTAILS

Food, Wine & Co. is celebrating Valentine’s Day with a special Aphrodisiac Menu from Executive Chef Michael Harr. The decadent a la carte menu features starters like ROASTED FOIE GRAS with cherry confiture, pistachio brittle, brioche pan perdu ($21) and CRUDO OF KONA KAMPACHI with tangerine, macadamia nut, crispy shitake, mizuna, candied lime ($12) and savory mains like STUFFED RABBIT SADDLE withcornbread-chorizo stuffing, mexican red chile mole, pumpkin seeds, pickled jicama, spiced cocoa crumble ($26) and SERRANO HAM CRUSTED ARCTIC CHAR with Jerusalem artichokes, lemon confit, winter cress, fingerling sweet potatoes and Monticello red wine sauce($24). Diners can end their night on a sweet note with desserts like CHESTNUT CRÈMEwithchocolate streusel, spiced meringue, rum ice cream ($8) and CAJETA CHEESECAKE withespresso cajeta caramel, sour cream ice cream ($8).

For those who would rather sip their inhibitions away, Food, Wine & Co. will also serve up four Love Potion Cocktails (all $13)featuring desire-inducing ingredients like dates, agave and chocolate. Sips will range from the LOVE POTION # 9, combining bourbon, cinnamon and cardamom-infused simple syrup, Disaronno amaretto liqueur and bitters, garnished with three sherry-soaked dates, mango foam and strawberry “powder”, to the LOVE POTION #5, a concoction of tequila, ginger-infused chai liquor, apple juice reduction and melon liqueur, topped with Champagne and garnished with rosewater spheres.

Reservations can be made by calling (301) 652-8008.  Food, Wine & Co. is located at 7272 Wisconsin Ave. in Bethesda, MD and offers free underground parking after 5 p.m.

Where Couples & Singles Meet on V-Day:

38.  VINOTECA: TASTING MENU FOR COUPLES DOWNSTAIRS + SINGLES PARTY UPSTAIRS

COUPLES: Vinoteca’s downstairs dining room will set the mood with a special 5-course Valentine’s Day tasting menu from Executive Chef Lonnie Zoeller. Dishes will range from BEEF TARTARE with Beet, Gooseberry, LOBSTER with Winter Squash, Saffron, Jamón Ibérico, PORK BELLY with Strawberry, Pedro Ximénez Sherry, Cilantro,HANDMADE LINGUINE with Black Pepper, Truffle Pecorino, and BISON SHORT RIBS withPumpernickel, Mushroom, Rutabaga. Vinoteca’s Valentine’s Day menu is available for $75 per person and reservations can be made by calling (202)332-9463.

SINGLES: For those looking to find a “special someone”, Vinoteca is hosting a “Single Mingle”party in its upstairs lounge. The open-bar party will offer plenty of bubbly libations to stimulate conversation, a selection of gourmet hors d’ouevres from Chef Zoeller, and music. Tickets to Vinoteca’s Single Mingle party are available for $60 per person by calling the restaurant at (202)332-9463. Vinoteca is located at 1940 11^th St. NW.   

*UPDATED FEBRUARY 7, 2013*

39.  Chef/Owner Jamie Leeds “Valentine’s Day Specials” for February 14^th are in addition to the regular menu.  For starters Oysters Rockefeller; Clams & Lamb Sausage and a Seared Tuna Salad.  The entrées  include Salmon Stuffed with Crab and a Champagne Dill Sauce; Seared Sea Scallops topped with Trout Roe; Coffee Rubbed Pork Tenderloin with Oyster Stuffing and a 3 pound Steamed Lobster for Two (Dupont & the Hill only).  Hank’s Old Town (1026 King Street, Alexandria, VA) will serve its Lobster Risotto in place of Steamed Lobster.  Prices for entrées range from $26.00 to $30.00 per person.

Unlikely pair(ing) cocktails named after famous couples who fight!  Each Hank’s will go round for round with its own list of grappling couples such as Peg Bundy (Muscadet Wine, Seyval grape soda, citrus) and Al Bundy (Bluecoat Gin, seyval grapes, Narragansett Beer , Citrus); Richard Burton (Rye Whiskey,  Chinato, rice pudding, chocolate bitters) andElizabeth Taylor (Vodka, black and blue syrup, citrus, bitters); Mary Matalin (Breuckelen Glorious Gin, St. Germain, lemon, egg white and orange bitters) and James Carville (Rye, Dolin Vermouth, Amer Picon and Maraschino).  Price per cocktail $11.00 or “make it a couple” for $20.00. Reservations are being accepted at all locations.

Tags: restaurants, Valentine's Day, washington dc

Category: Announcements, Food.Fun.Stuff., Washington D.C.