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Friday, February 1, 2013

More Added: Valentine's Day Round-up

Love is in the air! It isn't too late to snag a reservation at one of DC's hot restaurants. Don't wait until the last minute or you might miss out. DC restaurants are ensuring everyone enjoys the holiday with special Valentine's Day festivities and menus.  If I missed your restaurant, please email me your Valentine's Day offerings.

LAUREN'S PICKS

Bibiana Osteria-Enoteca 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 parmigianoCarnaroli 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 14th.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 216 9550 or visit www.bibianadc.com.

Plume at The Jefferson, DC will offer a 5 course tasting menu from 6:00pm to 9:30pm this Valentine’s Day. Priced at $125 per person [excluding tax and gratuity] guests will enjoy an Amuse Bouche of Oysters en Gelee with Cucumber and Oyster GeleeOsetra Caviar, and Crème Fraiche; Salad of Raw and Cooked Artichokes with Artichokes “Barigoule,” Chips and Shaved, Sottocenere, Black Truffle Vinaigrette, and Shaved Black TruffleSeared Diver Sea Scallop with Romanesco, Hazelnut Emulsion, Baby Carrots, and Stuffed Manila Clams; Filet of Prime Local Beef with Honey and Grain Mustard Crust, Potato Croquettes, Creamed Spinach, and Red Wine Jus; and a special Love Letter Dessert, with Strawberry Marmalade, Raspberry Mousse wrapped inside a Brûléed Crepe shaped like an envelope and inspired by the romantic letters Thomas Jefferson composed to a woman he could not have. For reservations and additional information please call (202) 448-2300 or visit www.plumedc.com.

Wit and Wisdom, A Tavern by Michael Mina will offer a special 3-course pre-fixe menu beginning Valentine’s Day (Thursday, February 14th, 2013) through the weekend.  First course offerings include a choice of Greens and Herbs salad dressed in a resurrection ale vinaigrette, Lobster BisqueScallop 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 or Serrano 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 and gratuity).

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 14th.  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 and M Streets, NW, within the Park Hyatt Washington, 20037.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 419 6755 or visiting www.blueducktavern.com.

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 as Foie 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, the French 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.  For reservations please call (202) 463-8700 or visit www.ovalroom.com


The District:

DEALS:

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.

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.

HE’S/SHE’S WORTH IT:

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 and 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.

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.  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.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the intimate Mediterranean wine bar Tel’Veh Café and 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.  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.

2100 Prime, the signature restaurant of The Fairfax at Embassy Row, will offer a 3-course pre-fix for the most romantic day of the year, Valentine’s Day. The menu created by Chef Chris Ferrier has mix of seafood, fish, steak and yummy desserts plus a complimentary glass of sparkling or dessert wine. A sampling of the menu includes:  Wellfleet Oysters with Caviar, Crab and Lobster Dijonaise Gratin, Maryland Rockfish roasted, Veal Osso Buco, Seared 1855 Beef Tenderloin and soufflés, crème brule and chocolate torte to end the evening. Priced at $65/person and available on Valentine’s day and the weekend. For reservations go to www.2100prime.com or call 202 835-2100.

Feastly:  On Thursday, February 14th 8pm, Chef Anya welcomes two lucky couples for a romantic Valentine's Day dinner around her inviting Columbia Heights dining room table. Our professionally trained French chef hosts you for six incredible courses, including Maine lobster, prosciutto wrapped scallops, cheese plate, maple semifreddo tartlet, homemade truffles, and beat and goat cheese napoleon. While we may be biased, this meal is going to be incredible! Her last meal was featured on NPRSeats are $85 and can be purchased here

Acadiana will offer two special prix-fixe menus for the romantic holiday. From Friday, February 15 through Sunday, February 17, the Louisiana-style restaurant on New York Avenue will offer the ‘Couples Weekend Menu’ for $100 per couple that starts with a Lagniappe of Oysters and Pearls followed by Mussels Monica with Saffron Fettuccine and Corn Meal Crusted Frog Legs with Leaks, Cauliflower and Choupiqué Caviar. For the next course, guests can indulge in the Lobster Boudin with Fennel and Blood Orange and Southern Fried Quail with Foie Gras Grits and Grapes. Next comes Beef Wellington with Baby Vegetables and Bordelaise Sauce followed by Chocolate Cake for dessert. Acadiana will also offer a spectacular prix-fixe menu offered on February 14 with a series of southern favorites. For more information, please call202.408.8848 or visit www.acadianarestaurant.com.

Ceiba will offer a special Valentine’s Day prix-fixe menu for $65 per person. First course options include Peruvian Ceviche and Shredded Duck Flautas. Second course favorites range from Pan-seared Atlantic Salmon to Enchiladas de Mariscos with Grilled Lobster, Rock Shrimp, Jumbo Lump Crab, Jack Cheese and Corn and Poblano Salsa. To end on a sweet note, Ceiba will conclude the dining experience with a choice of scrumptious desserts such as Chocolate FundidoRed Velvet Cake or Passionfruit Sorbet. For more information, please call 202.393.3983 or visit www.ceibarestaurant.com.

DC Coast will offer the "For Lovers Only" prix-fixe menu from Thursday, February 14 through Sunday, February 17. For $150 per couple, guests can enjoy two glasses of Champagne and three dazzling courses. To start, guests can enjoy the Raw Bar for Two with Poached Shrimp, Local Oysters, Lobster, Florida Stone Crab and a trio of sauces: Meyer Lemon Aioli, House Made Cabernet Mignonette, and Horseradish-Cocktail Sauce. For the second course, couples can delight in the Deconstructed Bouillabaisse with Pan Roasted Rockfish, Mussels, Langoustines, Pressed Fingerling Potatoes, Baby Leeks, Rouille, and Saffron-Shellfish Butter or Grilled N.Y. Strip with Black Trumpet Duo, House-Made Tagliatelle, and Butter Poached Lobster. The finale will come in the form of Cocoa Nib, Chocolate, and Hazelnut Dacquoise with Gianguja Mousse and Salted CaramelFor reservations and additional information, please call 202.216.5988 or visitwww.dccoast.com.

Marcel’s embraces the nuances of a contemporary establishment with its forward-thinking, haute-French cuisine, as guided by culinary maverick Robert Wiedmaier. For $140 per person, guests can indulge in the special six-course prix-fixe Valentine’s menu at one of the city’s finest and most romantic restaurants. Seated amongst softly glowing candles atop pristine white tablecloths, couples will be treated with the impeccable service that has become a hallmark of Marcel’s. With an on-site sommelier to guide you through the largest Champagne selection in the city, picking the perfect bottle of bubbly will be a treat in itself. For more information, please call 202.296.1166 or visit www.marcelsdc.com.

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.

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 14th 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 15th and Saturday, February 16th.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 393-0701 or visit www.701restaurant.com.

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.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 466-2500 or visit www.rasikarestaurant.com/westend/.

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.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 637-1222 or visit http://www.rasikarestaurant.com/.

The Bombay Club is offering a five-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.   For reservations or additional information please call (202) 659-3727 or visit www.bombayclubdc.com.  


A romantic date-perfect dining spot, 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, GooseberryLOBSTER with Winter Squash, SaffronJamón Ibérico, PORK BELLY with Strawberry, Pedro Ximénez Sherry, Cilantro,HANDMADE LINGUINE with Black Pepper, Truffle Pecorino, and BISON SHORT RIBS with Pumpernickel, Mushroom, Rutabaga. Vinoteca's Valentine's Day menu is available for $75 per person and reservations can be made by calling (202)332-9463.

Cuba Libre Restaurant and Rum Bar, located at 801A 9th Street, NW (9th and 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.

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 14th guests can enjoy a four-course prix fixe menu priced at $65 per person.  Standout dishes not to be missed include Baby Red and 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 visit www.ardeobardeo.com.

Jaleo DC, located in the heart of Penn Quarter at 480 7th 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.  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.  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.

Oyamel Cocina Mexicana invites guests to enjoy an enchanting Mexican Valentine’s Day from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday, February 14th.  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.  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.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 628-1005 or visit www.oyamel.com.  

Zaytinya 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 , 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 Two with potato puree, roasted eggplant, tomato braised lamb shoulder and kefalograviera cheese.  For reservations and additional information please call (202) 638-0800 or visit www.zaytinya.com.

This Valentine's Day, The Source by Wolfgang Puck is serving a couple's tasting menu where all the courses are meant to be shared. The menu displays the range of Asian-inspired cuisine available at The Source from sushi to dumplings to Korean style seafood. The five-course tasting menu is priced at $135 per person, excluding pairings, tax and gratuity. Guests can opt to add a wine pairing for an additional $65 per person. The Source by Wolfgang Puck is located at 575 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (entrance on 6th Street). For reservations, please call (202) 637-6100

Fiola is bringing the mystery back to romance with a seductive Valentine's Day menu inspired by the senses. The seven-course tasting menu priced at $125 per person, not including pairings, tax or gratuity will hint at each dish without revealing all the components such as Look (Oysters), Touch (Scallops) and Smell (Truffle). The special Valentine's Day menu will be offered the entire weekend from Thursday, February 14 to Saturday, February16.  Fiola is located at 601 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (entrance on Indiana Avenue). For reservations, please call 202.628.2888 or visit the website at www.fioladc.com.

Ripple:  Lovebirds can visit Ripple in Cleveland Park for a special four-course Valentine's Day tasting menu, with highlights like caramelized pork belly, roasted scallops and a frozen chocolate parfait with roasted white chocolate and hazelnut streusel by pastry chef Alison Reed. The full menu is available online

J and G Steakhouse is offering an elegant 3-course Prix Fixe menu kissed with French and Asian flavors for romantic revelers Valentine’s Day through Sunday, February 17th.  Available Thurs/ Sun 5:00PM-10:00PM, and Fri/ Sat 5:00PM-11:00PM, the menu is priced at $65pp, and decadent fare includes Chilled Oysters and Caviar, Steamed Bass with Fragrant Coconut Juice Parsnip and Lime, and a Passion Fruit Souffle with Ginger Ice Cream

At Rosa Mexicano, couples can spice up the romance with a $62 prix fixe menu featuring highlights such as a decadent 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; and a Rosa spin on a retro classic: Mangos Flameados con Pasion (Mangoes Flambé) served over a Mexican Ice Cream Sandwich. The menu will be available at all three DC-area restaurants. (www.rosamexicano.com)

Located in the Palisades, the charming Et Voila! is the perfect destination for gourmands looking to share an intimate Valentine's Day meal. 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.

Metro Area: 

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 and gratuity) with an optional sommelier pairing for an addition $30. 

Passion Fish will offer a romantic and menu for Valentine’s Day with an array of chef’s specialties that will woo any date. Appetizers display the finest seafood of the season with dishes that include Spicy Ahi Tuna Tartare and a succulent Lobster and Butternut Squash Bisque. The chef continues to dazzle and wow with a standout lineup of entrees such as Macadamia Nut-Crusted Halibut, and Red Thai Curry Lobster “Clay Pot.” How better to end a fabulous meal than with a decadent dessert selection. Whether you choose the Caramel Crème Brulee or Chocolate Mousse Praline Crunch there’s no wrong decision! For more information, please call 703.230.3474 or visit www.passionfishreston.com.

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 Risotto with 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.

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 Torchon with 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 14th, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.   For reservations or additional information please call (301) 365-2425 or visit www.oldanglersinn.com.

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.  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.  

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 Risotto with 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.

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.

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.  For additional information please visit www.jaleo.com.

One of the most romantic and sought after Valentine’s Day dining destinations in the DC area boasting picturesque waterfront views, two roaring fireplaces, a candlelit dining room adorned with priceless artwork, and pristine landscaping featuring waterfalls and koi ponds, 2941 (2941 Fairview Park Drive, Falls Church, VA 22042; www.2941.com(703) 270-1500; @2941Restaurant) is the quintessential culinary retreat for couples on Valentine’s Day.  Executive Chef Bertrand Chemel is preparing two special menus on Valentine’s Day including a 3-course Prix Fixe for $75pp and a 3-course vegetarian Prix Fixe for $48pp. Available from 5:30PM-9:30PM, menu highlights include Wild Scottish Pheasant Ballotine, Pan Seared Foie Gras, Beef Duo, Mushroom Veloute, and a sharable Exotic Dessert Duo by Pastry Chef Caitlin Dysart which includes Warm Chocolate-Passion Fruit Chiboust, and a Mango-Vanilla Frozen Parfait. MENU: http://www.2941.com/menus/2013/valentine/

The Daily Dish will offer a three or four course menu of organic and locally sourced specialties at $35 and $45 respectively from 5:30 to 9:30 on Valentine's Day.   At the bar, they also offer the Anti-Valentine's Day menu featuring Bitter Betty Martini, Maryland’s own organic local Sloop Betty Vodka, dry vermouth, orange bitters and orange peel; Love on the Rocks Grand Marnier, lime juice, cranberry juice, Peychaud bitters and raspberry syrup; Blood Sausage with blood orange mustard sauce, served with a very sharp knife; In a Pickle--a variety of house made pickles, garlic  cloves, onions and vegetables (pretty much everything one shouldn’t ingest on a  first date); Bitter Greens Salad--radicchio and watercress salad with blood orange vinaigrette; and a big honking plate of Stinky Cheese --Camembert, Limburger and Stilton with dried cherries, apricots, baguette, and black sesame rice crackers.—delicious comestibles that will wilt Cupid’s nose hair.  Fore reservations dial 301.588.6300 or log onto www.thedailydishrestaurant.com  

February 14th is Valentine’s Day—the day for lovers—and who knows that better than married couple and chef/owners Christophe and Michelle Poteaux of Bastille?  The restaurant is presenting a four-course $98 all inclusive prix fixe menu ($135 with wine pairings) for Cupid’s special day.  The menu will also be available throughout the weekend along with Bastille’s standard menu.  Only the prix fixe will be served on February 14th.The meal includes choices such as Chestnut veloute, crispy lardons, roasted chestnut and sage.  Add seared Foie gras (Sup. $16) or choose White asparagus, black truffle coulis, 60-degre egg, brioche, mache and Champagne vinaigrette to start; followed by a second course selection of oven-roasted langoustines, shellfish reduction, caramelized salsify and oyster mushrooms or Filet of Daurade, blood orange and olive oil emulsion and fennel and piquillo compote with olives and almonds; third course of breast of White pheasant “a l’orange” with citrus braised endive, glazed turnips and shallots or rack of lamb “persillade” with bordelaise sauce, winter root gratin, Brussels sprouts and royal trumpet mushrooms; an optional cheese course of goat cheese Bavarois, glazed baby beets, Hazelnut sable, and petite frisee salad with citrus vinaigrette ($15 supp.); and for dessert, Chef Michelle’s luscious tasting plate and bittersweet chocolate truffles.   For further information and reservations, 703-519-3776; or log onto www.bastillerestaurant.com

One of Bethesda's best date spots, Food, Wine and 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 with cornbread-chorizo stuffing, Mexican red chili 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 CRÈME with chocolate streusel, spiced meringue, rum ice cream ($8) and CAJETA CHEESECAKE with espresso cajeta caramel, sour cream ice cream ($8).

Trademark's Valentine's Day Aphrodisiac Menu will feature starters like the FENNEL and POTATO SOUP with crispy gnocci "croutons" and vanilla salt, or the BEET andCARAMELIZED 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 STEW with 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.

On February 14, Vinifera Wine Bar and Bistro will serve a delectable four-course dinner, complete with an amuse-bouche upon arrival and long-stem red rose for that special someone. Priced at $95 per person (exclusive of tax and gratuity), guests will select from a variety of dishes on Chef Bo’s specially crafted menu which features Braised Veal Sweetbreads Madeira on arugula and fennel SaladShe Crab Bisque with crème fraÎche; Lobster Ravioli with mornaysauce and shaved fresh truffle; Baby Winter Greens with monacacy ash goat cheese, Roast Antelope Strip Loin Steakwith 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 GM and Sommelier Jason 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

1 comment:

  1. I have not been to DC since my teens but all these picks sound great!

    Ali of:

    www.dressingken.com

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