Well, another Valentine’s Day is upon us. That means one of two things will await you on the evening of the 14th: either suicide-inducing night of solitude or a night out at a restaurant with your significant other. Obviously, the latter option is more pleasant. Reservations are going to fill up fast, so you’ve got to plan your little romantic getaway soon. It’s a difficult decision to make. Plan a meal at TGI Friday’s or Chucky Cheese and you’ll be going home alone. Set up a romantic date at a French Bistro with an aphrodisiacal dessert menu and you’ll be on your way to a memorable night. The following restaurants are ideal spots for a private dinner on the big V-day. They won’t be easy on your wallet, but they provide the perfect environment to make a mistake with that special someone.


The Aurora Bistro

As we all know, the word “bistro” might not literally translate to “perfect date spot”, but it may as well. The Aurora Bistro has all the vital elements of that style of eatery and doubles as a testament of all things British Columbian. Their food, wine and values are all of local origin and the outcome is authenticity. Chef Jeff Van Geest has a knack for bringing out the natural flavours of his organic ingredients without overwhelming them in complicated sauces or spices. So you and your date will have a simple but exquisite meal to enjoy while you ponder the possibilities of the evening that lies ahead. For Vancouverites in love, this is the ideal Valentines Day spot to enjoy the finest local cuisine that the city has to offer. 2420 Main Street, Vancouver, BC. 604-873-9944.




Bacchus Restaurant and Lounge


A restaurant named after the Roman god of wine and sex (conveniently located in a hotel), the sybaritic crowd of culinary aficionados indulge nightly in the luxurious environment that is Bacchus Restaurant. Add velvet booths, a deep ebony wood bar, mood lighting and a requisite grand piano and you’ve got a sumptuous and sensual atmosphere that’s perfect for the big night. An eclectic wine list ensures that everyone should be able to find the perfect vintage to accompany an entrée with international influences, ranging from France, South Africa, Italy and Australia. Valentine’s Day packages are available, where an opulent boudoir awaits after indulging in an immaculate five-course meal. 845 Hornby Street, 604-608-5319




Balthazar


Balthazar appears very ostentatious and disposable from the outside, but is actually quite comfortable inside. The faux ruin design seems a little too put on at first, but provides quite an enjoyable environment when given a chance. The vast open interior of the restaurant may seem a little too group-oriented for a date, but take a look at the nooks and crannies of the space and you’ll find enough romantic spots to produce a Bob Marley-esque legion of illegitimate children in a single evening. However, for Valentine’s Day it’s probably best to limit yourself to one date. So pick your romantic nook in advance and prepare for a private night. The inevitably high cynical hipster population may put you off your romantic groove, so be sure to factor that in when planning the evening.