This time of year is plagued with uncertainty. Will there be six more weeks of winter? Will you break the bank on Valentine's Day? You damn well better if you're expecting some hanky panky. Our guide to eating right well ensure your night of love gets off (no pun intended) to a good start.




Belgo Brassarie
Belgium is the new France, just like New England is the new…England? Horrible execution of jokes aside, Belgo is cool and casually-fun (unlike myself, apparently.) It offers the requisite extensive Belgian beer menu, which means you and your lovah can get sauced up and make some questionable decisions later. The fare is French with a splash of Belgian (kind of like an exchange student I went to school with),

For the quintessential date night of the year, choosing the right place is imperative.

meaning tried-and-true classics with a twist. Look for fish dishes and spiced mammals of the checkered tablecloth ilk, but in a chic, nearly high-end atmosphere. 501 8th Avenue SW, 403-265-6555




Bonterra
This classic Italian trattoria is the penultimate place for romance this Valentine’s Day. Thanks to their cell-phone free policy, a quiet environment awaits, where you can whisper sweet nothings to your partner among gorgeous floral displays and elegant chandeliers without worrying about your “Soulja Boy” truetone interrupting things. The menu acts as a sommelier, providing excellent wine choices beside each entrée to complement your meal and relieve you of the guesswork. The large selection of olive appetizers, delicious risottos and palatial pastas round out the menu. If you’ve got room for dessert, dig into some delicious cake – after all, you’ll be working the calories off later, right? 1016 8 Street, 403-262-8480




Capo

If you like Italian food (and who doesn’t, right?), you’ll love Capo, which was ranked Enroute Magazine's #2 Best New Restaurant in Canada in 2006. It’s stylish and contemporary, like the folks who dine there. Chef Giuseppe Di Gennaro whips up a menu from fresh, wholesome ingredients and a variety of products imported directly from Italy. has created a menu using fresh ingredients and Italian imported products. Large globe lights hang overhead, emitting blue hues over cream-coloured banquettes. For a real treat, opt for the chef’s table which will give you a specially crafted meal not available on the menu. 1420 - 9 Avenue SE, 403-264-2276