The Argonaut

Issue date: 1/31/08 Section: Entertainment

Hey, guys! Do you know where you'll be wining and dining your sweetheart this Valentine's Day? If not, here are some suggestions for a variety of lovers and taste buds.

For anyone who takes a particular liking to traditional Italian cuisine, Da Flora would be a special treat. The scenery is sure to be as inviting as the main course.

This charming restaurant is located on the corner of Columbus Avenue in San Francisco and is adorned with eclectic paintings hanging from the deep crimson walls, which encompass tiny tables and mismatched vintage chairs.

The handwritten menus add a sense of authenticity, in addition to the homemade dishes they describe. The entrees offer seasonal dishes, with the exception of a few favorites, including lemony ravioli with spring onions and favas, sweet potato gnocchi in sherry cream sauce, and some of the city's most famous house-made faccocia.

It doesn't get much cozier than Da Flora. Recommended attire is dressy casual and walk-ins are welcome so there is no need to stress on making reservations.

For those of you feeling a little less homey and a bit more sophisticated, perhaps Absinthe is the place for you. This lovely French brasserie, classically romantic and stunningly spectacular, can be found on Hayes Street in the city, next to the Opera House.

At its gorgeous hardwood bar, you can seize the opportunity to romance your date or simply relax and take in the scenery over a cocktail. Upon reviewing the menu you will notice California-inspired French cuisine and delicacies such as the confit of duck leg with braised cabbage and brandied apples.

Following the main course you might be tempted to experience some of the exquisite desserts they offer. Reservations are suggested.

Women seeking a special spot to take their men for a hearty meal might consider Bobo's on Lombard Street in San Francisco.

According to its website, better steakhouses are known for aging their beef for up to 21 days, but Bobo's has its certified Prime dry-aged for four to six weeks, creating a mouth watering masterpiece that even the dullest butter knife could slice. One of their specialties is the bone-in filet mignon, an incredibly flavorful cut rarely found in restaurants.

If your date would enjoy this but you aren't much of a meat lover, do not fear, Bobo's also offers seafood, such as the roasted Dungeness crab drizzled with garlic butter plus delish sides, namely the thick cut sweet Maui onion rings.

Don't be fooled by the term "steakhouse." The plush red leather booths and private nooks offer a sexy, romantic setting and the full bar always helps! This place is conveniently open late and there is valet parking. Reservations not needed.

Attention sushi lovers! Fuki Sushi offers an absolutely gorgeous setting and is a little closer to home. Located just south of NDNU in Palo Alto, Fuki Sushi offers a multitude of dining options.

For more casual fun, hang out at the sushi bar and experience the art of the chefs. Or, for a little more privacy and a purely Japanese experience, remove your shoes and dine in one of the pretty tetami rooms.

A couple other options include the main dining room which is described as absolutely gorgeous and the Sun Room that glistens with natural lighting, which might be the better option if you choose to do lunch or an early dinner.

Finally, Fuki Sushi offers outdoor seating in a landscaped garden area that is ideal when the weather is permitting. Ordering will probably be just as difficult as deciding where to sit, considering the lengthy menu of delicious appetizers and entrees.

Two recommended appetizers include the assorted clam sashimi and the tako sunomono (sliced octopus and cucumbers in a vinegar sauce). This place is business casual, noted for having heart healthy dishes, and offers a full bar. It is suggested that you make reservations if you'd like to dine at Fuki Sushi.

Last, but certainly not least, there is a cozy cottage hidden behind a large building right here in our own backyard.

On El Camino in San Mateo, the Dining Room is a local fine dining restaurant specializing in contemporary cuisine. The menu features pricey delicacies a la carte or a multicourse prix fixe. Chef-owner, Jon Sears, creates small portioned masterpieces using costly ingredients such as foie gras and shellfish. He hand picks the wines offered to compliment his dishes.

Keep in mind, jackets are required for this fine dining experience, and reservations are recommended.

So, anyone still scrambling for ideas on where to romance their date this Valentine's Day, please consider these Bay Area restaurants. After all, good food is the best way to anyone's heart!

For more information, see .

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools