February 9, 2006
A Procrastinator's Guide to Romance
As February 14 approaches, some of you might be glad for a day specifically designated for showing some lovin’ to the one you’re with. But if you’re not a natural romantic, you might need some major help on the jour d’amour. Navigating Valentine's Day isn't as easy as it was in grade school, when you could get away with passing out “Kiss Me” candy hearts, baking Valentine cookies, and dropping fun cards in your friends' milk-carton mailboxes.
For those hoping to move beyond the cookie-and-candy-heart routine, DCist has found some final-hour options. Today’s list is for those who are looking for more traditional restaurant experiences.
Readers take note: as of posting time, we've confirmed that our listings still have available seating, but we’d advise you to act fast.
For Charm
Among the most sought after reservations in our list, these two restaurants combine the charm of home with the elegance of fine dining.
Tabard Inn. Four-course dinner (with four choices within each course) at $70 a person. 1739 N Street NW. (202) 833-2668.
Cashion's Eat Place. Four-course taster's menu featuring seafood and squab for $70 per person. 1819 Columbia Road NW. (202) 797-1819.
For Wine Lovers
If you can't sneak away for a romantic Mendocino wine-tasting weekend, sample wine flights at these local restaurants on February 14.
Vidalia. Three-course dinner at $70 per person. Reservations can be cancelled by Sunday, February 12 without incurring a charge. 1990 M Street NW. (202) 659-1990.
Sonoma. Standard menu at this Italian restaurant and wine bar. 223 Pennsylvania Avenue SE. (202) 544-8088.
For Aphrodisiacally Inclined
Add fuel to your fire by feeding your valentine oysters, olives, and other aphrodisiacs.
Dino. Five-course, $150 "adults-only" dinner, featuring foods associated with "passion and aphrodisiac powers." 3435 Connecticut Avenue NW. (202) 686-2966.
Hank’s Oyster Bar. Three-course dinner featuring assorted oysters, tuna tartare, lobster bisque, and a choice of seared scallops or lobster roll. $38 per person. 1624 Q Street NW. (202) 462-4265.
For Valentine's Day, International Style
Craving something more eclectic than lobster and steak for Valentines Day? Check for availability at Thai, Japanese, Chinese, and Indian restaurants around town.
Kotobuki. No reservations accepted; regular menu. 4822 MacArthur Boulevard NW. (202) 625-9080.
Rasika. Three-course dinner with Champagne for $75 per person at this sleek new Indian spot. 633 D Street NW. (202) 637-1222.
Should these options fill up, we also suggest you check out opentable.com for what’s left and TheListareyouonit.com for restaurant updates. It wouldn’t hurt to call or even to stop by restaurants as well, as plenty of couples double-book and cancel reservations at the last minute.





vegetate is also doing a v-day menu AND they're serving alcohol!