February 10, 2006
Last-Minute Valentine's Day, Part Two
Yesterday, we fed you last-minute options for saving face with your sweetie. Today, we’ve put together a list of Valentine-y things to do for the less-committed that don't involve reaching deep into your wallet for dinner and drinks.
Love Shack
For those of you who are halfway through your 60-day Valentine, take your sugar to a hotel bar. If you’re looking for elixir, CityZen will serve you some potion -- or, at the very least, they'll whip up a seductively potent drink. Another go-to for libations of love is Firefly in the Hotel Madera. If you can find a seat at either, order something to cure a sweet tooth, such as CityZen’s legendary cupcake or Firefly’s Chocolate Napoleon.
CityZen. 1330 Maryland Avenue SW. (202) 787-6868.
Firefly. 1310 New Hampshire Avenue NW. (202) 861-1310.
Moonraker
Feel like role playing? Head to the rooftops for a cocktail and play James Bond and his babe, Dr. Goodhead, at Tabaq Bistro on U where Melih Buyukbayrak serves the perfect martini: shaken, not stirred. Tabaq. 1336 U Street NW. (202) 265-0965
For somewhere more authentically 1979, head to Skydome Lounge at the Crystal City Doubletree. If you haven’t been there, don’t fear: the Coalition of the Swilling has done the recon for you. Skydome Lounge. 300 Army Navy Drive. Arlington. (703) 416-4100
Meet Market
If Valentine's Day reminds you of how long you’ve weathered a dry spell, maybe you should consider the most reliable sources for meeting a mate. Mister Days is said to be quite the scene, though we’re guessing you might also get lucky at Adams Morgan's Angry Inch Saloon, notwithstanding the name. You can also try the new Science Club's downstairs bar for more subtle meet-and-greet -- good lighting, close quarters, fun drinks -- and hope it works in your favor.
Mister Days. 3100 Clarendon Boulevard. Arlington. (703) 527-1600.
Angry Inch Saloon. 2450 18th Street NW. (202) 234-3041.
Science Club. 1136 19th Street NW. (202) 775-0747.
Maladjusted
As hard as you try, Valentine's Day just might not bring out the best in you. Rather than mope like Morrissey, head to the Raven -- "Long Tall Sally" in the jukebox and a drink with bartender Mark might be the perfect cure for your blues. Of course, you could always Tune Inn for a Budweiser or two with locals on the Hill.
The Raven. 3125 Mount Pleasant Avenue NW. (202) 387-9274.
Tune Inn. 331½ Pennsylvania Avenue SE. (202) 543-2725.
