Ladies and gentlemen. Let it be known that we are giving you (sort of) ample notice that Valentine’s Day is just about here. We don’t want you to be that guy or girl scrambling to book a table at one of our city’s top restaurants on the afternoon of the 14th because this romantic “holiday” slipped your mind.
Here are nine ideas for a Valentine’s Day dinner in Calgary that will guarantee you a kiss on the cheek, at the very least, come February 14th.
*Note: If you’re single, these dinners promise to be just as delicious when shared with a friend.
Avec Bistro
When it comes to melding romance and food, no one does it quite like the French, so why not wine and dine at one of the city’s top French bistros? Choose between an earlier seating with a three course menu ($55), or later on in the evening with a five course offering ($75). (550 11 Ave. S.W., 587-352-0964)
Big Fish
For the seafood lover in your life, there is no better place to spend the evening together than this spot on Edmonton Trail. From lobster bisque to pistacho-crusted arctic char, there is no shortage of delicious dishes to choose from on the three course Valentine’s Day menu ($52). (1112 Edmonton Tr. N.E., 403-277-3403, big-fish.ca)
deVille Cafe and Wine Bar
Bridgeland’s newest cafe-meets-wine bar-meets restaurant is spreading some love this February with a four course menu, featuring duck consumme, braised beef osso bucco and much more for only $45. Who says a romantic dinner has to break the bank? (825 1 Ave. N.E., 403-460-0350, devillecoffee.ca, @devillecoffee)
Libertine
Valentine’s Day doesn’t necessarily mean dressing up for a big night on the town. For a more casual outing, grab a table at this upscale pub on Stephen Avenue for a three course tasting menu, accompanied with beer pairings. (223 8 Ave. S.W., 403-265-3665)
MARKET
Although it will not be doing a special Valentine’s Day menu, this soon-to-be open restaurant on 17th Avenue is likely to be the hottest place to dine in February. Good thing for you, it’s already taking reservations. (718 17 Ave. S.W., marketcalgary.ca, @MARKET_Calgary)
Muse
The lofty interior of this Kensington destination easily lends itself to a romantic atmosphere. Head here on the 14th for a six course tasting menu by chef JP Pedhirney ($95), with an option for wine pairings ($139) or tasting menu, wine pairings and a bottle of champagne to share ($199 per person). (107 10A St. N.W., 403-670-6873, muserestaurant.ca, @MuseRestaurant)
River Cafe
Cozy up with your special someone in the heart of Prince’s Island Park for a multi-course dinner ($85) highlighting the best of our local cuisine. After dinner, take an evening stroll through the park – it doesn’t get more romantic than that. (25 Prince’s Island Park, 403-261-7670, river-cafe.com, @RiverCafeYYC)
Selkirk Grille
For those in the south area of the city and for something a bit out of the standard dining experience, spend Valentine’s Day in Heritage Park with a five-course set menu ($85). (1900 Heritage Dr. S.W., 403-268-8607, heritagepark.ca)
Taste
Regardless of the time of year, this small, intimate restaurant near the Hotel Arts is the perfect place for a date. Come by on the 14th and enjoy a five-course menu created by chef Greenwood that highlights his skills with small plates. (1210 1 St. S.W., 403-233-7730)