Valentine’s Day is not for the weak-hearted—or the empty-stomached either. You may start this special day with chocolate hearts, candy, and flowers, but what better way to end the evening than with quality time over a lovely meal for two? Whether you’re craving a warm Italian dish or seafood that melts in your mouth, we’ve rounded up the best places for dinner based on positive reviews and word on the street. You’ll be sure to impress your date or spouse and have an evening to remember. Cue the heart eyes and your appetite.
Grand View Restaurant
Head over to the Mt. Hamilton
Grandview for a delectable and classy meal with a gorgeous view. This Italian-themed steak house has a few popular
dishes, including filet mignon, prime rib, Brussel sprouts, and lobster carbonara. Every meal comes with warm bread, and if you’re looking for a menu item with bigger portion size, try one of their pasta dishes. We recommend stopping by at sunset; this breathtaking restaurant’s prime location overlooks the stunning Santa Clara Valley. You’ll also have plenty of seating options, from indoor tabletops against beautiful window sills to patio seating with fresh air and lots of heaters to keep you warm—even in the brisk San Francisco winter. This is the perfect spot for a couple looking for a good meal with a romantic ambiance, but a casual evening above all else. There isn’t a dress code, but many come in a simple dress or polo and slacks. There is a small parking lot, so you can drive in from anywhere to experience the perfect evening.
Location: 15005 Mount Hamilton Rd, San Jose, CA 95140
Cityscape
If you and your date are looking for a lighter
dinner with more of a focus on trying new drinks and cocktails,
Cityscape is the place for you. The lounge and bar are located 46 stories above the streets of Union Square and is the tallest sky bar in San Francisco. With 360 degree views of the Bay, you’ll be sure to impress your partner for the evening. Cityscape offers craft cocktails, top-shelf spirits, local beers and wines, and small plates. Eat light bites like ahi tuna tartare, chorizo skewers, shrimp cocktail, or a charcuterie board—we highly recommend doing so at sunset for optimal views. We would suggest a particular drink that’s known for being excellent, but each one is unique and fantastic (although many love the BUZZ, SPARKLE, POP, which has an actual alcoholic popsicle in it and is very Instagram-friendly). You’ll find seats next to floor-to-ceiling windows, at the bar or in a booth, or raised in the center of the room for an equally amazing view. Once the sun goes down, you’ll be floored by the eclectic and cool ambiance: purple lights, high ceilings, and the natural glow of city lights from beyond. Another similar lounge with small plates and famous libations is
The View, which has massive arched windows overlooking the skyline and a posh vibe (try the Skyline Punch or Frisco Smash), and
Top of the Mark, which is a good choice for drinks, fancy tapas, and a night of dancing (they have a
romance package that is perfect for Valentine’s Day).
Location: 333 O'Farrell St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Waterbar Restaurant
Looking for fresh, mouthwatering
seafood and more dazzling up-close waterside views? Dine at
Waterbar Restaurant for the special evening. This stylish spot is known for its incredibly expansive oyster bar (one of the best on the West Coast) and its sustainably sourced fish (try the sea bass). Sit outside on the heated patio for a night under the stars and the twinkling Bay Bridge lights, or at the horseshoe-shaped bar for more casual but just-as-fancy seating. With floor-to-ceiling aquariums and a two-story roof, you and your partner will be more than floored. This is the perfect spot for a classic, classy dinner. It’s also just south of the “Cupid's Span" sculpture, so head there afterward for your final Valentine’s Day stop!
Location: 399 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105
Liholiho Yacht Club
For those looking to try something quirky and different but still high quality,
Liholiho is the way to go. This buzzy and casual eatery offers a unique array of Hawaiian, Indian, and Chinese
dishes in a brick-walled setting with big, comfortable booths. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, so you’ll get cozy very quickly. The sense of culture, heritage, and meaning surrounding this culinary experience are astounding and memorable, and the hospitality is unmatched. Try their beloved tuna poke or beef tongue, which is two of their most popular dishes.
Location: 871 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA 94109
Gary Danko
A special occasion calls for a special, Michelin-rated restaurant.
Gary Danko, a French-inspired restaurant with a brilliant wine list, is a recurring contender on both local and national foodie lists. Head down to the Fisherman’s Wharf for a luxurious
meal with impeccable service (the risotto is to die for). This is one of the few restaurants on our list that requests “elegant attire,” so be sure to come in your best dress. In this warm and welcoming dining space, you’ll sit below orchids and vibrant artwork—perfect for an intimate and romantic experience. Patrons can choose from three, four, or five-course meals, with each round comprised of inventive and delicious combinations. Cheese is presented tableside with a fun and classy touch; don’t forget to leave room for their amazing chocolate soufflé for dessert!
Location: 800 North Point Street, San Francisco, CA 94109
BIX Restaurant
Over in the Financial District area? Try
Bix Restaurant, the super swanky supper club that specializes in French-American
cuisine. If you and your loved one are music lovers, you’ll enjoy their amazing food paired with live jazz. For the ultimate romantic vibe, the two-story restaurant is dimly lit with expansive ceilings and an art deco aesthetic complete with mahogany everywhere. For a more lively experience, sit by the bar on the first floor so you’re up-close with the music. For a more intimate evening, ask to be seated on the mezzanine, where you can still witness the bustling energy below. The lobster spaghetti is the best of the best, and we love that their chefs shop at local farmers' markets every week for fresh and sustainably sourced ingredients!
Location: 56 Gold St, San Francisco, CA 94133 (In the alleyway)
Zuni Café
Finally, we’ve found the best-roasted chicken in the culinary game. Head to
Zuni Cafe for their famous, succulent roasted chicken. If that’s not for you, they have plenty of seasonal wood-fired
eats. The restaurant is flat-iron-shaped and encased in glass, with a vibe that’s in-between laid-back and ornate. For a more romantic setting, opt for a corner seat on the second floor that overlooks the bustling San Francisco street. We love the Zuni Caesar salad and warm bread paired with the buzzed-about roasted chicken for two.
Location: 1658 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Getting Hungry?
If you are looking to make the move to the Bay Area so you are always in close proximity to these romantic and delicious dining establishments,
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