8 great Valentine’s dinner date spots


Wednesday, February 10, 2010
The incredibly hip Habana in Costa Mesa makes our list of great Valentine's Day date spots. (Image by Flickr user John*Ell/Creative Commons)

The incredibly hip Habana in Costa Mesa makes our list of great Valentine's Day date spots. (Image by Flickr user John*Ell/Creative Commons)

Whether you are planning to pop the question or just pop open some bubbly this weekend, there are plenty of places in Orange County to ensure a romantic Valentine’s Day.

The Ritz Restaurant and Garden, Newport Beach
A favorite among diners seeking great food, outstanding service and an elegant ambiance, The Ritz is a great option for Valentine’s Day. The four course Valentine’s menu offers a choice of 8 great entrees including Maine lobster, osso bucco and roasted rack of lamb. The cost, $170 per couple, includes champagne. 880 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach 949.720-1800

K’ya, Laguna Beach
Known for its small plates (average cost $5), great vintage (splurge on the Dom Perignon) and ocean view rooftop seating, K’ya is perfect for a leisurely and romantic dining experience. If the atmosphere doesn’t remind you why you fell in love with each other, surely an evening at K’ya will remind you why you love living in Southern California. Valentine’s Day Special — $99 per couple for a four-course meal. 1207 South Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach 949.376-9718

The Hobbit, Orange
If you’re looking for a sophisticated gourmet experience unrivaled in Orange County, The Hobbit is it. This award-winning restaurant offers one seating per night, featuring an elegant seven-course meal complete with palate cleansing sorbet intermezzo and a personal welcome by chef-proprietor Michael Philippi. This is elegant white table cloth dining at its best. 2932 E. Chapman, Orange 714.997-1972

Palm Terrace, Island Hotel, Newport Beach
Enjoy a specially prepared five-course dinner, bottle of champagne, live musical entertainment and choice of selections from the famed Cocoa Lounge with its array of masterful desserts. Five course dinner, $250 per couple, includes champagne. 690 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach 949.759-0808

Private Cabana Dining, The Resort at Pelican Hill, Newport Coast
Looking for an over-the-top Valentine’s Day experience? Look no further than The Resort at Pelican Hill. Start with the Duet Couple’s Massage in the romantic oversized couple’s treatment room. Then head over to the poolside cabana, for your four to six course private dining experience. Strolling musicians complete the scene. Reservations a must for this sell out experience. Prices for the massage and dining package begin at $670 per couple. Dinner only in a private cabana starts at $250 per couple. 22701 Pelican Hill Road South, Newport Coast 949.467-6800

Morton’s – The Steakhouse, Santa Ana
If “surf and turf” sounds like the ideal romantic dinner then Morton’s is your best bet. Lobster lovers should head to Morton’s at South Coast Village for the succulent live Maine versions. Meat and potatoes guys will find the menu satisfying too! The food is consistently good. Take your best appetite as the portions are hearty. Normal Menu or Signature three-course menu $109 per couple. ‘Surf and Turf’ dinner $158 per couple. 1641 W. Sunflower Ave. Santa Ana 714.444-4834

Oysters, Corona del Mar
It’s no secret that oysters are considered an aphrodisiac. So of course, a restaurant specializing in oysters is good bet for a romantic evening. The back patio room is especially charming and intimate. Jazz aficionados may prefer bar area seating. Regular menu offered on Valentine’s Day with entrees typically priced at $20 to $25. 2515 E. Coast Highway, Corona Del Mar 949.675-7411

Habana, Costa Mesa
Try something out-of-the-way and different! Habana, nestled towards the back of The Lab, also known as the Anti-Mall, in Costa Mesa is a genuine surprise with its romantic twinkle lights, urban vibe and authentic Cuban cuisine. Entrees start at $16 and up. 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa 714.556-0176

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4 comments


Comment by: shana Posted: February 10, 2010, 4:00 pm

k’ya is amazing!! I can’t wait to check out some of these other spots. Thanks for the great tips!!

Comment by: Lisa Posted: February 10, 2010, 5:00 pm

Habana sounds like it has a really unique ambiance. You had me at “romantic twinkle lights.” :)

Comment by: Julia Posted: February 10, 2010, 5:02 pm

Thanks for these recommendations! I could really use a massage at The Resort!!

Comment by: Sarah Posted: February 10, 2010, 5:05 pm

Just looked at the menu for Habana and am making my boyfriend take me there. So yummy:) Can’t wait.

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