You’ve finally recovered from the stress of the holidays, only to realize there’s another big day looming on your calendar. Although Valentine’s Day can incite panic in many of us, there are plenty of dinner and event options across Dallas that promise a memorable night out for and your special someone.
Take the hands-on approach to your dinner plans this year by signing up for one of two Valentine’s Day-themed cooking classes at The Cookery (1130 Dragon St.), located in the trendy Dallas Design District. You’ll learn how to make a romantic, three-course meal at home for your sweetheart, putting together an exquisite menu from recipes for a spicy rémoulade crab tower, chicken cacciatore and decadent crème brûlée. The Cookery will also hold an Italian-themed class on February 14. Here, you and your loved one can learn how to whip up the perfect beef braciole among other savory delights. Classes last about three hours, and tickets are $95 per person.
If you would rather sit back, relax and take in a fantastic view with your date, head to Saint Rocco’s New York Italian (3011 Gulden Ln., #100) at Trinity Groves. This local favorite will be hosting an exclusive “Champagne and Chocolates” rooftop event for the romantically inclined. Watch the colors of the sunset play across the iconic Downton Dallas skyline as you enjoy a glass of bubbly and a wide selection of chocolates. Tickets are $30 per person and include gratuity.
For those couples interested in an exceptionally elegant night out, head to French restaurant Bullion (400 S. Record St.) in Downtown Dallas. Guests will be treated to a four-course meal that includes peekytoe crab and caviar, sweet potato tarte tatin, boeuf and pomme de ferre, and raspberry poached apple with ginger crème brûlée ice cream. (Is your mouth watering yet?) Reservations start at $135, with a $58 wine pairing option.
If you prefer your special meal without the hefty price tag, consider making a date at Lucky’s Cafe (3531 Oak Lawn Ave.) to enjoy a diner take on the classic V-Day dinner. This Dallas institution has been around for 30-plus years and sees a sizable crowd every February 14. This year, they’re making the holiday extra-special by offering patrons a complimentary dessert with any purchase of two entrees, in addition to $5 champagne served all day long.
Of course, not everyone has been shot by cupid’s bow this year. Those flying solo on February 14 should head to The Rustic (3656 Howell St.), which will be throwing a cheeky Singles Awareness Day party. The event kicks off at 6 p.m. — that’s when DJ Christy Ray starts spinning breakup tunes. However, representatives from dating app Bumble will also be onsite to share icebreakers and speed dating games, so don’t count your chance at love as lost just yet.
Lastly, it wouldn’t be Valentine’s Day in Dallas without Keith & Margo’s Annual St. Valentine’s Massacre, held at the Omni Dallas Hotel at Park West (1590 Lyndon B. Johnson Fwy.) on February 16. This famous murder mystery party will be celebrating its 29th anniversary in 2019. As always, attendees can expect equal parts humor and sleuthing as they interact with professional actors to solve a series of crimes. If you haven’t given this one a try, it’s a memorable way to keep the fun going into the weekend. Tickets start at $120, and the event includes a three-course meal and one drink ticket per person. Cocktail attire is required.
What do you have planned for the most amorous day of the year? Share your recommendations with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
