CARDAMOM:

Does your love life need an added dash of spice this Valentine’s Day?  Come celebrate the mother of all date-nights at Cardamom on Beverly Boulevard, for a taste of contemporary Indian cuisine and that added bit of heat you have been looking for. Couples (and singles for that matter) can enjoy a $50.00 Four Course Valentine’s Day featuring a Complimentary Glass of Champagne, Pilau Rice, Raita and homemade Garlic Naan, piping hot and right out of the tandoor.  The elaborate dining experience begins with a first course of Momo, chicken dumplings drizzled with tomato and sesame sauce. Hungry lovers will then move onto a second course where they will choose between two platters: the Mixed Vegetable Platter with Singara, Chutneywala Panner and Pakora or the Mixed Tandoori Platter with Tandoori Seekh Kebab, Chicken Tikka and Shrimp Tandoori. Mouthwatering main course selections include the Tandoori Jhinga Masala, withdelicately spiced tiger prawns cooked in Masala sauce, Badami Malai Murgh,chicken cooked in yogurt, with cashew nuts, cardamom, cloves and cinnamon or the Saag Paneer,a homemade cottage cheese cooked in cream and baby spinach. A little sugarcoating will ensure a sweet ending to an otherwise hot and spicy evening while you order the Carrot Pudding with Homemade Ice Cream and your sweetheart orders the decadent Tiramisu for a Valentine’s Day full of sugar, spice and everything nice (the naughty can come later). Cardamom will be open on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14^th, 2015 for Lunch from 11:00 am to 2:30 pm and Dinner from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm; 7233 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90036; 323.936.1000; http://www.cardamomla.com/index.html

CELESTINO RISTORANTE & BAR:

When it comes to Amore, Italians just do it better.  And what better way to spend this Valentine’s Day than indulging in a romantic dinner cooked by a Drago Brother?  Take your love to Celestino Ristorante & Bar in Pasadena and enjoy a Four Course Valentine’s Day Dinner prepared by Executive Chef Calogero Drago.  Star-crossed couples can dine al fresco on the gorgeous garden patio, intimately enrobed in twinkle lights, or they can opt for cozy seats in the sophisticated dining room. The enchanting evening begins with the Insalata D’Aragosta alla Romeo e Giulietta, a steamed lobster salad in a sweet pea sauce and melon. Next, for the fool or broken-hearted, mend your senses with the Ravioli di San Valentino, a heart-shaped ravioli with red beets in a house-made goat cheese sauce, before moving onto a Filet of Sea Bass on a bed of Peruvian mashed potatoes, with celery and black truffles. Or, indulge in the succulent Chicken Breast Stuffed with Sausage and Mushrooms, topped with a pink peppercorn brandy sauce. Finally, if the stars seem to shine like you have had too much wine, then you are ready for a Surprise Love Cake that you can share (or not) with your sweetie. For $68.00 per person, Dino said it best…That’s Amore! Celestino Ristorante & Bar will be open on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14^th from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm; 141 South Lake Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91101; 323.795.4006; http://www.celestinopasadena.com

MAGNOLIA HOUSE:

Roaring Fire? Check. Cozy couches? Check. Mind-blowing dinner and drinks. (C)Heck yes! Whether you are looking to snuggle up with your sweetie, or you are a single looking to score big, Pasadena’s favorite new neighbor, Magnolia House, is the ultimate love shack.  You and your Valentine will be able to cuddle up to Executive Chef Kyu Yi’s shareable 5 Course Tasting Menu for just $125.00 per couple. For a little aphrodisiac, begin the evening with the Puffer Petite Oysters on the half shell with cucumber yuzu mignonette and a Baby Honey Gem Salad topped with blood oranges, teardrop tomatoes, pickled fennel, shaved parmesan and Green Goddess Dressing. Next, move on to one of Magnolia House’s lip-smacking entrées such as the Miso Marinated Black Cod with charred leeks, roasted fingerling potatoes and shishito ponzu, as well as a Wagyu Rib Eye Cap Steak with smoked salt and roasted golden chanterelles. Lastly, twosomes will not be able to resist the one-of-a-kind decadent Chocolate Raspberry Torte with almonds and raspberry coulis. Be warned, Beverage Manager Colin Shearn’s magnificent collection of cocktails makes it difficult for those overwhelmed with emotion to choose just one. For those looking for love within a glass, you can sip on the Copper Heart made with Pisco, grapefruit liqueur, lemon juice and cinnamon. Those not looking to get struck by Cupid’s arrow may prefer a Bee Sting with potato vodka, clover honey, lemon juice and Absinthe. Lovers can dine by reservation only at Magnolia House this Valentine’s Day, so make sure to book your romantic evening soon!  Magnolia House will be open on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14^th from 4:00 pm to 12:00 Midnight; 492 South Lake Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91101; 626.584.1126; http://www.themaghouse.com

OSAWA

Feeding your loved one is one of the most essential romantic gestures you can make for that special someone.  Instead of worrying about burning the soufflé or over-salting the chicken at home, let the professionals guide you through a sensual evening at Osawa in Old Town Pasadena. Couples can prepare their own extravagant dinners of scintillating Shabu Shabu selections, including the Rib Eye, King Salmon with Spicy Miso Broth and Wagyu Beef from Saga (That’s right! This is the real deal from Saga, Japan for just $89.00 for a full order or $39.00 for a half order). And, who needs a cliché bouquet of red roses when you can enjoy an edible lily flower made from fresh radish,not to mention a showcase of Fresh Sashimi, Sushi, Udon Noodlesand Appetizers like the tantalizing Crispy Yuzu Pepper Duck Breast with green onion, eggplant and sweet miso. Savor your sweetie’s company over A Complimentary Glass of Champagne and continue the love proclamations with hot or cold Sake,a large ice-cold Beer, or satisfy your soul and sweet tooth with a bottle of Plum Wine. Osawa will be open on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14^thfor Lunch from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and Dinner from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm; 77 North Raymond Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91103; 626.683.1150; http://www.theosawa.com

RASCAL:

Ditch the scoundrel to sip and savor your supper with your favorite Rascal… at Rascal! Celebrate the single life or your special someone at this neighborhood hotspot on La Brea Avenue, where Executive Chef Andy Lee does not discriminate against your conscious coupling or non-coupling. How could he with scrumptious à la carte specials like the Blistered Asparagus & Eggs with pecans, shaved Fontina cheese, garlic, shallots and Wild Rocket Arugula or a Whole Roasted New York Steak with roasted spring vegetables, shallots, baby Yukon potatoes and red wine mushroom au jus. Couples beware! You may have trouble sharing delicious comfort dishes like the homemade Ricotta Gnocchi or the Fettuccini Pasta with Arrabbiata sauce, pork sausage, olive tapenade and grated Parmesan. Pair all of these gourmet goodies with a myriad of lovable libations from Rascal’s Drink Menu, which not only includes great wines, but also craft beers like the “Doggie Style” Pale Ale, and the refreshing Red Wine Sangria available by the glass or a pitcher. End a night of foodie bliss with a little sweetness from Pastry Chef Danielle Keene who is giving away (yes, we said giving away) her Chocolate Mocha Fudge Cake and her special Heart Shaped Macaroons. Take these treats home to share with your sweetie or enjoy as a special taste of everlasting love from Rascal.Rascal will be open on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14^th from 5:00 pm to 12:00 Midnight. 801 South La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90036; 323.933.3229; http://www.rascalla.com

SOLITA TACOS & MARGARITAS VALENCIA:

Don Juans who are looking to show their ladies some hot and spicy romance on Valentine’s Day, should look no further than solita Tacos & Margaritas Valencia. With cocktails and cuisine made for two, and a fiery atmosphere (literally, the space features both indoor and outdoor fireplaces!) this sophisticated Mexican restaurant has everything couples need to celebrate their love. Executive Chef Deborah Schneider and Head Chef Rogelio Vazquezhave created a special Valentine’s Prix-Fixe Menu for $39.95 per couple, with three mouthwatering entrées and several sides to choose from.  Lovers can experience both land and sea by ordering the fresh Surf and Turf with marinated carne asada and chipotle shrimp, sautéed corn, mashed potatoes, grilled jalapeño and lemon cilantro dressing, or the Catfish, cooked to a flaky perfection, and served with avocado salad. Can’t decide on just one thing, but want to indulge? You and your love can share a solita 6 Pack Taco Sampler, which is perfect for two and offers something for each of you, such as the Oak-Roasted Chipotle Chicken, Carnitas and Beer Battered Shrimp and so much more. Compliment your dinner with a side of Mexican Rice or solita’s Signature Slaw with a creamy lemon cilantro dressing. One glass and two straws please! Make sure to pair these romantic specials, with a decadent and delicious 32 ounce shareable Frozen Margarita for Two topped with La Pinta, a pomegranate flavored tequila. End the evening with a little sweet with your sweetness, and nibble on the rich and creamy Homemade solita Flan, flavored with vanilla and a dash of Mexican spices, and served in a deep dish on a bed of caramel, and lots of love! solita Tacos & Margaritas Valencia will be open on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14th from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm with the bar remaining open until 12:00 Midnight; 24201 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 3470, Valencia, CA 91355; 661.291.1399; http://www.solitatacos.com/locations/valencia

SPIN THE BOTTLE WINE STUDIO:

STOP in the name of love!  Let the love and the vino flow this Valentine’s Day at Spin the Bottle Wine Studio. Couples who covet their privacy (and do not have reservations elsewhere) can find solace and cupid at this quaint Toluca Lake wine bar and retail shop. Begin the evening with A Perfect Pair of Winos, which includes two glasses of wine and a choice between a cheese or charcuterie plate for just $28.00. Late night lovebirds looking for a nightcap can find Sweet Relief in this aptly named special for $18.00 that features two glasses of dessert wine with some artisanal chocolates. Of course, those creative cooks planning on creating a romantic dinner for their sweetie at home, can swing by on Friday, February 13^th and Saturday, February 14^th to Buy One Bottle of Wine and Get The Second Bottle (of equal or lesser value) at 20% Off. That is one bottle to pair with dinner and one bottle to sip and savor while preparing this special dinner. Okay, maybe you will need an additional bottle as well, but that is what Spin the Bottle Wine Studio is here for!  Spin the Bottle Wine Studio will be open on Valentine’s Day, Saturday February 14^th from 12:00 noon to 10:00 pm; 10139 1/2 Riverside Drive, Toluca Lake, CA 91602; 818.509.7813; http://www.spinthebottlewines.com

THE RAYMOND 1886:

Loving couples looking for a home-cooked experience on Valentine’s Day can find it at their favorite cozy craftsman cottage, The Raymond 1886. Head to the foothills of Pasadena for specially handcrafted cocktails and not one, but Two Pre-Fixe Menus from Executive Chef Time Guiltinan. Those with anxious appetites can also appease their midday cravings with a Three Course Lunch Menu for just $40.00, featuring tasty choices like The Spicy Wedge salad topped with black pepper dressing, blue cheese and jalapeño bacon, a New Zealand Barramundi with blue crab Béarnaise, asparagus and mashed potatoes, Steak Onglet, with crispy onion-potato fry and marinated tomatoes, as well as a Vegetable Ravioli of the Day with Pecorino cream sauce. Pastry Chef Isaac Carter’s sweet afternoon delights include Dark Chocolate Ganache with coconut pudding, cashew powder and salted caramel ice cream and Classic Crème Brulée with fresh berries of the season.For the die-hard candle-light romantics, The Raymond 1886 will serve a Four Course Dinner Menu for $100.00. Satiating savory starters include First Encounters Oysters with a “pick me up” pepper sauce, fresh Sashimi (Wild and Seasonal Fish of the Day) with miso-pears, chili and Spring fruit as well as the Arugula and Wild Mustard Salad with strawberries, Spanish cheese and Indonesian long pepper dressing or the Yucatan Corn Soup with Caribbean shrimp. Chef Guiltinan’s showcase of decadent dishes does not stop there, as he also offers four entrées to choose from, including Roasted Jidori Chicken with a smoked grape cashew salad, haricot verts and mashed potatoes, Roasted Artichoke Ravioli with Oregon black truffle cream, baby mirepoix and marjoram pesto, Prime Beef, Nebraska accompanied by liquefied potato, fish caramel and roasted carrots, as well as the Colombia River Salmon flanked by preserved lemon couscous, harissa cream sauce and cauliflower. Seal the deal with some sugar with your sweetie and nibble on some delectable desserts such as the Dark Chocolate Crémeux with hazelnut dacquoise, praline crunch and fromage blanc sorbet or the Greek Yogurt Panna Cotta with steamed yuzu cheesecake, Satsuma granita and milk tea ice cream. The love does not stop there! Singles looking to mingle can head over to 1886 and sip on several of their Cocktail Specials like the sensuous Sazerac and 1926 Cosmo made with vodka, fresh raspberries and lemon, ortwirl fizzy flutes of Stella’s Groove, a sparkling wine refreshment with strawberry liqueur, Angostura bitters, sugar and a lemon disc. The Raymond 1886 will be open on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14^th from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. 1250 South Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105; 626.441.3136; http://www.theraymond.com

TIPPLE & BRINE:

A little Tipple & Brine is more than fine for your Valentine – oh, won’t you be mine? Tip back A Complimentary Glass of Champagne along with the Lover’s Three Course Menu, showcasing more than a handful of aphrodisiacs from Executive Chef Mike Williams for just $60.00. Enjoy a Half Dozen Oysters with ginger mignonette or the ever-so sinful Seared Foie Gras with Canadian bacon, Brioche French toast and a maple glaze. Mouthwatering main course selections include the Sea Bass with cauliflower cream, truffle conserva and aromatic relish, homemade Gnocchi topped with romanesco, sweet potato, aged balsamic, hazelnuts and parmesan, as well as a Roasted Chicken and a Pan Seared Flat Iron Steak. Share kisses, but make sure to order your own Strawberry Kiss, a satiating sipper with gin, St. Germaine, fresh strawberry purée, and lemon. For those craving their favorite dishes from Tipple & Brine, the regular menu will also be available, but make sure to stop and smell the sweet roses on every table at this festive Valentine’s Day dining destination! Tipple & Brine will be open on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14^th from 4:30 pm to 12:00 Midnight with the bar staying open until 1:00 am; 14633 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403; 818.528.2590; http://www.tippleandbrine.com

TUNNEL BAR:

Rock on lonely hearts! Avoid the cuddly couples whispering nauseating sweet nothings to one another at the table next to you this Valentine’s Day. Instead, show off your moves like Jagger at Tunnel Barin Sherman Oaks, where Tunnel Vision (and beer goggles) are sure to enchant when you sip on some seriously single libations for $8.00 each. Who really wants to share a cocktail anyway? Swoon over the rocker portraits of Iggy Pop and Patty Smith while you knock back the Table for 1, made from rye whiskey with lemon, strawberry and sugar, or cry over your Tunnel of Love cocktail that is made with vodka, orange juice, powdered sugar and blood orange bitters. Snack on some delectable bites of the Crispy Bacon Toast with Burrata, leeks and fennel pollen or enjoy the fresh Salmon Tartare with lemon aïoli, pickled ginger, celery and briochefrom the Raw Bar. Salute all singles this Valentine’s Day and make it all about your fabulous single self… and fly solo at Tunnel Bar. Saturday, February 14^th from 7:00 pm to 2:00 am. 14633 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403; 818.528.3434; http://tunnelbarla.com 

VENICE WHALER:

Nothing screams romance more than watching the moon flicker in the reflection of the Pacific Ocean, and at the Venice Whaler, you can snag a seat on their upstairs patio to do just that this Valentine’s Day! Then, come cuddle up in the Crab Shell Bar and bite into aphrodisiac-inspired menu specials from Executive Chef Nick Liberato. Couples can enjoy a Half Dozen Raw Oysters on the half shell with mignonette, horseradish and lemon or share the Deviled Eggs with Gherkin pickles. Don’t worry singles! The Venice Whaler and Beverage Director Anthony Settecase do not discriminate, so come sip on the Lonely Hearts Club cocktail made with vodka, honey, fresh lemon, raspberries, egg whites and angostura bitters. It’s also not true love without a dose of chocolate. Let Chef Liberato’s decadent Chocolate Layer Cake with blackberries and pistachios melt your heart. The Venice Whaler will be open on Valentine’s Day Saturday, February 14^th from 11:00 am to 2:00 am; 10 West Washington Boulevard; Venice, CA 90292; 310.821.8737; http://www.VeniceWhaler.com

VENICE WHALER TAKEAWAY WINDOW:

Avoid the crowds and enjoy breakfast in bed with your special someone this Valentine’s Day. Come pick up some comforting, good eats and fresh juice treats at the Venice Whaler Takeaway Window. Why bother scrambling the eggs yourself when Executive Chef Nick Liberato can do it for you? Cozy couples with matching bedheads can share a delicious Breakfast Sandwich with avocado, egg, arugula, bacon and mayonnaise on a fluffy English muffin, or dive into the Surfer’s Burrito stuffed with grilled corn, chorizo, eggs, potatoes and pico de gallo. Give your lover the royal treatment while indulging in the sweet and satisfying Venice Queen, a fresh juice made of rose water and cantaloupe. With these tasty treats, the hardest decision you will have to make will be which one of you is going to roll out of bed to pick it up.  The Venice Whaler Takeaway Window will be open on Valentine’s Day Saturday, February 14^th from 7:00 am to 2:00 am; 10 West Washington Boulevard; Venice, CA 90292; 310.821.8737; http://www.VeniceWhaler.com