Valentine's Day: Dine out or stay home?

[Robin Garr]

I've often heard Valentine's Day (like Mother's Day and a few other holidays) referred to as "amateur night."

What do you guys think, both those of you in the business and those who dine out: Is Valentine's Day a good day to avoid the restaurant scene (assuming you don't have to work there)? Or should we ramp up our support of the locals even on Cupid's Day?

The Serious Eats blog says "Avoid."

Why You Shouldn't Dine Out on Valentine's Day

I despise prix fixe menus. We always stay home.

You need to dine out. If I have to work and miss my loved one, then you could at least have the decency to give me something to do.

I despise prix fixe menus. We always stay home.

I certainly agree with that sentiment especially because the special prix fixe menus to come up with for holidays like this are not the bargains that they make you think they are! All they are really are is a way to overcharge customers and make it easier on them!

Valentine's Day is not a concern when it comes to supporting local Restaurants. We have all we can handle...

The advice that I gave to a friend recently went like this:

'I would recommend celebrating on Friday. It would be something he wouldn't expect. Besides, V-Day isn't all that romantic- fighting through crowds and all of that business.'

Restaurants can handle the volume- it's just that an intimate night with your love should feel 'intimate.'

That's what I would do. Or book for a late dinner, after the show. The fewer people, the better.

Sorry, Ronnie- but if we were going to go out for Valentine's Day it would not be to J. Gumbos. Love your food, but I'd like just a bit more romance.

Personally, we never eat out on major holidays- particularly this one or Mothers Day. We have a lovely 4 course planned to enjoy at home. At my 10 year old's suggestion however, we are eliminating the salad course and having two dessert courses.

We've reserved a four top for our final meal at Palermo Viejo. Valentine's Day seems appropriate.

We always stay home. Same with other "amateur nights," unless we go to a friend's house/gathering.