Williams-Sonoma and Bellina Alimentari Pair Up for Valentine’s Dinner Demo February 9

She’s your little butternut. He’s the apple of your eye. Meet at the new Ponce City Market Williams-Sonoma store where Bellina Alimentari executive chef David Berry will show you how to whip up an amorous Valentine’s dinner for two that honors these admirable attributes. At this special pre-Valentine’s Day demo on Tuesday, February 9 from 6 to 8 p.m., Berry will prepare ravioli di zucca (butternut squash ravioli) and tortino di mele (apple tart with mascarpone and saba). Come learn and leave ready to fix it all from scratch -- pasta dough, butternut squash with ricotta and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese ravioli filling, a walnut and sage sauce, shortbread tart crust and filling. Could be part one of a two-part romantic Valentine’s date or an inroad to impressing your Valentine over a dinner personally cheffed by the award-winning...YOU.

Cacao Atlanta Chocolate Workshop at Bellina Alimentari February 9

Honestly, there’s a time and place to impulsively eat supermarket checkout line chocolate, but not this week. Instead, look for a deeper relationship with chocolate, appreciating each lovely characteristic. Your matchmakers and counselors? The Cacao Atlanta chocolate crafters will lead chocolate lovers through a guided tasting during a Chocolate Workshop at Bellina Alimentari on Tuesday, February 9 from 6 to 7 p.m. Sniffing, tasting and reflecting on each nuance...the engagement process is similar to that of a wine tasting but without the spit buckets. While you’re licking your fingers, Cacao Atlanta chocolatiers will share a little bit about ethical sourcing and the processes that go into creating their artisanal chocolates. After class, receive 10 percent off purchases in The Market at Bellina Alimentari -- and the market is chock full of chocolates. Valentine's gift hint here. Added bonus: Flashy supermarket displays will be less distracting because you’ve unwrapped the real thing. That’s love. Sign up online at Mercato di Bellina or call 404-330-9933.

Bellina Alimentari Shows How to “Share Love Through Food” During February

In an Italian expression nutshell, food is life is love. With this in mind, Tal Baum, owner of Bellina Alimentari, is ramping up the romance during February with ways to “Show Love Through Food.” From February 12-14, couples can enjoy an intimate dinner for two at Bellina’s Wine Bar with prosecco toasts, artisanal cheeses and meats, two signature pasta dishes for fork twirling and chocolate bread pudding for $38 per person; add wine pairings for $30 per person. For those whose love language is creating and learning together, Bellina Alimentari’s Culinary Club offers special classes including a Cacao Chocolate Workshop on Tuesday, February 9 from 6-7 p.m. ($30 per person); a Valentine’s Dinner for Two lesson with pasta tasting on Wednesday, February 10 from 6-7:30 p.m. ($48 per person); and Pasta Date Night, leading to romantic pastabilities, on Thursday, February 11 from 6-7:30 p.m. ($80 per couple). Take your sweet time finding just the right Valentine’s gift in Bellina Alimentari’s Market where shelves show off fine Italian chocolates, balsamic vinegars, biscotti and more. Shop in-store and online for thoughtful Valentine’s Day gifts such as a Date Night Box with all the ingredients needed to prepare an easy dinner for two ($32), a Truffle Dinner Date ($58) or the Dolce Vita with a choice of Italian treats ($75) so sweet that conversation hearts do not even belong in the conversation. 

Proses and Roses are Fine, But Dinner, Chocolates and Wine Make Valentine’s Day Divine

Hearts afire! Valentine’s Day is heading this way faster than a heart-pumping, foot-stompin’ spin on the dance floor. Trust us, an indulgent Valentine’s meal at one of Atlanta’s sweetest restaurants is one of the tastiest aphrodisiacs in town. Many restaurants offer specials over the entire weekend, Friday, February 12 through Sunday, February 14. Show you really care -- call restaurants early for reservations to ensure you’ll have seats. Please note, prices listed are not inclusive of tax and gratuity.

Valentine’s Weekend Specials

In Roswell, Aqua blue spreads the love over Valentine’s weekend with a special three-course prix fixe dinner menu featuring New York strip and coconut shrimp or seafood-stuffed grouper with lobster, shrimp and scallops for $55 per person from February 12-14. Regular dinner menu is also available. Reservations: 770-643-8886.
 
Article 14, Midtown’s stylish American bistro, duets a special Valentine’s menu as well as a limited regular menu over the February 12-14 weekend. Divine dishes include citrus risotto with diver scallops and roasted beef tenderloin with red wine sauce. Lucky for you, they’ll be open later than usual Sunday hours. Call 404-443-8432 for reservations.

From February 12-14, Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland will feature a woo-worthy chef’s menu boasting crab cakes, lobster tail, filet mignon and delicious chocolate crème brûlée. Call 404-876-7249.

A romantic date at Ponce City Market includes embracing the special Valentine’s menu at Bellina Alimentari, available February 12-14 at the Wine Bar. Enjoy a glass of prosecco, local and Italian artisanal cheeses and cured meats, tastes of two signature pasta dishes and decadent chocolate bread pudding for $38 per person. Wine and cocktail pairings are available for an additional $30 per person. Culinary Clubclasses and gifts in the Market also stir up some amore. Make reservations by calling 404-330-9933.
 
Glenn's Kitchen will put a little love in your heart and stomach with its Valentine's weekend specials. Indulge in lobster chowder ($8), a duo of filet mignon and jumbo sea scallop ($48) and homemade sticky toffee pudding ($8). Reservations: 404-469-0700.

Newly opened JP Atlanta captivates with a sophisticated “Taste of Wild Flowers” menu served February 12-14 in lieu of the regular menu. Selections include Kumamoto oysters, seared diver scallops, lavender-crusted lamb loin and unique desserts like sweet potato doughnuts with brown butter ice cream. $65 per person. Call 404-523-4004 for reservations.

Executive chef Derek Dollar and his kitchen cupids are cooking a feast to set sweethearts swooning at Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails in historic Crabapple. Available February 13-14 in addition to the regular menu, the prix fixe dinner menu is $65 per person and includes choice options such as beef tartare bruschetta, lobster and shrimp pappardelle and delectable desserts. Make reservations by calling 770-817-0161.
 
Ray's on the River (770-995-1187), Ray's at Killer Creek (770-649-0064) and Ray's in the City (404-524-9224) showcase prix fixe menus on February 13 from 4-11 p.m. alongside a limited regular dinner menu. Dinner on February 14 is served from 5-10 p.m. and features the prix fixe menus only. Coursed menus are $60 and $75 per person and boast treats such as braised short rib ravioli, horseradish-encrusted black grouper and twin lobster tails. On Sunday, a Valentine's brunch buffet from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. fills love tanks.
 
Saltwood Charcuterie & Bar in Midtown features a prix fixe dinner menu February 12- 14 along with the regular à la carte dinner menu. With three courses and a dessert, the menu includes choices such as braised duck tortellini and a six-ounce char-grilled filet for $55 per person. The Loews Atlanta Hotel sweetens the pot with a “Love Story Getaway”Valentine’s Day bundle featuring a beautiful in-room rose petal service, complimentary chocolate-covered strawberries with Champagne, breakfast in bed, a $50 food and beverage credit and valet parking. The deal is offered February 1-21, and reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advanceonline. Make reservations for Saltwood by calling 404-745-5000.
 
Seed Kitchen & Bar and Stem Wine Bar celebrate with $49-per-person prix fixe menus on Friday and Saturday. Sunday captures hearts with brunch specials and a prix fixe dinner menu for $75 with optional wine pairings for $30 (both priced per person). The regular dinner menu will not be offered on Sunday. Reservations: 678-214-6888.

Love your local beach house for Valentine’s specials. Over February 13-14, The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill in Roswell tempts with a $49-per-person three-course Valentine’s menu with dishes such as crispy ahi tuna rolls, almond-crusted red grouper and chocolate bread pudding. Call 770-993-5749.

Valentine’s Day Dining
 
Aria, in the heart of Buckhead, will open Sunday, February 14, to serve a special four-course Valentine’s menu from 5-9 p.m. Enjoy chef/owner Gerry Klaskala’s avant-garde take on fine American cuisine for $95 per person. Belated Valentine’s wishes won’t work -- Aria will be closed on Monday, February 15. Reservations: 404-233-7673.

Chef/owner Stephen McGuffin invites lovebirds to nest atCafé Highlands in Poncey-Highland for his four-course menu of progressive American cuisine that includes a pre-entrée sorbet and Champagne for only $35 per person. Call 404-698-3509.

A Valentine’s dinner at Gunshow can be a romantic adventure when sweethearts choose “food for sharing” from roving carts filled by executive chef Joey Ward and the team of chefs at Kevin Gillespie’s Glenwood Park restaurant. Make reservations by calling 404-380-1886.

Whether attached or flying solo, an easy-going Valentine's Day awaits at Midtown’s HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern. Enjoy brunch and bottomless mimosas from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. with live music from 1-4 p.m. From 4-10 p.m., get comfy with two pizzas or burgers and a bottle of wine or a bucket of four beers plus dessert for $49. Make reservations onlineor call 404-968-2288.

If your last Valentine’s party was in grade school, change your tune and join the lively dance party at Johnny's Hideaway, an Atlanta tradition since 1979. Rock the night away with drinks and dancing to live music from Band X, and no cover charge for ladies before 10 p.m.

Tell your Valentine to "meet me at Marlow's." Each Marlow's Tavern location will feature a special three-course prix fixe menu for $35 per person as well as the regular menu of American tavern fare served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Valentine’s Getaways

Want a huge hug? Whisk away to NYC for a romantic, chocolate-filled weekend. James Beard Foundation Award-winning author and Atlantan Keith Schroeder of High Road Craft Ice Cream & Sorbet joins craft chocolatiers Matthew Silverman and Matthew Piekarski for “Bewitched! A Valentine's Eve Dinner” at The Beard House in New York City. Taking place February 13 at 7 p.m., the evening’s new-fangled classics include the Hexx barrel-aged chocolate Manhattan and food options like braised beef brisket empanadas. $130 for JBF members; $170 for general public. Call 212-627-2308.

Closer to home, you can still sneak in a romantic getaway toWhite Oak Pastures in Bluffton, Georgia. On February 13, chef Reid Harrison’s four-course dinner for two includes an appetizer, salad, choice of entrée (grass-fed beef filet, herb-crusted rack of lamb or garlic-and-herb-marinated chicken breast) and dessert with a complimentary glass of Champagne. $85 per couple; $45 for singles (excludes Champagne). Dinner guests receive 10 percent off lodging for the night. Call 229-641-2081 for reservations.

Sweet Treat

Stop by Sublime Doughnuts in West Midtown February 12-14 for a neat treat for your sweetie. Chef/owner Kamal Grant is whipping up a batch of limited-edition heart-shaped doughnuts meant for sharing. Opens at 6 a.m. Friday and 7 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. 

Red Heart Rolls on RA Sushi Limited-Time-Only Menu

Red Heart rolls and Passion Punch Bowl comprise a heavenly Valentine month food and drink match up at RA Sushi Bar Restaurant. They’re just two of the items on the Midtown restaurant’s limited-time-only menu featuring spicy and brightly hued items created to help Atlantans break free from winter’s cold clutches. Look for chili garlic shrimp for $11.25, $9 crunchy yami rolls and Red Heart rolls for $10.95 to warm innards. While king crab salad with avocado and mixed greens for $17.50 and seared ahi tuna on grilled asparagus remind us that spring will soon be here. Cocktails to perk up a wintry day or night include a light and slightly sweet lychee margarita and the blue ginger martini that shakes together Pinnacle Blueberry vodka, crushed blueberries and fresh ginger for $8.50. Sake hounds, sip on the $16 Ty Ku Coconut Nigori premium sake or opt for a flight of three specially selected two-ounce sake pours for $9. Rendezvous at the tropical Passion Punch Bowl for two (or the Baby Passion for one) and sail away on Amaretto Di Saronno, pineapple vodka, passion fruit and aged rums charged with coconut water and juices. Keep these tempters on your RA-radar through March. 

Atlanta Restaurants Share the Love on Valentine's Day

When you were a kid, Valentine's Day whirled around cheesy little cards (for the whole class), message-emblazoned candies, heart-shaped cookies smeared with really red icing and maybe a box of chocolates. Adult life sure is a lot more complicated, whether you're smitten or not. Hugs to Atlanta restaurants for stepping in to save the date with delicious terms of endearment on Valentine's Day menus.

10th & Piedmont and G's Midtown double date -- both offer a romantic Valentine's Day prix fixe dinner for two from 5-11 p.m. For $79 plus tax and gratuity, couples will enjoy a four-course menu that includes grilled Belgian endive salad, a shareable chef's tasting of smoked salmon mousse cups and mini crabcake bites, as well as an entrée choice for each person, such as cumin-crusted duck breast, roasted lamb loin or a surf and turf with lobster tail and filet medallions. Spoon a swoon-worthy dessert, chocolate soufflé for two. Make reservations online or by phone: 10thP.com 404-602-5510 or GsMidtown.com 404-872-8012.

Roses are red, and Aqua blue is equally romantic this Valentine's weekend. From Friday, February 13 through Sunday, February 15, a Valentine's three-course prix fixe dinner is $50 per person (excluding tax or gratuity), and the à la carte menu also is available for those who already have a "love" on the menu. Reservations: 770-643-8886.

In the heart of Buckhead, a four-course dinner at Aria sets the stage for romance on Saturday, February 14. Chef Gerry Klaskala's avant-garde take on fine American cuisine woos and wows for $95 per person. Reservations: 404-233-7673.

Book a date at Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland and embrace the delicious chef's menu February 13 and 14. À la carte selections include flash-fried oysters, pan-roasted black grouper, grilled lamb porterhouse and crispy sweet ricotta ravioli for dessert ($6-$28). Reservations: 404-876-7249.

You flipped over each other, now flip over the creative burgers at FLIP burger boutique, especially the special Valentine's lobster burger available February 13-15. The loaded lobster roll burger hugs a topping of Duke's mayo, crème fraîche, shallots, chives, parsley, avocado and pecan-smoked bacon, all on a toasted brioche bun for just $19.

Whether you're going duo or solo, there's a Valentine's special to love at Midtown's HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern. From 5-11 p.m., a couple's dinner featuring chef's specials plus the regular menu will be offered. From 10 p.m. to 2:30 a.m., the restaurant hosts a Broken Hearts Club singles party with all-you-can-eat pizza and all-you-can-drink beer and bubbly. Party tickets are $29 per person in advance; $39 at the door. Reservations: 404-968-2288.

Whisper a sweet "meet me at Marlow's" in your Valentine's ear (being sure you are both talking about the same Marlow's location). Each Marlow's Tavern will feature a special three-course prix fixe menu for $35 per person, as well as their beloved American tavern fare served in a refreshingly modern setting.

Lovebirds can roost at Milton's Cuisine & Cocktails in Historic Crabapple for executive chef Derek Dollar's special prix fixe dinner priced at $59 per person. Sip on specialty Valentine's Day cocktails while enjoying live music. Information and reservations: 770-817-0161.

Love is way up in the air on the 30th floor of Hilton Atlanta where an elegant dinner at Nikolai's Roof awaits weekend view seekers. Chef de cuisine Stephanie Alderete is offering a five-course prix fixe menu along with the regular menu on Friday, February 13. On Saturday, February 14, only the prix fixe option will be available. Featured dishes include jumbo lump crab terrine, seared foie gras, sautéed swordfish or braised short ribs, and a dark chocolate soufflé to finish. $110 per person, with a four-glass wine pairing for $55 or five glasses for $58. Go ahead and smooch a Strawberry Kiss cocktail ($10) before dinner. Reservations: 404-221-6362.

Your Valentine's a gem worthy of a multi-course meal at The Pig & The Pearl in Atlantic Station. Over February 13-14, both seafood and smoked meat lovers will adore the special three-course lunch and dinner menu. Fan the flames of desire with a shared appetizer course of smoked deviled eggs, poached shrimp and smoked salmon followed by a shared smoke stack of pork shoulder, brisket, wings, ribs, mustard greens, mac & cheese and Sea Island red pea "baked beans." Finish sweetly with flourless tuxedo chocolate cake served with bubbles. $80 per couple, plus tax and gratuity. Lovely additions: four seats will be available at the raw bar each night for a seven-course menu personally designed and prepared by chef Todd Richards and featuring the finest oysters, caviar, smoked meats and vegetables. $85 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations: 404-541-0930.

Ray's Restaurants comprise a romantic trio, and all three locations have special menus in their quivers for cupid's big day. Call the individual restaurants for menu information and reservations. Ray's in the City: 404-524-9224; Rays at Killer Creek: 770-649-0064; Ray's on the River: 770-955-1187.

Prince Charming? The Southern Gentleman, a new gastropub in the Buckhead Atlanta development, dazzles and delights guests with a three-course prix fixe menu rich with lobster and grits, black truffle-celery soup, flounder, petite filet of beef, chocolate buttermilk cake and strawberry cheesecake. Dinner is $65 per person. Reservations: 404-939-9845.

Aloha means love and Trader Vic's in the Hilton Atlanta invites you to bestow aloha on your Valentine this February 14. The Trader's special menu includes BBQ duck breast spring roll, Asian chicken breast salad, entrée choices of wok stir-fried strip loin or pan-seared yellowtail snapper and a sweet spot of white chocolate soufflé with passion fruit coulis for dessert. $60 per person (plus 20 percent gratuity and tax). Add two glasses of sparkling wine for $14.

Join The Shed to celebrate a romantic night out! There will be a three course meal served for $45 per person. There are four choices to start the night – shrimp and grits with chicken sausage, onions, peppers and baguette; tuna tartare served with ponzu gelee, cucumber, trout caviar, scallions and fried shallots; smoked beef brisket spring roll with baby corn, sweet potato, avocado puree, kung pao sauce  or Caesar salad. After that, indulge in a mouthwatering second course that includes options like pan seared bay scallops; NY strip; potato crusted flounder and Springer Mountain Farms chicken.  End this special night with a sweet treat like vanilla crème brulee, deconstructed ding dong, red velvet cheesecake or share the cheese plate for two that includes raisin toast, pecans and apple butter. 

Article 14 is the place to take your lover this Valentine’s Day. Abandon your normal routine and try the menu specifically created for this special night. Begin with a decadent appetizer of oysters and caviar, two choices of entrees: mouth watering diver scallop, asparagus and a petite herb salad priced at $29 or pan roasted filet of beef with cauliflower and hazelnuts for $34. Don’t forget to finish the night off with the $8 “Chocolate Love Affair” so amorous it may feel like cheating. 

Sneak away to Bluffton, Georgia for an idyllic Valentine's Day dinner at White Oak Pastures on February 14. Pavilion meal includes four courses for two, lining up an appetizer, salad, choice of entreé and dessert with a complimentary glass of Champagne for each guest. $85 per couple, $55 for singles, and those who partake in the dinner will receive 10 percent off lodging for the night. Reservations required: 229-641-2081.

Gotta love Willy's Mexicana Grill for this heartwarming special. On Valentine's Day, bring a homemade or store-bought Valentine's card to any Willy's location, and they will love you back with a special offer to use on a return visit.

Buy roses that make a difference this Valentine's Day: Whole Trade® Roses at Whole Foods Market help provide fair prices to producers, safe and healthy working conditions for farm workers and promote environmentally-friendly growing practices-plus each bunch provides a one percent donation to Whole Planet Foundation for poverty relief.

What's New on Pinterest: Hungry for Love

This month, we're hungry for love (and pound cake, brownies and hand pies). Feed your appetite for love with all things sweet and heart-shaped from out Pinterest board! Valentine's Day may technically be on February 14, but we'll be whipping up these recipes all year long - don't tell Cupid!

Champagne et Chocolat? Oui!

 

  

In the spirit of Valentine's Day, we bring you a romantic event to put on your calendar next week. On Friday, February 21, the Alliance Française d'Atlanta will host Champagne et Chocolat, an elegant evening of bubbly Champagne, savory hors d'oeuvre and tastings of hand-made chocolates from Chocolate South and Europe. Blend Custom Perfumes will be on hand with a preview of their chocolate-inspired perfume. The 7-9:30 p.m. event takes place at the Alliance Française d'Atlanta in Colony Square, Midtown. Ages 21 and over only. Purchase advance tickets online: $35 for AllianceFrançaise d'Atlanta members and $40 for non-members. $45 at the door.

Chow Down on Atlanta's Valentine's Day Specials

Whether it's love birds flocking the town or singles who are ready to mingle, wander no further than Atlanta for Valentine's Day festivities.

Prix fixe dinners at the city's hottest spots will set the mood for a night of romance. Share chocolate soufflé for two at 10th & Piedmont, fall in love with twin lobster tails at Aqua blue or dote on your date while enjoying Doty's menu flashback at Bantam + Biddy. After a three course meal, dance the night away with live music Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails. JCT. Kitchen & Bar is serving two specialty cocktails, the "Lady" and "The Tramp," that pair perfectly with their four-course menu.


Dreaming of going coastal for the holiday? Head to Ray’s Restaurants,  The Optimist or The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill for fresh chef specials. Sparks will fly in the city at Buckhead restaurants like Aria and  King + Duke, who  are both hosting a four-course Valentine's Day dinner. You'll be in the mood to say "ti amo" after celebrating the day with the romance of Italy at Osteria Cibo Rustico in Toco Hills or in Decatur at No. 246. Hearth Pizza Tavern in Sandy Springs is tossing up three special pizzas to fit any mood: Stupid Cupid, French Kiss and the It's Not You, It's Me pizza. All three pies are topped with fresh, flavorful ingredients. 

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern offers a little something for everyone on V-Day. Dine with a date from 5-11 p.m. to enjoy a couple’s dinner including the regular menu plus chef’s specials. Singles can party the night away from 10 p.m.-2:30 a.m. with all-you-can-eat pizza and all-you-can-drink beer and bubbly. À la carte choices are just around the corner at Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar with items like pork belly confit and pan-roasted black grouper. Old Vinings Inn and RA Sushi Bar Restaurant  let lovebirds celebrate the whole weekend with specials from February 14-16. 

Willy's Mexicana Grill is keeping things spicy all month long. Bring in a Valentine's Day card to any Willy's location on Friday, February 14 and receive a special offer to use on a return visit. Talk about sharing the love! 

Nothing says "I love you" quite like a box of chocolates. Chocolate South has beautifully boxed chocolates to pass along to mom, dad, daughter or date. Try the Chocolates for Two box, the One and Only box or mix things up with the Cocktail Hour box. Sweet Dee’s Bakeshop is making hearts sing with heart-shaped brownie pops, cookies, red velvet cupcakes, pastries and other treats that everyone will love. 

For a special night in, Whole Foods Market has wine, flowers, recipes and treats to make the night one to remember. Need ideas? Try their recipe for low-roasted lamb tagine with dates.

Do you have a love story to tell? Submit your fairy-tale proposal to the Old Vinings Inn Facebook page for the chance to win a $100 gift certificate for a romantic dinner at the historic Vinings restaurant. Fans and friends can vote for their favorite love story through Thursday, February 13. The winner will be announced on the day of love itself, February 14!

Take a Bite Out of the Big Easy with Marlow's Tavern "Bayou 'n Bourbon" Menu Plus More in this Week's Dish

Last minute Valentine's Day planners - you're in luck! With just two more days to make an impression on your loved one, be sure to check out our list of ATL restaurants with delicious V-Day specials. Ahead of the game on those dinner plans? Check out all the Mardi Gras fun and other events around the city, plus much more in this week's Dish! 

What's new on Pinterest: Relishing Romance

(Photo from Little Cake Bakery)

Relishing Romance is the topic du jour with Valentine's Day right around the corner! Looking for sweet treats for your honey or a Valentine's Day Party? We've got you covered with all sorts of sinfully delicious recipes! Find the perfect recipe from our heart-felt inspirations on our Pinterest board. 

Appetizing Aperture: Aria's Valentine's Day Dessert

Looking for the perfect way to end the night after a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner with your special someone? Aria Pastry Chef Kathryn King has you covered with this dreamy chocolate dessert. If this photo is enough to give you butterflies, just image what sharing the real thing could do for your love life. Embrace more Valentine’s Day dining options here on the Atlanta Dish.

Forget Chocolates – It’s a Meat Market This Valentine’s Day with White Oak Pastures’ Online Sale

What will it be – tacos, savory shepherd’s pie, butter herbed steak? Those are just a few of the ideas that we managed to cook up at home for meals together after the last awesome White Oak Pastures online sale!

Now just in time for Valentine’s Day, they’re back with some better-for-you grass-fed beef and pastured poultry specials that will perfect your Valentine’s Day menu! Hurry and order before the afternoon of February 6 to take advantage of these great prices. Who needs chocolate when a candle-lit home-cooked meal is waiting?

Give Atlanta Restaurants a Ring for the Perfect Valentine’s Day Engagement

Preparing to pop the question? Atlanta restaurants are always engaging whether it be "Will you be mine?" or "Where would you love to eat?" Look for prix fixe Valentine's Day menus and plenty of parties and minglers for singles.

Color Valentine's Day Aqua blue in Roswell, where guests will enjoy a three-course prix fixe menu with items such as New England-style clam chowder, "stuffed" twin lobster tails and classic crème brûlée for dessert. $50 per person, not including tax or gratuity. Reservations: 770-643-8886.

Buckhead's Aria is a chic spot to get in the mood with a special Valentine’s Day four-course prix fixe menu for $90 per person. Beverage, tax and gratuity are not included. Reservations: 404-233-7673.

Celebrate Valentine's Day in Midtown at Communitas Hospitality restaurants Gilbert's Café & Bar and 10th & Piedmont. At Gilbert's, dinner begins with an appetizer taste of braised lamb shank rillettes followed by a soup or salad choice of smoked trout and sunchoke chowder or red apple and baby arugula salad. Entrée options are collette steak skewer, diver scallops or wild mushroom purses. Pink champagne cake is offered for dessert. 10th & Piedmont starts with a trio of small bites including beef tartar, zucchini ribbon roll and butter-poached lobster followed by soup or salad of smoked trout and sunchoke chowder and red apple and baby arugula salad. Entrées include house-made lobster rolls, beef medallions and wild mushroom purses, and ending with mini pink champagne cupcakes. 10th & Piedmont seatings are at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. $75 for two people, either restaurant. Credit card is required to hold reservation. For more information and to make a reservation at Gilbert's, call 404-872-8012, and for 10th & Piedmont, call 404-602-5510.

Swoon over The Valentine's Day menu at Ecco in Midtown. The regular menu will be joined by decadent specials: calamari ala plancha with pears, harissa and basil ($9); roasted quail with chorizo, farro verde and radish green salsa verde ($15); crispy black cod with young collards, hazelnuts, brown butter, capers and lemon ($27); and milk chocolate torte with blood orange coulis and spiced pecans ($9). Reservations: 404-347-9555.
 
Fun for the unattached awaits at the Nuts and Bolts Valentine's Party at Fadó Irish Pub & Restaurant on Saturday, February 9 beginning at 10 p.m. Gender dictates nut or bolt upon arrival at the Buckhead pub. Talk and twist with others to find your match -- all the while sipping on a pint from the pub's wide beer and ale selection. The Irish prix fixe menu is a hearty way to share February 14. From 5-10 p.m., $34.95 per person buys a shareable appetizer of cheese puffs or smoked salmon bites, a shareable dessert of either chocolate-dipped profiteroles or harvest bread pudding, and two of the following dishes: farmhouse salad, fish and chips or Gaelic steak boxty. Toast with the accompanying glass of prosecco, included. Reservations: 404-841-0066.

Passionate about pizza? Hearth Pizza Tavern is, and the Sandy Springs restaurant has some lovely pizza specials in mind for Friday, February 1 through Thursday, February 14. The "Stupid Cupid Pizza" loads up on white clam, artichoke, marinated tomato, red onion, lemon, Parmesan and toasted almonds; "Hot Lips" kisses up to mildly spicy fra diavolo sauce, hot Italian sausage, capicola, roasted peppers, onion, pickled chilies and Parmesan; a steak lover's pizza welcomes a meat lover's embrace. Dine in or take back to your love nest: 404-252-5378.

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern preludes with a pre-Valentine chocolate and beer tasting February 6 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Executive Chef Brett Ring designs four courses of specially prepared chocolate food for tasting with four complementary beers: chocolate-dipped oranges with sea salt and Founder's Centennial IPA; chicken mole over crispy rice cakes with chocolate-dipped bacon paired with Stone Smoked Porter; white chocolate pudding with chocolate graham crackers and cherry compote with Boon Kriek "Cherry" Lambic beer; and ending with a flourless chocolate espresso torte with Bailey's whipped cream and fresh raspberries with Redd's Apple Ale. Space is limited, reservations required. 404-968-2288.

If bellies are love tanks, JCT. Kitchen & Bar in west Midtown is your Valentine's Day filling station, offering a four-course prix fixe menu on Thursday, February 14 for $60 per person. Start with a taste of house-cured lox followed by a starter of roasted local golden and red ace beets, crispy poached farm egg or pan-seared diver scallops. Mains include wood-grilled Muscovy duck breast, "chicken stand" fried young chicken and butter-poached Maine lobster. Share chocolate "PB" pie, white chocolate ice cream or champagne truffles for dessert. Guests may bring in a special wine of their own; $10 corkage fee per bottle. A 20 percent gratuity is applied to parties of six or more. Reservations: 404-355-2252.

Brookhaven-ites can stay close to home with someone special and enjoy the three-course Valentine's Day menu, $35 per person, at Kaleidoscope Bistro & Pub. Not wanting to break any hearts, Kaleidoscope also is offering the regular menu. Reservations accepted, 404-474-9600.

In the heart of Virginia Highland, La Tavola Trattoria is preparing a three-course prix fixe Valentine's Day dinner for love birds. For $49 per person, guests choose from a variety of antipasti including braised rabbit crespelle, grilled calamari or beet and farro salad. Entrées include items such as braised lamb ragu, chestnut gnocchi, grilled swordfish and saltimbocca alla romana. Dreamy desserts include Meyer lemon-olive oil cake, chocolate cake and honey mascarpone cheesecake. Tax and gratuity are not included. Reservations: 404-873-5430.

Share the love with a box of cupcakes from Buckhead's Little Cake Bakery. Special holiday flavors include lemon lavender, passion fruit vanilla, chocolate-dipped strawberry and French kiss. To order cupcakes for that special someone or to treat yourself, call 404-841-8856.

For $55 per person, No. 246 in Decatur is offering a four-course prix fixe menu this Valentine's Day. Examples of entrée options include wood-oven-baked red snapper in cartuccio, butter-poached Maine lobster and braised Wagyu beef cheeks. Tax and gratuity are not included. Credit card required to hold a reservation; call 678-399-8246.

West Midtown's "oceanfront" restaurant, The Optimist, is offering a four-course prix fixe menu on February 14. Begin with a taste for the table of she-crab soup, followed by starter options such as east and west coast oysters, hearts of palm and beet salad or Spanish octopus. Entrée options include items such as white steelhead salmon, Georges Bank scallops or grilled duck breast. Three dessert options anchor the meal. $65 per person, not including tax or gratuity. Credit card required to hold a Valentine's Day reservation: 404-477-6260.

Bless their hearts with a Southern-style, three-course prix fixe Valentine's Day dinner for two at South City Kitchen Midtown and South City Kitchen Vinings for $42 per person. Get started with pimento cheese, fried green tomatoes or fried gulf oysters then move on to a choice of buttermilk fried chicken, braised short rib or vegetable plate. Choose velvet Elvis cake, caramel apple toffee pudding or buttermilk chess pie for the finale. Tax and gratuity are not included. Midtown reservations: 404-873-7358; Vinings reservations: 770-435-0700.

Why wait? Woodfire Grill and Georgia Shakespeare embrace Cupid's day on Monday, February 11 by hosting a "Fools for Love" wine dinner. Beginning at 7 p.m., new Executive Chef Tyler Williams is offering a four-course dinner with premium wine pairings selected by owner and sommelier Nicolas Quinones. Georgia Shakespeare's Associate Artists will provide the entertainment, performing jazz standards and love songs throughout the evening. Tickets are priced at $150 per person ($90 is tax deductible) and can be purchased online or by calling Georgia Shakespeare at 404-504-3405. On Valentine's Day, the restaurant is offering a five-course vegetarian menu for $85 per person and a five-course pescatarian menu or five-course chef's tasting menu for $100 per person. Wine pairings also are available for $12 per glass or $20 per glass for premium wines. Reservations required: 404-347-9055.

Embrace ATL Restaurants for Valentine's Day Menus and Events

This weekend marks America's favorite Sunday, Super Bowl Sunday! Atlanta restaurants are right there with 50-yard-line views and menus packing winning fare to eat in their bowl or yours. After the Super Bowl, feel the love in Atlanta and make your plans for Valentine's Day. Whether you're spending Valentine's Day with a loved one, friends or you're looking to mingle, Atlanta has got your covered. Don't miss the Atlanta happenings in this week's Dish! 

Our Appetizing Aperture of the Week: Valentine's Edition

It's no secret that we at MLA have a passionate love for uber-indulgent red velvet cake. So we're hoping our significant others see this Valentine's Day hint. We'd love for this slice of red velvet from Alpine Bakery & Trattoria to magically appear! Cupid, the ball's in your court...