Flirty Fun Spots For Your First Valentine’s Day Together
via Aba
February has arrived and with it comes every lover of love’s favorite holiday – Valentine’s Day. Chocolates, flowers, cards and every imaginable piece of heart shaped decor are hitting the shelves as you read this 💘 Restaurants and bars are curating special, intimate menus just for you and your loved one (or ones!). And while this all sounds wonderful and does truly warm our hearts during this cold Chicago winter…let’s be honest…Valentine’s Day can be very stressful as well. Expectations are HIGH, especially for first timers who might feel a bit overwhelmed with finding the **perfect** place for their first Valentine’s date night out.
But fear not, newbies! We are here to help make your holiday as easy and stress-free as possible. Check out our list of spots to spend your first Valentine’s together… They work for your tenth or fiftieth Valentine’s Day too!
Aba {302 North Green Street 3rd Floor, Chicago; 773.645.1400}
A funky, vibrant scene serving up elevated Mediterranean fare, Aba is ideal for the adventurous foodie couple. This Valentine’s Day, guests can enjoy Aba two different ways; dining in the restaurant where the normal menu will be offered or by placing an order for their “Valentine’s Dinner For Two” package. This package includes an expansive Mezze spread with favorites like Hummus, Whipped Feta, Beef Tenderloin Kebabs and more. Head to their website for more details on order placement and/or reservations!
Publican Quality Bread/Bakery {1759 West Grand Avenue, Chicago; 312.605.1618}
There are certain things that just go together, and one of them is Valentine’s Day and chocolate. This unique experience, provided by Publican Quality Bread, is perfect for those who won’t mind sharing this date night with others! Led by Head Baker Greg Wade, class attendees will be guided through the process of baking indulgent creations using various types of chocolate. Oh, and did we mention the bourbon spiked hot chocolate that is provided during class? Book your tickets now via Tock.
Soif Wine Lounge {2456 North California Avenue, Chicago; 773.895.6558}
Wine is another one of those things that just pairs perfectly with Valentine’s Day, so you can never go wrong heading to an intimate, cozy wine bar. Nestled in Logan Square, Soif is truly the definition of romantic; think sultry, moody Parisian speakeasy. Perfect for those seeking a quiet evening without the hustle, bustle and crowds of downtown Chicago 🥂 Guests can expect to sip on fine wines and Champagne that pair perfectly with dishes like the shareable Raclette Fondue, Rare Tea Cellars Caviar and La Tarte au Chocolat. Oui, oui!
Sfera Sicilian Street Food {5759 North Broadway, Chicago; 773.739.9128}
Sfera is the perfect choice for those lovebirds that want all the romance, but in the comfort of their own home. Their unique Valentine’s menu takes authentic Sicilian cuisine and gives it a little Midwest flair for a “Celebratory Night For Two” dinner package for pick-up and delivery (order via Tock). The package includes: choice of two specialty Arancini, choice of one Signature Salad, Burrata w/ Pomegranate, Balsamico and Pistachios over mixed greens, choice of a heart-shaped Sfincione Pizza, two Cannolis (Raspberry-Lemon & Pistachio) and a Saffron Sour Cocktail Base to make a cocktail/mocktail at home 💘 A romantic dinner in, made easy!
The Hampton Social {Multiple locations; 312.414.1861}
With a restaurant known for its infamous and instagrammable “Rosé All Day” sign, it is no surprise that rosé is the highlight of their Valentine’s Day special 💘 The Hampton Social is a perfect choice for the rosé sipping lovebirds looking to celebrate in a more lively and laid back setting. From February 7-14, the restaurant will offer their limited edition Valentine's Frosé and then from February 1-13, they will also have a Galentine's Day Experience that includes bottomless frosé and an appetizer in their rosé lounge for groups of 3 or more.
Chicago Winery {739 North Clark Street, Chicago; 312.763.3674
A newer spot in River North, Chicago Winery offers so much more than just tasty wine. From brunch + dinner, to tours and tastings, to private events + weddings, it is truly a one stop shop for romance.
This Valentine’s Day, Chicago Winery will host a “Wine is for Lovers” experience featuring a 5 course menu from Executive Chef, Andrew Graves, with dishes like Lobster Salad and Duo of Ribeye. But wait, there’s more! After dinner, guests can head to the Tasting Room, where there will be a wine tasting with 4 wines paired with an accompanying chocolate. Prepare for a luxurious, multi-sensory experience 🍷
The Whistler {2421 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago; 773.227.3530}
The Whistler is a Logan Square favorite among the “cool kids” and is perfect for the craft cocktail & live music-loving duo. They even perfectly timed the premiere performance of a brand new quartet to coincide with the special day – talk about Valentine’s experts 😉 Guests can expect to sit back, relax, and sip on inventive cocktails all while enjoying the smooth sounds of jazz.
By Robyn Glaza | Social Coordinator