Romantic dates and drinks
Calling all amorous couples - get thee out on the town this Valentine's Day. Break away from the normal Thursday night commonalities and jumpstart your love life. While it's hard to keep the flames of passion furled when everyday life intrudes with its bills and pressures, don't make the mistake of kicking this heart-shaped holiday to the curb. Sure, every weekend could take the place of this night with smaller crowds and less planning, but your better half will thank you for making the extra effort. Go get 'em, tigers.
Cafe la Cave 2777 Manheim Road, Des Plaines www.cafelacaverestaurant.com (847) 827-7818
Like snuggling in the depths of a dimly lit cave, this restaurant's cavernous interior gives off a romantic glow any day of year, so it's no wonder the folks at Cafe la Cave want to make Valentine's Day extra special. They say chocolate is an aphrodisiac; why not put it to the test and get in the mood with a unique concoction aptly named Kiss Me Twice. It has romance written all over it: A yummy combination of Ketel One vodka, white Godiva chocolate liqueur, strawberry liqueur and cream, this drink could satisfy any sweet tooth, and the plentiful helping of chocolate shavings and Hershey's Kisses on top only increases its tempting powers. Those looking for more of a kick to match the sparks emitted when looking into a lover's eyes should try Love Potion a la Cave. Its mixture of Jose Cuervo tequila, Triple Sec, sweet and sour mix and Chambord Raspberry liqueur will give the night added steam. End the evening with Passion of Valentine. This crispy Feuilletine dessert alternates layers of rich chocolate and passion fruit mousse. Reservations are recommended.
La Tasca Tapas 25 W. Davis St., Arlington Heights www.latascatapas.com (847) 398-2400
The intricate, impassioned steps inherent in flamenco dancing often mirror the art of seduction. Let loose of your senses and yield to the movement and the music of Guitarra Azul this Valentine's Day. Performing between 7 and 10 p.m. at La Tasca, the flamenco/Spanish jazz band brings along with them a bevy of dancers to spice up the night's festivities, just like assortment of tapas available on the menu. Fresh fish and filet specials also populate the night's offerings, but special attention must be paid to the Armaretto-flavored mousse drizzled with raspberry sauce. Fannie May, just try and beat that. Also indulge in Cava Sangria by the glass or pitcher. Cava, the champagne of Spain, is mixed with Ls Tasca's sweet, fruity red or white sangria for a sparkling take on a traditional favorite. Make your reservations quick before all the open spots dance away.
Improv Comedy Club & Dinner Theatre 5 Woodfield Road, Schaumburg www.improv.com (847) 240-2001
A surefire way into someone's heart is through their funny bone, so take your sweetie to this house of laughter. Located in Woodfield Shopping Center (wow, shopping and dinner in one fell swoop, who wouldn't love that?), this dinner and comedic combo features "The King Of Queens" series regular Gary Valentine (how apropos) in a side-splitting display of irrepressible wittiness. Chow down prior to the belly laughing with a scrumptious meal that includes salad, choice of prime rib or chicken with artichokes and a "divine" chocolate mousse dessert. Complimentary glasses of champagne are included, and the lady receives a flower (be sure you don't let this joint show you up in the flower department, though). The whole shebang will run you $100, but can you really put a price on happiness? That is, happiness induced by a metaphorical elbow jab in the side.
Retro Bistro 1746 W. Golf Road, Mount Prospect www.retrobistro.com (847) 439-2424
Choices. What to do about all the choices? For a superb Valentine's Day treat, Retro Bistro offers both its regular menu and a one-of-a-kind, three-course spread for $35 per person. But this isn't any old multiple course meal where you're forced to decide between two or three items, none of which you may even like. Here, pick between five different appetizers including oysters on the half shell and rock shrimp risotto; five alternate main courses, including 6-ounce beef tenderloin with rack of lamb and fluffy mashed potatoes, grilled Hawaiian Hebi with a ginger soy champagne sauce and duck leg confit over ratatouille with merguez sausage; and 10 homemade desserts including heart-shaped flourless chocolate cake filled with raspberry mousse. Whew! What a mouthful. Wash it all down with a passion-fruit champagne cocktail. Pureed passion fruit, champagne and Chambord Raspberry liqueur make this sparkling concoction irresistible. Add in the pink-and-red, heart-shaped balloons littering the bistro's interior and you've got all the ingredients for a memorable holiday. Throw in a DVD of Pixar's "Ratatouille" upon arrival at home for good measure.
Vinter's Cellar Winery
529 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville
www.vcwinery.com (847) 498-1836
Pre-game over at Vinter's Cellar Winery from 4 to 7 p.m. for "That's Amore Wine Tasting." Not everyone can devote an entire evening to the celebration of this Hallmark-induced frenzy of a holiday. Kids, early wake-up call for work the next morning, a badly planned exam at school - whatever the reason, a late night out just isn't feasible for every couple. But, in lieu of skimping on the romance by staying in and going about the average day-to-day routine, head out early and be home in time to tuck the kids into bed. Six Italian wines, both red and white, will be available for tasting for $6 per person. Vinter's specializes in turning the amateur wine sipper into a full-fledged wine connoisseur . There's no better way to single out your honey bunny than creating a custom wine you can share together at a later date while reminiscing about V-Day '08.