Sample wines of the world in Rolling Meadows

Get your Valentine's weekend off to a jet-setting start with a jaunt around the world - of sorts - as Meridian Banquet Center in Rolling Meadows hosts Wines of the World. Taste wines and beers from across the globe, along with gourmet foods, including beef and turkey carving stations, pasta salads and imported and domestic cheeses. Must be 21 or older to attend.

Facts: 6:30 to 11 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, at Meridian Banquet Center, 1701 Algonquin Road, Rolling Meadows. $25 for a single admission. $20 for two or more people. (847) 427-4658 or thefoodwineexpo.com.

Romance on the menu

Karma of Mundelein offers a special Valentine's Day menu designed for romance. Start with oysters on the half shell ($10), then dig into main dishes such as fire-roasted game hen, grilled veal chops or lobster tail with prawns and scallops ($28-$45). Finish on a sweet note with re a heart-shaped chocolate brownie or a "dessert sampler" with coconut rice pudding, ginger crème brûlée and chocolate moelleux cake ($10-$12).

Facts: 5 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, at Karma, 510 E. Route 83, Mundelein. Reservations recommended. (847) 970-6900 or karmachicago.com.

Warm your heart

Pause for a moment by the Birch River Grill's massive fireplace before sitting down for a prix-fixe Valentine's Day dinner featuring an appetizer of herb-crusted tuna loin and entree elections of petite filet mignon or wild striped bass. Then, sample the Menage a Trois dessert with its trio of milk, drak and white chocolate mousse.

Facts: Noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, at Birch River Grille, 75 W. Algonquin Road, Arlington Heights. $44.95 per person. (847) 427-4242 or birchrivergrill.com.