On February 14, people in countries around the world from Denmark to the U.S. to South Korea share candy, flowers and gifts with loved ones. It’s a great opportunity to eat out for dinner whether with your hunny or your best buddy. We have highlighted a couple local favorites in both LA and New York.
Los Angeles:
Rosaliné
http://www.rosalinela.com/reservations
Located on lively Melrose Avenue, Rosaliné LA is a romantic foodie’s heaven. The neon pink sign outside is unmistakable. The restaurant’s ceilings are draped with greenery giving you the feel of an outdoor- indoor space. This restaurant’s revamped design is especially impressive, done by Kevin Tsai Architecture. With easy drinking cocktails and imaginative Peruvian food, Rosaline is a place to check out. A favorite cocktail, Passion of the Geist is with cachaça, tequila and passion fruit is tart, sweet and smooth. Their ceviches feature Peru’s traditional Leche de Tigre, (ceviche sauce) bursting with flavor. They are also known for their paella. The rice takes on the smokiness of all the Peruvian ingredients while maintaining the crispiest textured socarrat on the bottom of the pan. Don’t forget dessert! Save room for the “Chancay con Leche” (Peruvian cake). This cake is reminiscent of a tres leches cake with its rich and milky qualities but pairs perfectly when paired with fresh passion fruit and their house made guava sorbet. Reservations are recommended.
Felix Trattoria
http://www.felixla.com/hours-and-reservations
The most genuine, honest and delicious ode to Italy can be found in Venice and its name is Felix Trattoria. Italy’s cuisine is vastly different region by region and Felix chef, Evan Funke truly highlights this unique feature of Italy that often goes overlooked in American translation. Their handmade pastas are renowned and the center of the Trattoria’s culinary vision. Felix also boasts an impressive Italian wine list following the theme of highlighting regionality. The cocktail that perfectly balances smoke and spice would be the Haitian Divorce. It is hard to choose a favorite pasta at Felix as they are all so unique and wonderfully traditional. Order a few and share! The food is the true standout at Felix but the décor shouldn’t be overlooked. It is homey with old world charm and you could easily be at an upscale Trattoria in the heart of Italy. Enjoy a romantic night here but remember to reserve in advance.
New York:
Nitehawk Cinema:
https://nitehawkcinema.com/williamsburg/
What’s a more classic date night than dinner and a movie? Nitehawk Cinema in Williamsburg releases a healthy mix of new movies and cult classics, satisfying every type of movie buff. You will find traditional movie snacks as well as heartier dinner options and boozy beverages, which are available for delivery right to your seat. Featuring almost all local New York draft beers, locals appreciate the opportunity to try rotating beers from breweries close to home.
Le Boudoir:
https://www.boudoirbk.com/
Secrets out! Chez Moi, the casual French eatery in Brooklyn has a speakeasy hidden inside that has caused some major chatter. Le Boudoir is a stunning craft cocktail bar, inspired by Marie Antoinette’s private chambers that is dripping in gold leaf accents and red velvet. Their cocktails are aptly named to match the Marie Antoinette theme with a favorite being the Guillotine. Flavors like smoky mezcal, and sweet banana and honey pair beautifully for a perfect drink that both women and men would love. Come hungry but not starving as their petit menu is perfect for sharing a few casual bites. You’ll be sipping your cocktail out of ornate silver coupes and Cristal D’Arques Longchamp Glasses, bringing you to a time you have only watched in movies. Reservations are not accepted.
