Valentine's date

While we're still three weeks out, now is the time to start planning the perfect Valentine's date for your honey. Last year I had V-day dinner at Kasbah Moroccon Restaurant. We made our reservations months out and were not disappointed. Intimate seating in draped and cushioned enclaves, seductively seasoned dishes, and great wine made that evening amazing.

This year I'm still undecided but there are several contenders. Oliver's Twist is always a great place to start out or end an evening. The dim lighting, lustful amuse bouche, and jazzy music really set the mood.

As far as dinner, El Gaucho fits the bill if you are trying to impress, after the best steaks in Seattle, start a fire with table side Bananas Foster. For something a little more low key, I always find Italian romantic (think Lady & the Tramp) . Sarafina and La Fontana offer a beautiful settings and stunning cuisine.

We all know that it's not the venue or the gifts that make Valentine's day special but the person you share it with. On that note I would really love a box of ghost chili caramels from Theo and a bottle of Lucien Albrecht Brut Rose.