The hours are ticking louder and louder as the day approaches. And it has nothing to do with a certain football game that will be contested in the Southern California area this weekend.
Think a little further down the line, Romeo. You too, Juliet.
Monday, February 14, is St. Valentine’s Day. Now, according to History.com, there were at least three different recognized saints named Valentine or Valentinus, and they were all martyred.
One legend is that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men.
Valentine wasn’t having that. He defied Claudius and continued to perform secret marriages for young lovers. When he was busted, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.
But other others insist that it was this other guy, Saint Valentine of Terni, a bishop, who was the true namesake of the holiday. He, too, was beheaded by Claudius II outside Rome.
There are lots of stories and legends of the day, and they all culminate with you and your special one finding a special place to have a romantic dinner somewhere—like Pasadena.
So in that spirit, we’ve hand-picked seven spots for you to spend that special evening. The only criteria is that we’ve been to all of these places, and can vouch for how unique and romantic they are.
Now then, in no particular order, are seven local spots to make your heart go pitter pat.
The Raymond 1886
This secluded 1886 era original Craftsman home is one of our favorites, from the outdoor patio to the slightly darkened rooms, to go with its modern American menu. The Bar at the Raymond will make your someone special something special to mark the day and evening. They’ve also got a romantic four-course prix fixe menu for Valentine’s Day for the two of you, since they clearly know you were coming.
And you’ll find yourself returning again, on a non-holiday that will be as special as you make it.
The Raymond Restaurant, 1250 S Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena, CA. www.theraymond,com. (626) 441-3136.
The Terrace at the Langham
Situated along the picture bridge and swimming pool on the magnificent property of the historic Langham Huntington Hotel, The Terrace is a cozy spot to spend the evening. And even if you’re not staying, the beautiful manicured grounds are perfect for an evening stroll. You’ll be two nights away from the February “snow moon,” which is more than enough moonlight to create a little romance.
The Langham Huntington, 1401 South Oak Knoll Avenue, Pasadena, California. www.langhamhotels.com
Cafe Santorini
Located on a rooftop in the courtyard of One Colorado in historic Old Pasadena, Café Santorini offers Mediterranean cuisine, cocktails and an extensive wine list. Their indoor dining room is cozy and intimate, while their large balcony offers al fresco dining with views of the beautiful brick alleyways of Old Pasadena. The bar at Cafe Santorini also offers a happy hour. It’s a lovely spot for goo-goo eyes over a table lamp on a Valentine’s Day night.
Cafe Santorini, 64 W. Union Street. Pasadena, CA 91103. (626) 564-4200.
Gale’s Restaurant
We like Gale’s every day of the year, so it’s got to be great on Valentine’s Day, right? Their Northern Italian cuisine is every comfort food ever invited, from the Puttanesca sauce to the extraordinary coconut cake, which we only ever allow ourselves no more twice a year. It could just be time.
452 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena, CA. (626) 432-6705. www.galesrestaurant.com
Mi Piace
Mi Piace has been a Pasadena neighborhood favorite for decades. It features an award-winning kitchen, bakery and lounge famous for its light Italian cooking with a New York accent cuisine..
Designed by New York-based designer, Tony Chi, Mi Piace’s decor recalls Mulberry Street in Manhattan, or an Italian eatery in TriBeca, with its stylish martini lounge, stainless steel bar, illuminated tables and red leather couches.
It’s a great spot on Sunday afternoons. It’s gotta be even better on Valentine’s Day.
MiPiace, 25 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA. (626) 795-3131
Il Fornaio
White tablecloths, sparkling wine glasses, roomy place settings and attentive service is what we think of when we think about Il Fornaio. Something about the setting, in the courtyard at One Colorado, always feels like romance, as well, or at the very least a special occasion. From the Bruschetta Al Salmone Affumicato to a Grigliata Di Pesce Misto or a Casonzei Alla Zucca, we’ve never been disappointed. We’re thinking you won’t be, either.
Il Fornaio, 24 West Union Street, Pasadena, CA. (626) 683-9797.
Entre Nous French Bistro
Jean-Christophe Febbrari and Mathias Wakrat have partnered once again to create a unique and authentic French Bistro in the heart of Pasadena.
Entre Nous, which translates to “between us,” features a menu with dishes and flavors reminiscent of their homes in Provence where both men originate.
The wine list offers the usual French varieties along with a selection influenced by their homes and international travel.
If the French don’t know romance, who does?
Entre Nous, 119 W Green Street. Pasadena, CA. www.entrenousfrenchbistro.com
