JOSH WMYCZAK/Photo Editor
LISA YAMADA
Staff Writer
Whoever said the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach didn’t know how much women love to eat. Whether you’ve got a few hundred dollars to spare or just change jingling around in those deep pockets, this Valentine’s win her (or his) heart with one of these delectable last-minute restaurants.
Geoffrey’s
Wow your woman this Valentine’s Day with a 180-degree view of the Pacific Ocean at Geoffrey’s in Malibu. Arrive early to catch a breathtaking sunset ease its way down into the horizon, and stay late to snuggle near a cozy fire pit.
The crème de la crème of romantic hotspots, Geoffrey’s has been making Valentine’s Day easy for 25 years. This year, the Malibu landmark will feature a dreamy three-course meal, which includes fresh Maine lobster with a chanterelle mushroom and tarragon potato risotto or tender filet mignon with blue cheese potatoes and foie gras butter, among other equally beautiful choices.
Seal the deal with a decadent chocolate hazelnut crunch cake. If she’s not already head over heels, she will be after this one.
Three-course meal is $98 per person and includes a complimentary glass of sparkling wine. Call Geoffrey’s for reservations at (310) 457-1519.
The Melting Pot
Melt her heart with a night of fondue fun at The Melting Pot in Thousand Oaks. Unlike mom and dad’s fondue parties in the ‘70s, there’s nothing cheesy about this joint, except for maybe the menu. Start with a gooey pot of bubbling cheese fondue, then watch medallions of filet mignon, marinated chicken and tiger shrimp simmer away in a flavorful broth.
And what Valentine’s is complete without a little chocolate, or a whole pot of it? Save room for the creamy chocolate fondues, which come with assorted fresh fruits, cheesecake squares, puffy marshmallows and little cakes for dipping. But be careful to avoid burning the tongue – the white, milk or dark chocolate selections are so decadently rich that it will have you licking the pot when the waiter’s not looking.
Four-course meal from $69-$79 per person. Call The Melting Pot in Thousand Oaks at (805) 370-8802 for reservations.
Spumoni
For those short on change but big on love, spend Valentine’s at Spumoni restaurant in Calabasas for a special night of music and romance. Enjoy opera by Matt James, who will serenade lovers as they enjoy a romantic four-course meal.
James has performed his unique jazz-opera fusion at concerts, galas and fundraisers attended by such celebrities as Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and producer James Cameron. He has also performed alongside the likes of Dennis Miller, The Pointer Sisters and the Santa Barbara Symphony.
Dinner and entertainment costs just $29.95, and if she’s not already won over by the pasta and opera, she’s sure to be floored by your thrift.
But keep it classy, boys, and leave the coupons at home. Spumoni will not be accepting any coupons, printed or mailed, on this special day.
For more info on Matt James or to hear his music, check out www.TheMattJames.com. Call Spumoni at (818) 871-9848 to reserve your table today.
Suki 7
No love? No problem. Head over to Suki 7 in Westlake Village for a single night out without the hassle of roses and stuffed teddies. Every Thursday night, Suki gets sexy until 2 a.m., and with DJ Hurricane spinning an eclectic mix of rock and pop, this Valentine’s will be no different.
After an Asian-inspired, four-course meal, head around the 360-degree, wood-paneled sushi bar and dance off the calories to bumping beats and pulsating lights.
And if all that dancing has got you feeling hot like wasabi, cool off on the outside patio or rest those aching heels under the calm golden Buddhas.
Who knows, you might even find a valentine along the way.
Five-course menu is $75. Twenty-one and older after 9 p.m.
By the end of this Valentine’s, your man will be walking home sockless, because you’ll have rocked them off.
02-14-2008
