Your heart is beating uncontrollably. Your palms begin to sweat. Lips part slightly in anticipation. You take a deep breath, trying to contain the butterflies in your stomach. The anticipation deepens, and the world around you seems to stand still. But wait — can this really be?
What gracious act have you committed to deserve such an unexpected and delightful sensation? Enough with the self doubt. Embrace the inevitable love. Stare back into the rich, creamy goodness of the most perfect chocolate souffle without fear of a broken heart. Take the plunge and treat yourself to the ultimate form of love –– by satisfying your sweet tooth, that is.
Admittedly, I’m a sappy romantic –– the kind who cries watching “The Notebook” or “Sleepless in Seattle” time and time again. For me, Valentine’s Day isn’t about the big fancy dinner and the lavish gifts. It’s about the little things, people. I know, cheesy, yet highly effective.
If you’re finding yourself days before Valentine’s without a plan of action, don’t wallow in despair. Here are some places with sugary delights that will have the same effect as Cupid’s arrow itself.
Bouchon Bakery
Home to some of the best pastries in town, Bouchon Bakery offers everything from rich, creamy chocolate tarts to classic French macaroons. Nestled within the Montage Hotel in Beverly Hills, the bakery is separate from the elegant Bouchon Bistro next door, yet holsters the same sophistication and quality in a more casual –– and less expensive –– setting.
Inspired by Parisian cafes and bakeries, each delightful bite of any pastry brings a little bit of France right to your stomach. What could be more romantic than sharing the city of love with your valentine?
Choose from a selection of fresh, warm viennoiserie and hand-crafted chocolate delights. If it isn’t apparent enough, I’m a major chocolate fan. As such, I cannot deny the recommendation of trying the toffee chocolate peanut butter cups. They are dangerously addictive and a perfectly decadent treat at any time of day. Or maybe try a fluffy warm croissant or delicate brioche. Pair that with a cup of coffee or tea and take a seat in the romantic outdoor courtyard.
Decorated with sycamore trees and a three-tiered fountain, the garden atmosphere creates a quiet, tranquil setting in the midst of a bustling city. Absorb the beautiful view and maybe take a tour of the hotel. The luxurious decor and attention to detail is worth seeing. Accompanied by the soothing sounds of a gentleman on the grand piano in the lobby, the short walk through the hotel will definitely add the finishing touches to the ideal romantic date. All in all, j’adore Bouchon Bakery!
Location: 235 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills
Aroma Bakery & Cafe
Now, I couldn’t previously mention a love affair with the perfect chocolate souffle without providing you with a restaurant that serves just that –– a tantalizing, velvety, mouth-watering chocolate souffle that will make anyone fall in love. Choose between either regular or white chocolate, and within minutes, you’ll be biting into the ultimate dessert. Love at first bite, if you will.
This cozy and inviting cafe is not your average coffee shop. It’s a place with savory and organic dishes –– but most importantly, it has hand-crafted desserts that will make your Valentine’s Day extra special — and make your date extra impressed.
Take a seat in the spacious yet homey cafe that has both inside and outdoor seating with heat lamps for a cool winter night –– if you can really call it “winter” in LA.
Aroma Cafe also offers a variety of traditional, sweet favorites like warm apple pie served a la mode and topped with whipped cream. Other classics include fluffy croissants, delicate danishes and moist muffins. Accompany the tasty desserts with a cappuccino or hot cocoa that will send your sweet date over the top. Despite the lively Sunset location, the cafe is the definition of “homey,” creating an intimate and romantic setting for a date.
Location: 7373 West Sunset Blvd, LA
Whether you’re a sappy romantic or a sour cynic, these sweet restaurants will be sure to lift your spirits. Make your Valentine’s Day special and try one of these places –– or both!
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