Here are our suggestions for where to go to dine and drink in on Valentine’s Day, whether you’re spending it with your beau or your gals.
e2 emeril’s eatery: Could this special V-day menu be any lovelier? If you dine at e2, don’t forget about their amazing selection of craft cocktails. The classic champagne cocktail and the French 75 are especially romantic.
e2’s Valentine’s Day Menu
Appetizers
Crudo Trio $12
Marinated Blue Crab Claws with Basil and Shallot, House-Cured Salmon with Dill Cream, Tuna with Olive Caper Tapenade and Preserved Lemon AioliWiano Oysters on the Half Shell
Half Dozen for $20
Cocktail Sauce, MignonetteLobster Caprese Salad $14
Grilled Lobster Tail, House Mozzarella, Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes, Balsamic, Extra Virgin Olive OilEntrees
Scallop, Halibut, and Mussel Paella $42 for two
Chorizo, Bomba Rice, Saffron, Roasted Peppers, PeasLamb Ragu $26
House Semolina Pasta, Butternut Squash Puree, Ricotta, Golden Raisins, Pine Nuts, Basil, MintFilet Mignon
7 oz. – $34
14 oz. – $70
Truffle Whipped Potatoes, Baby Carrots, Cabernet ReductionDessert
Dark Chocolate Cake $10
Chocolate Mousse, Raspberry-Port Ice Cream, Meringue
Lumiere: The French do it best when it comes to preparing food and wine with love. The group that brought you The Liberty taps into Tom Condron’s experience in Paris and his time with Jean Louis Palladin to bring modern french cooking to Myers Park.  Join the brand new Lumiere on its opening night, February 14th, and enjoy a romantic dinner for deux. From the looks of Lumiere’s Facebook photos, you’ll be able to satiate your sweet tooth with inventive desserts.
5Church:Â Venture to Uptown for a romantic four-course meal throughout Valentine’s week. From February 11th until February 16th, 5Church will offer a $50 prix fixe menu including entrees like filet mignon and seared scallops. Opt for one of three sweet finishes including a flourless chocolate cake, raspberry pavlova with whipped cream and red wine syrup or red velvet cake.
Soul Gastrolounge: If your Valentine’s Day checklist includes romantic lighting, shared plates and craft cocktails, Soul is the place to go on February 14th.
The Asbury:Â Do something different this Valentine’s Day and check out one of Charlotte’s newest restaurants. The Asbury, located inside of the Dunhill Hotel in Uptown, has recently taken over the former space of Harvest Moon Grill. Best described as contemporary southern style, the focus is on local flavors and farms. Call 704-342-1193 for reservations.
Heritage Food and Drink: If you’re willing to take a drive out to Waxhaw on Valentine’s Day, you should definitely dine at Heritage. Named one of the best new restaurants of 2013 by the Charlotte Observer, you’ll be in for a real farm-to-table treat. The season-driven restaurant is offering a multi-course testing menu for $60 + per person. Call 704-843-5236 for more info and reservations.
Bistro la Bon: If you’re not fussed about celebrating Valentine’s day on February 14th, you’re in luck. Bistro la Bon still has reservations available for the 13th and 15th. Skip the crazy crowds and enjoy a quieter evening with your other half.
Tupelo Honey Cafe: If you’re waiting for restaurants to clear out before you wine and dine, head to Tupelo Honey Cafe next week. The Southern eatery will be donating 20 percent of its proceeds from February 17th-19th to the YWCA of Charlotte.