The Upscale
Island Creek Oyster Bar
If you’re looking to really impress your date, Island Creek Oyster Bar is the place to go this Valentine’s Day. They have an expansive menu of raw seafood appetizers, delicious entrees, and inventive cocktails. It’s located right off the Kenmore stop, so it’s not too far a hike either. If you drive though, lock your car. Last year my boyfriend had his backpack stolen, which put a bit of a damper on our anniversary night.
The Lobster Roe Noodles, Fish and Chips
The Tip Tap Room
The Tip Tap Room is a more casual dining experience, with modern, industrial décor. The best part about the restaurant is that you can keep the night more frugal with one of their many burger or tips options, or you can go crazy and order the “wild game special,” a rotation of uncommon cuts such as venison or kangaroo.
Recommendations: The Lamb Meatballs, The Steak Tips
Toro
Toro is a Barcelona style tapas bar in South Boston. They have an extensive menu of tapas and paellas, all locally sourced and sustainably produced. Unfortunately, their local is small so they can’t take dinner reservations so the restaurant may be better saved for a personal celebration rather than a national one. But while it may not be the best choice for Valentine’s, definitely keep this restaurant in mind when planning a roommate’s birthday.
Recommendations: Paella Valencia, Maiz Asado
The Downscale
The Tap Trailhouse
Admittedly, I have yet to go to The Tap Trailhouse personally, but I’m dying to try it. The restaurant is an American pub located near Faneuil Hall, and boy, does it seem like they take the history of their local seriously. Their menu includes period- appropriate meals like fried smelts and Lobster pie, as well as the more classic burgers and sandwiches. Some of their menu options are a little pricier than others, but there are still plenty of more affordable options too.
Recommendations: The Oyster Tacos, The Mayflower Roast Beef Sandwich, The Colonial Burger
The Glenville Stops
The Glenville Stops is a hidden gem nestled in a residential area right before the Harvard Ave. area. It’s close by, cheap, and delicious. Here, you can order from a number of “Large Plates” (And they mean large!), or from a wide selection of “Small Plates” and “Bar Bites.” In addition to their food menu, they have an extensive beer and wine list, and their staff is great at recommending drinks to those less experienced in the subject
Recommendations: The Lamb Meatballs, The Asian Style Hamburger
Al Dente
You can never go wrong in the North End on Valentine’s Day, but Al Dente is one of the best stops for lower prices and lots of food. Again, I have never been here personally, but the place has nothing less than stellar reviews. The feel is cozy and friendly, and they have an open kitchen-which is always the mark of a great restaurant since they have nothing to hide!
Recommendations: Gnocchi al Dente, Lobster Ravioli
Photo Sources:
Yelp
UrbanSpoon