Originally uploaded to flickr by jhritz
Its nearly Valentine’s Day and while I’ll be content to receive my first true love (chocolate) from my Valentine, perhaps you’d like to venture outside the house rather than eat an entire box of Godiva in a single afternoon. In which case, I give you a sampling of Valentine’s Day events and restaurant specials on the Hill you’ll want to check out.
First up, we have “Singles Only” game night at Labyrinth on Sunday. Tickets are $10 for the night, which begins at 5:30pm. Capitol Hill relationship coach Bonny King-Taylor will be in attendance to make sure all you singles are mingling! Bonny promises “a fun, low-key opportunity to play the games we love, with new and interesting people.” Sounds like a cool event to attend with some of your single pals. Contact Labyrinth’s owner, Kathleen Clayton at 202-544-1059 to reserve your spot. Complimentary snacks will be served.
Its freezing outside, so why not take a brisk run in your underwear! This event has already sold out, but seeing as this is one of the only times its acceptable to go for a jog in your finest lingerie you might consider cheering on runners at the second annual Cupid’s Undie Run on Saturday. The money raised benefits the Children’s Tumor Foundation.
Eastern Market has been enticing Facebook fans with mentions of its Valentine’s Day plans, so keep checking their Facebook page or website to see what they have in store for this weekend.
If you’re still hoping for a place to take your sweetie on Monday, the Hill has several options, as long as you don’t mind grovelling for a reservation (come on people, its less than a week before the big day!)
Bistro Cacao has a great atmosphere and a kind of old world charm. They’re offering a 5 course dinner menu in what is always an intimate and romantic setting.
Art & Soul is making it a weekend affair with a variety of deals, including specialty cocktails and a brunch that includes red velvet pancakes served with vanilla cream cheese and sour cherry syrup. The restaurant will also have a specialized menu on the 14th for $70 per person.
Smith Commons is also celebrating over the weekend with a tasting menu for $70 per person, with the option of a wine pairing for an additional $25.
Sonoma is a favorite of many. In addition to their extensive wine and cheese selections, they have a 4 course tasting menu for $50 per person.
Perhaps less thought of (but good nonetheless) are Johnny’s Half Shell and Bistro Bis right near the Capitol, which will both have Valentine’s menus this weekend. Johnny’s offers a 10% discount to Capitol Hill residents. Bistro Bis will have Valentine’s specials on its menu throughout the weekend.
Since you’re getting an A for effort for planning dinner, you might as well earn extra points and pick up a gift for your Valentine, Jon has some great suggestions here.
Enjoy the day, and remember, there’s nothing wrong with buying the half off candy the day after to enjoy yourself (if I keep repeating this I am convinced I will start to believe it.)