Your Next Bite

The Most Romantic Restaurants for Valentine's Day

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It's already February, which means it's time to snag that coveted Valentine's Day dinner reservation before someone else does.

Except this year, you're going to do it right, by enjoying the meal AND the art of conversation.

(Because screaming at each other in an overly-crowded, noisy restaurant is so 2016.)

The Grubdown:

Basilic - Get ready to be whisked away to a cozy chalet reminiscent of the French/Swiss Alps

- signature dish, hot 'n gooey inside with thin fired crust, simple yet it all works, Traditional Swiss Raclette Cheese with Fingerling Potatoes, Cornichons & Pickled Pearl Onions $8

The Dock - Arrive by yacht or duffy, then soak in the excellent service and refreshingly whole dishes

- everything you ever wanted, hearty, cheesy 'n creamy, Red Wine Braised Short Ribs with Potato Gratin, Swiss Chard, Petite Carrots & Mushroom Coulis $38

Gusto - Relax and enjoy the intimate atmosphere with attentive service and hand-made pastas

- simple signature dish with lapable sauce 'n spice, al dente verges on chewy, Tonnarelli Pasta with Tomato & Basil Sauce $16

Habana - Lose yourself in the hanging candelabras, red hues, and sexy Cuban food

- if you're gonna order one thing get this classic dish, Ropa Vieja with tender Shredded Cuban Beef Pot Roast, Peppers, Onions, Black Beans, White Rice & sweet Platanos Maduros

Little Next Door - Feel like you're in Paris' Left Bank for a casual meal

- so good, i've even ordered it for take-out Roasted Saffron Salmon on a Bed of Basmati Rice, Carrots & Asparagus

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Happy Valentine's Day!

Basilic whisks you away to the French Swiss Alps

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If you've never been to the French or Swiss Alps and are itching for a trip, take a stay-cation to Balboa Island's Basilic restaurant instead.

This cozy 24-seater is reminiscent of a ski chalet with warm woods and a Matterhorn painting, except with white linen tables.

Open since 1997, chef/owner Bernard Althaus – from the French influenced town of Canton de Vaud in Switzerland – had a vision to cook each dish to order with fresh herbs from his garden. One of my favorites was the floral African Basil used as a garnish to the John Dory. Coincidentally, it's the chef's choice too, as Basilic is the French word for Basil.

The Grubdown:

- signature dish, hot 'n gooey inside with thin fired crust, simple yet it all works, Traditional Swiss Raclette Cheese with Fingerling Potatoes, Cornichons & Pickled Pearl Onions $8

- sweet 'n earthy aroma, bitter buttery 'n bountiful Mushroom gravy, a little tough, John Dory Filet with Chanterelle Mushrooms, Spinach & Xeres Sauce $29

- tender 'n juicy, thick Red Wine reduction, sharp Rosemary, Grilled Angus Beef Filet Mignon with Roasted Potatoes, Vegetable Ratatouille & Porcini Red Wine Sauce (Special)

- bursting with berry surprises, thick sugar crust, soft 'n creamy, Vanilla Creme Brulee with Blackberries, Blueberries, Raspberries & Peach $8

- light 'n airy toast, salty spread, Amuse-Bouche with Feta, Olive & Chive (complimentary)

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If you're looking for classic French cuisine, then this is the place, right down to the sauteed Squash & Carrots and chopped Parsley.

It's the Swiss cuisine though, that imparts a delightful surprise.

Lastly, the service was friendly and more than accommodating, as the staff was gracious enough to accept a walk-in on a Friday night. And I always appreciate the added touch of an amuse-bouche and after dinner treat.

Bon Appetit!