As we collectively heal from the tragedies of the new year, February and the season of love are fast approaching. Below we’re sharing options for every type of Valentine’s outing, from planning a romantic dinner for two, a cozy night in with sweet treats, or a fun outing with friends. San Diego has something for everyone, from heart-shaped hand pies to ocean-view dining experiences. This roundup of swoon-worthy destinations and specials will make everyone’s heart a bit fuller.

Here’s a look at what’s on the menu this Valentine’s season, from indulgent eats to dreamy getaways!

View of Lakehouse resort from the bay with a fountain going — *Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lakehouse Resort*

Love at the Lake: Lakehouse Resort

Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day in North County’s most romantic getaway destination, Lakehouse Resort! Treat your loved one to an unforgettable dining experience with a special prix fixe menu at on-site restaurant Brickmans, accompanied by a complimentary glass of Orfila wine to enhance every bite. For the first course, choose between the Short Rib Croquette, Hibiscus Hamachi, or Arugula Beet Salad. For the main, try out the Chilean Sea Bass with red beet risotto, mascarpone, and chives, the 6oz Brandt Beef Filet with yukon gold mashed potatoes and rainbow carrots, or the Green Pea Garganelli Pasta with peas, mushrooms, and pecorino cheese. Finish off the meal with a Peach Cobbler Tart or Lemon Berry Cake. Reservations can be made here for just $80 per person. Guests can extend their meal into a staycation by booking a Love at the Lake Package for 20% off room accommodations, a bottle of Orfila sparkling wine, and a box of Godiva chocolates by using the code LOVE at checkout up until 2/28. Those who book a package will receive a discounted Love on the Lake Boat Cruise, available the whole month of February, for a whimsical experience on the serene waters of Lake San Marcos.

Bright, white interior of Valentina — *Photo Credit: Kimberly Motos*

European Vibes and Bubbles: Valentina

This Valentine’s Day, step into the cozy, romantic ambiance of Valentina, nestled along the 101 in Leucadia. With ocean breezes, twinkling lights and an inviting bistro and European bistro setting, it’s the perfect spot to share a romantic evening. Valentina will be offering a special three course Valentine’s Day menu featuring a selection of tapas including Patatas Bravas, potato pave with brava sauce and chive aioli, Alcachofa a la Plancha, smashed seared artichoke, entrees such as Chicken Paillard with lemon mustard sauce and capers, Lubina Con Patatas with seabass in lemon butter sauce with mashed potatoes and Steak and Potatoes with mashed potatoes and green peppercorn sauce and dessert including Crema Catalina, custard with a burnt sugar top, Basque Cake and Bunelos, cinnamon-dusted fried dough. This Valentine’s Day experience is $88 per person and available to book on OpenTable.

9 bowls of different types of ramen from Tajima — *Photo Credit: James Tran*

Ramen for the Heart and Soul: Tajima

Treat yourself or your loved ones this Valentine’s Day at Tajima Ramen’s newest location in Crown Point! Whether you’re savoring a cozy solo date at the sleek bar, complete with warm bowls of rich, comforting ramen, or sharing flavorful small plates and house specialties with your loved ones, Tajima sets the mood for an unforgettable dining experience. From signature broths to indulgent add-ons, every dish is crafted with love. This Valentine’s Day, skip the clichés and make it a celebration of good food and great company at Tajima.

Two people "cheersing" with sushi using chopstocks at Cannonball — *Photo Credit: Diana Rose Photo*

Sushi & Seaside Romance: Cannonball

Celebrate love with ocean views and an unforgettable three-course dining experience at Cannonball! Indulge in a curated menu priced at $185 for two, starting with your choice of two appetizers, like Duck Confit Spring Rolls paired with an orange hoisin sauce or Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice topped with yuzu avocado purée. For the second course, share a decadent Tomahawk for Two, served alongside truffled shiitakes and Okinawa scalloped potatoes, or enjoy an array of sushi delights, including special rolls, sashimi, and nigiri (sushi boat presentation optional!). Cap off the evening with Forbidden Rice Pudding, a velvety mix of black rice, coconut panna cotta, and mango. Reserve your table at Cannonball here for a Valentine’s night to remember, featuring an extraordinary dining experience paired with stunning seaside ambiance.

Big bowl of ice cream from Stella Jean's Ice Cream and Pop Pie Co. — *Photo Credit: Courtesy of The Sweet & Savory Collective*

Baked with Love, Scooped with Joy: Stella Jean’s Ice Cream + Pop Pie Co.

This Valentine’s Day, romance comes in sweet, irresistible bites. Heart Shaped Hand Pies ($6 each) at Pop Pie Co. delight with flavors like Ube Coconut with ube jam, young coconut meat, pandan glaze, and dianthus flower, or Strawberry-Blood Orange with a strawberry blood orange compote, citrus glaze, freeze-dried strawberries, and pink dianthus flower. For a show-stopping centerpiece, White Chocolate Raspberry & Matcha Pie ($9 per slice | $54 whole) offers a two-toned chiffon-style blend of white and ruby chocolate, matcha, raspberries, and citrus—pure romance in every bite. For a cold and creamy sweet treat, head to Stella Jean’s Ice Cream for specialty Valentine’s Day flavors Banana Split (gf) made with banana ice cream, strawberry ice cream, vanilla, cocoa powder, maraschino cherries, and roasted almonds or Molten Lava Cake (v+gf) made with dark chocolate ice cream, brownie bits, chocolate fudge, sea salt, vanilla, coconut, and oat milk. Specials will be available on February 14th and 15th until sold out.

A big dessert spread from Extraordinary Desserts — *Photo credit*: *Brendan O’Mary and Rebecca Antuna, Pixels Collide Photography*

The Love Den at Extraordinary Desserts

Welcome to The Love Den at Extraordinary Desserts Little Italy, a transformative Valentine’s Day pop-up experience that would make Aphrodite proud. An immersive bloom scape of pinks, fuchsia, reds, and more will blossom at San Diego’s eponymous haven for all things sweet, enchanting guests during Valentine’s with a gorgeous tribute to the season of love and beauty. Unveiled February 7th and running through the end of February, The Love Den at Extraordinary Desserts in Little Italy will feature Chef Karen Krasne’s globally-inspired creations and special romance themed drinks and desserts including XO Romeo a chocolate brownie cake layered with salted caramel and creamy chocolate mousse finished with chocolate ganache and edible gold leaf and Juliette with rose syrup moistened cakes layered with raspberry compote, cheesecake mousse, and vanilla bean ganache finished with clouds of whipped cream and edible gold leaf touches. A special month of love themed high tea service ($55/guest) will also kick off on February 7th and run through the end of February (Monday-Friday 2:30-5pm, excluding 2/12 and 2/14, reservations highly recommended). In addition, a special Galentine’s Day bubbles and sweets buffet ($42/guest) on February 12th will feature over a dozen of Extraordinary Desserts’ beloved creations including, Black Velvet, Marbled Chocolate Cheesecake, Flourless Chocolate Cake, Crème Brulee Tarts and tray passed Chocolate Dipped Strawberries and Hot Dark Chocolate. Pose with your sweetheart in front of the Instagram photo wall and dive deep into the spirit of love at The Love Den and be immersed in all things Valentine’s Day. Extraordinary Desserts’ Bankers Hill location will feature love inspired drinks and desserts as well.

Wine and appetizers from Cellar Hand — *Photo Credit: Kimberly Motos*

A Toast to Local Love: Cellar Hand

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Cellar Hand in Hillcrest with an exclusive four-course prix fixe menu featuring hyper-local cuisine, thoughtfully crafted to highlight the best seasonal flavors. Offered on Friday, February 14, the four-course Valentine’s Day menu is priced at $85 per person, with an optional wine pairing add-on for $40, featuring curated pours from Cellar Hand’s all-California wine list. For the first course, guests will enjoy a shared Local Seafood Platter for the table with oysters, scallop crudo, mussels escabeche with housemade ‘Ritz’ crackers, gilda skewers, olives and toast points with whipped cream cheese and caviar. Second course options include choice of Baby Lettuces or Charred Romanesco, followed by third course options of Cast Iron Baked Roselle Pasta with béchamel, Seared Local Scallops or Frenched Thompson Heritage Ranch Pork Chops. For dessert, choose between Chocolate ‘S’mores’ Mille-Fueille with tahini marshmallow or Heart Shaped Pavlova with early berries, Pali Wine Co. rosé curd and basil. Celebrate love all weekend with your Galentine’s or Palentine’s with additional specials added to Cellar Hand’s signature menu from Thursday, February 13 through Sunday, February 16. Reservations available via OpenTable.

A peach and jalepeno margarita from Flora North Park — *Photo Credit: Arlene Ibarra*

Fun, Flirty and Flavorful: Flora North Park

Flora North Park, the fresh new all-day bistro, will be offering a special Valentine’s Day menu. Order a la carte or enjoy a three course experience for $59 per person. For the first course, choose from small plates like Crispy Wagyu Meatballs, Shrimp Jalapeño Ceviche, Cucumber Salad, Pork Belly with grilled corn or Octopus Skewer with heirloom tomato carpaccio and nduja butter. For the main course, choose from bold flavorful dishes like Lamb Lasagna with mint and pecorino, Pork Skewer Tacos, Sous Vide Duck, Cacio e Pepe, and En Papillote Catch of the Day. End the meal with the dessert of the day. Cheers to love with twists on classic cocktails like the Matcha Espresso Martini and Lychee Spritz, along with signature creations such as the Cantalope & Olive Oil Martini and Peach & Jalapeño Margarita.

A big spread of food including ham and chicken from Juniper and Ivy — *Photo Credit: James Tran*

Refined Romance: Juniper and Ivy

A vanguard dining institution nestled in North Little Italy, Juniper and Ivy will offer an elegant four-course Valentine’s Day dining experience, priced at $150 per person. Known for its dedication to sourcing the most pristine local ingredients and crafting playful yet refined dishes, Juniper and Ivy’s prix fixe dinner promises an evening of unforgettable fine dining. Enjoy Valentine’s Day-inspired dishes from Executive Chef Jonathan Kinsella that celebrate love, the season’s best flavors, and the freshest seafood sourced from local San Diego waters. First course options will include Moonrock Oysters with oscietra caviar, ginger flower mignonette, Yellowtail Crudo with passionfruit, celery, chili, radish, Heirloom Apple Salad with chicory, walnuts, pomegranate, Shropshire blue or Wagyu Beef Tartare with beet variations, sorrel, and seed crisp. For the second course, guests can choose from White Asparagus Soup with potato, leeks, green asparagus, tarragon cream, Agnoloti Verde with herbed goat cheese, pinenuts, arugula, spring garlic cream, Seared Diver Scallops with preserved lemon, purple potatoes, watercress velouté, or Crispy Duck Rillette with baby kale, spiced orange marmalade. The evening’s main course options are Pacific Black Cod with fennel, tomato, saffron crushed potatoes, spiny lobster espuma, Morel Mushroom Rissoto with sugar snap peas, spring onions, aged parmesan, Grilled Lamb Lollipops with saffron cous cous, harissa, mint gremolata, and Petit Filet Mignon with mille-feuille potatoes, broccoli variations, and sauce bordelaise. The romantic meal will conclude with the guests’ choice of Dark Chocolate & Peanut Gateau or Strawberry & Yogurt Mousse Cake crafted by Pastry Chef Amanda Santiago. For those seeking to elevate their evening, supplemental lavish upgrades will be offered, including caviar service ($90), shaved black truffles ($30), and a wine pairing carefully curated to complement every dish’s flavors. Treat that special someone to an exquisite night of culinary delight at Juniper and Ivy! Reservations available via OpenTable.

Outdoor seating area at Pali Wine Co — *Photo Credit: Kimberly Motos*

Wine & Jazz Affair: Pali Wine Co.

Celebrate romance at Pali Wine Co. in Little Italy with special Valentine’s Day wine flights and live jazz from Matt Hall on Friday, February 14 at 6pm and a live band on Saturday, February 15 at 7pm! Special Valentine’s Day wine flights will feature Pali Wine Co.’s exquisite wines, highlighting flirty natural wines and the romance of blush and sparkling wines. Enjoy the wine flight alongside a chocolate covered strawberry special and savory pairings like curated cheese and charcuterie boards and fresh and flavorful small plates, including local Bluefin Tuna Tartare, Mission Fig Caprese, and the fan favorite ‘Our Burger’ with tomato jam, pickled mustard aioli, housemade pickles, smoked cheese on house brioche. Make reservations via OpenTable, walk-ins welcome.

Two people holding oysters from Garibaldi — *Photo Credit: Diana Rose Photo*

Amore in the Mediterranean: Garibaldi

Indulge in an enchanting evening at Garibaldi’s special Valentine’s Day prix fixe dinner, Amore in the Mediterranean. For $82 per person, savor the specially crafted three-course meal showcasing a variety of vibrant flavors from around the Mediterranean brought to life with fresh, local San Diego ingredients. Begin with Oysters for Two, then select your choice of starter with options like Mediterranean Tuna Tartare with local tuna, Casarecce Caccio e Peppe or Fattoush Salad. For the second course, savor Shwarma Spiced Short Rib with romanesco puree, cauliflower florets, beet-stained potato crisp or the Spiny Lobster Fra Diavolo featuring San Diego spiny lobster, house-made spaghetti, pomodoro diavolo sauce, grana padano cheese. End the night on a sweet note with the decadent Tiramisu to share, made with espresso, caramel, dark chocolate crumble, accompanied with assorted macaroons. With gorgeous Bay views from Garbialdi’s al fresco terrace or cozy indoor dining room, this prix fixe dinner is the perfect setting to share a night of amore and delectable dishes with someone special. For an especially intimate experience with the same views and menu, book the Private Garden Table which is tucked away in Garibaldi’s lush garden of herbs and florals. Reservations can be made online via Resy.

Two glasses of champagne on a table at Vistal — *Photo Credit: Courtesy of Vistal*

Lavish Coastal Elegance: Vistal

Boasting stunning bay views from the third floor of the InterContinental San Diego, Vistal offers an unforgettable and romantic Valentine’s Day dining experience for $109 per person. Begin the night with a lavish Cali-Baja Seafood and Salad Display, featuring dishes like Smoked Bay Scallops with strawberry tomato aguachile, Kumiai Oysters paired with a champagne cucumber mignonette, Walnut Goat Cheese Salad with house greens blend and walnut vinaigrette, and more. Follow up these light bites with a choice of a deliciously crafted entree. Options include Wagyu Flat Iron Steak, Scallops a la Plancha, Prosciutto Wrapped Local Cod, or Vegetarian Grilled Artichoke. For dessert, enjoy a bright option like the Strawberry Tart or opt for the rich Black Velvet Chocolate Cake. With an intimate ambiance and hyper-local culinary artistry, Vistal sets the stage for a truly special Valentine’s Day celebration. View the full menu here. Reservations can be made online via Resy.

3 different tacos laid on separate plates from Puesto — *Photo Credit: Mandie Geller*

Taco ‘Bout Love: Puesto

This Valentine’s Day take your special someone to Puesto to enjoy an evening of Mexican dishes, expertly crafted cocktails and house-brewed cerveza. In the spirit of romance, Puesto is swapping out their iconic blue corn non-GMO tortillas with red masa, for an additional cutesy dash of color to their luxury tacos. Share a plate of your favorites such as the Short Rib Quesabirria, filled with crispy melted cheese, braised short rib, Jalisco salsa, pickled radish and classic guacamole; Mushroom taco with crispy melted cheese, garlic braised seasonal mushrooms, pickled onions, stone fruit serrano salsa and hearts on fire; or Baja Fish taco with Puesto beer battered local fish, shredded cabbage, classic guacamole, crema, Morita salsa. Cheers to your love and spice up your night with the Serrano Margarita made with El Velo Blanco tequila, fresh lime, serrano and yuzu or the Hot Sauce Margarita made with Pueblo Viejo blanco tequila, pineapple juice, cucumber, fresh lime and habanero. Non-alcoholic beverages are also available including the new Michelada made with non-alcoholic Corona, house made clamato, chamoy, mango, and fresh lime or Cantarito, made with orange cordial, fresh lime, Jarritos grapefruit soda and Puesto’s non-alcoholic tequila alternative. Reservations are available via OpenTable for Puesto at the Headquarters, Mission Valley and La Jolla.

A big group of people line dancing at Moonshine Flats — *Photo Credit: Courtesy of Good Time Design*

Find Love at Moonshine Flats

Get ready to sweep your sweetheart off their feet—or meet someone new on the dance floor—at Moonshine Flats’ Valentine’s Day Partner Dance Event! On Thursday, February 13, from 6pm to 8pm, join dance instructors Tiffany Floyd and Ray Wilson for a lively evening of two-step basics, fundamentals, dips, spins, and tricks that’ll have you gliding across the floor with confidence. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a beginner, this is your chance to learn, laugh, and celebrate love under the neon lights. Tickets are just $10 per person or $15 per couple when purchased online—or grab yours at the door for $10. Dust off those boots and mark your calendar for a Valentine’s night you won’t forget!

A couple eating dinner at Huntress — *Photo Credit: Courtesy of RMD Group*

Love’s On The Menu at Huntress

Celebrate love, friendship, and everything in between at downtown San Diego’s energetic, modern steakhouse Huntress from February 11th to February 16th. Enjoy chef-curated specials like the Wagyu Cipollini Onions with wagyu & pork sausage, fennel & sweet potato puree, pickled pearl onions, and caramelized onion jus, followed by the Raviolo Heart with ricotta, farm fresh egg yolk, roasted wild mushrooms, and fine herbs or the Bison Short Rib with ricotta, farm fresh egg yolk, roasted wild mushrooms, and fine herbs. Top it all off with the Broken Rose, a mouthwatering combination of strawberry white chocolate mousse, raspberry thyme compote, lemon lady finger cake, and raspberry sorbet. Huntress makes for the perfect environment to celebrate love, boasting a classy yet vibrant atmosphere. For an extra special celebration, book the Sweethearts Table, perfect for a romantic night or Galentine’s celebration and complete with roses and festive décor. All reservations can be made here.

Three women holding drinks and looking at the camera at Lumi — *Photo Credit: Courtesy of RMD Group*

Valentine’s Day Is For The Girls at Lumi

For a Valentine’s Day celebration filled with romantic rooftop vibes, head over to Lumi to try out multiple specials in celebration of all things love. Try out the Taste of Passion (serves 2) featuring the Rainbow Spider, Mango Dragon uramaki, Tako & Prawns Ebi Nigiri maki, Wasabi vinaigrette, and Micro Begonia Heart flowers for a delectable seafood centric meal. For a unique chef creation, go for the Sake to my Heart with Lumi Salmon Tartar, Leeks Puree, Crispy Corn tuile, Avocado mousse, Goat Cheese, Red Tobiko, and Sake Amazu Glaze, and for something with a kick, try out the Spicy Romance made with Roasted Bone Marrow, Otoro Tartar, Unagi Tapenade Sourdough toast, and Spicy Jalapeño Sauce. With an upscale environment, innovative Japanese creations, and good company, Lumi makes for the perfect Valentine’s Day spot. Reservations can be made here.

Two guys high fiving at Swing Social — *Photo Credit: Courtesy of RMD Group*

Play For Love at Swing Social

Head to Swing Social for a playful and high-energy Valentine’s Day date in the heart of San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter. The interactive sports bar is sharing the love with an exclusive 4-for-the-price-of-1 Valentine’s Day promotion; from February 12th to February 16th, book a Full Swing Simulator and enjoy 3 free SIM rentals to use on future visits. A voucher for the 3 extra reservations will be given on the day of your first visit. With stunning graphics and iconic courses from all over the world, each simulator has a max capacity of 15 people, making Swing Social the perfect destination for double dates or getting a group of friends together to play over 13 sports including golf, football and baseball. Complete the outing with sharable apps, flavorful sandwiches, loaded fries and signature cocktails from Swing Social’s full bar.

Where to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in San Diego