Are you dreaming of a magical Valentine’s Day to celebrate your love? Perhaps you’re planning an enchanting evening at one of the area’s finest dining spots, where every bite feels like romance. Or maybe you and your special someone prefer a cozy, casual atmosphere where laughter and love take center stage. If a quiet night at home is more your style, don’t forget to bring home a decadent sweet treat to share.
How will you set the stage for love this Valentine’s? Here is a list of options we hope will inspire your plans and help you discover the perfect way to celebrate.
Flying solo? Explore this list of fun Valentine’s weekend events that don’t require a partner—though you’re welcome to bring a friend or two!
If you pick one of the many options we’ve suggested, we’d love to hear about your special night! Share your Valentine’s Day celebration with us by sending a photo to our Facebook page: Haven Homes and Lifestyle.
FINE DINING
Festina Lente, Kittery
They hand make everything they can with care in their tiny kitchen and provide a calm, swift style of service that makes guests feel comfortable and at home. The relaxed atmosphere of the cozy dining room is homage to their Italian culture and cuisine. Seating is limited, no reservations are taken, so come early to enjoy amazing hand crafted pasta. Check out their menu www.festinalentekittery.com/menu
The Library Restaurant
The food is amazing, the historical decor will impress, and as a special treat for Valentine’s Day you can order a special floral arrangement for your table. libraryrestaurant.com or 603-431-5202
The Puddle Dock Restaurant, Portsmouth
Executive chef Derek Clough plans to present a menu full of surprises for Valentine’s Day for $85 per person. thepuddledock.com or 603-373-8192
Martingale Wharf, Portsmouth
Though typically closed Wednesdays in the winter, Martingale Wharf will open for Valentine’s Day. Check out their menu at martingalewharf.com 603-431-0901
Black Trumpet, Portsmouth
The Black Trumpet on the waterfront is one of the most romantic spots in the city. From Sweet Potato Schnitzel, to Millbrook Venison Steak or Duck, Pork and Sausage Cassoulet, there is something for everyone. blacktrumpetbistro.com or 603-431-0887
Ristorante Massimo, Portsmouth
With its charm and sophistication, Ristorante Massimo is the ideal place to celebrate this special occasion. Make a reservation at ristorantemassimo.com or call 604-436-4000 to reserve a spot in the wine bar. Massimos will not disappoint.
The Atlantic Grill, Rye
The Atlantic Grill is offering romantic specials in addition to its regular menu on Feb. 14. Specials will be a seafood cocktail appetizer with shrimp, crab and tuna; beef filet and lobster thermidor; and chocolate lava cake with coffee ice cream for dessert. Reserve at theatlanticgrill.com or call 603-433-3000
Nick’s Steakhouse, York
Come celebrate the special day with them. At Nick’s they believe in ice-cold martinis, premium cuts of steak, and the perfect red blend. And they will certainly have special treats in store for you on Valentine’s Day. To secure a table for two go to nickssteakhouse.com or call 207-606-8900
York Harbor Inn, York
Head to the York Harbor Inn for the most romantic dining specials, available in both their
1637 Main Dining Room and the Ship’s Cellar Pub! Check them out at yorkharborinn.com or call 207-640-2530
Ultramar, Kennebunkport
Open Valentine’s Day so you can enjoy a night of romance and amazing food and drinks. To save a table go to ultramar.restaurant.com or call 207-987-2001
Chez Rosa, Kennebunkport
Valentine’s Day dessert special is chocolate fondue for two. To make your reservation go to chezrosabistro.com or call 207-204-0184
Ocean, Kennebunkport
Ocean, located in the Cape Arundel Inn, is offering a special Valentine’s menu that will be available through the weekend for $120 per person. Guests on Valentine’s Day will receive a complimentary glass of champagne. Reservations required at capearundelinn.com/dining or call 207-967-4015.
CASUAL
Black Birch, Kittery
Enjoy a few small plates or a delicious entree where each plate is designed with care by the kitchen. Treat yourselves to a hand crafted cocktail and dessert to complete this special night. No reservations taken, first come first serve. Check out their menu at theblackbirch.com
Anju Noodle Bar, Kittery
If you are craving a variety of Asian flavors, then treat your date to dinner at the Noodle Bar. They provide delicious options in a lively casual setting. Check out their menu at anjunoodlebar.com
When Pigs Fly, Kittery
WPF features a large selection of wood-fired pizzas, appetizer plates, local craft beers and draft wines There is definitely something for everyone. If you and your date don’t enjoy too many slices, check out their brownie sundae. whenpigsflypizzeria.com
Moxy, Portsmouth
On Feb. 14, Moxy will offer Valentine’s Day specials in addition to its regular menu. Specials include duck confit ravioli with a wild mushroom cream sauce; Brown Butter Seared Scallops; Grilled Skirt Steak; Salmon Croquette; and Cheesecake with Strawberry Compote for dessert. moxyrestaurant.com
Jumpin’ Jay’s Fish Cafe, Portsmouth
Jumpin’ Jay’s is offering a special Valentine’s Day menu that will include wonderful seafood options for two and you can stop off your evening with a cream-cheese frosted red velvet cake with dark chocolate sauce, strawberry dust and pink peppercorn sauce for dessert. Reserve at spot at jumpinjays.com or by calling 60366-3474
The Roundabout Diner, Portsmouth
The Roundabout Diner will offer a special Valentine’s menu featuring arancini, lobster gnocchi, salmon wellington, prime rib au jus and homemade chocolate raspberry cakelettes. Call 603-431-1440 to reserve a spot.
The Wilder, Portsmouth
The Wilder will present “Valentine’s? As If” featuring fancy drinks, special menus, specials on food and beverages. Go to wilderportsmouth.com or call 603-319-6878 to save your seats.
Hearth Market, Portsmouth
If you and your special someone are looking for a quick bite to celebrate, Hearth Market has something for everyone. There is a full-service bar, community-style seating for a la carte dining. So come out of the cold, grab a drink and a bite to eat before you relax for a bit by the cozy fireplace. Check it out at hearthmarketportsmouth.com
Restaurant at Smuttynose, Hampton
Smuttynose will host a Valentine’s Dinner which includes a three-course dinner with your choice of pan-seared duck breast, NY strip sirloin, or butternut ravioli paired with a selection of wine, beer, and champagne. Tickets are $75 and available at facebook.com/SmuttynoseRestaurant
Dave’s Maine Cafe, Kittery
Dave says skip the overpriced, candlelit snooze-fest and come for a night of FREE Valentine’s Day Bingo! And while you are there enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere with comfort food plus a diverse beverage list. mainebeercafe.com
Batson River Brewing & Distilling, Kennebunk
Batson River is offering Valentine’s themed craft cocktails, lobster bisque and winter citrus cheesecake all month long. batsonriver.com
TAKE HOME A TREAT
Byrne & Carlson, Kittery
You can find wonderful Valentine’s Day gift boxes full of creative bonbons. byrneandcarlson.com
Lil’s Cafe, Kittery
Pick up a delicious pastry for your special someone, a friend or just treat yourself. There are so many amazing options at Lil’s Cafe from crullers, scones, muffins and monkey bread to brownies, rice krispie treats and chocolate cookies. Check out their whole menu at /www.lilscafe.com
Ceres Bakery, Portsmouth
Stöllen hearts, conversation heart cookies, Linzer heart cookies, cocoa butter hearts are just some of the treats Ceres Bakery has planned for this Valentine’s Day. Check out the lineup at ceresbakery.com
La Maison Navarre, Portsmouth
Find macaroons in many flavors, pastries and wine as well as other French treats at mnpastry.com
La Cascade du Chocolat, Exeter and Portsmouth
Find limited edition chocolate bars, bonbon collections and artful chocolate hearts. You could even get creative and take a class together. Visit them at either location or check them out online at lacascadeduchocolat.com
Kilwin’s, Portsmouth
Pick up fun Valentine’s Day assortments, chocolate-dipped strawberries and more. Check out their selection at kilwinsportsmouth.square.site before you venture out.
Gemini Cakes, Kennebunkport
Now accepting Valentine’s Day orders for pick up on Feb. 10 and 11. New this year is a Valentine’s Gift box, which includes six cakesicles, six chocolate-dipped strawberries, two large heart cakes and assorted Valentine chocolates. Go to facebook.com/geminicakes2 or call 207-494-0077
FLYING SOLO THIS VALENTINE’S DAY?
Here are some fun options for you to get out and enjoy the area solo or with friends and family!
Board, Kittery
Enjoy unique wines, delicious charcuterie and small plates with friends, family and community. If you need to unwind after the weekend, check out their Barre & Boards event Galentine’s Day Sip & Sweat on Sunday, February 16th from 11AM-12PM. Join local instructor Emma Dodier for a morning of barre followed by a glass of wine! Click here to sign up and please hurry, spots are filling up quickly!
Evie, Portsmouth
They are so excited to be throwing their first Galentines party! They will be featuring multiple women owned businesses, @ladii.dre will be mixing up some tunes, @pieceocakenh coming in clutch with a photo op & @drycellar with fun mocktails. Mark your calendars! You’re not going to want to miss out on this special night . They can’t wait to see you Thursday February 13th 5PM-7:30PM www.evieportsmouth.com/
The Wheel House, Portsmouth
Looking for a fun, creative experience? Come get messy and learn the basics of throwing pottery! This 90-minute session starts with a quick, hands-on demo, then you’ll spend the rest of the time at the wheel creating pottery. At the end, you’ll get to choose your favorite two pieces to keep! Saturday, February 15th 6-7:30PM. thewheelhousenh.com
Board & Brush, Portsmouth
Whether it’s your best friends, sisters, coworkers, or your mom, let’s toast to friendship, laughter, and creativity. Join the folks for a fun-filled workshop where you can create beautiful, personalized wood signs while enjoying great vibes, music, and complimentary wine and chocolates! No crafting experience is needed—their instructors will guide you every step of the way! Thursday, February 13th 6:30-9:30PM boardandbrush.com
The Music Hall Lounge, Portsmouth
The Music Hall Lounge will be hosting the 18th Annual PMAC Jazz Night: Dream a Little Dream. On Friday night they will feature some of the region’s finest jazz musicians performing a mix of classic jazz standards and fresh takes on contemporary favorites. Go to themusichall.org for tickets. Friday, February 14th 7PM or 9PM.
Elixir Bar, Portsmouth
Time to get social at our “Social Hour,” at Elixir Bar inside of Heath Market! Enjoy drink and small plate specials and potentially meet a new friend or two. Friday, February 14th 4-6PM www.hearthmarketportsmouth.com/elixir-bar
Water View Grill, Portsmouth
Join them for laughs at their Stand-Up Comedy Showcase hosted by McCues Comedy Club! Enjoy great food, drinks, and stunning views. Lobster is their “love language” so they are offering lobster specials for the month of February. Get your ticket here and then come have some laughs on Friday, February 14th 7-8:30PM waterviewgrillnh.com
Cara Irish Pub & Restaurant, Dover
Looking for something fun to do on Valentine’s Day that will also benefit a great local cause? Head over to Cara’s for Trivia and Comedy Night to benefit Gather NH. Following trivia there will be a 1 hour comedy show featuring hilarious local comedians, Kaile Krenzer and Steve Scarfo. Get your ticket here. Friday, February 14th 8PM carairishpub.com
Dave’s Maine Cafe, Kittery
FREE Valentine’s Day Bingo!
DJ Casey Hall spinning love songs & breakup anthems. There will be drink specials to fuel your bad decisions, no cover, reservations maybe important or just chaos is fine. Come to Dave’s Maine Cafe—where your true love might just be a Bingo card. Friday, Feb 14th 6 PM mainebeercafe.com
KW Contemporary Art, Kennebunk
Get ready to hit the slopes of style and join us for an exhilarating Après Ski Party like no other! Join them for a cozy après event filled with good vibes and great company. Bring your friends and enjoy the après ski atmosphere right here in town. From alpine inspired foods, ski movies, refreshments and more, don’t miss out on this unique event! COSTUME CONTEST- the best après wear will win a $500 gift certificate to KW Contemporary Art! Saturday, February 15th 3 – 6PM kwcontemporaryart