Whether you’re newly dating or longtime partners, these romantic spots are great for local couples at all stages of a relationship.
I have a Valentine’s Day confession to make: I haven’t exactly been proactive when it comes to dining out with my wife on Feb. 14. But something tells me I better get it together for 2018, which marks my 20th wedding anniversary. So it was with a certain sense of urgency that I reached out our team of critics at the Town Dish, who came back with these great local spots for romance and great food.
For an After-Work First Date: 333 Belrose
The date might be a gamble, but the food and drinks don’t have to be. Belrose’s bright marigold interior is inviting, and chef Carlo deMarco’s gorgeous platings will give you both something to talk about. Start with spicy Asian brussels sprouts before moving on to Java pork tenderloin.
333 Belrose Lane, Wayne, (610) 293-1000, www.333belrose.com.
For Taking It to the Next Level: Vickers Restaurant
Since 1972, Vickers has been the standard for fine dining and Continental cuisine. The historic farmhouse exudes charm, with its exposed wood beams and classic brickwork. The slow-food-centric menu features sumptuous dishes like lobster bisque and steak Diane (flambéed tableside).
192 E. Welsh Pool Rd., Exton, (610) 363-7998, www.vickersrestaurant.com.
For a Special Night Out: General Warren Inne
Founded in 1745, the historic General Warren has a long history of treating regulars right. Become one with a toast at the exquisite bar before moving to a romantic table for two, where you can enjoy classics like beef Wellington with wild mushroom demi-glace, and snapper soup accented with dry sherry.
9 Old Lancaster Road, Malvern, (610) 296-3637, www.generalwarren.com.
For a Cozy-Chic Vibe: The Gables at Chadds Ford
Marry a whiskey flight with comfort nibbles like crab dip with pimento-cheddar, bacon and artichokes, balsamic brussels sprouts, or cheesesteak eggrolls made with shaved ribeye and Provolone sauce. The elevated farmhouse décor is open, inviting and homey.
423 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, (610) 388-7700, www.thegablesatchaddsford.com.Â
For a Pre-Theater Dinner: Restaurant Cerise
Grab your tickets for a screening at the Bryn Mawr Film Institute, then swing into this contemporary European BYOB before the show. The Wednesday-Sunday pre-theater menu offers two courses from the prix fixe menu for $35. Indulge in braised lamb with herbed risotto, pomegranate and gremolata, or roasted eggplant with chermoula sauce and Israeli lentil salad.
1011 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr, (610) 527-4400, www.restaurantcerise.com.