
Call it a Hallmark Holiday all you want, but Valentine’s Day is a holiday nonetheless. It falls on a Sunday this year, too, so it’s practically a weekendlong affair rather than just a dinner-date. Pressure is on, guys. Forget the LIRR, it’s anything but romantic. Do Valentine’s Day/Weekend on Long Island. If you’re reading this and you’re not in charge of making the reservations but have serious doubts in your SO’s abilities to book on time, start dropping hints, such as screenshotting your favorite of these Long Island Valentine’s Day offerings and texting it to them.
The Melting Pot, Farmingdale
A four-course meal is a lavish night out, but add fondue to the mix and it becomes an experience. Book a private table for two, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and prix-fixe four-course fondue dinner Feb. 13 and 14. The Melting Pot has even done (some of) your gift shopping for you. Guests will receive a commemorative photo in a Melting Pot frame (so give your iPhone the night off), Valentine’s Day coffee mug and a teddy bear. For those looking to avoid the holiday traffic, a separate four-course menu will be available Feb. 11, 12 and 15, and yes, there’s fondue. Go.
Caci North Fork, Southold
Caci North Fork looks like an unassuming private home. Inside the atmosphere is relaxed and the decor is simple with a single flower in the middle of each table, but one bite of the shrimp and eggplant cocoa ravioli with quattro formaggi sauce and chives and you’ll be ready to book your next reservation. On Feb. 13 and 14, the neighborhood gem is offering a tasting menu that includes the aforementioned ravioli, pan seared sea scallops, a filet mignon with seasonal mushrooms and white truffle sauce and a chocolate mousse cake. Go.
Spuntino Wine Bar and Italian Tapas, Garden City
There’s something about good wine and plates of tapas that encourage the best conversations, making the super popular Spuntino Wine Bar and Italian Tapas a must for Valentine’s Day. Choose a bottle or two off a wine list with more than 150 choices to pair with your meal. Go.
Long Island Aquarium, Riverhead
Make Valentine’s Day a staycation complete with dinner by the water because you shouldn’t have to wait until June to do that again. Bring your SO or your besties (Galentine’s Day is a thing now) to Long Island Aquarium for a five-course chocolate and wine pairing dinner. Couples looking to make a weekend of the holiday can take advantage of the Sweetheart Sleepover package, which includes an overnight stay at the neighboring Hyatt Place Long Island/East End. Go.
The Village Cheese Shop, Mattituck
Valentine’s Day on Love Lane. It’s a no-brainer. Pull up a stool at the Village Cheese Shop’s new wine bar, which has a menu full of local and French wines, and share a chocolate and cheese fondue with your sweetheart. Seating will also be available in the quaint cafe with small round tables perfect for a relaxed but intimate experience and large windows that let you enjoy some natural light even in the dead of winter. Go.
Aperitif Bistro Lounge Wine Bar, Rockville Center
Nothing says romance like a trip to Paris, but if that’s not in the cards jet off to Aperitif. Mirrored walls, a multi-colored tiled floor and wooden tables and chairs with luxe red cushions give it a French bistro vibe. The Rockville Center spot’s romantic celebration includes selections you can enjoy together, like a duo of lobsters and beef wellington for two. Go.
WAVE, Port Jefferson

Brunch and a walk along the harbor is unbeatable way to spend the early hours of your Valentine’s Day. image: wave
If there’s one thing that pulls a Long Islander out of winter hibernation, it’s brunch. Toast to love and happiness with a mimosa at WAVE’s Hearts Brunch. If dinner-dates are more your style, the Port Jeff staple is offering a four-course Valentine’s Menu. You may love your significant other, but you’re not going to want to share the strawberry cheesecake. Weather permitting, a long walk along the beautiful harbor after would make the perfect digestif. Go.
Three Village Inn, Stony Brook
A fireplace will keep you cozy, the white tablecloths will make your Valentine’s date at Three Village charming. Order off the three-course prix-fixe menu that includes delectable choices like crab cakes, warm goat cheese salad, the duck mirabelle and a selection of desserts and cheeses. Go.
Hush Bistro, Farmingdale
Hush Bistro’s singer sewing machine table bases with reclaimed custom wood tops, open ceilings with exposed plumbings and grey painted walls adorned with vintage style scones will make a laid-back couple feel right at home. A complimentary glass of wine and roses are included with the meal Feb. 12-14. Go.
The 1770 House, East Hampton
Plan a romantic getaway at your summer home complete with an elegant night out with that very special someone. Spaciously arranged with antique wooden tables, high back cushioned wicker chairs and a fireplace, The 1770 House’s ambiance is a perfect blend of cozy, luxurious and of course romantic. Executive chef Michael Rozzi’s menu builds like a crescendo, from the first bites of oysters on the half shell with a champagne mignonette to his homemade desserts. Wine director Michael Cohen will be on hand to help guests choose the perfect glass or bottle of wine. Go.
The Butcher’s Bar & Grill, Williston Park
For the couple that’s tired of hitting the same spot every weekend, Butcher’s Bar & Grill (BBG) is a match made in heaven. Opened in November, BBG is serving a prix-fixe built for two. Each person gets their own appetizer and dessert and shares a USDA Prime cut. The highlight, arguably, is the grand finale: 20 layers of rich chocolate cake with ganache fudge, a chocolate lovers dream. Go.
Volpe Ristorante, Woodbury
Volpe Ristorante will turn your Valentine’s Day into that opulent, white tablecloth affair your long-term beau deserves. The prix-fixe menu includes clams casino, filet mignon, lobster ravioli and delicious desserts like tiramisu and chocolate lava cake. Raise a glass of complimentary wine or Prosecco to each other. Go.
Besito, Roslyn and Huntington
Savor Mexican food without sacrificing sophistication. From the creative menu to the captivating decor that perfectly mixes rustic with trendy, Besito has helped make Mexican dining upscale. Your stomach is already growling thinking about their weekend specials, including pescado relleno and crispy lobster and shrimp tortillas. Brunch fans, rejoice. Besito is hosting a Valentine’s Day brunch, which includes a 2-for-1 margarita special from 12-3pm. Go.
Sage Bistro Moderne, Woodbury
Sage Bistro Moderne is embracing the holiday and offering a la carte specials such as lobster bisque and grilled veal chops or a duo of lobsters for those who love to share. All dinners will finish on a high note with champagne and chocolate truffles on the house. Go.