Romantic Restaurants

With the holiday of love fast-approaching, the quest to find the perfect place to romance the one you love can be a difficult one. Explore the charm and whimsy of 5 of Victoria’s romantic dining rooms before you settle on the perfect destination to sweep that special person off their feet this Valentine’s Day.

Cafe Brio
944 Fort St.
250.383.0009

Tucked behind a vine-covered, wrought iron archway on Fort Street is Café Brio. The deep red and yellow tones that fill the room instantly create a feeling of warmth and intimacy that will surely have you shaking off that winter chill. The eclectic selection of art and decor creates a beautiful and intriguing room and compliments the warm, southern Italy feeling—a  romantic room that every Valentine’s Day celebration desires. To enhance your romantic evening this February 14^th, Cafe Brio has a delectable 3-course menu with a great selection of options for each course, and a tantalizing amuse– gueules to start for $55 per person.
cafe-brio.com

The Marina Restaurant
1327 Beach Dr.
250.598.8555

When in search of ocean views this Feb. 14^th, the Marina Restaurant doesn’t disappoint. The semi-circle layout of the dining room provides an abundance of beautiful views—sailboat masts rocking with the ocean’s ebb and flow;  the views of Mount Baker. The room’s ocean hues seem to pull the scenic views into the dining experience where the fresh and local seafood truly shine. Dive into the depths of one of their plush, round booths or sit ocean-side at one of their candlelit tables. This Valentine’s Day there will be no shortage of delicious options to satisfy any palate, from their regular à la carte dinner service as well as a special 3-course menu with optional wine pairings.
marinarestaurant.com

Fireside Grill
4509 W Saanich Rd.
250.479.1222

Perched atop a hill within view of the Pat Bay Highway, Fireside Grill beckons to commuters heading home with its Old English beauty. Once inside, you’ll be enchanted by with the high ceilings framed by dark wood beams and the opulent glow of the hanging candelabra. This heritage estate has plenty of nooks and crannies to make you feel tucked away from the world, whether it’s in front of the fireplace, upstairs on the balcony, or in the quaint “library” room. Indulge in history this Valentine’s Day with their diversified $20 3-course menu or one of their Valentine’s features – be  decadent and have the  10oz New York Steak served with a vanilla butter poached lobster tail.
firesidegrill.com

Aura Waterfront Restaurant
680 Montreal St.
250.414.6739

Rediscover the beauty of Victoria’s Inner Harbour and take your honey to the elegant dining room, Aura, tucked away in the Inn at Laurel Point. The lush red and dark wood furniture provides both warmth and sophistication and is contrasted with striking elements of beige making the room feel luminescent against dark night skies. With romantic, panoramic ocean and harbour views, guests sit and watch the lights of the harbour dance along the water as they enjoy Aura’s fine cuisine. Alternatively, for those seeking to escape the Valentine’s Day parade of couples seeking solitude, the night can instead be filled with family and friends in Aura’s cozy, private dining room with its very own ocean view. Cupid’s arrow brings the option of a 4-course menu for $69, a 3-course menu for $57, or the always delectable à la carte menu.
aurarestaurant.ca

Stage Wine Bar
1307 Gladstone Ave
250.388.4222

Approaching Stage Wine Bar at night, you might not guess that behind its wooden door is a bustling, warm, laughter-filled bistro. You might feel as though you have discovered a well-kept secret. Stage is not your typical dining room—the music that pulses through the room is comprised of beats and lyrics you’ll not only identify but will make you want to sing (or at least tap) along. Delicious food is served up “small plates” style, allowing you to share every aspect of your dining experience with that special someone this Valentine’s Day. For your dining pleasure, Stage will be offering a 4-course menu for $64.99 which you can pair up with fantastic wines starting at $20 for 3 oz pours.
stagewinebar.com

—by Jennifer Hopkins