Valentine's Day is the perfect day for a celebratory dinner. According to the National Restaurant Association, more people go out to eat in restaurants on February 14th than on any other day besides Mother's Day. Valentine's Day is right around the corner, but so are several fine dining restaurants in Arlington Heights.
As the special day approaches, there are numerous exquisite dining options available in Arlington Heights. To enhance your night out experience, we, as long-time members of the Arlington Heights community, have curated a list of top-notch restaurants in the area.
1.) Passero
Nothing says romance like Italy. Passero, owned by an Italian-American family, is a romantic restaurant in Arlington Heights that serves Italian-American food. The restaurant's name, Passero, comes from a type of bird in Italian and is meant to symbolize joy and creativity. We think the food reflects just that. The food is made from natural ingredients, and the specials change based on the season. So come back in the winter and the summer to try different dishes, but for Valentine's Day, you can expect handcrafted pasta and brick oven pizzas. This modern Italian spot serves a tasty array of seasonal Italian dishes and craft cocktails and is great for a romantic dining experience.
2.) Salsa 17
If you know Arlington Heights, you know Salsa 17. You have probably heard about their tableside guacamole, but if you still need to, let me tell you, it's delicious. Salsa 17 is an upscale Mexican restaurant that offers various dishes such as enchiladas, tacos, and mouth-watering specials. They also have a tasty margarita menu if you want a drink to top off your meal. If you prefer a night in, you can buy the margarita mix to accompany your takeout and enjoy it from the comfort of your home.
3.) Mago Grill
Mago Grill is a Mexican restaurant in Arlington Heights serving tacos, fajitas, and more. It has a cozy and warm atmosphere with a great selection of Latin American cuisine. The executive Chef, Juan Luis Gonzales, uses old family recipes he learned while growing up in Mexica. Sip on a margarita or sangria while trying some of Juan's secret family recipes. You can also try over 200 different types of tequila and fun drinks like margaritas and mojitos. Mago Grill is fun, inviting, and an excellent place for enjoying Valentine's Day.
4.) Shakou
Named one of the top 100 restaurants by Forbes, Shakou is an Asian restaurant with an eclectic menu and stylish decor. Known for its sushi, Shakou is an excellent spot if you are a fan of seafood. Try one of the maki signature rolls. Shakou offers a wide selection of Asian-inspired cocktails. The chef uses the freshest ingredients, and the salmon is fantastic. The atmosphere is modern and upscale, perfect to set a romantic evening out in Arlington Heights.
5.) Peggy Kinnanes
There are many Irish places in Chicago, but Peggy’s is one of our favorites. This authentic Irish pub has the perfect relaxed and casual atmosphere if you want a low-key dining experience on Valentine's Day. The building has an Irish feel, with stone and woodwork shipped directly from County Clare. Their menu consists of burgers, salads, pasta, and other entrees. There is something for everyone at Peggy Kinnanes in Arlington Heights. Try a Harp and lime- Patrick’s favorite drink when you stop by.
6.) Palm Court Restaurant
Palm Court Restaurant is another excellent choice for Valentine's Day if you want a romantic evening over Italian food. It’s a classic choice, open since 1979, offering a unique mix of American and European cuisine. The food mixes traditional and modern dishes, like Oysters Rockefeller. Some menu highlights include filet mignon, duckling, and veal oscar. Guests can also enjoy an array of wines, cocktails, and martinis. Palm Court Restaurant in Arlington Heights has an elegant and cozy atmosphere. They often have live piano music playing while you enjoy your meal.
7.) Carlos & Carlos Restaurant
Two brothers, Carlos Montiel and Eddy Montiel opened their restaurant in 1985, quickly becoming one of the most popular restaurants in Arlington Heights. Celebrities, mayors, and fashion designers have all enjoyed a meal here. It is cozy and offers the best cuisine of Italy with hints of inspiration from France. While dining at Carolos and Carolos, you must try the homemade pasta. There is limited seating of 70, so be sure to get there early or make a reservation.
8.) Cooper's Hawk
Cooper's Hawk is an American-style restaurant, but they are known for its winery and delicious food. It is located in Arlington Heights, with several other locations throughout the US. The wine list is exquisite, and they offer walk-in wine tastings for guests. A few chef recommendations include the wild mushroom flatbread and the filet mignon. If you and your significant other love wine, this might be just the restaurant for you on Valentine's Day.
9.) Francesca's Tavola
If you and your partner love pasta and limoncello, Francesca's Tavola is an excellent spot for Valentine's Day in Arlington Heights. Francesca's Tavola is another Italian restaurant in Arlington Heights that offers traditional Italian dishes in a casual yet sophisticated setting. The menu includes dishes from Rome and the surrounding regions of Tuscany, Umbria, and Lazio. You can enjoy pizza, pasta, and other Italian classics. Their homemade limoncello is always a favorite.
10.) Osteria Trulli Cucina Pugliese
Eat your way through the heart of southern Italy at Osteria Trulli Cucina Pugliese. Lastly, Osteria Trulli is an Italian restaurant in Arlington Heights, IL, that serves authentic Pugliese cuisine. Executive Chef Giovanni DeNigris cooks with the inspiration of the coastal cuisine of Southern Italy. Some tasty dishes include pasta, risotto, and roasted meats. Since the restaurant opened in 2016, Osteria Trulli Cucina Pugliese has been rated one of the top Italian restaurants in the Chicago area, but don't take our word for it. Try this restaurant for yourself.
If you are hoping for a romantic evening out this Valentine's Day, you can’t go wrong with any of these delicious and local Arlington Heights restaurants.
Additionally, if you are hoping to surprise your loved ones with a floral bouquet, these shops in Arlington Heights have an extensive selection.
Florists in the area:
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