From romantic dinners to delicious themed coffees — explore things to do around town this week for Valentine’s Day.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF MORNING LAVENDER CAFE, COMMUNAL COFFEE
This brand new cafe-boutique in coastal North County has plenty of delicious themed drinks this month, including a strawberry chai latte with strawberry cold foam, spanish latte with strawberry cold foam, pistachio rose latte, strawberry white hot chocolate, & lychee rose soda.
Stop by Communal Coffee in O-side from February 1st to 14th and grab a Raspberry White Mocha. Bonus: buy a “Hi from San Diego” soda glass, and get the mocha for free. Yep, free.
For a leisurely daytime stroll or a cozy picnic, head to the Botanic Garden in Encinitas. The garden is in full bloom, with vibrant displays of Camellia japonica near Cork Oak Grove, Alstroemeria hybrids by the Gazebo Lawn, and colorful succulent blooms near Cork Oak Café. Wander through lush pathways, admire seasonal flora in shades of pink and red, and relax in picturesque garden spots. PS: visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy lunch surrounded by nature’s beauty!
Celebrate in style at La Valencia’s Mediterranean Room, where ocean views and an intimate ambiance create the perfect setting for romance. Executive Chef Alex Pailles has crafted an exclusive four-course menu featuring dishes like Beet Tartare, Yakitori-Kissed Iberian Pork, King Koa Salmon, Bone-In Short Rib, and Matcha Banana Cake. This special dining experience is priced at $150 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations are available via OpenTable.
Omni La Costa Resort offers a variety of ways to celebrate love this Valentine’s Day. Enjoy a romantic dinner at VUE from February 14–16, featuring seasonal specials like steak & lobster, oysters, and strawberry champagne cake, along with a champagne toast option. For an elevated dining experience, Bob’s Steak & Chop House will offer its signature menu and a five-course prix fixe dinner for two from February 13–15. Parents can also take advantage of Parents’ Night Out on February 14, where kids can enjoy a PJ Pizza Party with games, crafts, and make-your-own pizza while adults enjoy a stress-free evening. Reservations for dining are available via OpenTable.
For an elegant Valentine’s Day dinner, Mille Fleurs in Rancho Santa Fe offers a luxurious four-course prix fixe menu curated by Executive Chef Harrison Axelrod. Dishes include Prime Beef Filet Tartare, Lobster Agnolotti, Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb, and Wild-Caught Atlantic Dover Sole, all for $195 per person. End the evening with decadent desserts by Executive Pastry Chef Kevin Jorgensen, such as Deconstructed Strawberry Shortcake and Chocolate Heart with Kumquat Coulis. Reservations are available via OpenTable.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a five-course prix fixe menu featuring creative and elegant dishes by Chefs Davin Waite and Travis Roe at The Plot. Highlights include stuffed endive, prickly pear agua chili with mushrooms, savory strawberry soup, beet prosciutto with pink apples, pink masa dumplings with veggie scallop and lemon butter, and custard-stuffed strawberries. This experience is offered from February 13–16, starting at 4 p.m. Pricing is $65 per person, with an optional $35 wine and cocktail pairing featuring responsibly sourced libations.
On February 14th, Vintana will be serving a specially curated three-course menu from 4PM—10PM. Reservations are recommended.
PHOTOS VIA MARISI
Enjoy a special four-course menu at Marisi curated by Executive Chef Cameron Ingle. In addition to their regular à la carte offerings, guests can indulge in an exclusive dining experience featuring Steamed Saffron Mussels, King Crab Carbonara, pasture-raised New York Strip (with the option to add burgundy black truffle), and a decadent Baked Alaska. The prix-fixe menu includes a glass of sparkling rosé and is priced at $125 per guest, excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations are available via OpenTable.
Casa de Bandini at the Carlsbad Forum is offering a special three-course Valentine’s Day menu for two, featuring authentic Mexican cuisine. Guests can choose from dishes such as carnitas a la Michoacán, pollo de piña, tequila lime shrimp, or a grilled chicken, avocado, and mango burrito. Dessert options include chocolate flan, tres leches cake, or traditional caramel flan. The prix fixe meal is priced at $50 for two. Reservations are recommended.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF LILIAN’S
Celebrate friendship with a Galentine’s Brunch at Lilian’s on Saturday, February 15. Enjoy a morning of delicious bites, a glass of bubbly, and serene garden views. As a special treat, browse Marrow Fine’s jewelry pop-up, featuring elegant pieces perfect for gifting—or treating yourself. Reservations recommended.
Perfect for families, couples, and all chocolate lovers alike — celebrate all things chocolate at the Escondido Chocolate Festival on Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Historic Downtown Escondido. Stroll along Grand Avenue and visit nearly 20 restaurants, shops, and spa tasting locations, sampling chocolate paired with local fine wines and craft beers. Enjoy the vibrant arts scene with highlights from Escondido Arts & Culture and Esco Alley Art.
Head to Good Source Coffee on February 8th from 9AM to 12PM for giveaways, a photobooth, music, and seasonal flavors to enjoy. Valentine’s colors encouraged! The new coffee spot in Escondido will also be offering Valentines Bundles available for pickup from February 13–15, including drink of choice, a flower bouquet, and a sugar cookie with a sweet message—perfect for a loved one, friend, or coworker. Pre-orders now open.
On Saturday, February 8th, celebrate community and creativity at the annual Hearts of Carlsbad Village: a village-wide hunt for handcrafted glass hearts. What began as a way to support local businesses during the pandemic has become a cherished tradition for both locals and visitors.
As you explore Carlsbad Village’s shops, restaurants, and landmarks, keep an eye out for vibrant glass hearts, crafted by Barrio Glassworks and hidden in plain sight. Finders get to keep their heart and can register it for a chance to win local prizes. The hunt begins at 9:00 a.m. with waves of hearts placed throughout the day until 2:00 p.m.
Calling all singles! Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a fun and social evening at Single & Mingle on Friday, February 14, from 5–8 p.m. at the Ocean View Deck. Enjoy happy hour pricing on champagne and cocktails at Enoteca’s extended bar, dance to a live DJ, and take in stunning sunset views. Plus, ladies will receive a complimentary rose bouquet to take home. This free event is open to all—come sip, socialize, and make new connections!
Celebrate love and friendship on February 5th at Morning Lavender Cafe. Enjoy festive sips and sweets, plus a DIY charm lip balm experience with Mannakadar Beauty. In support of a great cause, 20% of all boutique sales during the event will be donated to LA wildfire victims. This all-ages gathering is the perfect way to spend the evening with friends. Tickets available online.
Get half-price admission to 70+ museums, gardens, and cultural sites this February with a free Museum Month pass. Explore surf history, science, art, and more.
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