Valentine’s Day is notoriously one of the worst days to dine out — ask any chef, and they’ll confirm — overpriced prix fixe menus, rushed service from overworked kitchen and front-of-house staff, and every couple in the city fighting for that coveted 7:30 p.m. reservation. It’s the perfect storm for a less-than-stellar dining experience.
But despite its reputation, if you’re partnered up, there’s often pressure to make a night of it. If you can’t avoid eating out this Valentine’s Day, at least don’t have the worst meal of the year. Watch out for these six red flags before booking that table.
And it’s not all doom and gloom; we’ve left you with a few tips to find the perfect spot for a memorable dinner, no lukewarm entrees or food poisoning involved.
1. Valentine’s Day ‘Specials’
Special occasions call for special dishes — Champagne on New Year’s Eve, birthday cake for a celebration. But let’s be real: Your local chain doesn’t usually serve fresh oysters, and that sushi spot isn’t known for its chocolate-covered strawberries.
Chris Atwood, chef, cooking instructor and co-founder of the Food Society in Atlanta, Georgia, warns that not all “special” Valentine’s Day menus are worth the hype. He said, “I’d caution diners to think critically about whether a restaurant can live up to what they’re promising. Do they usually handle high volume? Does the menu align with their specialty? If they don’t normally serve fresh lobster, is this really the place to order it?”
And it’s not just the food — keep an eye on those “included” extras, especially alcohol. “I’d also be wary of a bottle of Champagne included in the cost of the menu,” Atwood added. “Some restaurants upcharge quite a bit just to then serve you cava or prosecco.”
If your favorite Italian spot suddenly offers sushi and steak tartare, take it as a warning sign. Stick to restaurants that stay in their lane.
2. Restaurants That Are ‘Doing It For The ’Gram’
Atmosphere (or vibes) is a key part of any dining experience, whether you’re after a cozy, candlelit table or a lively, bustling bar. But Ivan Beacco, chef and owner of Red Inside Catering in New York City, urges caution when a restaurant leans too hard into aesthetics.
“Avoid anywhere that’s trying too hard,” he said. “The over-decorated spots with balloons, confetti and a violinist at every table? It’s a no from me. And if a place cares more about its Instagram feed than the food on the plate, that’s another red flag. You want a restaurant that prioritizes flavor over follower count.”
3. Buffets
“And buffets — do I even have to say it? Just don’t,” Beacco said.
Buffets already have a lackluster reputation for food safety violations (cross-contamination and poor temperature control, to name two big ones). On a high-traffic night like Valentine’s Day, those risks only increase. Overworked and understaffed kitchens may struggle to maintain the rigorous standards needed to keep food fresh, hot and properly handled. The last thing you want on the most romantic night of the year? Battling your sweetheart for the bathroom thanks to food poisoning.
4. Squished-In Seating
This one might require research before you book, but it’s worth it.
“Avoid any place packing in extra tables or seats,” Atwood said. “In practice, this means they’re trying to make as much money off the evening, and you might end up in an overcrowded and noisy room — with stressed-out staff and fellow diners.”
If you don’t want to feel like your elbows are in your soup, it’s time for a deep dive, like you’re creeping your ex’s social media. Instead of focusing on recent reviews, check how the restaurant handled last year’s V-Day to see whether reviewers complained about tight seating. Browse social media for an idea of the space, or call ahead and ask if they’re adding extra tables for the night. If a restaurant is known for being cozy on a regular night, expect it to feel even more cramped on Valentine’s Day.
5. Chain Restaurants
Before you come for me in the comments, I love a chain restaurant. They’re affordable, predictable and reliable, whether I’m traveling or just need a quick bite. I’ll never turn down a great sandwich from Panera or the never-ending bread basket at Cheesecake Factory.
But on Valentine’s Day? You might want to rethink it.
According to Adrian Mills, executive chef at the Chase Sapphire Lounge in Dulles and Founder of the Cooking Collective, chains struggle to keep up with the holiday rush. “Staff are stretched thin trying to serve as many tables as possible, so guests get less attention. The kitchen is overwhelmed, making timely plating difficult. With high guest expectations and intense pressure, mistakes happen — leading to lower food quality and overall poor satisfaction.”
While chains can be a great choice most nights, Valentine’s Day service often suffers under the strain. If you’re hoping for a smooth, memorable evening, consider a spot that can handle the pressure.
6. Overpriced Prix Fixe Menus
French for “fixed price,” prix fixe is a set multi-course menu — often with limited or no choices for each course. Restaurants love offering them on holidays like Valentine’s Day because they streamline service and maximize profits. But for diners, they can be hit or miss.
“Prix fixe menus can go either way,” Beacco said. “A good one? It’s thoughtfully curated, with dishes that show off the chef’s passion — almost like a love letter to the diners. But if it feels rushed or generic, like they’re just trying to turn tables faster, it’s better to pass. Look for menus that balance indulgence with variety — not too heavy, not too safe. And if dessert is just a sad chocolate lava cake … no, grazie!”
To avoid disappointment, scan the menu ahead of time. If it looks uninspired — or overpriced for what’s being offered — you’re better off booking elsewhere.
3 Tips For Choosing A Great Valentine’s Day Restaurant
Not all Valentine’s Day dining is doomed! If you’re set on eating out, here are three tips for picking a restaurant to make the night special.
1. Choose Your Favorite Local Spot
Smaller neighborhood restaurants tend to offer a more intimate setting — and, as Atwood points out, they’re also more likely to add extra special touches and flourishes to make the evening memorable. Rather than fighting for a reservation at a buzzy, overcrowded spot, opt for a place you know and love, where the food is consistently great, and the service feels personal. Bonus: If you’re a regular, they might even surprise you with something extra.
2. Book A Table Early (Or Be Flexible)
We get it — you want to celebrate on the 14th to soak in the day’s romance. But if you must, consider lunch (often a more affordable version of the dinner menu!) or snag an early bird time slot. Better yet, celebrate on the 13th or 15th to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed dining experience.
3. Charm The Server
If all else fails and you find yourself in a jam-packed restaurant at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 14, a little kindness goes a long way. Be patient and polite, and remember that your server is likely juggling a hectic night.
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