Love is in the air, and so is the smell of delicious food in Phoenix, as local restaurants gear up to celebrate Valentine's Day with a flurry of culinary experiences. From Southwestern specialties to steakhouse classics, the options in metro Phoenix promise both longtime lovebirds and new flames an unforgettable feast.
The Craftsman Kitchen & Cocktails is rolling out the red carpet, complete with a bubbly toast and a rose for the ladies. Those looking to splurge can opt for their $90 prix fixe menu, that is on the table from 5 to 9 p.m. on the day of hearts. For a grand culinary journey, Course Restaurant has lined up an eight-course meal encompassing everything from oysters to honeycomb brittle with chamomile ice cream, for a hefty tag of $175 per person, according to Phoenix New Times.
Diners inclined towards an early celebration can hit Ocean Prime from Feb. 8-18 for special Chilean Sea Bass with lobster ravioli or treat themselves at SugarJam The Southern Kitchen to a Valentine's Day brunch, topped off with heart-echoing waffles and fried chicken. Moreover, for a chic blend of dinner and live tunes, Carcara is serving up grass-fed filet and chocolate Chile sea scallops, with a sweet note of dark chocolate mousse or strawberry red velvet cake for dessert.
At Keeler's Neighborhood Steakhouse, it's a meat lover's paradise with options ranging from a 40-ounce tomahawk to surf and turf, complete with chocolate peanut butter cake for a sweet finale. For those seeking a casual yet upscale vibe, Phoenix City Grille offers a celebratory meal with raspberry Champagne or a glass of rose with rose petals, the New England clam chowder, followed with a dry-aged strip loin and lobster or a pistachio-crusted seafood halibut, as per Phoenix New Times.
Yet, amid the roses and fine dining, it's also a time to honor something else: Arizona itself. Feb. 14 marks Arizona Statehood Day, and local eateries and shops offer an array of state-inspired fare. Adventurous Stills in Tempe, for instance, showcases small-batch spirits using locally-grown grains, while Arcadia Meat Market boasts hand-cut meats raised right in Arizona. And for those craving a sustainable, locally-sourced pantry, The Farm Store in Gilbert is stocked with products ranging from honey to tortillas, as reported by Phoenix New Times.
Whether you're raising a glass to toast your sweetheart or to celebrate the Grand Canyon State's entry into statehood, Phoenix's culinary scene offers a taste of love—and local heritage—on a platter this Valentine's Day.
