15 romantic Twin Cities restaurants to try this Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is around the corner, and reservations are going fast.

• Planning a night out? Here are some of our recommendations for romantic restaurants around the Twin Cities.

Be smart: Several upscale restaurants have seen more last-minute cancellations — keep checking for openings.

🍽 For lighter fare: Alma.

Stay on the cafe side for casual New American dining or check out the restaurant for a seasonal prix-fixe menu. Tip: Take an after-dinner walk to the Stone Arch Bridge just a few blocks away.

• Or: Aster Cafe on nearby Main Street.

👏 For the tried-and-true: Spoon and Stable.

Award-winning chef Gavin Kaysen's airy North Loop restaurant has received rave reviews since its 2014 debut, making the modern American cuisine a Midwest standout.

• Or: Italian eatery Bar La Grassa.

🍸 For the nontraditional: Moscow on the Hill.

This St. Paul restaurant features traditional Russian cuisine. Be sure to sample some of the 300 different types of vodka offered in their lounge.

• Or: Upscale oyster bar and restaurant Meritage.

🏝 For the resort atmosphere: Martina.

Enjoy Argentine and Italian-inspired cuisine by chef Daniel del Prado at this warm, airy Linden Hills restaurant.

• Or: Southeast Asian restaurant Khâluna.

🏞 For the views: Cafe and Bar Lurcat.

The American-fare bar and restaurant overlooking Loring Park is steps away from the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Tip: The apple cheddar salad is a must-order.

• Or: RH Rooftop for the glass-enclosed rooftop patio.

😎 For the exclusive: Demi.

Reservations for this North Loop restaurant's 10-course tasting menu go quickly, but are reportedly worth the wait (and the $125+ per person price tag).

• Or: The $120+/person tasting menu at Myriel and the $70/person, 6-course meal at Tenant.

🍝 For the pasta: The Bungalow Club.

The three-course menu changes weekly, but keeps its focus on chef Andrew Kraft's handmade pastas.

• Or: The cozy, candlelit Rinata.

Editor's note: This story was originally published in February 2022 and updated Feb. 1, 2023.