Happy early Valentine’s Day to you! This love-y holiday calls for an unforgettable meal in an intimate setting. And hopefully one that sparks a warm romance despite our cold weather. My husband and I usually like to bundle up and head out on foot for a cozy dinner and cocktail…So here are my favorite enchanting spots to take your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re after old-school Italian charm, exquisite seafood fine-dining or a mid-century nightcap, Portland has you covered. And bonus: Most of these spots are no reservations / walk-in only for the big day!
Gabbiano’s – Cozy Italian Romance in Concordia
Nestled in Northeast Portland, Gabbiano’s is straight out of a romantic movie. With candlelit tables, vintage charm and a menu bursting with Italian-American comfort food, this spot is made for lovebirds. Twirl handmade pasta, nibble the BEST Caesar salad, toast with a perfect Negroni and finish with their indulgent tiramisu—it’s a night of pure amore. Just don’t make the mistake of not ordering the fried mozzarella or focaccia! No reservations, walk-ins only.
5411 NE 30th Ave. | Open 4-10 pm (Last seating at 9:30 pm)
Cabezon – Sultry and Unexpectedly Sexy in Rose City Park
For a more intimate night, Cabezon sets the scene with moody lighting and exposed brick. The menu celebrates bold, savory flavors and fresh catches. The cioppino is the divine destination dish that put Cabezon on the map. And it’s why I make the short walk there from my house! The cocktails are top-notch and the whole place hums with an understated elegance. One bite and you’ll see why Cabezon landed in USA Today’s “10 Best Restaurants in Portland” and the New York Times’ “36 Hours in Portland.”
5200 NE Sacramento St. | Open 11 am to 9 pm on Valentine’s Day
Katy’s Oyster Bar – Secret Seafood Stash on the Slopes of Mt. Tabor
Valentine’s reservations for Coquine sold out a while ago. However, a convenient hack is the no-reservations walk-in at the adjoining Katy’s Oyster Bar in the Coquine Market. Located in a sleepy pocket on a residential street of the lofty Mt. Tabor neighborhood, grab a table and indulge in the seafood smorgasbord. Oysters, Crawfish dip, Crab Louie, Shrimp ‘n’ grits … everything is sure to wow your date! And if you have a sweet tooth, this Michelin-starred restaurant currently has its pre-orders open for caramels and truffles. They also have other baked treats on the menu, including their famous chocolate chip cookies.
6833 SE Belmont St. | Open 5-8 pm
Lift Off Lounge – A Mid-century Nightcap in Rose City Park
Who wants such a lovely night to end?! Extend your Valentine’s date with a nightcap at the low-lit Lift Off Lounge just steps from Cabezon. This cocktail-forward bar channels mid-century supper clubs for a blast from the past. Atomic Age snacks like pimento cheese and deviled eggs are a nice complement to the cocktail menu. The drink menu boasts a fine array of classics such as the Bee’s Knees, Jungle Bird and Old Fashioned. It also offers some fun twists on old standbys, proving you can’t go wrong by adding Aperol to any cocktail (see: Only Fans Martini). Vegan snack options are here, too!
5216 NE Sandy Blvd. | Open 4 pm-12 am (Happy Hour 4-6 pm)
Cheers to love and Happy Valentine’s Day to you!
Susie Knows PDX 