Take Your Palm Desert Valentine Out To Dine: 2 Favorite Places

PALM DESERT, CA — Are you ready to go out with your sweetie for Valentine's Day? Across California, couples are once again venturing out to celebrate their love at some of the Golden State's finest restaurants.

Many vividly recall the last pre-pandemic Valentine's Day, shortly before the world shut down. Whether you were snuggled up for sushi or sipping sparkling wine as the sunset over the ocean, it's been a minute since Valentine's Day restaurant dining was on the menu.

Open Table's Chief Growth Officer Susan Lee shared how couples returning to the table is happening across the nation.

"Our data suggests that Valentine's Day dining is rebounding this year, with reservations up 30% nationwide compared to last year," Lee said. "We're excited to see this momentum leading up to what has traditionally been one of the biggest dining days of the year for restaurants."

A few memorable experiences are positively "swoon-worthy" thanks to the new OpenTable Experiences. In California, a few premier dining destinations host exclusive events, including coveted tasting menus, wine pairings, drag brunches and more. A few experiences include the Los Angeles, AOC - 3rd Street is showcasing a four-course menu by James Beard award-winning chef Suzanne Goin.

In San Francisco, Berber offers experiences throughout Valentine's Day weekend. Each features a multiple-course tasting menu that combines Moroccan aphrodisiacs and exotic spices for an unforgettable feast set amongst a live cirque show.

California's 11 Most Romantic Valentine's Day Restaurants In 2022 were selected based on restaurant-goers ' experience, as reviewed on Open Table. Only diners can place reviews, adding to the credibility of the atmosphere, food and level of romance.

Here's a bit about each one to determine which will whet your appetite.

FARM – Palm Springs, CA

If romance had a flavor, it would be FARM in Palm Springs. This restaurant, serving French cuisine, has been reviewed by over 1,950 Open Table reviewers as great for outdoor dining, romance and special occasions. Situated in downtown Palm Springs historic Plaza, this is true Provincial style. When you go, expect a true dining experience. Look for scintillating Amuse Bouche, Citron Crepe and Baked Brie, favorites of restaurant-goers. The prix fixe dinners are Friday through Tuesday.

Le Vallauris – Palm Springs

Isn't it romantic? That's what Palm Springs reviewers are saying on Open Table. Le Vallauris is the go-to special occasion French restaurant in Coachella Valley. Perfect for parties of two, this restaurant has served lovers since 1973. Expect to spend around $97 per person. The classic dishes are Escargot, Grand Mariner Souffle and the Caesar Salad. Pricey but perfect, reviewers say. You can bring your own wine, though a $50 corkage fee applies.

Where is your favorite special occasion restaurant?

Let us know in the comments and have a happy Valentine's Day!