Valentine's Day Restaurant Ideas In Arlington Heights: POLL

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — Valentine's Day is almost here. Patch recently asked readers to let us know some top romantic spots for dinner in Arlington Heights and the results are in!

More people go out to eat in restaurants on Feb. 14 than any other day besides Mother's Day, according to the National Restaurant Association. As more and more people return to eating out, it might be a good idea to book a reservation now.

Without further ado, here are some of the places to go, according to our informal poll. Thank you to all who participated.

Joe & Guiseppe's, 952 Arthur Ave., Arlington Heights

Description: "Family-run Italian joint providing traditional dishes & wine in a relaxed, cozy atmosphere."
What readers said/memorable experience: "Just good food with a great host, Pasquale."
Go-to order: "Lasagna because it tastes great."

Jameson's Original Charhouse, 1331 W. Dundee Road, Arlington Heights

Description: "American chophouse with a full bar & upscale decor featuring brick & wood-trimmed details."
What readers said/memorable experience: "It was the first restaurant we visited when we moved to this area over five years ago. We were greeted and served with such kindness and class. The atmosphere was very cozy and relaxing. Our dinner and cocktails were outstanding. We are regular patrons there now, and I just can recommend the place enough."
Go-to order: "The Chopped Steak dinner is fantastic. The beef is prepared from the cuts fresh daily, and you can taste it. A huge amount of food with the sides, soup and salad, we always share.

Dunton House Restaurant, 11 W Davis St., Arlington Heights

Description: "A family restaurant in downtown Arlington Heights."
What readers said/memorable experience: "Had lunch here with my sweetheart right after signing mortgage papers at Arlington Federal.

Salsa 17, 17 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights

Description: "Modern, upscale spot for Mexican dining & diverse margaritas in a colorful, art-filled hacienda."
What readers said/memorable experience: "Our first visit was in my husband’s birthday. It was a big surprise that they all sang to him, but also out a sombrero on his head."
Go-to order: Chicken fajitas

Francesca's Tavola, 208 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights

Description: "Pizza, pasta & other Italian staples are the draw at this upscale establishment with a relaxed vibe."
What readers said/memorable experience: "25th wedding anniversary. Got a comped glass of champagne and a profiterole with Happy Anniversary in chocolate printed on the plate."
Go-to-order: "Gnocchi when it's on the menu — best sauce ever."

Shakou Arlington Heights, 70 N. Vail Ave., Arlington Heights

Description: "An intimate dining space featuring bar/lounge area, sushi bar and outdoor wrap around patio."
What readers said/memorable experience: "Best employees around."
Go-to order: Seven spicy ahi

Mago Grill & Cantina, 115 W Campbell St., Arlington Heights

Description: "Modern, Aztec-accented cantina featuring creative Mexican dining & a lengthy tequila list."
What readers said/memorable experience: "I have been to Mago so many times, it's always great food and drinks!"
Go-to orders:

• Carne asada
• Tacos "because they have great combination of flavors."

ROMANTIC DATES SPOTS AROUND TOWN INCLUDE:

• Passero
• Metropolis
• St. James
• Nickol Knoll Park "for the lovely city views at the top."
• "On New Year’s Eve, we dined at Alt Thai and then went to the movies at the downtown cinema."
• Big Shots Piano Bar "is always fun!"