Bites Nearby: Rochester Chop House

Rochester Chop House, 500 N. Main St., Rochester (248) 651-2266

If you are looking for a romantic restaurant this week, the is a great choice. Soft lights and booths and tables set into nooks and crannies make this an ideal spot for Valentine's Day. 

The Chop House has a bit of a retro roadhouse feeling and the menu follows suit, with such dishes as the Detroit sirloin, inspired by a vintage Detroit restaurant where Kruse used to go. Rack of lamb, crabcakes and filet mignon are all staples. Service is emphasized and almost every wine is available by the glass. 

One or the other of the two proprietors, Bill Kruse and Vince Clark, is always on hand and that is one reason why this is such a well-run restaurant.

Recommended dishes: Maryland lump crabcakes, potato-encrusted whitefish, Detroit sirloin steak

 Hours: Lunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday; dinner 5-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 5-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 4-9 p.m. Sunday

Prices: Appetizers $5-$12, dinner entrees $17-$39, desserts $3-$7.

 Credit cards: All major