Introducing Great Escape

Where should you go and what is there to do when you have some brief time away from the kids?

Each week we'll tell you about one great idea or a list of ideas to give you a much-deserved break, and make your life a little easier, or maybe a whole lot easier.

When you’re paying the premium for a babysitter and only have limited time , you want to be sure to enjoy yourself. Next to Mother’s Day, Valentine's Day is the busiest day of the year for restaurants. From first dates to long-married couples, everyone seems to find the time to share an evening together.

Make your day special this year with a choice of local eateries and the special menus available. Each place requires reservations this weekend, so book now to reserve a space.

 -  Today through Monday, this Italian favorite will offer any two entrees or specials, a bottle of wine and chocolate-covered strawberries for $50 per couple.

- All weekend long enjoy a lobster roll, lobster with green onion and ginger entrée and a dessert for $39.95 per person.

Sweetwater Grille-Prime rib, crab cakes, lobster mac and cheese, raspberry chicken, Sweetwater filet, and a fresh catch are all the specials on the menu this weekend. Dinner entrees are $15 and up.

- Four specials, all in servings for two with a bottle of wine. Steak gorgonzola alfredo pasta or creamy lobster fettuccini family style. Crab cake or filet mignon dinner.

  plans to have chef’s specials available and the , which is taking reservations now for Valentine's Day, will have an abbreviated menu.

- There is an event for singles tonight from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. for a select choice of single-serving wines and single-serving dishes. Couples can go starting at 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday or 5 p.m. on Monday (the bistro is closed Sundays) to check out the Chef’s tasting menu featuring regular menu pricing.