Where To Dine This Valentine's

As the most romantic day of the year approaches, eateries across Northern Ireland are promoting their best deals and fine wines in a bid to host loved-up couples for Valentine's.
Whether you're the romantic type and fancy some quality time with your other half over a candlelit dinner, or simply want to forget the occasion and enjoy a catch up with friends, get your table booked soon as the reservation books are filling up fast.
To save hours of searching online and the inevitable disagreement about where does the best strawberry daiquiri, cast our eye upon our handy guide below for this year's Valentine's deals.

Brooklyn Square Belfast

Situated in the heart of Belfast's Shaftesbury Square, Brooklyn Square is an ideal spot for a romantic meal or a catch-up for Galentine's. Their extensive cocktail list and combination of American and Italian food will give you plenty to talk about, making it a safe-option if you're hoping to impress on a first date.
Couples can enjoy a three-course meal this Valentine's for a total of only £45, including a glass of wine or prosecco each.
A wide variety of starters and mains are on offer, including Brooklyn's famous chicken wings in BBQ or Frank's Hot Sauce, as well as steak, burgers and pasta options.
There is also plenty on offer for those with a vegetarian or gluten-free diet.
Book now to avoid disappointment by calling 02890 230213.
You can find Brooklyn Square under the giant neon sign just off Dublin Road in Belfast. Want to know more? Check out their website here.

The Stables, Groomsport

If you're based in the North Down area we would recommend securing a spot at the Stables, a superior bistro in Groomsport which serves delicious food using all local ingredients. The countdown is on to Valentine's and the restaurant has went all-out with a three course meal for only £45 per couple.
You can enjoy a wide variety of starters before tucking into a selection of chicken, pork, lamb, sirloin or vegetarian dishes also.
Desserts to share are also included, with the dark chocolate brownie enough to tempt anyone.
Also on offer for the love-birds out there:
• Cupids cocktails, £5.
• Bottle of Prosecco and Strawberries, £15.
• Live music from 6.30 - 9pm.
If you're tempted, call 02891 464229 to book.

The Stoker's Halt, Belfast & Hollywood

Love is certainly in the air at the Stoker's Halt as their 'free food' promotion has been extended to cover this Valentine's. With an outlet on the Upper Newtownards Road in east Belfast and another in Hibernia Street, Hollywood, this deal is not to be missed.
Diners can buy one main course and get a second for free, so get yourself booked in and if you're treating the other half- sure there's no need to mention the fact you're only actually paying for one meal.
You can indulge in a sirloin steak, chicken stack, a beef burger (which also has a vegan alternative), fish & chips or pesto linguine…order what you wish and the cheapest option will be free.
Check out the Stoker's website here for a look at the drinks and other dishes on offer.
To book a table in the Ballyhackamore venue, call 02890 921902 or for the Hollywood location, call 02890 424220.

The Tides Portrush

Heading to the North Coast for a romantic getaway? The Tides Portrush is where you want to be this February 14.
This popular restaurant combines stunning sea views with a cosy boathouse feel to provide the perfect setting for a meal, just the two of you.
With three courses for the price of your main, you can enjoy the standard menu with all the usual gorgeous dishes, but not-so-normal price.
The Tides' new Salt & Chilli Chicken Slider has been a hit with many to start recently, while the Lamb Rack with ratatouille, herb oil, parmesan & fennel potatoes is another popular dish on their award winning menu.
If you've managed to stick to your January diet and don't think you could manage all three courses, you can still avail of the offer and swap one out for a free drink instead.
Call 02870 823833 to grab your spot.

Bert's Jazz Bar, Cathedral Quarter Belfast

If Art Deco glamour, smooth jazz melodies and regional French inspired cuisine are your thing, Bert's Jazz bar is the perfect venue for your romantic meal for two. This option is a little more pricy but oh-so-worth-it for the head chef's delectable five course menu.
The first sitting at the luxury location, which is part of the Merchant Hotel, is available from 6-6.30pm on Thursday 14 February from £42.50 per person, while the second sitting runs from 8.30-9pm at a price of £59.95 per person.
You can indulge in a choice selection of starters including Baked Camembert or Chicken Liver Parfait, while the main course options include Gnocchi, Pan Fried Cod, or Ribeye Steak.
Baked Alaska, Lemon Posset and Butterscotch Fondue are also on offer for dessert, among others, and a sorbet and tea & coffee course is also part of the deal.
View the full menu here.
To make a booking, contact 02890 234888.

Horatio Todd's, Belfast

Head to Horatio Todd's in Ballyhackamore, one of Belfast's most-loved restaurants, where the motto is 'all great love affairs start with a cocktail'.
As well as live music in the bar, each couple can look forward to a champagne cocktail on arrival- the perfect ice-breaker if you're out on a first date.
Three courses are priced at £50 per couple, which includes the complimentary drink.
The special Valentine's menu will be available on Thursday 14, while the deal continues alongside the A La Carte menu on Friday 15 and Saturday 16 also.
The atmosphere is set to be good as local musicians Common Ground will be performing from 9pm.
Get in touch via 02890 653090 to book.

(JG/CM)