No date required: Dallas’ 10 hottest Valentine’s Day restaurants for singles

Dear Readers,

Over the past few weeks, I’ve received numerous requests from single friends and acquaintances, seeking an introduction in time for Valentine’s Day. The truth is, while I know many eligible guys and girls, I don’t believe in introducing people on a deadline. Instead, I’ve decided to do something a little different and special for all of my Dallas singles as we look ahead to this Friday’s holiday…

Toni

Oh, St. Valentine, the patron saint of love and high expectations. You can turn a passing glance into love at first sight, transform princes into frogs, and one-night stands into true romance. So, why have you eluded so many hopeful singles? As your anointed day approaches, they anxiously wait like children with plates full of cookies or tiny pulled teeth nestled under their pillows for your affections: mylar balloons, roses, heart shaped boxes of chocolates, and candle light dinners for two. Who are you? Where did you come from?

Believed to have been created to supplant the Pagan festival of fertility, also held in mid-February, St. Valentine’s Day was first declared a holiday by Pope Gelasius toward the end of the 5th Century, A.D. This time of worship involved slapping rear-ends of females with pieces of sacrificial goat (sounding similar to some of the dating rituals that still occur today, sans the goat meat). Today, the holiday is a polarizing annual event, with some looking forward to the pink and red hearts and flowers of it all, while others dread it like Tax Day.

Speaking of the latter category, if you’re single this Valentine’s Day, I highly recommend taking matters into your own hands. Sure, a personal introduction is nice, but if you find yourself date-less, why not treat yourself to a night suited just to your taste? This is another amazing way to meet your mate, without hitting the desperate bar or club scene. Behold, my Top 10 Restaurants for Dallas Singles this Valentine’s Day:

1. Victor Tangos

3001 N. Henderson Avenue, Dallas

This high-energy hotspot is the perfect place for the foodie meets pub-crawler. On Valentine’s Day, the cocktail of choice is “My Bloody Valentine.”

2. The Rustic

3656 Howell Street, Dallas

This pick has a chill atmosphere for the music-lover who supports all things local. A live jazz band and champagne toast are on tap for the holiday.

3. The Mansion Bar at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek

2821 Turtle Creek Boulevard, Dallas

A true classic, The Mansion Bar is old Hollywood glam, suited to those who enjoy putting a little effort into their wardrobe – and a perfect dirty martini.

4. Al Biernat’s

4217 Oak Lawn Avenue, Dallas

A seasoned crowd of regulars favors this celebrated steakhouse, both MSNBC enthusiasts and late-night partiers.

5. Ascension

1621 Oak Lawn Avenue, Dallas

Laid back and informal, this is the perfect place for intellectuals who love their wine as much as their coffee.

6. Hillstone

8300 Preston Road & 5318 Beltline Road, Dallas

The menu here is tried-and-true, and this mainstay also attracts many singles on round two, looking for love again.

7. Mi Cocina

Multiple Area Locations

Mi Cocina (especially the Highland Park Village location) boasts some of the best Tex-Mex in town. Choose this fun spot if you like to see and be seen.

8. Oddfellows

316 W. 7th Street, Dallas

An eclectic addition to the Bishop Arts District, Oddfellows is the place for the artistic types who enjoy food and atmosphere equally.

9. Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar

3601 Dallas Parkway, Plano

A trio of special Valentine’s Day drinks (including “Love on the Rocks” and “Cupid’s Broken Arrow”) will be featured at this farm-to-kitchen favorite. And don’t miss the namesake dessert.