Leslie J. Almeida is the founder and hostess of NOLA Eats, a social dining group that gathers for monthly culinary events. She writes about the New Orleans dining and restaurant scene at her blog NOLA-Eats.com, showcasing interesting aspects of food and libations. Leslie is the eternal dining companion of her loving husband, who always lets her eat off his plate. Together, they are raising two future foodies, aged ten- and four-years-old.

It's February and love is in the air. As if New Orleanians needed another excuse to dine out, one of the most requested Valentine's Day gifts has always been a romantic dinner.

Here, I have listed a few of my favorite dining establishments that come to mind when high chairs and booster seats have no place at this happy meal.

Please note that some restaurants may serve a special limited menu on Valentine's Day evening, so be certain to call before stopping in.

The Bombay Club Restaurant and Martini Bistro
What could be more romantic than dinner and martinis for two? Dinner and martinis for two in a private booth, of course. Draw the curtain and steal a smooch with nary a scornful look.
830 Conti Street, New Orleans, LA 70112 (504) 586-0972

La Crêpe Nanou
Escargot. Crêpes. Pâté. This is why it's called the language of love. Enjoy these traditional French dishes in a casual, yet cozy atmosphere. Share a fondue, but be certain to save room for dessert.
1410 Robert Street, New Orleans, LA 70115 (504) 899-2670

Emeril's Delmonico Restaurant & Bar
Elegant, charming and personable, Emeril's Delmonico is sure to impress. Their in-house dry-aged steaks are the best in town. If beef isn't your cup of tea, select one of Chef de Cuisine Spencer Minch's nightly specials. Finish off dinner with a classic bananas Foster, prepared tableside. Is it getting hot in here?
1300 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70130 (504)525-4937

The Grill Room at the Windsor Court Hotel
Known for it's romantic elegance, The Grill Room is serving up much more than gorgeous decor. The staff is young, exciting and bursting at the seams to bring New Orleans diners an unforgettable experience. Chef Drew Dzejak has created a new menu that encourages guests to mix, match and share: Unadulterated, Steakhouse, Indulge and Southern.
Located inside the Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier Street, New Orleans, LA 70130 (504)523-6000

Lola's
Proof that you don't have to don a cocktail dress to enjoy a romantic dinner, Lola's is a favorite neighborhood spot and great for first dates. The dining room is small, but the food is what sets the mood. The aromas wafting from the rich, savory -and yes, garlicky- dishes guarantee a meal that is fun to eat and share. After dining at Lola's, you know that food can be sexy.

Lola's does not accept reservations, so arrive early to put your name on the wait list.
3312 Esplanade Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119 (504)488-6946

Ralph's on the Park
If ever a restaurant could compliment the beauty of the old oaks in City Park, Ralph's on the Park is certainly that restaurant. The sophisticated, yet warm dining room allows guests to view the park from almost every table. As if the sites weren't enough, Chef Chip Flanagan is the only chef in the state serving Japanese Wagyu, a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth cut of beef that comes with its own special certificate. Order this rich culinary treat by the ounce.
900 City Park Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119-3613 (504)488-1000

If you are the traditional type and want to woo your sweetie with sweets, New Orleans isn't lacking in specialty chocolate shops. Sit down at Sucré (3025 Magazine Street) with a glass of dessert wine and one of their delectable chocolate confections.

Want to give your Valentine something to remember you by, month after month? How about the Truffle of the Month Club from Bittersweet Confections (5331 Canal Boulevard), $300.

If you have a long-distance love, send them a box of Red Holiday Swirl Tortues from Southern Candymakers. Two Locations: 334 or 1010 Decatur Street), $24.95.

Want to get in touch with Leslie J. Almeida?

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And just for archives sake, Tribe (where it all started!): NOLA-Eats.tribe.net