Best Valentine's Day Dinners In Chicago

Romance is about more than just food. It's about ambiance and service, too. Plan your perfect Valentine's Day date starting with dinner at one of these five restaurants that offer the whole package. Whichever restaurant you pick, be sure to call in advance, as they're sure to be packed with couples on the most romantic day of the year.

Balena
1633 N. Halsted St.
Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 867-3888
www.balenachicago.com

For a wonderful romantic Italian experience, look no further than Balena in Lincoln Park. While always busy, the large restaurant has the perfect ambiance, including a noise level that's pitch perfect for easy conversation. While the pizza is delicious here, opt for a gourmet prix-fixe menu along with some wine (past years they've given an option of three or four courses), and delve into classic Italian cuisine that's simply but expertly prepared. To make your Valentine's Day date extra special, be sure to ask for a table on the second level near the windows. You can thank us later.

GT Fish & Oyster
531 N. Wells St.
Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 929-3501
www.gtoyster.com

Oysters are notorious aphrodisiacs, and that's just one of the many delicious items you can enjoy with your honey at this River North restaurant. But seafood isn't all this chic restaurant offers. Past Valentine's Days have seen a wide array of items on the prix-fixe menu, including a delectable beef tenderloin. Of course, GT doesn't lack for fish, and you can enjoy an array of seafood as well. In fact, if you really want to go all out, try their stunning seafood tower. But whatever you do, don't leave without trying some of their fresh oysters — you won't be disappointed.

Geja's
340 W. Armitage Ave.
Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 281-9101
www.gejascafe.com

Want to share a meal? Enjoy a fondue experience at this popular Lincoln Park restaurant. Past years have featured a Valentine's Day package that includes a cheese fondue as a starter, along with a salad, as well as a meat fondue. Of course, a fondue experience is incomplete without a chocolate fondue for dessert, and at Geja's you'll savor absolutely every bite. If you decide to celebrate the holiday early, Geja's is offering a "celebration of marriage" discount on Monday, Feb. 8 and couples will receive a one percent discount for each year they've been married.

Related: The Most Romantic Restaurants In Chicago

Pretend you're in Paris this Valentine's Day with this romantic restaurant in River North. Brindille offers a beautiful and refined atmosphere complete with classic French cuisine, from foie gras to squab. Pair these gastronomic dishes with wines from all over France, and you really will feel like you're in the city of light — with Chicago's skyline just outside the window. The Chicago Tribune named Brindille the best new restaurant in 2013.

With champagne in its name, how can you go wrong? Sip on some bubbly while sharing an array of small plates with your sweetie in this speakeasy and cozy atmosphere that's candle lit. The French bistro offers some classics like steak frites. End your meal with your pick of some of the best desserts in town, and you have the makings of an unforgettable night.

Related: Most Romantic Spots In Chicago

Elizabeth SanFilippo is a freelance writer, who enjoys trying new foods from all over the world. But her favorite city for culinary treats will always be Chicago. When not blogging about food, she's working part-time at a culinary vacation company, The International Kitchen, based in the Windy City, as well as repping Younique cosmetics and skincare products. Some of her writing can be found at Examiner.com.