14 romantic places to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Charlotte

It’s hard to ignore Valentine’s Day. Couples feel the pressure to mark the occasion in some way. I’ve been married forever and know that we won’t let the weekday pass without a small celebration. Most likely, it will be a movie and take-out in our home — my husband wants to watch First Man, and I’m voting for Yafo — after the kids have been tucked away. 

Here are 14 traditional, non-traditional and easy ways to celebrate this romantic holiday:

Gussied-up for Valentine’s Day

Don your best attire at one of these Charlotte restaurants. Each has special menus for Valentine’s Day and require reservations.

(1) The Asbury

235 N. Tryon St.

Special five-course menu: $135 per couple
Reservations for Feb. 14 or Feb. 15: Open Table
Why The Asbury: “What a wonderful, cozy gem in the middle of uptown! The atmosphere, food, and service were all outstanding during our Friday date night! I couldn’t believe more people weren’t there.” – Suzanne J. on Yelp.

(2) Bardo Restaurant

1508 Unit B South Mint St.

Special four-course menu with two cocktail and two wine pairings: $240 per couple
Reservations for Feb. 14: Eventbrite
Why Bardo: “Absolutely epic! These guys get it. This is my first Michelin level experience in Charlotte. chef Michael makes these amazing, interesting, delightful dishes and Jayson runs the ship making the experience perfect. This is a must have experience in Charlotte. Every dish is unique and outstanding. Definitely check them out. Also the mixology from Amanda is pretty excellent so grab a cocktail.” – Jonathan L. on Yelp.

(3) BLT Steak Charlotte

110 N. College St. (inside The Ritz-Carlton)

Special three-course menu: $125 with the option to add champagne toast and a dozen roses by Feb. 5 for $75
Reservations for Feb. 14: Open Table
Why BLT Steak: “We were seat(ed) in a corner booth so we got to look out on the crowd. It was a buzzing place as there are a lot of servers making sure everything is perfect.  The decor is really great. I had expected the place would be bigger, but it was really a nice size overall.” Frank B. on Yelp.