Valentine’s Day is just around the corner (note to self – get a card for my wife).  Although I’m convinced that it was originally conceived by the greeting card and candy industries as a way to move product in the dead of winter, it’s as good excuse as any to plan a date night with your spouse or sweetheart.

I’m often asked “aren’t there any NICE places to eat around here?”  The answer to that, of course, is yes – you just have to know where to look.  If things like wine lists, linen table cloths, and eating in courses appeals to you, then I’ve put together a list of five places in the four-state region that will fit the bill.  Speaking of bills, as you can expect, higher quality and a high-end experience does not come cheap, so to avoid “sticker shock”, consult the websites of these establishments to peruse the menus and see what awaits you.

So if you’re ready, call ahead for a reservation (highly recommended in all cases), get a babysitter (if you need one), and put on your church clothes, because isn’t it about time you spent a night out with your significant other filled with fine food, drink, and conversation?  Of course it is.

 

 

The Mercersburg Inn – 405 South Main Street, Mercersburg, PA  17236

This turn-of-the century B&B features a wonderfully restored Georgian style mansion.  Guests can have a romantic meal in Byron’s Dining Room, a beautiful wood-paneled dining space with a fireplace.  Chef Dan Nowalk prepares a seasonal menu of mouthwatering dishes featuring duck, lamb shank, and salmon (to name a few).  A gluten-free menu is also offered.  After dinner, ask if you can have a tour of the inn.

Phone: 717-328-5231

Hours:   Thursday – Saturday: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Sunday: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Website: www.mercersburginn.com

 

The Old South Mountain Inn – 6132 Old National Pike, Boonsboro, MD  21713

Housed in an historic inn that dates back to the 1700’s, the charming Old South Mountain Inn’s menu features entrees such as steaks, seafood, duck, and crab cakes.  See if you can snag a table next to the fireplace.  Chef Chad Dorsey also offers weekly Prime Rib and lobster specials.  They have an extensive wine list and also offer a Sunday brunch.

Phone: 301-432-6155

Hours:   Tuesday – Friday: 5:00 p.m. – close

Saturday: 4:00 p.m. – close

Sunday: 2:00 p.m. – close

Website: www.oldsouthmountaininn.com

 

The Press Room – 129 West German Street, Shepherdstown, WV 25443

Situated along the main street of this eclectic college town, The Press Room features oysters on the half shell, grilled seafood, meats, and a wide variety of seasonal soups and salads on a menu featuring new American cuisine.  Order a cocktail or a glass of wine and share an appetizer with the table.   A Sunday brunch is also offered.

Phone: 304-876-8777

Hours:   Monday – Thursday: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Friday – Saturday: 5:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Sunday: 10:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (Sunday brunch), 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Website: www.shepherdstown.info/eat/press-room

 

Tari’s Premiere Café and Inn – 33 North Washington Street, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411

Nestled in the quaint downtown of Berkeley Springs, WV, Tari’s offers fine food in a relaxed atmosphere.  Chef Devin Lucas offers a seasonal menu featuring new American cuisine along with several vegetarian options.  The bar side offers local craft beers, and the walls are lined with local art (which is also available for purchase).

Phone: 304-258-1196

Hours:   Monday – Saturday:  11:00 a.m. 9:00 p.m.

Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Dinner menu begins at 4:00 p.m.

Website:  www.tariscafe.com

 

Volt – 228 North Market Street, Frederick, MD 21701

There are plenty of great restaurants in Frederick, but in my opinion, you won’t find a finer dining experience than at Volt.  Chef Bryan Voltaggio and Chef de Cuisine Graeme Ritchie (both of TV’s “Top Chef” fame) will leave you amazed and delighted with their exciting and artful takes on new American cuisine.  If you can, try and snag a spot at the “Chef’s Counter”, where you will be treated to a multi-course tasting menu created by the chefs that very day.  The onsite sommelier will also help you pick out the perfect wine to accompany your meal.  It’s a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience.  Trust me, you’ll talk about this one for a while.

Phone: 301-696-8658

Hours:   Tuesday – Sunday: 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Saturday – Sunday: 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (Brunch)

Website: www.voltrestaurant.com