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Community Corner

The Local Table: Sweet Valentine's Day Eats for Sweethearts

A little wine, a little romance, a little heart-shaped pastry to send you into diabetic shock: All these things and more available in your neighborhood for Valentine's Day.

Valentine's Day. In 1969, the Roman Catholic Church decided that Valentine's Day could not remain in the calendar as a true Christian holiday because so little was known of “St. Valentine.” By that point it did not matter, as the holiday had developed a secular life all its own as a day to honor all things romance.

It's also become an eater's paradise of options. From restaurants offering special meals and menus for the holiday, to the bakeries and their heart-shaped cookies, pastries, and brightly decorated pink, red, and white cakes. And of course, the mountain of chocolates, candies, and flowers offered by every corner store, every convenience shop.

So many options, what's a lover to do?

Starting with the sweets, although and the in Brookline most certainly have their own delicious Valentine's Day themed-treats, in Dormont has cases practically bursting with the colors of the holiday. There is a rack filled with heart-shaped cakes, adorable and practical, as well as the sweetest little heart-shaped cookies, with pink-hearted icing centers and sprinkles all over.  Or try something a little different with their mini pastry cups, including a delicious cherry tart that is satisfying, small enough not to be overwhelming, and still looks holiday appropriate.

If you're looking for something special for dinner, there are a few choice options in the Dormont and Brookline area, starting with two places that border the neighborhood lines. While dinner at on Broadway Avenue is always something special, for the weekend, the restaurant is offering a jaw-dropping eleven option dessert menu, including Thousand Leaf Pastry, Spumoni, and a white lemon sorbet. The restaurant is BYOB, so don't forget to bring along the perfect wine to go with those perfect desserts. on McNeilly has a special weekend menu including lobster, filet mignon, and a Valentine's Day-specific pasta. Both places are not exactly economical dining, but for a special meal out you'll find few better options locally.

Looking for a good meal, but need a lower price? on Liberty has a Valentine's Day special of pan roasted filet and jumbo sea scallops, paired with asparagus and rice, for only $14.99 a person. At that price, you'll be able to afford an additional red rose or two from or .

Although it's not boasting a Valentine's Day specific menu, for two people in love with each other and with good eating, there is nothing quite like on Brookline Boulevard. The in-house special is a four-gyro meal at just under fifteen bucks, a perfect meal to share and save a little cash. Do not, however, miss out on any of the fine starter options, especially the best hummus in town, served with warm, slightly crisp pita slices. The restaurant is also BYOB, so make a stop in at the Wine and Spirits before taking your seats.

Finally, while the atmosphere of a restaurant can do wonders for the love mood, there is nothing quite like a home-cooked meal. Take advantage of your local grocery options and wine and dine your mate in  the comforts of your own home. You can always buy him or her a giant box of chocolates the day after Valentine's Day, when they're 50% off.

Check out food writer Emily Fear's food blog, Forked!

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