This Valentine's Day, Suzanne Kirkland plans to frock up in a 1920s inspired ensemble and take in a screening of “The Artist.” Wendy Rutherford is headed to Alma Cocina, the new restaurant in the 191 Peachtree building downtown. Both will share the night with groups of friends.
"We’re going to have a good time," said Rutherford, who noted that Alma Cocina is donating 20 percent of Feb. 14 lunch and dinner receipts to the Atlanta Community Food Bank. Her boyfriend, Jeffrey Gardner, is the restaurant's sous chef, so they may be able to exchange smoldering glances. And the singles in her group are welcome to proffer their best come-hither looks.
"Valentine's can be so annoying," Rutherford said. "You’re not going to be inundated with this lovey-dovey atmosphere if you don’t want it."
Indeed, Valentine’s falls rather non-romantically mid-week this year, so instead of aiming for a smoochy couples' night, how about getting your friends together for a special outing?”
Tea time, more at Ritz
If you're looking to go all Downtown Abbey this Valentine's Day season, consider taking tea at the Ritz-Carlton in Buckhead. Today through Sunday, afternoon tea takes on a choc-tacular spirit with delicacies such as chocolate chip cherry scones, flourless chocolate brandy cherry cake and milk chocolate hazelnut tortes. It's $34 per person.
Linger in the Ritz's bar and mixologist Christa Sladky will whip up one of her seasonal creations, such as a martini made with cherry brandy, white chocolate Godiva liqueur and vanilla Stoli. Available through Feb. 14 for $14.
The “Haute Chocolate” bar, featuring spicy dark chocolate, milk chocolate caramel or red berry dark chocolate, along with a host of signature toppings like house-made whipped cream and marshmallows, is also open for business Saturdays and Sundays through Feb. 26. It's $10 per person. 3434 Peachtree Road. NE. Visit ritzcarlton.com or call 404-237-2700.
Book lovers
If your book club is looking for a post Valentine's Day get-together, Georgia Gwinnett College and the Gwinnett County Public Library system are teaming up to host "Pink Carnation" series author Lauren Willig on Feb. 15. A reception starts at 6 p.m., followed by a talk and signing at 7 p.m. Books will be available for purchase. The event will be held in the Student Center LVIS room at Georgia Gwinnett College and is free and open to the public. 1000 University Center Lane, Lawrenceville; www.ggc.edu; 678-407-5000.
Free ice skating
If you're the outdoorsy kind, Park Tavern offers free ice skating on Valentine's Day with the purchase of a $15 voucher for any food and drink purchase. The voucher is good for that night or some other time, if a torrid Valentine's Day dinner isn't your thing. 500 10th St.; www.parktavern.com; 404-249-0001.
Casual fun
Cypress Street Pint and Plate plans a "Blackout Valentine's Day" evening. Imagine sipping a $1 PBR by candlelight and you get the idea. Other specials include half-priced bottles of wine and beer and doughnut pairings. 817 W. Peachtree St., www.cypressbar.com; 404-815-9243.
The anti Valentine's
And if "Love Hurts" is your theme song, Publik Draft House is hosting an Anti-Valentine's Day party starting at 7 p.m. today with a number of themed drink specials ("It's Not Me It's You" cocktail, anyone?) They'll also have a shredder at the ready for therapeutic discarding of your ex-honey's photos. Participants receive a free shot of a "Cupid's Revenge" concoction for reducing their former flames to ribbons. 654 Peachtree St. NE; 404-885-7505; www.publikatl.com.
Splurge a little
But if you and your chums have lots to celebrate and the means to do so extravagantly, the St. Regis Atlanta hotel in Buckhead plans a Joie de Vivre Rare Rosé Champagne Tasting in the Wine Room, billed as "the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and celebrate the joys of life, no sweetheart required." The sumptuous event, hosted by Harry Constantinescu, the St. Regis Atlanta sommelier and wine director, includes tastings of NV Roederer Estate Brut Rose, NV Feuillate Brut Rose, 2002 Veuve Cliquot Rose, Krug "Grand Cuvee" Rose and Cristal Rose. It's $250 per person including hors d'oeuvres, tax and gratuity. 88 West Paces Ferry Road.; www.stregis.com/Atlanta; 404-563-7900.
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