Are you looking to do something special for your significant other on Valentine’s Day? The good news is that restaurants are finally opening to indoor diners, which means you still have time to plan. Restaurants are serving at lowered capacity due to Covid protocols, so make reservations in advance to avoid disappointment. Soon, you’ll discover that Belleville and the Bay of Quinte have some of the best romantic restaurants you’ve ever experienced. 

Here are just a few local hotspots you have to consider:

The Boathouse Seafood Restaurant

Nothing says romance like upscale seafood cuisine while looking out over the water at The Boathouse Seafood Restaurant. Sharables include seafood poutine, coconut shrimp, bacon-wrapped scallops and more. Just make sure to save room for your entree. Choose from fish tacos, lobster linguini or jambalaya. They even offer vegetarian options if seafood isn’t your first choice. One thing is for sure: You’ll want to come back in the spring when you can do it all over on the gorgeous patio.

The Lark

The lights are low and the mood is right at The Lark, where you and your date can enjoy a classic candlelight dinner. Set the night off right with a unique twist on a modern cocktail or The Lark’s famous natural wine options (available by the glass or by the bottle.) Antipasti, grass-fed steak tartare and brown butter gnocchi are just a few fine dining options. This five-star bar and restaurant is easy to get to, located beside the new Century Village building.

Linguine’s Italian Restaurant

Linguine’s Italian Restaurant has been a Belleville favourite for over twenty years, especially when it comes to celebrating romance! Start the night off by sipping Linguine’s popular house wine, or any beverage from their extensive cocktail selection. A special prix fixe menu will be available on Valentine’s Day, giving you the choice of appetizer, main course and dessert. Your options include creative culinary delights like Strawberry Chicken, Salmon Tournedos and Pasta Trio Verdura. Located right next door to The Country Inn and Suites Hotel, with plenty of parking available.

Royal Haveli

If you and your date crave a little spice, head on over to Royal Haveli, one of Belleville’s most underrated restaurants. Specializing in fine Indian cuisine, their hot platters and spectacular curries get rave reviews. Each dish is made to order, and their extensive menu means no one leaves hungry. Lamb, chicken, beef, shrimp and vegetarian plates are always available. Enjoy your meal as you sip your drink from an impressive collection of beer, wine, spirits, scotch or whisky. This spectacular Indian feast is easy to find. It’s just across from Quinte Mall on Front Street. Perhaps a little shopping after dinner is in order.

Chililango’s Mexican Restaurant

If you’re craving a different flavour of spice this Valentine’s Day, why not try Chililango’s? This Mexican eatery was founded by a brother and sister team born and raised in Mexico City, and the food is as authentic as you can get. Start with chips and salsa (where even the tortillas are homemade.) Then move on to tacos, enchiladas, or burritos. Top it off with wine (from a local winery, a Mexican Cerveza (beer) or classic margarita on the rocks. The riverside location of this little hotspot makes the setting even more romantic!

Dinkel’s and Paulo’s Restaurants

Imagine a leisurely, romantic dinner in a fancy courtyard that makes you feel like royalty. Did I mention the heated floors? The unique, charming atmosphere at Dinkel’s and Paulo’s Restaurants makes it a popular wedding destination. What could be more perfect for Valentine’s Day? It’s really two restaurants in one. What will you decide? A casual wood fire pizza with lively conversation? Or a fancy fine dining option like veal scaloppini, beef striploin or a classic chicken parmesan? In either case, you’re in for a night to remember.

Capers

We can’t talk about romantic restaurants and not mention Capers, Belleville’s ultimate fine dining experience. The dining room has just been renovated and combines exceptional service with a cozy atmosphere. Every item on the menu is handmade from scratch. Some of the creative and delicious meals include truffle fries, cheese and charcuterie, crab-stuffed mushrooms, pumpkin risotto, and a french onion chicken sandwich. This ultra-romantic oasis is on Front Street near the river. 

Want to know more about life in the Bay of Quinte? Have a look at some of our community guides here.