Are you planning a special Valentine’s Day dining experience for your significant other? Choosing a fine restaurant might sound easy, but you’ll want to be sure the setting and menu live up to your expectations. To ensure a pleasant night out, check out the do’s and don’ts below.

Do:

Choose a restaurant you will both enjoy.

While you may be tempted to select a restaurant that serves food your date loves, there’s no reason you can’t pick one you’ll both enjoy. If your date prefers Italian fare and you like juicy steak and lobster plates, for example, there are establishments that offer a diverse menu selection that will entice you both.

Book your reservation several weeks in advance.

Valentine’s day is one of the busiest days of the year for many restaurants. It’s a good idea to call a few weeks before the occasion to find out if they accept reservations and how soon you can secure a table. You may even be able to book seating in your preferred area of the dining room if you call early enough.

Don’t:

Neglect the wine selection.

Even if you know nothing about wine, on one of the most romantic days of the year, it helps to know how to order something impressive while staying within your budget. Always ask your date what they prefer, and if a sommelier is on hand, get recommendations. A good rule of thumb is to pair red wines such as cabernet or merlot with red meat, and white wine such as Chardonnay or prosecco with white meat or seafood.

Forget to have fun.

Making sure that your evening goes as planned can be stressful. Remember to have fun with your date, and don’t become upset if there are a few hiccups. The important thing is to spend time with your partner and share your affection over a delicious meal.

When you want to enjoy a wonderful meal on Valentine’s Day or any other day of the year, the friendly staff at Brookside Inn Restaurant in Oxford, CT, would love to serve you. The restaurant features an amazing menu with Italian and American fare including pizza, steak, and seafood, as well as an impressive selection of red and white wines. To learn more about their menu, call (203) 888-2272 today or visit them online.