For the outdoorsy couple, why not take advantage of the stunning San Diego coast? If weather permits, pack a homemade picnic and head to the beach for a walk along the water followed by a sunset picnic dinner. If you don’t want to prepare your own food, check out grocery stores like Whole Foods, which offer a wide selection of healthy to-go options like sushi, burritos, sandwiches, and salads. This laid back plan is also budget friendly and offers an opportunity to spend some quality time bonding with your date in a relaxed atmosphere. If you don’t want to make a huge deal of the day and aren’t fond of Valentine’s clichés, keeping the night low-key is ideal.

For a more elaborate Valentine’s Day, enjoy a fancy dinner followed by a show. Head to a restaurant you’ve never tried before for a delicious meal. Always wanted to try tapas or Ethiopian food? Never strayed into the world of sushi? Trying something new with a partner is healthy for any relationship and keeps things fresh. Follow up the meal with a live performance or a movie that interests you both.

Maybe the relationship is new, therefore creating a lot of V-day anxiety. Suggest an evening out barhopping with a group of friends, as the group experience makes the night less intense and takes the pressure off a newly formed relationship. By heading out in a group, the one-on-one interaction is minimized while still allowing for time spent together. Check out bars and pubs if that’s your thing, or head to a club if dancing appeals to you.

Though V-Day is often associated with love and relationships, the single people of the world need not be left out. Show yourself some love by enjoying the day with unattached friends. Head to a local spa for a pick-me-up or hit up a yoga studio and get the endorphins pumping. Meet up with friends for a fancy dinner followed by drinks and dancing in the Gas Lamp district of downtown San Diego. Not interested in going out? Have a night-in with friends and host a movie marathon or have a dessert potluck. If you have the time, take the day to head to a neighborhood you’ve never experienced and explore the shopping there. It’s important to take time to appreciate yourself and have some fun, so why not make February 14 an excuse to enjoy the single life?

Valentine’s day is often put on a pedestal as a day that requires perfection, but with a little planning and personalization it can be a wonderful opportunity to reconnect and refresh a relationship, enjoy the start of a new one, try something different, or have a day to yourself. While the element of surprise can be fun, don’t be afraid to openly communicate with your partner about his or her expectations so that everyone has an enjoyable day.

Photo by Ruben Bär via Flickr.

According to Wikipedia, Valentine’s Day originated as a day to honor Christian martyrs — a priest, a bishop and a heralded saint who gave their lives as early as 197 AD.  All named Valentine, one was from Rome, one from Terni and another was killed in Africa yet no romantic notions were recorded along with their deaths.

Seems that folk lore had its way though, adding the known romanticism and flavor.

The saying goes…one of the Valentine priests secretly performed marriages for young soldiers after Emperor Claudius II ordered against it.  The Emperor believed married men would not make good fighters and this Valentine’s said defiance landed him in jail.

More recent embellishments say that before this priest was executed, he had written the first “valentine” card, addressing it to the jailer’s daughter whom he is said to have befriended and/or prayed for healing.  Her note supposedly read, “From your Valentine.”

Whatever the true story is, Valentine’s Day still seems to be be “death” to some hearts and “life” to others. S.A.D., or Single Awareness Day, for example has been created as a type of anti-Valentine’s Day when some single people celebrate by wearing green or black and gifting to themselves or doing an activity with friends and family.

Other choose to engage in this colorful holiday by sending one of an estimated 190 million Valentine cards to their loved ones (estimate for the US alone).

And Americans are not the only ones sending cards, chocolates and flowers, in South Korea, Wikipedia reports women give men chocolate on February 14th and men respond March 14th, on their White Day, giving candy to the the ladies who gifted them one month prior.

If you are needing some witty prose for your Valentine’s card, go to the age-old classic, from the collection of early English nursery rhymes Gammer Gurton’s Garland (1784):

The rose is red, the violet’s blue
The honey’s sweet, and so are you
Thou are my love and I am thine
I drew thee to my Valentine
The lot was cast and then I drew
And Fortune said it shou’d be you.

Photo from [[Image:Happy Valentine's Day! 4384.jpg|thumb|description]] via Flickr

Christopher Elbow Chocolates and Boulevard Beer spent months working on the ideal flavor notes their unique Chocolate Ale would represent.  It proved a several months-long process for these experts.

“We ended up backtracking and using cocoa beans to get the flavor in because that’s where I think you get the true flavor of chocolate,” Elbow said to KMBC.com. “(We) tried different cocoa nibs, different concentrations, tedious work, lot of tastings, but you know, part of the job I guess,” explained Boulevard’s Brew Master Steven Pauwels.

They only made 1,600 cases of their now exclusive product.

The Chocolate Ale is so popular, it’s already completely sold out! Vendors have waiting lists full, forcing people to wait on the next batch.  However, there has been no confirmation whether any more will be made.

“Well, I don’t know. It’s a big discussion right now,” brew master Pauwels has said to KMBC.com.

Chocolate Ale is not the only chocolate flavored alcoholic drink on the market.  Introducing, Adult Chocolate Milk.

Wondering how chocolate milk could get any better? California mom Tracy Reinhardt’s recipe combines chocolate milk with vodka to create the very first batch of Adult Chocolate Milk.

The Adult Chocolate Milk’s slogan, “Re-Taste Your Youth at 40 Proof,” calls out to every over-21 chocolate lover.  The creamy liqueur is sold at participating Costco and BevMo locations all across California.

However, pleasing your childhood sweet tooth comes at a price.  Each 750 ml bottle costs $18.99.

Would you try either of these R-rated delicious treats? Which one calls out to your sweet tooth?

For more information about Adult Chocolate Milk, check out their website http://www.adultchocolatemilk.com/home

Photos via flickr and Ali West via Flickr

Thursday, February 10

The 83rd Annual Academy Awards are just a couple of weeks away (February 27th to be exact), so check out some of the nominated films tonight in The Loft at UCSD. This awesome venue will be hosting Foovie: Oscar-nominated Nibbles where attendees can enjoy a meal while watching several of the award-winning short films up for the Oscar this year. If you just want to peep the show without the bites, admission is only $8.

Don’t feel like celebrating with Cupid’s pink fluff and hearts? Well then head down to FLUXX to dance the night away as Cee Lo Green headlines over in the Gaslamp Quarter for a night of great music. Or hop over to the House of Blues for performances by Felguk and Porter Robinson while 4th & B hosts Judy Collins with Amy Speace.

Friday, February 11

A wide range of musical acts will be around San Diego tonight including rock to classical and even Japanese drums. Badfish will be paying tribute to Sublime along with Scotty Don’t & Fayuca while the legendary R&B temptresses of En Vogue will be taking the Dreamcatcher stage at the Viejas Casino.

Over in La Jolla, the New Century Chamber Orchestra has an 8pm concert with  Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg at the Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall. Get there early to check out arttalks! at the Loft  with the New Century Chamber Orchestra an hour before the show. Also in the San Diego will be the Kodo Drummers of Japan presented by La Jolla Music at the Balboa Theatre.

Saturday, February 12

Even more concerts tonight with a free performance by Atomic Tom at the House of Blues’ Salvation Alley  as well as a Singles Celebration hosted by The Groove Kitties at Winston’s in Ocean Beach. Also check out comedian Brian Regan live in concert at the San Diego Civic Theater.

This year marks the Centennial of Aviation, one hundred years of naval aviation. Head over the the North Island Naval Air Station in Coronado for Free Family Day. This weekend is also The 29th Annual San Diego Chinese New Year Food and Cultural Fair. On Saturday and Sunday from 10am-5pm enjoy this free family event including lion dancers, the Chinese Opera, and a Kung Fu demonstration.

Sunday, February 13

Closing out a great weekend of concerts are  The Decemberists at the Hosue of Blues and  Los Amigos Invisibles at 4th & B. The 5th Dimension pays tribute to the courageous servicemen with a Valentines for Veterans at the Balboa Theatre. However, you can also enjoy some musical entertainment from the comfort of your own home as the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards air live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles with performances by Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Arcade Fire, and this year’s Grammy nomination leader, Eminem.

Are you solo this V-Day go-round? Head over to Ra Sushi in the Gaslamp Quarter (on Broadway at 5th) for a Special Singles’ Happy Hour from 6pm to close to mix and mingle with other bachelor and bachelorettes in the area and enjoy a Grape Crush drink special with some Love Me Tender Skewers.  A live version of the Dating Show will start the night with 3 eligible bachelors and one lucky bachelorette.

Monday, February 14 — VALENTINE’S DAY

Remember to show your love to those you love, whether it be through a present or a simple message and don’t forget to also give some extra love to the four-legged friends with unconditional appreciation for you — your dog. There are several pet-friendly locations around San Diego that are catering to the canine collective. The La Jolla Brewhouse from 4pm-8pm for Doggy Yappy Hour. In addition to drink and dinner specials, there will be a raffle and special menu for the pups. Then head over to Fred’s Mexican Cafe in Old Town for Doggie Date Night, this includes a costume contest and free meal for the pooch.

Photos courtesy of Julio Enriquez, andy.birkey, TimWilson, and Pink Sherbet Photography via Flickr.

With get deals at gorgeous and luxurious hotels all across San Diego, there’s sure to be something for every couple. Check out some of these get deals for romantic Valentine’s weekend getaways.

The La Jolla Shores Hotel is offering their “weekend package,” which includes one night of accommodations in an amazing beachfront room, a bottle of champagne with chocolate covered strawberries upon arrival, a three-course Chocolate Sip & Savor Dinner for two in The Shores Restaurant and breakfast for two the next morning. This offer is valid on Saturday February 12^th with rates of $349, plus tax.

The Hotel del Coronado is offering the “Night of Romance” package, which includes hotel accommodations, breakfast for two at the Sheerwater restaurant, a dozen roses, champagne, strawberries, and valet parking. You may add on the Moet’s “S’moré Passion Package” for an extra $275, which features a cozy fire put on the beach, s’mores supplies, two beach chairs, romantic candles, and a keepsake blanket and bottle of Moet Champagne. This offer is valid all year-round and rates start at $460, plus tax and a $25 daily resort charge.

The La Jolla Coves Suites is offering the special “Valentine’s Day” package which includes a one-night stay for two in a beautiful oceanfront suite, complimentary wine and See’s chocolates upon arrival, a complimentary continental breakfast for two, and complimentary parking for your overnight stay. This offer is valid from now until February 28^th with a rate of $214, plus tax.

The Hard Rock Hotel is offering something a little different for couples who might look to spend a night out on the town as well. Their “Rock N’Romance” package includes a sweet suite upgrade that’s based upon availability. This package includes chilled champagne and a “Whipped Cream Bikini” amenity delivered at your desire, a complimentary in-room movie plus VIP access to the Hard Rock’s hot spot bars 207 and Float. You can add on a couples massage at the Rock Spa or a dinner for two at Nobu to complete this Rock N’Romance weekend. This offer is valid from February 11-14^th with rates at $199 per night plus tax and gratuity.

Sé San Diego is offering the “Séduce Package” which includes a one-night stay for two, strawberries and chocolate mousse upon arrival, $150 credit at the Suite & Tender restaurant, $150 credit at Se Spa, breakfast in bed, late checkout and complimentary valet parking. This offer is valid through December 31, 2011 with rates starting at $500, plus tax.

For those couples looking to get a little more out of town this Valentine’s Day weekend, check out these special offers:

The Inn at Rancho Sante Fe is offering their “Ultimate in Romance Package” which features accommodations in the The Inn’s Honey moon Suite, an eight-course dinner for two paired with wines, plus champagne with a quality one-half carat diamond resting in the lady’s glass. This romantic deal that’s sure to please any woman is a total of $4,000 including taxes and gratuities.

The OCeanfront escape is offering deals at seven coastal resorts throughout Orange County. These resorts include: Surf & Sand Resort in Montage Laguna Beach, The Ritz-Carlton in Laguna Niguel, The Waterfront Beach Resort, Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa, The Balboa Day Club & Resort, and Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. These seven resorts are apart of a special “Getaway 2 Give” program, which includes bed-and-breakfast with VIP perks at the South Coast Plaza, plus a 10% donation to Oceana, Special Olympics, Make-A-Wish, and Lupus LA. This program is an additive bonus to a special romantic weekend getaway that will help with great charitable benefits! For more information visit OCeanfront’s website.

Information provided by the San Diego Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Photo by Josh Dubya via Flickr

Photo from aussiegal via Flickr

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2010

A Night With Aubrey O’Day – Belo Nightclub Gaslamp

This Saturday at Belo Nightclub you can treat yourself to a Night with Aubrey O’Day. The Making the Band reality star and songstress will be at Belo Nightclub celebrating her birthday along with the pre-Valentine’s excitement.

Hosted vodka bar for the guest list sponsored by Three Olives from 9 – 10pm.

For guest list or bottle service contact Epic_Events@live.com

Pre-Valentine’s Wine Tasting Party! @ Bacchus Wine Market

Can’t make it to the Friday wine tasting? Well there’s a similarly fantastic one on Saturday waiting for you! Couples and singles welcome to come eat, drink, mingle, listen to some tunes, and maybe even win a prize. (Courtesy of Bacchus Wine Market)

Baile de Enamorados @ San Diego Sports Arena 2/13/2010

Acts Include*: Los Inquietos del Norte, Larry Hernandez, La Original Banda El Limon, Tierra Cali, Cumbre Nortena. (Courtesy of San Diego Sports Arena)

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2010

Port and Chocolates Delight! @ Bacchus Wine Market

Spend your Valentine’s Day at Bacchus Wine Market tasting 5 kinds of Port wine accompanied by delicious chocolates. What a great way to have romantic and tasty fun! Make your call for reservations. (Courtesy of Bachus Wine Market)

Valentine’s Dinner @ the San Diego Zoo 2/13/2010 – 2/14/2010

Executive Chef Casey DeBrask has planned a delightful five-course Valentine’s Dinner in the Park’s Hunte Nairobi Pavilion for you and someone you love. The evening begins with an animal presentation, no-host cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres at 6 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:30. Cost is $99 per couple, including a bottle of wine per couple, plus tax and gratuity. Call 760-738-5055 for reservations. (Courtesy of San Diego Zoo)

For more weekend events, visit SanDiegoThisWeekend.com

Photo from 'Sister72' via Flickr

Valentine’s Day, or to some of us—“Singles Awareness Day,” is getting closer and closer. Single people (especially women) often dread this day, but you don’t have to.

First of all, as a singleton, you don’t have to worry and stress about buying a gift that’s just right for a significant other, and you don’t have to worry about disappointing or being disappointed as a result of the infectious yet oh so common great, often unrealistic expectations that we have for this demanding day we call Valentine’s Day.

Rather than lamenting on the couch and binging on half priced chocolates, make February 14^th about you and your single friends. You aren’t tied down, you don’t have to do anything, and at the same time you can do anything you want!

In lieu of a quiet Valentine’s Day dinner, you and your girls can go out and paint the town red. Get dressed up,looking fierce—hot shoes, outfit, hair and makeup and you’ll feel unstoppable. Downtown San Diego has a wide variety of clubs, bars and lounges that will be ecstatic to accommodate a group of ladies. On Saturday night, the Mainline Warehouse will be throwing a “Tortured Hearts Ball—Desire and Despair.” No Cupid or hearts, you and your friends can experience the “grotesquely beautiful” alternative atmosphere of February 14^th, as you celebrate the bizarre, bitter and lonely at this electrifying event that doesn’t sleep until 5am.

Sunday evening, LoungeSD, located at 655 G Street Suite H, will be hosting “Singles Valentines Day Food and Wine Event” from 6 to 9. Later that night, Stingaree, one of San Diego’s hottest nightclubs, will be throwing a Valentine’s Day party featuring a live performance by hip hop group Far East Movement.

If you don’t want to go too crazy, you and your posse can head over to the Carlsbad Village Theatre on Saturday for Comedians Lamont Ferguson and Karen Rontowski as they taunt the subject of love. Make sure you come ready to laugh!

Valentine’s Day, the new movie featuring an all-star cast that you can’t help but love, comes out this Friday in theaters all over San Diego County. The movie follows both happy couples and bitter singles as they anticipate the big day. Bring your friends, buy some popcorn and you have yourself some serious girl bonding, good laughs and fun times ahead. Who doesn’t love a good chick flick on Valentine’s Day?

You and your single friends can also get together and throw your own version of a Valentine’s Day party—singles only! You’ll be busy planning, preparing and entertaining during the party that you won’t have time to feel anything but excitement.

So single ladies of San Diego, you have nothing to worry about this Valentine’s Day weekend because the options and opportunities are endless. Embrace your independence and have a night out or a day in with your girls. No matter what you do though, be sure to blast Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” to set the mood for the fabulous weekend that lies ahead!

Photo from 'jonathanb1989' via Flickr

It’s the time of the year to let that special someone know just how much you care.

The right gift will send the right message. Get it wrong, and you will be doomed to walk the planet alone.

Don’t worry–that’s not true at all, but a thoughtful gift will be a sliver of the cherishing moments that express your love for your significant other.

Although what really matters is how you treat your loved one all year long—the other 364 days of the year—we really do put a lot of weight on Valentines Day, whether it be for the sake of materialism or our obligation to adhere to socially constructed holiday norms, or maybe you actually enjoy shopping for your boo. Regardless of our eagerness or our defiance, this gift will be of crucial importance come February 14th—which is why we are happy to help you explore the infinite realm of affordable Valentine’s Day gift ideas.

Photo from 'jurvetson' via Flickr

Back in the day it was all about being traditional—flowers, chocolates, a cute, cuddly bear (the bigger the better), and a $4.00 Hallmark card. Well, times have changed. If you give your girlfriend flowers and a box of chocolates she’ll be disappointed with the lack of thought you put into the gift. She might pout on the inside and say thank you while kissing you on the cheek, but come on guys, you want more than that on the big night, right? Valentine’s Day gifts now are all about being untraditional—the more creative, unique and personalized, the better.

There are several routes you can take, depending on where you’re at in your relationship and whether your guy or girl is a romantic, a jokester, or any combination of the two…

• Something fun—USB mix tape. I remember back in the day when I’d make a mixed tape or CD for someone I really cared about. I put together all the songs that reminded me of him on a tape to show my feelings and affection. Now that it’s 2010, however, CDs and tapes (what are tapes?!) are obsolete. Luckily, the USB mix tape is bringing it back—built for 2010! It looks and feels like a retro tape, but it’s not! You can personalize it and include a heartfelt love letter or spice it up any way you like. This is a fun gift for both new lovers and ones that have been longstanding.

• Something practical—When you’re totally lost about what to get your significant other, think about what they like to do. For example, if your girlfriend or wife loves to cook (or maybe she simply loves eggs), get her the heart shaped egg molder. It’s something she’ll use, and it’s something that’s truly heartfelt. For more fun, serve it to her for breakfast in bed!

• Something funny—A stuffed animal…of yourself! You send in a photo and IAASA (I Am A Stuffed Animal) turns it into a smaller, plush version of you. Depending on where you’re at with your significant other, they’ll either absolutely love it or think you’re plain creepy, so only opt for this silly gift if you’re at a far along, committed stage in the relationship. One thing is certain though, the receiver of this gift will definitely laugh! Ladies, if you haven’t gotten to that intimate level with your man yet and you want to send the message that you’re ready to be ravished, try this hilarious gift that guys will love—a candom! Maybe it’s not the best gift to set the mood, but it will definitely make him laugh and think of you each time he drinks a beer!

• Something sexy—Ladies, want to show him your sexy side? Men, want to show her just how sensual a lover you can be? Then opt for the gift that’s so bad, it’s so good. Ladies, you can’t go wrong with a sexy negligee or a daring piece of lingerie. Light some candles, bring out the massage oil and surprise him when he comes home, you’re a sexy thang! Fellas, you can get your lady lingerie, but if you’re not exactly sure of the size or what she likes, then stick to novelty items. Games like Dirty Darts and the Personalized Lovopoly Game will surely lead to a sexy night to remember. And if you reach a new record, you can log it in the Couple’s Record Book—a fun scrapbook that celebrates the best memories, “whether rated G or Triple X.”

Whether you go for the funny or the sexy route, just remember that with a little thought and personality—and a lot of heart—you truly can think of a gift that your significant other will fall in love with!

Good luck, San Diego, and Happy Valentine’s Day from everyone here at the Entertainer.

My male brethren, you have been warned. That time is upon us again.

No matter what our optimistic man-fantasies may conjure up over the next few weeks, the biggest screwing of the month will likely be ours. Get ready to grab your ankles and feel the hulking weight of commercialism all over you on February 14. That day, boyfriends, fiancés, and husbands nationwide will be expected to spend extravagant amounts of money to express their love for the women in their lives.

The worst part of it is, there’s nothing we can do about it. After all, we don’t want to come across as being cheap or thoughtless.

That being said, I do have a few suggestions for you dudes out there. If you’re sick of the typical fancy dinner at the typical fancy restaurant, paying atypical prices for overly-typical champagne, here are some ideas for a somewhat different Valentine’s experience:

Picnic at Cabrillo National Monument

A few years back, I took my girlfriend at the time to Cabrillo National Monument. I packed a picnic lunch (which can roughly be translated to, “I stopped by Ralph’s and grabbed some pre-packaged sandwiches, pre-packaged fruit, pre-packaged desserts, and a bottle of wine”), picked her up, and we headed down there. A mere five dollars got us through the gate, and we were free to wander around as we pleased from that point on.

Even though Cabrillo is rather touristy, it is big enough that you should have no problem finding a decently secluded area to woo your lady friend. You can walk along the paths on the bay-facing side of the peninsula and give yourself a great view of downtown San Diego and Coronado. Or, you can drive down to the ocean-facing side and hang out by the tide pools. This is definitely something that you can do for cheap, yet come across as thoughtful and romantic.

Check out http://www.nps.gov/cabr/index.htm for more information on Cabrillo National Monument.

Harbor cruise with Hornblower Cruises

For a romantic evening of dinner and dancing, take her on cruise through San Diego bay. I have to caution you, however, that this will not be cheap. Expect to spend $100–$200 between the two of you.

Several years ago, when Valentine’s Day fell on a Thursday, I noticed that their Valentine’s cruise cost twice as much as their regular Friday night harbor cruise. So, I called them up and asked what the difference between Thursday and Friday would be. I was casually informed that Thursday’s cruise would have extra decorations, a rose at each table, and a champagne toast. Doing some quick calculations in my head, I figured out that I’d be paying almost an extra $100 for confetti, a flower, and cheap bubbly….

I called my girlfriend and asked if she wouldn’t mind doing the Friday night cruise. Being the awesome girlfriend that she was, she was totally fine with that, and it ended up being just as fun. We still got an awesome view of the downtown skyline and the Coronado Bridge, as well as those gorgeous industrial shipyards south of downtown.

So, if you want to save yourself a little money, my suggestion is to mention—very slyly—that perhaps the Friday or Saturday before Valentine’s would be a better night to celebrate. After all, you won’t have to worry about it being a workday.

For more information on Hornblower Cruises & Events, check out: http://www.hornblower.com/hce/port/category/sd+diningcruises.

Spa treatment

Don’t really want to spend Valentine’s with the lady? Want to seem romantic, but still have your own personal me-time? Then send your woman on a spa treatment while you wait and guzzle beers at a nearby bar.

Girl On The Go, a brand new spa that just opened up in Golden Hill, has plenty of specials for Valentine’s weekend. Among them: purchase a facial and receive a complimentary eyebrow and lip wax; purchase a body treatment and receive a signature facial for $50 (a 20% discount); book a four-person spa party and receive 20% off. Better yet, get 10% off all treatments during the month of February if you mention San Diego Entertainer.

Owner Dana Gray notes that spa treatments are available for men, as well. So, dudes, if you want to emasculate yourself a bit, but feel oh-so relaxed in the process, think about booking one for yourself, too.

For more information or to make an appointment, check out www.girlonthego.net, or call 619-358-0737.

Well, I wish you the best of luck, my lucky fellows who are blessed with a significant other. If you’re looking for something a little different to do this year, check out these options. And hopefully, this year’s financial screwing will be worth the joy you bring to your girlfriend, fiancée, or wife.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Photo from VirtualEm via Flikr

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching and money still, well tight, coming up with an original date idea can be daunting and, face it, intimidating. And while a walk down San Diego’s beaches offers lovers romantic sceneries and perfect photo-ops, why not add a little delicious, affordable, pizzazz to that special day?

Karen Krasne’s Extraordinary Desserts offers couples the perfect, affordable setting, to intimately connect and oh yea eat amazing dessert! With locations in Balboa Park and Little Italy the widely acclaimed dessert restaurant offers a wide variety of decadent sweets that range from “dark chocolate tea cookies with organic pecans” to “berry devonshire tarts,”there is no doubt a dessert to satisfy every palate.

While I can talk for days about the fresh, exotic, savory flavors, and I can, the truly remarkable experience that comes from eating at Extraordinary Dessert’s is that every dessert is arranged not only for your eating but viewing pleasure.

Whether the dessert is drenched in chocolate or stacked with fresh fruit, it is beautifully decorated with fresh (edible) flowers and gold encrusted chocolate. And while people normally fight over who will get the cake slice with the frosted flower, every single piece at Extraordinary Desserts is just as beautiful as its whole counterpart.

Photo from Marcin Wichary via Flikr

Not only are you offered a wide assortment of dessert options but also some of the most exotic teas you’ve ever seen and tasted. Guest’s have their pick from assorted herbal teas from China, Japan, and India that include names like “Sencha Lullaby,” “My Sugarplum” or caffeine free “Lovergirl.” Each tea is beautifully served in loose leaf pots tea pots, complementing any dessert. And if tea is not your “thing” Extraordinary Desserts also offers bold coffee/espresso creations that are only brewed upon request, guaranteeing freshness and exquisite taste.

The ambiance of the location undeniably adds to the beauty of these gourmet desserts and exotic beverages. Specifically, the San Diego’s Little Italy Extraordinary Desserts, which at a glance resembles a posh night club, is gorgeous with its signature modern décor. Clean, filled with romantic candelight, and private, guests are first greeted by a vast display of delectable desserts. Once deciding on a dessert (don’t worry they’re patient with you) you’re seated and handed menus in case you wish to start your meal with one of their salads, paninis, or humus platters (which are also amazing, by the way).

Photo from VirtualErn via Flikr

Chef and founder Karen Krasne has clearly drawn inspiration from her travels around the world which is not only evident in her delicious desserts, teas, and food but also her wide assortment of merchandise and collectibles. It is delightfully surprising to find a Japanese inspired Haiku book for toddlers at restaurant like this.

Overall this amazing experience is well worth the trip, offering guests amazing tastes, a serene ambiance, and incredible prices (all dessert are well in the $5-$12 range). Extraordinary Desserts is always available for reservations and stays open until 11pm Monday-Thursday and Sundays and stays open until midnight Fridays and Saturdays. Here’s hoping you all have a romantic, delicious, and affordable Valentine’s Day. Cheers!

'Ginnerobot' via Flickr

The age old tradition is upon us; February 14th, that is. Valentine’s Day – it brings  a joy to some, and is a stick in the foot to many others. It all depends on your Facebook status.

Are you single?

For the single in San Diego, a city with a population of over three million you would think there would be plenty of fish in the sea to catch before Valentine’s Day.

The odds are simple, the more you are out and about in America’s Finest City, the more likely you are to stumble upon something (or someone) new.

Check out some of the perfect “mingle spots” on the radar where you can meet other great local singles in San Diego. Try something new and find Mr. or Ms. Valentine so you’re warm and snugly by the time February comes around. For our picks on San Diego’s hot mingling spots,

San Diego Mingle Spots

Sunday

Bar West – Pacific Beach
959 Hornblend St, San Diego, CA 92109

Monday

Tavern – Pacific Beach
200 Garnet Avenue, Pacific Beach, CA 92109

Tuesday

Jimmy O’s – Del Mar
225 15th Street Del Mar, CA 92014

Wednesday

SideBar – Downtown
536 Market St San Diego, CA 92101

Thursday

Seau’s Happy Hour – Mission Valley
1640 Camino Del Rio North, San Diego, CA 92108

Friday

Fleetwood – Downtown
639 J Street San Diego, CA 92101

Saturday

Stingaree – Downtown
454 6th Avenue San Diego, CA 92101

Visit Sidebar during the week for an intimate and hip setting, perfect for finding someone new. Or try Stingaree on the weekend for great quality and a packed house full of potential.

San Diego’s “best” sports bar of 2009, Seau’s, offers a great Happy Hour savings, a winning team atmosphere and common-interested locals. Happy Hour is served everyday from 4pm – 7pm.

Pacific Beach is always filled with people. From tourists to foreign exchange students, it is a melting pot of confusion causing some difficult single-on-the-mingle navigating. It is the buzz that Bar West and Tavern are the locals’ favorites so that’s a good place to start.

Confidence is key. If you step out of your comfort zone in early 2010 to hit on someone you think is perfect, don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t work out. Brush yourself off and look to set your sights on someone new. Try these San Diego mingle spots to find your Valentine in San Diego, and as your best friend may recommend, “get yourself out there!”