Hopelessly Romantic

When I got engaged, my brother gave me some indispensable advice: “Never stop dating.” Routine is romance’s biggest buzz kill. If your high heels or cuff links are gathering dust, it’s definitely time to get out of the house. Try a new restaurant, dance close, or snuggle up in a nightclub. Whether it’s a Tuesday night or a special occasion (hint, hint, Valentine’s Day is approaching), kiss the routine goodbye and kiss your date at a surprising place in town.

Cozy. Exotic. Private. Sounds kinky, but some of the hottest, hippest, and most secluded tables in town are within the walls of LynLake’s Fuji Ya. The Japanese kissing booths encourage the barefoot, the romantic, and sake-soaked lovebirds who like to linger a little longer than the chatty sushi bar folk. 600 W. Lake St., Mpls., 612-871-4055

The love-struck optimism of the Bohemian revolution lives on within the walls of Barbette. Here, poets read over pilsners of Belgian beer, artists nosh on savory crepes, and couples sit close. Here, a bottle of Bordeaux and steak frites won’t break the bank. And, here, just as in Paree, servers won’t rush anyone out the door. 1600 W. Lake St., Mpls., 612-827-5710

Talk about an old flame, W.A. Frost has been romancing the Twin Cities for decades. The Cathedral Hill standby with its rich architecture, stately rooms, and roaring fireplaces is consistently a top favorite for Valentine’s Day reservations. The menu of regional cuisine extends to the tempting cheese plate, best paired with one of the standout wines. 374 Selby Ave., St. Paul, 651-224-5715 

The word fondue just oozes romance. One pot between the two of you and slow, slow cooking leaves lots of time for whispering sweet nothings to each other over the soothing sounds of live jazz at The Times. That said, fondue is also really fun with a group, and no one said you couldn’t double-date on the 14th—so bring friends and order more. 201 Hennepin Ave. E., Mpls., 612-617-8098

Old-fashioned romance lives on at the Nicollet Island Inn. Its idyllic riverfront locale makes a perfect backdrop for drinks, dinner, or the whole shebang and an overnight in a deluxe room. The Saturday Island Package ($450) throws in chocolates, Champagne, and brunch. Top it off with a horse-drawn carriage ride—The Hitching Company (612-338-7777) operates right in front of the inn. 95 Merriam St., Mpls., 612-331-1800

Who said romance had to be sedentary? Bring your energy outside and take a snowshoe walk in the moonlight. If that’s still not active enough, try an after-dark ski trek. Cross-country trails at Three Rivers Park District’s Elm Creek and French Regional parks and a few others stay open until 10 p.m., so you can literally ski into the sunset.

Whether you’re a seasoned swinger (that’s dance, mind you) or have two left feet, Four Seasons Dance Studio is the place to shake it. They teach it all—tango, salsa, and waltz, to name a few—during nightly classes, which are bound to build or break some sexual tension. The studio is steps from Bar Lurçat in case you need a quick drink to loosen up. 1637 Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-342-0902

When you want a hideaway after dinner in downtown Minneapolis, The Lounge can offer just that. Prince’s place still has a vibe that lends an unexpected under-the-radar cool. Away from the dance floors are lots of little nooks to curl up in with a soulmate and a drink—or a bottle, if you reserve one of the private booths. 411 2nd Ave. N., Mpls., 612-333-8800

Search mspmag.com's Restaurant Guide to find a table-for-two in your neighborhood.