Bigger is better, especially when it comes to drinks. These romantic cocktails for two are designed for duos – and perfect for enjoying on Valentine’s Day.
Arroz, Washington, D.C.
“Large format rosé sangria” is one of our favorite phrases. The blushing bevvie is powered by rosé and vodka and given a floral lift thanks to elderflower, while grapefruit juice adds a biting citrus edge. To ensure all the flavors meld, it’s macerated for 36 to 48 hours. Make a reservation at Arroz.
Grant Grill, San Diego, California
How do you celebrate a decade bound to your loved one? Might we suggest the 10 Year Anniversary, a heady concoction made with Westland peated whisky, cacao liqueur, and hopped sparkling water. It’s served in a pair of cups linked by handcuffs. Make a reservation at Grant Grill.
Red Star, Portland, Oregon
Looking to get smashed? Try the bourbon-y Valentine’s Smash accented with peppermint sage tea, lemon juice, ginger syrup, and muddled huckleberries. It’s a liquid TKO. Make a reservation at Red Star.
The Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel, New York, New York
We go cuckoo for coconuts. Especially one filled with Leche Dulce, a sweet ‘n’ smooth rum-forward coconut cocktail. If you and your date down a couple, you’ll both swear you’re on your honeymoon in Fiji. Make a reservation at the Palm Court at the Plaza Hotel.
Tupelo Honey, Virginia Beach, Virginia
This cocktail is the bomb. A Pineapple Tiki Bomb, to be exact. Forged from berry-flavored rum, triple sec, and fruit juices, it’s a blast of flavor. Make a reservation at Tupelo Honey.
Wildfire, McLean, Virginia
A mimosa is nice. A flight of them is even better. The fetching foursome features agave sour, strawberry, passion fruit, and mango. Make a reservation at Wildfire.
Ai Fiori, New York, New York
Talk about flower power! The Blossom Punch is amped with gin, cachaça, rum, and Herbetet Genepy. Green jasmine tea, lavender, pineapple, and lemon lend it a complex floral-sweet-tangy-tart flavor. Make a reservation at Ai Fiori.
Have you spotted romantic cocktails for two at your favorite restaurants? Tell us about them here or over on Facebook, G+, Instagram, Pinterest, or Twitter. And, be sure to enter our #ValenDinesDay giveaway for a chance to win Valentine’s Day dinner for two.
Nevin Martell is a Washington, D.C.-based food and travel writer and the author of several books, including Freak Show Without A Tent: Swimming with Piranhas, Getting Stoned in Fiji and Other Family Vacations. Find him on Twitter @nevinmartell and Instagram @nevinmartell.
Photo credits: Greg Powers (Arroz).
