Love it or hate it, Valentine’s Day weekend is fast approaching, and with it, ample opportunity to bask in the holiday’s warm, romantic glow. But even if you haven’t exactly been struck by cupid’s arrow this year — or if Valentine’s Day just isn’t your thing — we’ve got news: Every holiday is what you make of it, and this one is no exception. So — whether you want to break all the typical Valentine’s Day rules or celebrate the good, old fashioned way, we’ve got just the list of attractions for you. Keep reading for the best ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in DC this year!

Get Swoon-worthy Meals Right To Your Door

No desire to go out? No problem. These delectable takeout and delivery options have got you covered.

Bantam King and Tonari

Looking for casual V-Day takeout that’s packaged to impress? Ramen and chicken shop Bantam King is offering a $55 package with a four-piece bucket plus dinner rolls, mashed potatoes, miso corn, rice topped with chicken drippings, and a flourless chocolate cake decorated in cherry blossoms for dessert. Sister restaurant Tonari—a new destination for Italian-Japanese cuisine—is serving a five-course menu for dine-in and to-go ($99 per person) with splurges like wagyu meatballs over spaghetti in an umeboshi-plum-pomodoro sauce.

Bresca and Jônt

Chef Ryan Ratino’s Michelin-starred dining rooms are serving a four-course takeout menu that doesn’t skimp on the fancy stuff, so you can have your high-end meal and eat it, too — all without leaving the comfort of home. In the luxe lineup: a foie gras terrine, truffle fondue, surf n’ turf with wagyu beef and lobster, and rare Japanese strawberries dipped in chocolate. It ain’t cheap ($245 per person), but neither is your Valentine.

Nina May

In addition to a dine-in celebration, chef Colin McClimans offers a multi-course, family-style $80 per-person “chef’s choice” menu to-go with courses like cacio e pepe agnolotti, pan-seared rockfish, glazed duck, and chocolate tarts. All can be paired with beverage director Danilo Simic’s specialty Valentine’s Day cocktails.

➤ See what else there is to do in DC:

• Finding Fall in Washington, DC
• Things to Do in DC: Winter Edition
• See Our Extensive Neighborhood Guides

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth With Festive Treats

Milk Bar

Confectionary queen Christina Tosi’s Logan Circle flagship is all about bite-sized red velvet truffles this Valentine’s Day season. Each decadent circle, wrapped in a delicate chocolate shell, is filled with chocolate cake, chocolate chips, cream cheese, and red velvet crumbs.

Café Georgetown

The talented baristas at Cafe Georgetown are whipping up whimsical rose lattes this month, topped with everything from floating quotes to cartoon hearts snapping a selfie. Pair the caffeinated creation with a heart-shaped cheese panini and get ready for lots of Instagram likes.

Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken

Astro’s boxed set of mini doughnuts by the dozen ($30) feature flavors like raspberry red velvet cake, vanilla glaze, and banana pudding. Pre-order with a 24-hour notice for pickup on February 11 to 14.

Set The Mood With Romantic Scenery

These gorgeous indoor and outdoor spaces are ideal for celebrating in style with your special someone.

Albi

Chef Michael Rafidi’s Levantine restaurant isn’t just one of the best dining experiences in town—the vibe is enthralling thanks to the big wood-fired hearth, delicious wines (adjoining bar Maxwell Park is a perfect pre-or-post stop), and ambient buzz. There are still a few tickets available for special Valentine’s Day menus at the chef’s table ($200) and outdoor enclosed seating ($150). Or start the holiday early on Thursday (the weekend is currently booked). Reservations on Resy. Indoor and private outdoor seating.

Iron Gate

Between the carriageway bar, wisteria-covered patio, and fire-lit dining room, this historic restaurant space—previously a private mansion—is inarguably one of the most romantic destinations in DC. Chef Anthony Chittum is serving a special $120-per-person shareable menu for the holiday.

Ilili

Chef Philippe Massoud’s Lebanese spot at the Wharf is like dining in an indoor garden thanks to citrus trees, a fountain, and hanging bird cages. The restaurateur, who previously operated Georgetown’s Neyla, is back from a 15 year stint in NYC where he opened the first Illili. Upscale modern mezze fill the menu—duck shawarma, yellowtail with pomegranate ponzu—and there’s even a special Valentine’s prix-fixe ($150 per person).

➤ For wine & dine options in and around DC check out:

• Rooftop Bars in DC
• The Hottest New Restaurants in DC
• Your Guide to The DMV’s Best Wineries