Somewhere between the cost of flowers, scoring prix-fixe reservations and standing in line at Victoria’s Secret, we realized February 14 was not made for those trying to spend less. Or is it? This is not your typical Valentine’s lineup. We’re going above and beyond to give you a list of alternative couples (and maybe a few singles) options you might not be expecting.
True Food Kitchen Cocktails
Valentine’s Day shouldn’t be about one day to show you care. At least True Food Kitchen doesn’t think so. Beginning this Friday through Feb. 18, take your mate for a sip at the bar, which is offering Valentine’s-themed drinks, suggested wines and a mocktail. We’re leaning toward the War of the Roses cocktail, with pomegranate-infused vodka and prosecco. 451 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, (949) 644-2400; www.truefoodkitchen.com.
Dough & Arrow ‘N Squared Exhibition
Feeling artsy? Head to Dough & Arrow for a very special exhibit called “Cute Couples.” Not exactly Valentine’s-oriented, but dynamic duos nonetheless. The fun kicks off at 6 p.m. this Saturday and lasts through the end of the month. During the opening-night festivities, Dough & Arrow will launch a new cookie and have prints for sale from many of the artists featured, including Jerrod Maruyama (see opening picture). Plus, it’s still taking orders for the Perfect Couple cookie box and macarons (both $9), as well as an Anti-Valentine’s version (think poop emoji) through the 11th. Talk about tasty delights! 3033 Bristol St., Ste. Q, Costa Mesa, (657) 247-4483; www.doughandarrow.co.
Anti-Valentine’s Day
The recently opened pub at Golden Road Anaheim is keeping it low-key cool: “No reservations. No fuss. Cool people. Specialty brew. Not awkward.” You know how groove is in the heart? Here, love is in the beer. We’ll drink to that—and have more of Chef Henry Tran’s menu, too. 2210 E. Orangewood Ave., Anaheim, (714) 912-4015; www.goldenroad.la.
Boudin Sourdough Heart Pre-Orders
Only available online, sales for heart-shaped carbs end tomorrow at noon. You can pick up these $8.49 hunks of sourdough love at your local Boudin—just specify Tuesday or Wednesday when ordering. We think a generous pat of softened, infused butter will pair nicely. Various locations, www.boudinbakery.com.
Rosé and Souffle Social
You say rosé; we say “What time?!” When: Tuesday, 5-7 p.m.. Where: Bluegold’s bar. The cost: $25 per guest. The rest: Half the bar, as well as a sectioned-off area of Bluegold will offer a tasting of two to three pretty in pink wines and tray-passed souffles. We’ll take this over taco night! 21016 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, (714) 374-0038; www.dinebluegold.com.
Primal Alchemy at Browerij West
For the third year in a row, Long Beach chef (and previous On the Line subject) Paul Buchanan teams up with San Pedro’s Brouwerij West for a soulful dinner next Wednesday known as Let’s Get It On. This unique, farm-to-table, 70’s themed warehouse dinner is in collaboration with brewery owner Brian Mercer. Besides a flight of five Brouwerij West brews, you can expect treats such as Sticky Toffee Pudding and Crimson Smoked Beets with Clover Honey. Visit letsgetiton.brownpapertickets.com for more info.
International Pancake Day at Snooze, An A. M. Eatery
If your loved one is a fan of the most important meal of the day, celebrate a day early at Snooze Tustin next Tuesday. Folks who order their special King Cake (and find the baby prize inside) will potentially win some Snooze swag, which may or may not include gift cards. All pancake sales that day will go towards Tustin Memorial Elementary School’s garden. Oh, and try the Whiskey pancake for us! 3032 El Camino Real, Tustin, (714) 415-6269; www.snoozeeatery.com.
Decadent Pairings in Anaheim
If your taste leans on the decadent side, visit Cooks Chapel next Wednesday for a special meal prepared by Andrea Machuca-Kirkland. Her four courses include an oyster starter, duo of cheeses and lavender meringue with matcha cake. Beverage pairings include sour beers and sparkling wine. Check out her Eventbrite page for additional information.
A contributing writer for OC Weekly, Anne Marie freelances for multiple online and print publications, and guest judges for culinary competitions. A Bay Area transplant, she graduated with a degree in Hospitality Management from Cal Poly Pomona. Find her on Instagram as brekkiefan.