It’s the month of love and that can only mean it’s time for romance, sweets, treats, and delicious dishes. We’re all for those looking to impress with a fancy dinner out, but we’re also expanding our horizons, giving Valentine’s Day week a nudge in the exciting direction, introducing a New Jersey Valentine’s Day that lasts all week long.

There are all forms of love – love for your significant other, for your friends, your family so why not celebrate with each and every one of them. Yes, Valentine’s Day may be specifically designated for dinner (waterfront dining anyone?), dancing, and drinking (there’s nothing wrong with starting off with happy hour in Monmouth or Ocean County), but those other six days can be just as fun.

So check out our version of what a New Jersey Valentine’s Day looks like from dining out, to enjoying a few cocktails, and even giving ourselves some self love with a chocolate facial. Now maybe you’ll give us some love too.

Dining Out in New Jersey On Valentine’s Day

Five-Course Menu and Wines at 618 Restaurant, Freehold 
On February 12th and 14th, the red carpet is being rolled out at 618 Restaurant. Enjoy a five-course menu featuring unforgettable wine pairings for each course. We promise it’s $89 that will be very well spent. Reservations are recommended. 618 Park Avenue, Freehold 732-577-0001 http://618nj.com/special-events/

Spicy Specials at Aarzu, Freehold
Aarzu is spicing up your Valentine’s Day with a sensual five-course prix fixe menu featuring aphrodisiac foods that will bring a hot thrill to your Valentine’s Day dinner. Bring your own bottles of bubbly as you feast on an array of dishes that will please the meat eater to the vegan and gluten free diner. Be sure to book your table today for $65 per person. 30 E. Main Street, Freehold 732-333-0933 www.aarzu.com  

BYOB (and Date) to The Bistro, Red Bank 

Reserve your table for two at The Bistro for an intimate evening out starring all of your favorite menu items. A prime location for watching couples stroll by, The Bistro offers great food, unparalleled service, and an opportunity to bring the cocktails that suit you best. 14 Broad Street, Red Bank 732-530-5553 www.thebistroatredbank.com/

Five Course Menu at Blu Grotto, Oceanport
We’re not sure whether the atmosphere or the dishes that Blue Grotto offers is what keeps us gravitating back, but either way it’s working. This Valentine’s Day find out why Blue Grotto has quickly turned into the “it” restaurant with their $50 five course menu featuring Oysters and Prosecco, Tuna Tartare, Lobster Ravioli, Dry Aged Strip Loin, and your choice of Dolci (we’re kind of salivating over the thought of a Tartufo Banana Split… for two). Cheers to love! 200 Port Au Peck Avenue, Oceanport 732-571-7900 www.blugrottonj.com/

Oysters at The Bonney Read, Asbury Park

Talk about an aphrodisiac menu. The Bonney Read is opening just for you (from 5-9pm) and is serving all the dishes that is sure to woo your Valentine. Dine on a dozen of Chef James Avery’s choice oysters for just $12, $5 glasses of Villa Sandi Prosecco, non-seafood specials, and a Surf and Turf dish made for two. Reservations are recommended. 525 Cookman Avenue, Asbury Park 732-455-3352 www.thebonneyread.com/

Romantic Italian Cuisine at Civile Cucina Italiana, Metuchen
Remember Lady and the Tramp? It might be time to channel that lovable scene with the help of Civile Cucina Italiana. Treat your special someone to four elegant course for only $100 per couple. It’s your very own table (don’t worry, you won’t be relegated to the back) with Italian dishes that are every bit as romantic as you are (luckily for you, maybe more so). Reservations are recommended. 154 Main Street, Metuchen 732-662-9982 www.civilecucina.com/

Overnight Valentine’s Day Package for Two at the Molly Pitcher Inn, Red Bank
Who wouldn’t want to unplug from it all for a day or two on Valentine’s Day with their significant other? Here is your chance! The Molly Pitcher Inn is offering a special Valentine’s Day Package that includes an overnight stay for two, Champagne upon arrival and a five course dinner in the dining room. This Jersey Shore landmark will plant you and your significant in the heart of Red Bank for Valentine’s Day 2017. All taxes are included in the package price. Valid for stays on Tuesday and Saturday. Visit this link for booking info. 88 Riverside Avenue, Red Bank 732-747-2500 http://themollypitcher.com

Italian Classics at Nino’s Coal Fired Restaurant, Brick and Toms River 

It’s love at first bite at Nino’s Coal Fired Restaurant. Let them make your holiday memorable with their Special Valentine’s Day menu made from the very best ingredients and a little extra love. Don’t forget to save room for our tantalizing desserts, like their homemade tiramisu.  Accepting reservations now at both two locations:  1012 Cox Cro Road, Toms River, 732-505-8400 and 66 Brick Blvd, Brick, 732-255-7700 http://www.ninoscoalfiredpizza.com/

Three-Course Dinner at Cornerstone Kitchen & Tap, Jackson
All weekend long the guys at Cornerstone Kitchen & Tap will be hosting a three-course dinner for just $50. Oh wait, there’s more. Along with a complementary glass of champagne, lucky diners will have their pick of Valentine’s Day themed specials and chocolate centric desserts. We’re in. 21 S. Hope Chapel Rd., Jackson 732-994-5286 http://www.cktjackson.com/specials/

Valentine’s Day Dinner Show at iPlay America, Freehold
If you haven’t been able to get to MSG to see Billy Joel, here’s your chance for the next best thing. On Saturday, February 12th, Captain Jack will be singing all the classic tunes of the piano man himself. Pair that with a four-course meal that includes Stuffed Shrimp Oreganata and Petite Tenderloin Medallions and we can promise you that your uptown girl will only have eyes for you. 110 Schanck Road, Freehold 732-577-8200
http://www.iplayamerica.com/event/valentines-day-dinner-show/

Reopening Celebration at Klein’s Fish Market & Waterside Cafe, Belmar
This Valentine’s Day, Klein’s is celebrating two occasions – heart day and their grand reopening on the 10th. Enjoy all the staples of their regular menu as you and your sweetheart overlook the Shark River while eating some of the freshest seafood available. 708 River Rd, Belmar 732-681-1177 www.kleinsfish.com 

Romantic Specials at Marina at Oceanport, Oceanport
Bring your Valentine to The Marina starting Saturday, February 12th to enjoy romantic specials that may have you coming back yet again on the 14th. Add on a few of their craft cocktails and it’s an evening to remember. 10 Riverside Ave, Oceanport 848-456-4396 www.marinaatoceanport.com/

Prix-Fixe Menu at McDonaugh’s Pub, Keyport
Don’t let the word “pub” fool you. McDonaugh’s is putting on a show this Valentine’s Day, offering a special prix-fixe menu, specialty cocktails, and complimentary roses and chocolate covered strawberries. It’s a very good memory just waiting to happen so be sure to make your reservation… the sooner the better! 2 W. Front Street, Keyport 732-264-0999 www.mcdonaghs.com/

Prix-Fixe Menu at The Metuchen Inn, Metuchen
Reserve your table at The Metuchen Inn for a feast of the senses. With dishes including Lobster Tail Tempura, Jumbo Crab Meat Ravioli, Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb, and Vanilla Cheesecake, you can be sure they’ll be two desserts. 424 Middlesex Avenue, Metuchen 732-494-6444  http://www.metucheninn.net/menu/

Dinner for Two at Mister C’s Beach Bistro, Allenhurst
Situated beachfront, Mister C’s guarantees that the night will be off to a very good start. On February 10-11th, they’ll be upping the romantic factor with dinner for two, which also includes a bottle of wine. Come for the food and stay for the view. Ocean Place at Allen Avenue, Allenhurst 732-531-3665  http://www.mistercsbeachbistro.com/

Valentine’s Menu at MJ’s Buttonwood Manor, Matawan
They had us at complimentary chocolate fountain. Seriously, do we need to tell you any more? If that’s not enough, MJ’s is pairing a chocolate lover’s dream with a special Valentine’s menu that will up the ante for next year. 845 NJ-34, Matawan 732-566-6220 buttonwoodmanor.com/

Exotic Middle Eastern Dishes at Old City Cafe & Grille, Cranford 
Try something different this Valentine’s Day with a visit to Old City Cafe & Grill. Let your taste buds set sail on an exotic trip with Middle Eastern flavors. Welcome to the Kasbah! Reservations are recommended. 20 Union Avenue N, Cranford 908-276-2701 http://www.oldcitycafeandgrill.com/

A Three Course Love Affair at Porcini, Highlands 
Spend the holiday of love with recently engaged Chef Chris Atamian and co-owner Alexandria Mahon are sharing their favorite dishes with other couples in a three course menu including Lobster Thermador (pictured above) for just $65. So bring your own bottle of whatever suits you and get ready to taste some of Porcini’s specialties. 168 Bay Avenue, Highlands 732-291-3080 http://www.restaurantporcini.com/

Valentine’s Weekend Pre-Fixe at Reels at Pier 281
If you’re hot date is a foodie, Reels at Pier 281 is the restaurant for you. Their chef will be whipping up a tantalizing four-course prix-fixe dinner for just $55 per person. Enjoy specials including Roasted Cornish Hen, Blackened Monkfish, and Filet Mignon waterside. Reservations are suggested. 281 Princeton Avenue, Brick 848-232-1361 www.reelsat281.com/services.html

Valentine’s Specials and Brunch at Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant, Long Branch
Rooney’s is a one stop shop this Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re looking to share a romantic candlelight dinner with remarkable ocean views and delicious dishes (that will be crafted for couples in mind Valentine’s Day weekend), but they’re also hosting a Sunday Brunch from 10:30-2:00pm. Kick the weekend of love off with live music at the bar from 6:30 – 10:30pm where you’ll enjoy 50% off bottles of wine and champagne. Not a bad way to spend a weekend if you ask us! 100 Ocean Avenue, Long Branch 732-870-1200 www.rooneysocean.com/

Peace, Love, and Pancakes at Toast, Red Bank, Asbury Park and Montclair
Valentine’s Day is not just for lovers and it’s not just for dinner. If you don’t believe us, visit Toast and be swept away with breakfast, brunch, and lunch options that will make you swoon. Fall for Toast’s Bella Nutella, their fluffy Red Velvet Pancakes, or even their Crab Cake Benedict. We could go on, but we’ll let you find out for yourself. Click their website link for all three great locations in Asbury Park, Red Bank and Montclair! toastredbank.com/

A Thai Inspired Dinner at Siam Garden, Red Bank 

Take your lady to Siam Garden where she’ll be presented with a beautiful Thai orchid before you enjoy their full regular menu along with specials created just for the occasion. Just don’t forget to BYOB! 2 Bridge Avenue, Red Bank 732-224-1233 siamgardenrestaurant.com 

 Sweet Music at Sweet Waters Steak House, Westfield

Sweet music, sweet music, they’ll be music everywhere. We’re talking about Sweet Waters Steak House, where on February 9th as a prelude to the day of love, they’ll be hosting a jazz trio from 7-9:30pm. It’s an invitation to cozy up with your better half. 43 Elm Street, Westfield 908-317-2599 http://www.sweetwaterssteakhouse.com/

Weeklong Specials at Teak, Red Bank
Yes, this Valentine’s Day is on a Tuesday this year, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t celebrate. At Teak they’re taking the party from one to seven days with happy hours, live music on their newly opened rooftop bar, DJs, and dinner, drink, and dessert specials on the day of love. Just be sure to make a reservation! 64 Monmouth Street, Red Bank 732-747-5775 teakrestaurant.com/teak-menus/

Love Inspired Dishes at Temple Gourmet Chinese, Red Bank
Order all of the dishes you fell in love with this Valentine’s Day. Temple Gourmet Chinese will be serving their regular menu along with featured love dishes. If you’re looking to impress, order the 1.5lb Canadian hard-shell lobster in a ginger scallion sauce with 8 ounces of cubed filet mignon in a rich garlic sauce… just a suggestion. Reservations are recommended. 91 Broad Street, Red Bank 732-212-8858 www.templegourmet.com/

Family Friendly Dinners at Via 45, Red Bank
Come celebrate love at Via 45, a restaurant owned and operated by two women that happen to be very talented in the kitchen. Whether your date is your significant other, your mom, your kids, or your family (or all of them!) you’re guaranteed love inspired dishes all week long. 45 Broad Street, Red Bank 732-450-9945 www.via45.com/menu.html

Cocktails at Tiki Bar at Driftwood, Sea Bright
Romance, cocktails, the beach, it’s all a part of the atmosphere at the Tiki Bar at Driftwood. Spend the evening here, chatting over martinis or make this your first stop for Happy Hour or last stop before dessert. 1485 Ocean Avenue, Sea Bright 732-842-0297 http://www.tikibardriftwood.com/

Sweet Valentine’s Treats at Whipped
Indulge with your sweetheart on some of the sweetest treats in Red Bank at Whipped! These Valentine’s Day specials will be available until Valentine’S Day. Special menu items include Tiramisu Crepe, Chocolate Grand Marnier French Toast with fresh berries and a Strawberry Banana Nutella Waffle Sandwich. 6 Monmouth Street, Red Bank (732) 747-0076 http://www.whippedcreperie.com

Dinner and Champagne at The Wine Bar, Atlantic Highlands
Love is in the air at The Wine Bar (they’re even quoting from The Notebook to prepare). Reserve your spot for some romance paired with chef specialties, champagne, live music, and of course wine. Reservations are recommended. 40 1st Avenue, Atlantic Highlands 732-291-1377 www.ahwinebar.com/

The Best New Jersey Sweets, Treats, and Dates

Not sure what how to wow your Valentine this holiday? We’ve got you covered. From Valentine’s themed gifts to date ideas and plenty of chocolate, we’ve found the best New Jersey Valentine’s Day sweets, treats, and date ideas for you and your lover and even your family – hey, the more the merrier right?

Sweetheart Sampler Platter at Cheese Cave, Red Bank
If you’re looking to spend the evening in or even start the night off with a glass of champagne or wine at home, be sure to pair it with the Sweetheart Sampler Platter. It has everything you need to keep your energy up for the night ahead. If you’re headed to Red Bank for a dinner out, stop in and let Steve treat you with a mini cheese platter, the perfect start to a romantic evening out. Reservations are recommended. 14 Monmouth Street, Red Bank 732-842-0796 http://thecheesecave.co/

Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend by Garden State Wine Grower’s Association
Across the state of New Jersey, wine and chocolate lovers will be basking in the dozens of wineries across the state that will be hosting a wine and chocolate tasting. Join wine experts the weekend of February 11-12th where you’ll be able to taste award winning wines grown throughout the state along with decadent morsels of chocolate.
http://www.newjerseywines.com/event/white-horse-winery-presents-valentines-wine-and-chocolate-weekend/

Everything Shines at Goldtinker, Red Bank

For exquisite jewelry that will absolutely stun your Valentine just visit Goldtinker. Too many options? Well, for a day that’s filled with hearts, they’re handmade Platinum and Diamond Open Heart pendant (pictured above) is all that and much, much more. 24 Broad Street, Red Bank 732-531-8787 goldtinker.com/ 

Jenkinson’s Family Date Night at Jenkinson’s, Pt. Pleasant
Spend the weekend with the ones you love the most, your family. Jenkinson’s is hosting another great family event where a family of four can check out the Aquarium, nosh on some pizza and soda, play some games at the Pavilion Arcade with a $10 PlayCard, and top it off with four treats from the Sweet Shop for just $49.95. 300 Ocean Avenue, Pt. Pleasant Beach 732-892-0600  http://jenkinsons.com/events/family-date-night-2017/

Couples Massage at Kur Wellness Studios, Asbury Park

It’s all about love, romance, and indulgence at Kur this February. From couples massages, to massage lessons, Rose Facials, Chocolate Body Scrubs, and even a dreamy and gentle yoga practice on February 14th, Kur has successfully made us fall in love… with them. 412 Bond Street, Asbury Park 732-361-8956 http://kurstudios.com/ 

Parties and Pops at Lil Cutie Pops, Red Bank
The crew at Lil Cutie Pops is not kidding around this holiday. Your Valentine will fall head over heels for all of their sweet treats including their chocolate covered strawberries. For the wee ones, they’re hosting Valentine’s Baking Club and Decorating events and for the ladies there’s even a Galentine’s Day Party on February 13th. Nothing could be sweeter! 16 Monmouth Street, Red Bank 732-383-5602 http://lilcutiepops.com/

Unique Jewelry at Poor Cat Designs, Red Bank 

Jewelry is always a good idea ladies and gentlemen, especially jewelry that’s as unique as your Valentine (and made in Jersey!) This is exactly why a trip to Poor Cat Designs before the big day is a necessity. They know it too, which is why they’re offering 10% off all in-stock pieces featuring stones. 69 Broad Street, Red Bank 732-842-3121 http://poorcatdesigns.com/ 

Downtowngram at What’s The Scoop, Metuchen
Remember those roses that were handed out in high school? Well, think of something much better being given to your sweetheart. Purchase a small Valentine’s gift at What’s the Scoop, Lollipop Land, or Chai’s Cafe and they’ll let your special someone know that a gift is waiting just for them on the big day. For those craving something sweet, you can also order custom made heart shaped ice cream cakes. 410 Main Street, Metuchen 732-548-5900 www.whatsthescoopmetuchen.com/

Muscle Truffles at Power Eatz 
The way to your Valentine’s heart is definitely through chocolate… and with the help of Power Eatz’s Muscle Truffles that won’t wreck your fitness goals, you won’t need much else. Mention Jersey Shore In Motion when you order and receive free Valentine’s packaging. We’ll be expecting ours in the mail. E-mail them at powereatz@gmail.com

Homemade Treats at Suzie’s Sweet Shoppe, Middletown 

Customize your Valentine by choosing from all assorted chocolates including chocolate covered pretzels – a customer favorite. Suzie’s Sweet Shoppe has everything your Valentine could want, even chocolate covered strawberries that you can order online and pick up in store!  1100 State Route 35, Middletown 732-796-0115 http://suzisweetshoppe.com/

Annual Valentine’s Soiree at Sweetest Sin Boutique, Red Bank
Lingerie. There are no ifs or butts about it, it’s the gift that keeps on giving. On February 3rd from 6-9pm, Red Bank’s lingerie shop will be hosting an event that can’t be missed featuring bubbly, treats, professional bra-fittings, and exclusive discounts along with a gift bag. Don’t worry if you can’t make it, they’ll extending their hours for the lingerie holiday of the year from 10:00am – 8:00pm February 9-14th. Go get’em. 11 White Street, Red Bank 732-747-3550 www.sweetestsinbras.com/

Painting and Pottery at A Time to Kiln, Red Bank 
A little bored of your typical date night outs? Then it’s time to visit A Time to Kiln where you can show off your artistry skills while complementing your date on theirs. It’s also a great chance to go out with girlfriends, bring the kids, or even hang out for a little self love – painting is quite relaxing. Oh and don’t worry if you’re not Picasso because the crew at A Time to Kiln will make your pottery look like a million bucks. 50 Broad Street, Red Bank 732-450-9525 http://www.atimetokiln.com/