Spend your Valentine's ala ToT-style

V-Day at Hotel Elizabeth Baguio

Since the V-day is coming up around the corner, and I have been reviewing quite a lot of restaurants in the metro, there are several establishments that come to mind when I think of a romantic, intimate setting for dining during the day of lovers. Here are my picks from my personal experience, and throughout the coming days I'll be injecting other places onto ToT which I think are definitely date-worthy too.

MEN: Read up, Take down the contact numbers, Buy flowers, Take all the credit. Love ToT

Aubergine, Bonifacio Global City 

From the decor and the mood lighting, to the lamb and the dessert menu, plus the Patisserie section, Aubergine will score big points for those googly-eyed ladies who want to be wowed and impressed with your culinary prowess. Their 7-course Degustation menu is worth the $$$, complete with liquid nitrogen for smoky effect. Order a vintage bottle from their impressive wine list to get giddy a uninhibited.

 Le Souffle at Fernando's, The Amorsolo Rockwell 

Since Le Souffle is no longer in existence, this restaurant is simply named Fernando's. Not related to ToT, but I love the garden view and the expansive windows, the impeccable service and high walls, and of course, the Perfect Souffle. Very intimate setting and great for lovers who are low-profile.

C's Italian Trattoria, Angeles Pampanga

If you can travel all the way to Angeles City for a meal, that meal better involve Chef Chris Locher and the infamous, always imitated never replicated, Panizza. The restaurant has an old-world appeal, the outdoor dining area has pearl lights for a candlelit feel, and the hearty Italian fare is perfect for those who love to share and feed each other. Their wine selection is also very complementary to the dishes. I love the sausages and the Bistecca.

 Subversive Filipino Cuisine at Damaso, Greenbelt 5 Makati

Quaint and well-decorated, the word subversive just conjures naughty thoughts that involve food. The menu elevates homey Filipino cuisine into something sexy, provocative and collaborative. Their desserts are the ultimate sin. If you're lucky, ask for the booth seating by the entrance which envelopes you into oblivion with your date.

Terry's Selection, Salcedo Village Makati

There's a Terry's in Podium in Ortigas, as well as on by Lafayette building in Makati, but here's a tip: the third floor where the deli is situated has limited seats which are great venues for conversation about wine, food, and tapas. This hidden location feels like the perfect rendezvous for a tryst. Order lots of tapas, and use your hands. And get drunk on vino.

Lusso Greenbelt 5, Makati 

If your date is a burger lover, then Lusso is the perfect luxe place for a date. I've never tasted a burger as sexy as the Demi-Pound Lusso Burger with foie gras and cambozola bath. The interiors enclose you in a cocoon of gilded gold, and the maitre'd service makes any diner feel like a million bucks. Get some bubbly to seal the deal and you're good to go.

Purple Feet, Wine Depot Makati

Surprise your date with a stop at Wine Depot to "pick up some wine." Then feel proud that you were able to pick a hole in the wall that serves not only good wine, but good food as well. Try the Barramundi and the croquetas. If you're lucky, you will get a kiss of appreciation.

Marcia Adams' Tuscany in Tagaytay

I love destination dining and think that Marcia Adams' Tuscan trattoria in Tagaytay is the perfect escape matched with thoughtful cuisine. Call Marcia herself for her personal favorites, get a spot by the garden, or simply get lost in the Mediterranean without having to fly.

More to come within the next week for those who want other options... I wonder where I'll be for V-day... (ahem ahem)