Five Fine Dining Choices for Valentine's Day

This Valentine's Day, couples throughout the area will celebrate their love with a romantic dinner.

We want to help you make sure the sparks fly, so we're providing you with our picks for some of the best restaurants in the area to share a meal with the one you love.

Brandl— 703 Belmar Plaza www.brandlrestaurant.com

Chef and owner Chris Brandl crafts some of the most innovative and delicious culinary creations in the area. We recommend the foie gras. The chef has varying preparations of the fattened goose or duck liver that will be sure to please the connoisseur in you. Save money by bringing your own wine and be sure to make a reservation— their intimate dining room is likely to fill up fast.

The Mill at Spring Lake Heights— 101 Old Mill Rd. www.themillnj.com

This renowned banquet hall does more than just weddings. In recent years The Mill has re-entered the restaurant game in a big way. This year, they will offer a prix fixe menu in both their downstairs dining room and their scenic, upstairs Waterview Room. The evening will feature a four-course meal and live entertainment for couples. 

Shipwreck Grill— 720 Ashley Ave. Brielle www.shipwreckgrill.com

Located on the scenic Manasquan River in Brielle, Shipwreck Grill has gained notoriety for its amazing seafood. Those looking for a slightly more casual feeling to their Valentine's Day experience will appreciate Shipwreck's lacquered interior and large raw bar. A laid back, riverfront atmosphere does not mean that the restaurant lacks in the fine dining department. Shipwreck Grill offers a surprisingly rich and innovative menu.

Giamano's— 301 Main St. Bradley Beach www.giamanos.com

Those with a taste for Italian food know that Giamano's is the Jersey Shore's premiere destination for authentic Italian cuisine. Executive chefs Steffan Manno and Peter Petagno take pride in using the highest quality and freshest ingredients in preparing their specialties. Be sure to ask the server about wine pairings.

The Black Trumpet— 1505 Ocean Ave. Spring Lake www.theblacktrumpet.com

Historic Spring Lake may just be the perfect destination for romance this Valentine's Day. Located inside the Grand Victorian Hotel on Ocean Avenue, The Black Trumpet is known throughout the area as one of the premiere destinations for culinary innovation. The centerpiece of the restaurant's seasonally changing menu is the Veal Black Trumpet, which is "flamed with brandy, sauced with mushrooms, cream and Dijon mustard."