Valentine’s day–for some people, is a day that is looked forward to all year long. It is spent with loved ones that are hopelessly romantic. It is filled with red roses, chocolates, cuddly bears and turquoise boxes from Tiffany Co.

For others, Valentine’s day is a beyond stressful day. It is spent trying to decide what your loved one wants, wondering if they’re going to like what you got them or speculating whether they’re going to hate that they didn’t get as good of a gift as their friend. In the end, it could leave you broke and single. Doesn’t sound too fun now.

However, you’re in luck. I’m here to offer you some wonderful gift ideas and restaurant locations in San Diego that can be sure to woo your partner on that special day.

Restaurants: Whether you’re downtown, in Mission Valley, or in Pacific Beach, you can find a perfect destination to spend your Valentine’s Day.
Downtown: There are many restaurants in the Gas Lamp Quarter on 4th, 5th, and 6th avenue that would be ideal. However, one particular restaurant that lands itself on the 12th floor of 5th Ave definitely stands out. Bertrand at Mister A’s is a 5-star restaurant that offers Modern American Cuisine with French and Mediterranean dining. Not only is the food incredible, but the panoramic view of the city is sure to be remembered.

Book your reservation here: (619)239-1377

www.bertrandatmisteras.com

Mission Valley: Now for you meat lovers out there, I give you Hunter’s Steakhouse. With a 40 year reputation of excellence they are quoted as having, “ the best prime rib in town”. Not only do they offer you 5 star steaks but they also have an outstanding seafood selection that include mouthwatering prawns, king crab legs, and succulent lobster tail.

Book your reservation here: (619) 2918074

www.huntersteakhouse.com
Pacific Beach: Now personally, I think being by the beach is the ideal romantic location to spend on Valentine’s Day. I have two options for you that I have enjoyed.
JRDN at Tower 23 Hotel: This is beachfront dining that includes a breathtaking sunset during your meal. JRDN is a contemporary steak and seafood restaurant that features a California style unlike any other. This gorgeous restaurant overlooking the pier is definitely one of the best spots in Pacific Beach.

Book your reservation here: (858)270-5736

www.jrdn.com/serving/up/flash/
World Famous: It’s title says it all. This illustrious restaurant is known for their remarkable seafood dishes sprung from international methods mixed with the California coastal cuisine. Positioned right on the boardwalk of Pacific Beach it is truly an idealistic setting. Their unusual dishes are what in fact sets them apart.  From their potato wrapped white sea bass to their “San Francisco Style Cioppino,”  you will leave feeling fulfilled. яндекс

Book your reservation here: (858)272-3100

www.worldfamous.signonsandiego.com

GIFTS: Giving your partner a gift on Valentine’s day is very important because you have spent a year waiting to give it your loved one. Or have you? Here’s some easy ideas to jump start your love…

1.     Every woman wants to know that you think they’re sexy. One of the best gifts you can give is a Victoria’s Secret Gift card. They have a lot of products ranging from lingerie to beauty products.

2.     Girls appreciate simple gifts anytime. If you find yourself in a time crunch than go for the easy box of chocolates. But if you really want to get fancy with the chocolates, go for Godiva. Women know and appreciate the finer things.

3.     Even though red roses are the traditional Valentine’s Day flower, try something different this year. Go for a flower bouquet that has variety. Nothing wrong with roses, but surprising your girl with something unexpected might be the exact thing she’ll love.

4.     Candles and lotions are always good set the mood. Go to the nearest Bed, Bath, and Beyond and grab some candles and beauty products that will surely put a spark into your gift. She’ll more than likely put that candle right next to her bed or bathtub. That’s exactly where you want them.

5.     From experience, cell phone covers are constantly getting ruined.  Stop by your nearby mall and buy her/him a new cell phone cover at the many stands all over the mall. Every time they look down at their phone, they’ll be sure to think of you.

6.     For all you dirty birds out there, head down to Hustler in the Gas Lamp and I’m certain that you will find something that can spice up your relationship in any department that needs “spicing”.

7.     You definitely want to get a little buzz on V-Day so make sure you prepare with a bottle of wine. Even though red wine is delicious, you may want to stray away from it on Valentine’s Day. You do not want your mouth turning deep red when you’re about to get down. Instead, try for a classy glass of Chardonnay or White Zinfandel.

8.     Pictures are worth a thousand words or maybe kisses? This Valentine’s Day you should get a picture developed of the two of you. That will surely get your partner loving you much more. At CVS, you can simply go online and upload the picture to their website and the location near you will develop the picture for you in a couple hours at most. And, while you’re there, you can grab a picture frame or photo album. They have a great selection.

So there you have it.  A 2011 selection of ideas to use this Valentine’s day. Good luck!

*Written by Lauren Butler