By Joseph Steele
Valentine’s Day is a night for whispered nothings, champagne flutes and menus that speak the language of love. While you could scramble for last-minute bouquets or poorly chilled bottles of bubbles, we propose something infinitely more romantic - and frankly, far more stylish. An evening night out at one of the country’s most seductive dining destinations.
From fire-kissed fare in Perth to Latin heat in Collingwood, we’ve rounded up the most alluring Valentine’s Day menus across Australia. This could be your first Valentine’s Day or a golden anniversary, we say do it in style.
Here’s where to book for a night to remember:
Go here for: Fire, finesse and a view to fall for
If love is an ember that never burns out, Hearth is its flame. Set on the water’s edge of Elizabeth Quay, this fine-dining haven captures the drama of open-fire cooking with a menu that’s equal parts elegance and innovation. For Valentine’s Day, expect a five-course celebration of Western Australian produce - think dishes infused with elements of fire and smoke where each course tells a story of bold flavours and culinary artistry. Perfect for sharing with your loved one. Add a champagne on arrival and a rose in hand, you’ve got yourself a night that smoulders with romance.
Go here for: La dolce vita, but by candlelight
Romance finds its rhythm at Firma Italian, where South Brisbane’s Grey street plays host to a warmly lit, banquette-lined dining room humming with Euro charm. A four-course menu channels the heart of Italy - delicate seafood, handmade pasta and mans finished with rustic precision. Champagne flows on arrival, wine pairings await for the curious and in this quietly luxurious setting, there’s nothing to distract from the only thing that matters. Linger and let the night unfold at its own pace.
Go here for: Destination romance among the views
Nestled in the rolling elegance of the Adelaide Hills, Anvers Wines presents a Valentine’s Day as refined as the terroir. Delivering a six-course progression of flavour that speaks to both passion and place - each dish a tribute to South Australian produce, thoughtfully paired with the vineyard’s finest pours. A glass of sparkling upon arrival sets the tone; what follows is slow-burning, soulful and utterly delicious.
Go here for: Art, ambience and edible masterpieces
Inside the chic surrounds of the HOTA Gallery, Palette offers more than a meal. This is a whole sensory experience. This Valentine’s Day, early diners can enjoy a three-course meal with champagne and a curated gift to go, while those seeking a late night lap of luxury, the ante gets upped with a caviar bump, five indulgent courses and a premium beverage pairing. Start with a spanner crab dumpling, glide into Stanbroke wagyu and finish with the kind of culinary surprise that turns the evening into a memory. High art, indeed.
Go here for: All heat, all heart.
Forget quiet. Pincho Disco is turning Valentine’s Day up to eleven. This sultry, Latin-fuelled venue is throwing down a sensory soireé complete with live tango, low lighting and bold flavours straight from the Josper grill. Start with oysters in tiger’s milk and ceviche bites, then dive into fire-grilled spatchcock and premium cuts dressed to impress. It’s sexy. It’s loud. With Moët Champagne on arrival, it’s unapologetically extra. Dress accordingly.
Go here for: Green serenity with a glass of rose
If your idea of romance is less glitz and more grounded, The Botanica Vaucluse is your oasis. Surrounded by lush garden murals, adorned with dusky pinks and raw timbers, this leafy Vaucluse gem is perfect for lovers who like their date night dipped in nature and elegance. Their Valentine’s Day experience offers a curated menu kissed by organic, seasonal produce and complemented by a flute of Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé on arrival. Come for lunch, stay for dinner - or stretch the day into something slower.
This is the year to trade in the cliches for culinary class. From vineyard vistas to inner-city hideaways, Australia’s top restaurants are ready to wine, dine and utterly charm you. Love might be unpredictable - but booking a table shouldn’t be.
Reservations? Essential. Regrets? Never.
