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Joanna Adduci is a Northport resident, currently working as a Marketing & Social Media Specialist. She has a B.S. in Journalism from St. John's University and is active within her community as a writer and mentor. She enjoys cooking, traveling and singing in her Long Island-based cover band, Next Generation. Joanna can be reached by email at |
| I’m a romantic. I enjoy a good romantic comedy, and you’ll often find me cooking dinner to the dreamy melody of La Vie En Rose, or just about any French jazz-inspired playlist. I love Valentine’s Day. Even when I was single, there was always something wistful about this holiday – though seldomly admitted due to the fear of seeming cliché. As I get older, I care less about appearing cliché, and more about enjoying the simplicities in life – such as a good meal shared with love ones, and/or slow dancing in the kitchen with my guy. When I think Valentine’s Day – I think low lighting and Tuscan red wine. I think one-of-a-kind tasting menus and long stem flowers. What can I say? I told you I’m a romantic. Last year, my guy and I dined in. Homemade pasta dressed in sautéed spinach, mushrooms and goat cheese. Taper candles, roses, a great bottle of Chianti, it was dreamily low-key. This year, he surprised me with reservations at eatMOSAIC – a cozy café with a renowned tasting menu, located in St. James. (Oh, and don’t forget the wine pairings!) I’ve been following their menus for quite some time and can’t wait to see what’s in store for Cupid’s favorite holiday. With February 14th just around the corner, it’s time to make reservations. Whether you’re treating your significant other to a romantic tasting menu or spending the evening with the girls – the Long Island restaurant scene offers something for everyone. Some of my past favorites include: Verde Kitchen & Cocktails (seated in the greenhouse), Lake House, PRIME, Mill Pond House, Waterzooi, The Wine Cellar on Main, Swallow, Bella Verde Wine Bar & Restaurant, City Cellar and Teller’s. These spots are great for couples, friends, big and small groups. If you’re looking for something more low-key, try Verde Kitchen & Cocktails or Waterzooi. Someplace sultry? The Wine Cellar on Main, Swallow or Bella Verde. Going with a group, or looking for an open setting? I recommend City Cellar or Teller’s. Trying to impress a date, or looking to go “all out”? Lake House, PRIME or Mill Pond House. These spots are on my “special occasion” list and never seem to disappoint. All of these recommendations have a solid diversified menu, great wine/cocktail lists and a fun, romantic ambiance. As 2019 begins, I also consult my personal bucket list for future date night escapades and that includes: OHK, Joanina, The Trattoria, Orto, Kyma, Jewel and Scarpetta Beach. All highly recommended! This February, embrace your inner romantic. If it’s with your significant other, that’s wonderful. If it’s with a group of your girlfriends, that’s perfect too. Make a reservation (or plan a home-cooked meal), turn on the “cheesy” music, and don’t be afraid to “appear cliché”. Life’s too short… try slow dancing in the kitchen – I promise, you won’t regret it. |
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20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000. 