The Foods of Love: Valentine's Specials

Are you looking to "feel the love" this Valentines Day? Scientifically, the jury is out as to whether there are any foods that can actually enhance your love. There is much conjecture as to what does and what does not have a physical effect on you. Other foods that Aphrodite might like are steeped in myth and fables.  Then there are the foods that might have an effect psychologically. That is where our job comes in, a nice romantic dining experience, eating the things that are supposed to make you amorous. Here are some of the things that might help you feel the love, this Thursday (or Wednesday or Friday or Saturday).


Oysters - Oysters are probably the food most associated with being an aphrodisiac, and most people are aware of their reputation for increasing sexual desire. We serve ours with a mignonette sauce (shallots and Champagne vinegar) that really lets the oyster's flavor come through, but you can have yours with the standard cocktail sauce and lemon if you desire. Raw oysters are best served with a glass of chilled Champagne for truly romantic foreplay.

Steak Tartare - This is a new addition to our Saint Valentine's appetizer menu. I remember when I was growing up in this business, at the Red Door Inn, we served a Steak Tartare. Steak Tartare is made with 100% ground filet mignon, onions, parsley, capers and egg. It is served raw. This is where fable might come in. From the time the Red Door opened in 1970, my father would not serve it to women. The menu even clearly stated it would not be served to women. His reasoning was that European legend said that this dish had such commanding effect on women that he could not ensure the safety of his young busboys. Whether or not there is any truth to this I never really found out. After about 7 or 8 years of never serving it to a woman he was threatened by some arm of the government and he had to acquiesce. After the ban was lifted there was no difference in the well being of the busboy staff. It was also very interesting that there were no more women that wanted to order the dish.

Lobster - A nicely browned caramelized cold water lobster tail served with drawn butter or a dozen roses. Or both? Guys you have to make the call.

Chocolate Strawberries, Chocolate Cobbler or Chocolate anything - The chocolate covered berries we serve are every bit as pretty as a rose. The chocolate cobbler that we serve is an amazing hot fudge and walnut browndae of chocolate sludge, baked to order, served hot with Sisler's french vanilla ice cream. By the way, it is a dessert for two.

We will have all of these on the menu plus many other specials for your Valentine's enjoyment all weekend long. Serving lunch thru dinner every day.