Category — Lynchburg

For some, it’s the perfect excuse to ramp up the romance, to others; it’s a mere “Hallmark Holiday.” But no matter your personal feelings about St. Valentine, February 14^th is an ideal date for a mid-winter’s night on the town. For the occasion, chefs across Central and Southwest Virginia (and around the world- click here for a history of the day, and how it’s celebrated all over the globe) pull out all the stops to charm their guests. From amuse bouche to mousse au chocolat, read on for a list of a few especially special regional Valentine’s Day Dining Options.

The Clifton Inn Charlottesville, VA Executive Chef Tucker Yoder has designed an elegant table d’hote menu featuring poached Virginia oysters, a foie gras terrine, coffee rubbed lamb shoulder with basil gnocchi, and goat milk panna cotta (just to name a few choices). The menu can be viewed by clicking here, and reservations may be made online or by calling (434) 971-1800. If the Chef’s Counter is available, it comes highly recommended.

The Millstone Tea Room Bedford, VA Proprietors Melanie and Jared Srisic offer fresh seafood, humanely raised pasture-fed meat, and locally sourced seasonal produce (some from their very own kitchen garden) year round. Theirs is a sweet, cozy restaurant; dimly lit, and with rich wood floors complimented by décor that is elegant and inviting; quiet and comfortable. The service is well-paced and friendly, though not intrusive; the perfect balance for a romantic meal. Last year’s Valentine’s Day Pre Fixe menu may be viewed here, but check back in the coming weeks for the 2012 version. For reservations, which are highly recommended, call 540-587-7100.

Dish Lynchburg, VA Dish isn’t offering a Valentine’s Day Menu per se, but this small plate restaurant is worth mentioning for a couple of reasons: sharing a meal necessarily brings us closer, but sharing a plate brings a whole new level of intimacy to one’s dining experience. Plus, every Tuesday night (on which Valentine’s Day happens to fall this year) they offer “Phenomenal Rendezvous,” a dinner for two with a bottle of wine included for only $35. What’s more, for all you turophiles out there, Dish offers a really lovely cheese selection, including a French Epoisses and a Grayson from nearby Galax, VA. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling (434) 528-0700

Lucky Roanoke, VA Lucky Restaurant serves Southern American/Country French cuisine Tuesdays through Saturdays. Nearly everything served in the restaurant is locally sourced, so the dinner menu changes nightly, which is a really wonderful treat. They also have an excellent selection of wine, beer, and cocktails. The chefs are planning something special for Valentine’s Day this year, they’re just not quite sure what it will be…yet! Check back closer to the date for more information by calling (540) 982-1249. Reservations are recommended.

Smith Mountain Lake is the perfect place to be when the weather warms up. With the many things to do on the lake, people tend to spend a lot of time outside once the temperatures go up. With all the fun and activity, it is important to keep safety in mind.

The Smith Mountain Water Safety Council is providing a public water safety mini-course on April 6^th at the Hot Shots Family Fun Center. This safety course will cover boat safety while also providing a fun learning environment.

If you can not make the boating course then you should look into taking private courses on boating, fishing, hunting and swimming to get you and your family ready for a safe season. Enjoying the beauty of Smith Mountain Lake can be amazing and exciting, but safety should always be a top concern. Make sure your family is ready by finding a safety class near you.

If you want to find out more about life in Smith Mountain Lake contact Vicki.