Ahh – el día de enamorados… quite possibly the most romantic holiday of the year.  In Chicago, we’re reminded every February of the tragedy otherwise known as the “St. Valentine’s Day Massacre“.  Assuming that your Valentine’s Day is not filled with blood, guts or heartbreak, let’s concentrate on making this day a love fest.

Since this year, February 14th falls on a Saturday, you can make this special day last all day and all night long with your special sweetheart.  It could be super romantic to wake your lovie up with breakfast in bed, but if you’re not-so-great about preparing something yourself, you still have options.  Take them out to Cafe Le Ble (corner of Alvarez Thomas and Cespedes) for some of the most delectable sweet and savory breakfast dishes in town.  With their generous cup proportions of cafe con leche – this rustic yet Seattle-inspired coffee house serves up French pastries that are mouth watering – day or night.

Just a few blocks away is Buenos Aires famous flea market – a great detour for anyone – seriously, ANYONE.   Take your window shopping to a new level – completely.  If your public displays of affection warrant someone screaming out, “Get a room!” instead, perhaps you should do just that.  Buenos Aires is known for their Love Hotels (better known as “Telos” – and although some are kitch and creative places to take a “2 hour nap”, others are outright lavish. Try “Dallas” in Almagro (Ecuador 224) – and ask about their “Symbol-Formerly-Known-As-Prince-Room”.  For a more kitch approach, “Tu Y Yo” love hotel (Yerbal 4154) offers a more retro design to your short stay.  They also have a private garage to park your car.

Now that you’re fired up, several places around the city will keep that red glow glowing.  A myriad of aphrodisiac delights await you at Te Matare Ramirez. This Valentine’s Day, they’re in two locations – on Gorritti street in Palermo and there will be a special cruise starting from the port at Olivos and sailing down the river for great views of Buenos Aires, romantic music and of course, champagne, oysters and a three course menu. (Maybe you should check back into that Love Hotel afterwards..).

If that’s not your style, check into the Palacio Duhau for the night – the private Duhau family mansion turned into a mini paradise in the heart of the Recoleta and run by the Park Hyatt is a special treat for that special person.  Make reservations at the Duhau Vinoteca (wine cellar) to taste some wines before a romantic dinner in their restaurant.  Check out their underground spa the next day with a facial or massages for two.

Looking for a new spin on old-time romance? Don’t waste your money on a dozen roses – consider those dead by February 15th. Pick up your sweetie a creative and exotic bouquet at Clavel (Uriarte 1422).  And trade in traditional chocolates for a sweet and non-traditional sensation from Compañia de Chocolates, Buenos Aires’ most innovative chocolatier.

And although it may be impossible to find Chocolate Kisses and Conversation Hearts here in Buenos Aires (that’s a totally North American reference, by the way) – count on one thing, if I make you my special recipe, “Love Potion No. 9″, you’ll Be Mine.

It’s the perfect treat to make even if you’re hanging out solo or staying in with friends that night!

Ingredients:

• 3/4 oz. campari
• 2 oz. orange juice
• 1 1/2 oz. vodka

Mixing instructions:

Mix all ingredients with ice in a blender or a shaker. Pour into a chilled old fashioned glass. (Remember that one ounce is equal to approximately one shot).

Now these may just be the smooches you need!

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