The day of love is quickly approaching which may send some people into a tizzy or others spiraling from the pressure of planning the perfect date.  

And for most, the perfect date starts with the perfect restaurant. Let this post serve as a reminder to make your reservations.  

This list includes some traditional and not-so-traditional ideas for your valentine.  

Cintrón – A Floribbean Restaurant 

Tucked into the corner of Thornebrooke Plaza is the charming, fun and bright Cintrón. Enjoy Floribbean cuisine—a mixture of Carribean and Floridan flavors. For an appetizer, try the Peruvian chicken and shrimp egg rolls. Other favorites include the honey glazed salmon or the Cuban dip sandwich.  

Hours: 11 a.m.- 9 p.m. Mon.-Sat.  

Location: 2441 NW 43rd St., Gainesville 

Arashi Yama Sushi & Hibachi Lounge  

A modern, sleek design in Magnolia Parke, Arashi Yami serves delicious Japanese inspired dishes. A fun treat for a date is its sushi “boats” that are loaded with various kinds of sushi and sauces displayed beautifully.  

Afterwards, grab a drink from Crafty Bastards or One Love Cafe or simply stroll around the small park to enjoy the music. 

Hours: 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 4:30-10 p.m. Fri; 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., 4:30 p.m.-10 p.m. Sat.; noon-3 p.m., 4:30- 9 p.m. Sun.; 11 a.m.- 3 p.m., 4:30-9:30 p.m. Tue.-Thu.; closed Mondays 

Location: 4780 NW 39th Ave., Suite 1, Gainesville 

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille 

In the mood for Cajun food? Harry’s is the place to go. Harry’s has an upscale environment and is located on 1st Avenue, so it’s perfect for a meal before grabbing a show at the Hippodrome or strolling around in downtown Gainesville. 

Recommendations from reviews say to order the jambalaya or the shrimp and grits. Another fan favorite is the bananas foster to cap off the night.  

Hours: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Sun.-Thu., 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri.- Sat.  

Location: 110 SE 1st St., Gainesville

Mildred’s Big City Food 

Mildred’s hides away in a shopping plaza, but don’t let it fool you. It’s widely considered by Gainesville natives one of the best choices for an upscale, fine dining experience. Mildred’s has a prix fix menu that includes a soup or salad, entree and dessert. The cuisine is seasonal and locally sourced, so the menu changes regularly.  

Hours: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; closed Sundays 

Location: 3445 W. University Ave., Gainesville 

Prohibition Pizza  

Maybe you like a more relaxed atmosphere on a date. Head outside of Gainesville to High Springs and try out the almost-year-old pizza joint that is attracting a lot of area buzz. Try the award-winning Goodfellas pizza (vodka tomato cream sauce, mozzarella, peas, mushroom and prosciutto de parma).  

Afterwards, stop by High Springs Brewery for open mic night and to grab a drink or Florida Creamery for a scoop of ice cream.  

Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Wed.-Thu., 11 a.m.- 9 p.m. Fri.-Sat., noon-8 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Mon., closed Tuesdays 

Location: 18559 NW 237th St., High Springs