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Looking for the ultimate romantic dinner to profess your love for someone on Lupercalia Day in Tarrant County? 

What? Never heard of this pagan festival turned holiday? I’m certain you’ve heard about  — and celebrated — its Christian version twin, Valentine’s Day. I’ll tell you about the origins of Feb. 14, and how it has evolved into a day of love and affection. And I’ll share with you some of my top places to celebrate.

The roots of Valentine’s Day can be found in the Roman festival Lupercalia, which took place about Feb. 15. This fertility celebration involved young men drawing names of young women from a jar and forming temporary couples for the duration of the festival. As Christianity spread across the Roman Empire, the early church sought to replace pagan festivals with Christian holidays. In the fifth century, Pope Gelasius I officially declared Feb. 14 as St. Valentine’s Day.

Although the true identity of St. Valentine remains cloaked in mystery, there were several Christian martyrs with the same name. One of the more popular legends suggests that St. Valentine was a Roman priest during the reign of Emperor Claudius II. Claudius believed that single men made better soldiers, which led to his decree outlawing marriage for young men. St. Valentine, however, continued to perform marriages in secret. Eventually, he was apprehended and sentenced to death, solidifying his sainthood and his place as a symbol of love and sacrifice.

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It wasn’t until the Middle Ages that Valentine’s Day became associated with love and romance. The idea of lovebirds mating in mid-February contributed to the day’s romantic connotations. Geoffrey Chaucer, the medieval English poet, played a pivotal role in cementing the association between Valentine’s Day and love in his poem “Parlement of Foules,” where he forever linked the day to the mating season of birds.

In the 18th century, the tradition of exchanging handmade cards and tokens of affection gained popularity in England. These cards, known as “valentines,” often featured delicate lace and intricate designs. The practice spread to the United States in the 19th century. The introduction of mass-produced valentines made the celebration more accessible to people of all social classes.

The image of the iconic Cupid, the Roman god of love, further solidified Valentine’s Day as a day for expressing romantic feelings. Cupid’s arrows, symbolizing the power of love, became synonymous with the holiday. 

In honor of the holiday of love, here’s an alphabetized list of my top picks for romantic restaurants in the area that promise a posh and delectable dining experience. 

The Classic at Roanoke: Situated in the charming town of Roanoke, The Classic offers a refined dining experience in a beautifully restored historic building. The restaurant features a diverse menu of classic dishes from seared sea scallops to filet mignon. The informed and attentive service makes it an ideal spot for a special evening.

Don Artemio: Don Artemio in Fort Worth is an expansive, white tablecloth-eatery that captures the vibrance of interior Mexican cuisine in a serene and welcoming environment filled with artisanal decor. The James Beard-awarded “Best New Restaurant” was touted for its authentic dishes, friendly service and inviting ambiance in the heart of Fort Worth Cultural District.

Emilia’s: This restaurant, located in The Crescent Hotel in Fort Worth’s Cultural District, blends Mediterranean sophistication with a warm ambiance. The elegantly designed dining room sets the stage for an intimate experience. Emilia’s menu celebrates the culinary fusion of Italian and French coastal cuisines, offering meticulously crafted dishes using locally sourced ingredients. From handmade pasta to exquisite seafood and meat dishes, each plate showcases culinary excellence. With impeccable service and a curated wine list, Emilia’s is a refined destination for a memorable dining experience. Also worthy of an honorable mention, and the indulgence, The Blue Room is Emilia’s extravagant neighbor.

Grace: Located in downtown Fort Worth, Grace is a modern American steakhouse with a stylish atmosphere that encourages leisurely dining. It consistently remains one of my top places to dine in Fort Worth. The restaurant boasts a diverse menu featuring expertly prepared steaks, seafood and creative appetizers. The combination of contemporary design and exceptional cuisine makes Grace a top choice for couples looking for a romantic experience.

Piola Italian Restaurant: Piola, located in Arlington’s trendy Urban Union district, is an upscale Italian restaurant that is warm and inviting. The restaurant’s brick walls and dim lighting create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for sharing a romantic meal of traditional favorites from handmade pasta to wood-fired pizzas.

Reata Restaurant: Nestled in Sundance Square, Reata is renowned for its upscale Southwestern cuisine and a rooftop bar with panoramic views of downtown Fort Worth. The diverse menu featuring dishes like tenderloin tamales and chicken fried steak make it a favorite for couples seeking a romantic atmosphere in Cowtown.

Saint-Emilion: Located in a restored historic house near Fort Worth’s Cultural District, Saint-Emilion offers an authentic French bistro dining experience. The intimate restaurant has a familial feel, complemented by classic dishes such as coq au vin, escargot, steak frites and Dover sole. The setting is romantic and transportive, ideal for a special evening.

Today, Valentine’s Day has transcended its historical and religious origins to become a global celebration of love and affection, not just for couples, but for parents and friends. Galentine’s Day, anyone? The history of this favored February holiday serves as a reminder that love, in its various forms, has been cherished and celebrated throughout the ages.