Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and if you’re lucky enough to have a special someone to spend this February 14th with, you might be looking for the perfect place to take them out for dinner on that night. Since Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday this year, many restaurants will be closed for the holiday. However, there’s no shortage of restaurants here in Gainesville that would be ideal for you to visit this upcoming weekend. Here is a list of restaurants in Gainesville that are open on Valentine’s day, where you can treat yourself and your loved one on the most romantic night of the year!
1. The Top
A quintessential Gainesville classic, The Top is located at the heart of downtown, on 30 North Main Street. This trendy establishment serves up traditional American fare, but is renowned for their burgers, which are arguably some of the best in town. My personal favorite menu items include The San Diego Chicken, Black Peppercorn Steak, and Buffalo Chicken Tenders. Don’t let all that meat fool you however, The Top’s menu is also one of the most vegan-friendly in town. The restaurant boasts an atmosphere that is fun, trendy, and at the same time, relaxing.
2. Dragonfly Sushi
While Gainesville has no shortage of excellent sushi restaurants, Dragonfly is indisputably one the top contenders here in town. Alongside its vibrant and unique sushi menu, it is complemented by an excellent selection of appetizers. With a wide selection of Whiskey, Sake, and other Japanese inspired cocktails, Dragonfly also has a top-notch drink menu, making this establishment one of the most well-rounded restaurants in Gainesville. If you’re there this Sunday between 5 - 7 pm, you’ll make it in time for Happy Hour as well.
3. Liquid Ginger
A favorite here at Byppo, Liquid Ginger is an Asian-fusion that also boasts an extensive sushi menu, but it includes many options that are inspired by other Asian cuisines. If you find yourself having trouble deciding what to order, in our interview with the owner, Jeff Lin reveals that the Pad Thai is his personal favorite. With it’s excellent food as well as a peaceful and zen ambience, Liquid Ginger was an easy pick to put on this list.
4. V Pizza
A far-cry from what you would expect from a pizza delivered to you by Dominos or Papa Johns, V Pizza offers the gold standard in this well-known Italian dish. Their pizzas are made from high-quality ingredients, sourced from Italy, and cooked in a real wood-fired oven. If you check out V Pizza, be sure to try out the Calabrian Wings. They also have a side-car bar with an excellent drink menu that is on par with the one at Dragonfly.
