Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and there's no reason to fight the crowds to go to Manhattan (or even to cross Flatbush). Right in Prospect Heights there are plenty of high-end restaurants. And many are rolling out treats such as prix-fixe menus, special champagne cocktails and complimentary Valentine cookies. We hope our guide will help you find the perfect restaurant to celebrate with your valentine by your side. 

Abigail:

Chef Abigail Hitchcock and husband Jason Noble are hosting a wine tasting and informational session showcasing an assortment of eight sparkling wines/champagnes paired with cheese from Stinky Bklyn. (7-9pm; $40 per person; 718-399-3200; sign up required online)

807 Classon Avenue (at St. John’s Place)

James:

Secluded on quiet Carlton Avenue, James Chef Bryan Calvert is featuring a four-course, prix-fixe menu. Selections include Oysters in Champagne Gelee, Artichoke Heart Salad with a Kobe Beef Carpaccio, Beet Risotto with Goat Cheese, Seared Diver Scallops, Grilled New York Strip with Porcini Puree, Roasted Quail with Sage Polenta, Arctic Char with Braised Lentils, Chocolate Bombe Cake, Lavender Crème Brulee, and a Berry Salad. Reservations are recommended as the 7:30 p.m. seating is already full. (Seatings at 5:30/7:30/9:30pm; $75 per person; 718-942-4255)

605 Carlton Avenue (at St Mark’s Place)

Aliseo Osterio del Borgo:

 Albano Ballerini the chef/owner of Aliseo Osterio del Borgo features seasonal and rustic Italian dishes from his native region of Le Marche on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. Chef Albano has created a special four course prix fixe menu consisting of a Savory Artichoke Flan, Roasted Red Beet Ravioli, a choice of Lamb Chops with Sour Cherries, Pan Seared Diver Scallops, or Cheese-stuffed Pears wrapped in Pastry, and the option of a Hot Pepper Chocolate Tart or Chestnut Mousse for dessert. Reservations are strongly recommended as soon as possible. (6:30-10:30pm; $45 per person; 718-783-3400)

665 Vanderbilt Avenue (between Park Place and Prospect Place)

The Vanderbilt:

Owners Saul and Lisa Bolton were Smith Street dining pioneers when they opened Saul Restaurant. With The Vanderbilt they ventured to another burgeoning “restaurant row” with restaurateur Ben Daitz yet again finding much success in our neighborhood. Enjoy a five-course prix fixe menu featuring Seared Diver Scallops with Grapefruit, Bucatini Pasta with Pesto, Roasted Striped Bass with Artichokes, Roasted Beef Sirloin and a Chocolate Tart with Cherry Sorbet for dessert. They are filling up fast, but you can still probably get a reservation. (5-11pm; $65 per person; 718-623-0570)

570 Vanderbilt Avenue (at Bergen Street)

Beast:

Venture through the medieval-looking doors into the dungeon-like front room to enjoy non-traditional Mediterranean and Spanish tapas at Beast on Vanderbilt Avenue. For Valentine’s Day a vegetarian-friendly, three-course, prix-fixe will feature four choices per course such as Barbecued Quail, Short Rib and Onion Marmalade Tartlet, Open Ravioli with an assortment of Vegetables, a Cornish Hen with Wild Rice, Brussels Sprouts and Bacon, a Lemon Tart with Vanilla and Passion fruit, and a Chocolate Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust. In addition, a complimentary glass of sparkling wine and an amuse-bouche will be served. Reservations are recommended but they will have some tables for walk-ins. (6-10:30pm; $70 per person; 718-399-6855)

638 Bergen Street (at Vanderbilt Avenue)

Ortine:

Family owned and operated, Ortine will not be presenting a special menu for the occasion but will feature a pink champagne cocktail by beverage director Steve Guidi as well as complimentary homemade Valentine’s Day cookies. The eclectic menu features items such as a Smoked Trout Mousse, Roasted Local Beets, an Israeli Shakshuka, Local Squash Parmesan, Mushroom Lasagna, and Homemade Pizzas. Reservations are not required. (5-10pm; 718-622-0026)

622 Washington Avenue (between Dean and Pacific Streets)

Dean Street:

Recently opened in the former Tavern on Dean building, Dean Street has breathed new life into this notable space. Having just opened, Chef Nate Smith has been a little preoccupied and has not confirmed whether or not he will feature a special menu for the occasion. Even so, Dean Street is a great casual option to celebrate Valentine’s Day whether you choose to sit in the dining room or in the lively bar area. (5pm-12am; 718-783-3326)

755 Dean Street

Editor's Note: We ran this article last Thursday, but thought it might be useful for folks still making their plans today.