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The Most Romantic Restaurants In South Florida

South Florida, especially for the native or resident, isn't a quiet European town where there are majestic views or an Austrian mountainside resort where the view is picturesque. It is a diamond in the rough that shines brightest to those who recognize its value and are aware of its possibilities. Coming to Valentine's Day, there are areas in South Florida where the resident and native could go to experience a romantic rendezvous with a first-time date or a warm, intimate, secluded memory with a longtime partner, companion and lover. At these locations, the romance is in the food, the service and the views.
bluemartini
(Source: Blue Martini)

3030 Ocean At Riva-Marriott Harbor Beach
3030 Holiday Drive
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
(954) 765-3030
www.3030ocean.com

3030 Ocean is a seaside, intimate restaurant, facing out to the sea. Lit candles allow the regular lighting to be slightly dimmed and the cleanliness and color scheme relax and make the couple feel as if they have gotten away from I-95 and 595 busy, concrete, red brake lights and traffic. When seated, choose from the freshest farm-to-fork menu items and feel invigorated in body and mind.

playwright
(Source: Playwright Irish Pub)

Cioppino
455 Grand Bay Drive
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
(305) 365-4500
www.ritzcarlton.com

Dine at sunset on the outdoor terrace of Cioppino restaurant, open to non-hotel guests, at the Ritz-Carlton resort. Driving to the Ritz, one feels as if they are going to a private tropical island outside of the U.S. where they have been especially selected to dine for one night and enjoy services just for them. As the sun begins to set on the Atlantic Ocean, the sky turns pink and gold and the spotlights of the palm trees take over to illuminate.

bluemartini
(Source: Blue Martini)

Devon Seafood + Steak
11715 Sherri Lane
Miami, FL 33183
(305) 275-0226
www.devonseafood.com

An exploration into the interior of South Florida's suburbs finds delightful places in the strip malls that seem to pepper every square mile. The outdoor dining area of the restaurant, located in The Palms at Town & Country Mall, looks out over a man-made lake with the table configurations set for couples. There is also a sofa area for a group of singles who come to enjoy the delicious menu. The restaurant has a happy hour that packs the parking lot and dazzles customers with specially prepared cocktails that get anyone talking.

Related: Top Spots To Rekindle The Romance In Miami 

(Source: www.fountainbleau.com)
Scarpetta
4441 Collins Ave
Miami Beach, FL 33140
(305) 674-4660
www.fountainbleau.com

Walk into Scarpetta with your best wardrobe and dine for a while thinking you are a millionaire. The restaurant's lighting and design appear to be out of a dream and for couples, there are cozy booths with an overhead light that allow for private conversations without interruption during the dining experience. The dining experience is reason enough to make your way to Scarpetta. Your evening will only be enhanced with a delicious plate of food and mouthwatering drinks.

vandyke
(Source: Van Dyke Cafe)

Market 17
1850 SE 17th St
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
(954) 835-5507
www.market17.net

A romantic dinner is always best when it's close to a river or an ocean. Such is the case at Market 17, which is located along the Stranahan River. It exudes the feeling of escape, where you can leave your day-to-day stresses behind and be in the moment with your significant other. The dinner menu changes regularly but always features decadent dishes to choose from. Check the website before visiting to see what will be served on your trip to Market 17.

Related: Best Romantic Winter Destinations For Couples 

Eric L Labrador is a freelance writer covering all things Miami. His work can be found on Examiner.com.
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