Valentine's Day Nightcaps

You may not be able to spring for dinner this year, but we're thinking she'd rather have a martini anyway.

The Epic Hotel's restaurant Area 31 opened with, what else, a great party. Photo: Tomas Loewy.

By Aurora Rodríguez

With Valentine's Day right around the corner, and wallets tighter, many couples are choosing a romantic dinner at home instead of shelling out for a meal at an over-priced restaurant. However, there are still ways you can impress that special someone after the dishes are done. Since V-day falls on a Saturday this year, head to one of the following spots for a nightcap - after all, that's probably how you got her to go out with you in the first place.

Level 25 in the Conrad Hotel, Brickell
Located 25 floors above downtown Miami's skyline, this soothing lounge offers couples hand-picked wines from an extensive list featuring around 50 choices. To start, perch yourselves at the bar for a little sweet talk. Then, step outside to catch the glittering view of Brickell below. Who knew Miami could be this dreamy from up high?

Swig Bartini and Bistro, Weston
Swig is Weston's own classy neighborhood bar. Located in a hidden corner of Weston Town Center, this spot is packed with enough indoor and outdoor seating to please an array of cozy couples. Visit swigbartini.com to sign up for their "martini tasting call," which instantly sends an e-mail offering a complimentary cocktail off their extensive list. The bar is known for its casual atmosphere and amazing martinis, such as their classic apple martini, but, it's their Godiva white chocolate crème brûlée that will have your sweetie swooning as she sips.

Tiffany Lounge at Loftin's 1116 Ocean, South Beach
This romantic lounge in the former Versace Mansion is the perfect backdrop for couples looking for a place to sip a delicious cocktail dressed up in their hottest suit and highest stilettos. Take in soothing live music and a signature cocktail -- such as their cherry vodka and ice wine-based Casatini - while enjoying a view of the pool and garden area. Calling ahead to reserve a spot in the lounge is suggested, so make sure to think ahead if you want to surprise your honey with an unforgettable experience.

The Vagabond, Downtown Miami
On Saturday nights this hipster lounge hosts Backdoor Bamby, which features an array of dressed-up characters strolling the venue, looking to start some mischief. Lace up your Converse and start by grabbing a cold -- and cheap- - beer in their main bar room and dance to the sounds of bands like The Ting Tings and New Order. Then, head to their outside lounge area and sit by the romantic lit-up fountain after buying your sweetie one of their signature martinis such as the -- V Georgio-vodka based V.I.P.-- and partake in some quality people watching.

Area 31 at Epic Hotel, Downtown Miami
While this spot is best known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, Area 31's bar and lounge area is the perfect spot to cuddle. Sit in plush white couches while sipping a martini packed with Miami flavor - such as their savory Passionada - then step outside to the breezy outdoor lounge area, complete with comfy couches, and take in the view of the Brickell skyline while guessing how many buildings have crept up since you last ventured downtown.

Skybar at The Shore Club, South Beach
This famed South Beach hotel's nightlife spot is perfect for mingling with the beautiful people. Stop by the Redroom Garden, a 2,500 square foot "outdoor living room" littered with tropical plants and plush Orient-inspired seating areas perfect for canoodling and sipping on the Skybar Punch Bowl - the perfect drink for two.

Latitudes at the Mariott Hotel, Hollywood Beach
While most waterfront restaurants located on Ocean Drive in SoBe barely give you a glimpse of the beach, this hidden and affordable gem on Hollywood Beach's own Ocean Drive places you right in front of it. Located at the boutique-style Mariott, Latitudes is the perfect spot to catch the ocean breeze while sipping a glass of wine or piña colada. The spot is on the Hollywood Broadwalk - the perfect spot to take a walk by the ocean with your special someone.

Sunset Lounge at the Mondrian
Hidden away on Miami's residential West Ave is the Mondrian hotel, and inside is one of Miami's most romantic outdoor bars. Prop yourself on one of its cushioned white "outdoor beds" and inmerse yourself in the beauty of Miami's skyline while exploring their adult sandbox. Sip on one of Miami mixologist Angelo Vieira's signature caipirinhas while feeling lucky that you live in a truly magical city. Feeling a little frisky? Challenge yourselves to a game of tag in the labyrinth garden.

Published: 2/09

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