Lemaire

The Jefferson Hotel
101 W. Franklin St.
649-4629
lemairerestaurant.com

Second Place: Lehja

Third Place: The Boathouse

Beautifully faux-finished classical columns, high arching windows and impeccably smooth service make Lemaire the place that makes you want to throw on a tie or a pair of high heels to impress your sweetheart. How can anyone resist the setting? And under new chef Patrick Willis, a nine-year veteran of the restaurant’s kitchen and protégé of former chef Walter Bundy, dishes such as beef tenderloin with smoked paprika mashed potatoes or house-made fettuccine with local oyster mushrooms and garlic confit will convince you that romance ought to be a regular part of your week. Lehja’s sleek interior welcomes couples and the fire in the food may spark true love. The Boathouse locations offer solid food, but the view at both Rocketts Landing and Swift Creek Reservoir put the swoon into your dinner.