As Valentine’s Day approaches, the anticipation and stress of picking out a restaurant may send jitters far worse than picking out the perfect gift. Here are some of the best romantic restaurants with a cozy atmosphere and a delicious menu that is perfect for a romantic dinner in San Jose.

Left Bank
Few meals are more romantic than classic French cuisine for Valentine’s Day dinner at a quiet, romantic table for two. Diners choose from a prix fixe four-course dinner from butter poached Maine lobster tail to pan roasted filet mignon with goat cheese. Make it a dinner and a movie with the latest box office hit at the CineArts theater nearby after dessert.

Elements
Known for its contemporary approach to French and Vietnamese cuisine, Elements uses only organic, local and seasonal ingredients. Because the menu isn’t fixed, diners have plenty of choices—from fresh sea scallops to a herb encrusted rack of Australian lamb. The relaxed fine dining ambiance is perfect for a romantic dinner but seating is limited, so be sure to make reservations in advance.

Menara Moroccan Restaurant
For adventurous couples looking to skip the fine dining experience, Menara’s offers a spin on dining with love seats and plush pillows to sit on. Guests may opt to dine in smaller rooms and choose traditional Moroccan fare, such as chicken kabobs and couscous, from the seven-course menu. Belly dancers heighten the dining experience. The first seating begins at 5:30pm and the second seating is at 8:30pm.

Emile’s Restaurant
This fine dining restaurant is known for its French, Swiss and Italian cuisine. The dining room is comfortable yet elegant with white linens and fresh flowers on the table for an added touch of romance. From the four-course menu, diners may choose from a filet of salmon to potato gnocchi. After dinner, catch a live production at the City Lights Theater Company next door.

Tigelleria Organic Restaurant
For eco- and sustainable-conscious diners, Tigelleria is known for its Italian cuisine and use of organic and all-natural ingredients. The dining room contains earthy hues and wooden elements, making it a comfortable yet cozy dining atmosphere with dim lighting and ample seating. Enjoy a complimentary cocktail and a meal of Italian classics, such as risotto with crab meat and zucchini to tiramisu for dessert. For couples looking for after-dinner entertainment, the Cardiff Lounge hosts dancing and DJs.

71 Saint Peter
Located in San Pedro Square, 71 Saint Peter Mediterranean Grill is known for its Italian and French flavors by using fresh produce, meats and fish. It offers a full menu and seasonal tasting menu. Some of the menu items include fresh mozzarella caprese, seafood linguini and sautéed pork tenderloin. The current seasonal tasting menu includes pumpkin risotto, mushroom salad and sage sturgeon, which is created by Chef Luis Rodriguez.

Arcadia
Inside the San Jose Marriott hotel is Arcadia, a steakhouse with a contemporary twist by Chef Michael Mina. The Valentine’s Day dinner menu includes a wealth of dishes, ranging from brick oven roasted tiger prawns with zucchini, Parisian gnocchi and basil pesto to a rack of lamb with olive oil crushed potatoes, oven-dried tomatoes and parsley.

Vin Santo
For guests looking for Italian comfort food, Vin Santo is the perfect choice. Classic Italian dishes, such as homemade Tagliatelle pasta and veal stuffed with prosciutto are prepared by Chef Umberto Pala, who aims to provide fresh, high quality food. The dim lights, white linens and candles provide a romantic atmosphere. For a relaxing evening, guests may walk across the street to Sachs Day Spa for a couple’s massage.

Odeum
The brick walls in the dining area shows that Odeum is not a stuffy fine dining restaurant, yet still provides a romantic ambiance for diners. The restaurant is known for its artisanal Mediterranean cuisine with Spanish influences. Chef Salvatore Calisi imports ingredients from around the world—octopus from Spain, salmon from Scotland, grass-fed beef from Australia. The Valentine’s Day dinner menu includes various fare such as stracciatella (Roman egg drop soup with spinach and parmesan) to weiner schnitzel (pork cutlet, German-style potato salad and parmesan spatzle). Guests can enjoy a walk through the on-site private orchard, where they may see Chef Calisi harvesting fresh herbs and vegetables for meals.

Kubota
For sushi fanatics and Japanese cuisine lovers, Kubota is the perfect restaurant for diners seeking traditional Japanese cuisine and a full sushi bar. Diners may choose from classics, such as beef teriyaki and tempura udon to hot pots and sushi platters. Guests can pair their meals with interesting cocktails such as the “Liquid Wasabi,” which contains Malibu rum, pineapple juice, Triple Sec cream, and Midori. Various sake and soju are also on the extensive drink menu. For couples looking for after dinner entertainment, 7 Bamboo hosts karaoke and cheap beer.