Columnist Muriel Stevens: Food adds to romance of Valentine’s Day

Friday, Feb. 1, 2002 | 9:17 a.m.

Muriel Stevens' dining column appears Fridays. Her shopping and travel columns appear Wednesday. Reach her at (702) 259-4080 or muriel@lasvegassun.com.

"Saint Valentine's Day as a love festival has no relation to the martyr of that name, but it is celebrated in many parts of the world by those in pursuit of love. Even the birds indulge in elaborate courtship rituals at this time of the year," says writer Max de Roche in "The Foods of Love," a charming volume devoted to the subject (Arcade Publishing, Little Brown & Company, $16.95).

Caviar, oysters, truffles and champagne are among the foods said to be aphrodisiacs. True or not, the inclusion of any of these costly foods in a Valentine's Day meal is a good thing, but love blooms at any meal that is well-prepared and tasty.

One of the most enjoyable meals I ever had was of champagne and hot dogs. What could be more romantic than having your name squiggled in mustard from a squeeze bottle onto a Chicago hot dog?

Finding a romantic meal is a cinch in Las Vegas. It doesn't matter where you dine or how much you spend; love blooms as well in a bowl of chili as it does in a plate of truffle-covered pasta. Here are some suggestions:

Wolfgang Puck's Fine Dining Group offers many romantic options. The swell new decor at Spago in the Forum Shops is a fine setting for Valentine's Day. In addition to the regular carte, Executive Chef and Partner David Robins has created a tasting menu ($100 per couple) that includes chilled Hog Island oysters with wasabi mignonette, grilled beef tenderloin and strawberry mousse cake. Reservation number: 369-6300.

Postrio at Venetian, with its plush decor and gorgeous stained-glass wall, is ideal for a tender dinner for two. Liquid Love, a heady combination of Absolut Citron, sweet and sour, and a soupcon of Chambord raspberry liqueur is a perfect match for a shellfish platter for two. Indulge in the lovely Valentine's Day dessert created by noted Pastry Chef Christophe Ithurritze. Reservation number: 796-1110.

Chinois at the Forum Shops offers dishes meant to be shared. Order the Maine day-boat scallop "Love Nest" with lobster sauce and indulge in such a romantic libation as the French Kiss martini. Have cherries jubilee for dessert for a flaming finish. Reservation number: 737-9700.

Trattoria del Lupo at Mandalay Bay features an inviting, comfortable trattoria setting and such dishes as oven-roasted shrimp with spicy red chile sauce for two. For dessert have the delectable warm apple curstada with vanilla ice cream. Reservation number: 740-5522.

Cili at Bali Hai Golf Club celebrates Valentine's Day with the Bellini Martini, a slight departure from the original, a refreshing blend of Zone peach, Peach Schnapps and champagne. Enjoy Cili's blend of East/West cuisine, and then, a sampling of chocolate desserts. Reservation number: 856-1000.

At Monte Carlo, Andre's will include heart-shaped shrimp as part of its special three-course dinner for two priced at $98. The regular menu is also available. Call 730-7955.

Market City Caffe will feature a strolling violinist, heart-shaped ravioli and a variety of dinners for two. All dinners for two include salsa cruda and fresh-baked breadsticks, roasted potatoes and sauteed spinach. Many specialty drinks. Call 730-7966.

Share a family-style dinner for two ($33.95) at the Dragon Noodle Company while sipping a Love Potion. Call 730-7965.

Caesars Palace is offering the whole ball of wax with Valentine's Day wedding and dining packages. Couples may select the "Roses & Champagne," the "Valentine Dolce," or the "We Do," package. Everything is included: a choice of one of five restaurants for a romantic dinner, an elegant guest room with spa tub, photos, flowers, a video and more; $995 for an indoor chapel wedding; $1,195 for a garden locale. Call Caesars Palace wedding coordinators for additional details or to reserve: 731-7422.

T.G.I. Friday's is featuring both alcoholic and nonalcoholic versions of its original Valentine's Day drink, Cupid's Arrow. Both include ice cream.

Short orders

Arriva at Gold Coast: Arriva Italian restaurant has arrived at Gold Coast. Arriva overlooks the casino from the northwest side in the space previously occupied by the Mediterranean Room. Arriva is part of the major revamping and expansion of the Gold Coast. A reasonably priced menu with many Italian specialties is offered.

House specialties include Seafood Napolitano -- shrimp, clams and mussels sauteed in garlic and served on a bed of linguine; filet mignon and scallops Provencal, and a host of favorite Italian dishes. The menu offers many fresh seafood dishes, as well as veal and chicken dishes.

All dinners include a choice of soup or salad and a choice of baked potato, french fries, rice pilaf or spaghetti. A la carte appetizers, pizzas and soups and salads, too. Reservation number: 367-7111.

Gospel Brunch at Texas Station: Texas Station's Sunday Gospel Brunch series recognizes Black History Month in February. The series features gospel performances from local and nationally recognized artists. Admission prices include a lavish brunch and the performance. Prices are $19.99 for adults; $10.99 for kids ages 4-8. Tickets are available through Tickets.com or at the Texas Station Rewards Center. For additional information call 631-8344.

Good times rolling at Commander's Palace: "Laissez-Les Bon Temps Roller," "Let the Good Times Roll." Traditional Mardis Gras cuisine will be featured at Commander's Palace at Desert Passage at the Aladdin the week of Mardis Gras, Monday through Fat Tuesday (Feb. 12).

Who knows better than Commander's Palace, a New Orleans landmark, how to celebrate Mardis Gras? The Brennan family, who own both the New Orleans and Las Vegas properties, are world renowned for creole-style and New Orleans cuisine. If Brad Brennan, Commander's Palace Las Vegas managing partner, had his way he'd "creolize" all of us. Executive Chef Carlos Guia mixes up a sensational Louisiana Crawfish Martini -- fresh crawfish tails tossed in Commander's own spicy remoulade sauce, as well as many other specialties. His King's Cake is a splendiferous version made with a filling of pecan praline cream cheese. Another Commander's exclusive, a Mardi-Tini. For dining times and reservations call 892-8272.

Super Bowl tips from Weight Watchers: "There's no reason to overeat or deny yourself on Super Bowl Sunday," says Maria Wells, Senior Nutritionist for Weight Watchers International. Reva Schwartz, CEO for our local WW, agrees. Here are some tips from WW, and me:

Have a game plan. Eat lightly until the game. Substitute low-fat ingredients and offer low-fat cheeses and crackers or fresh-cut veggies and fruits with a variety of low-fat dips (don't tell and no one will notice). Choose to drink water, diet beverages and light brews. It does make a difference.

Pace yourself. Keep your hand in the popcorn bowl and out of the potato chips. Whatever you choose to imbibe, drink sensibly. Alternate caloric beverages with glasses of water. Staying hydrated can also help curb the urge to eat.

More Super Bowl: Get a head start on Valentine's Day by letting those who live for the event enjoy it. No whining, no complaining. Just keep the food table looking good and don't forget the healthy stuff if you want your partner to make it until Valentine's Day.