Valentine’s Day 2018 is coming. Pink-packaged chocolates start appearing on store shelves, and restaurant reservations start filling up. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening for two or a parent helping kids pick out a classroom’s worth of cards, a little Shop Local planning goes a long way to making February 14th a success.
Novato stores are filled with good gift ideas, particularly when it comes to one-of-kind jewelry, scented candles and other boutique-shopping goodies. You’ll find the appropriately-named Valentino Jewelers offering helpful service on Grant Avenue, where you’ll also find McDonald’s Jewelry.
Meanwhile, Carmen Q offers contemporary, locally-crafted pieces worth making an appointment for. Another local craft favorite, Stained Glass of Marin has beautiful glass gift ideas. For designer-made keepsakes, take a trip to a boutique like Sage Gallery on Grant for something you won’t find in chain stores.
For a romantic dinner, advance reservations are always recommended. Novato favorite Rickey’s has live jazz by the fireplace from 6pm. Hilltop 1892 is another popular pick, with incredible North Bay views. Cucina Chianti is a more intimate spot with delicious Italian food, fine wines and great service. Other Valentine’s Day dining choices include Grazie on Grant Avenue, Boca Tavern, or HopMonk Tavern offering high-end tavern fair for the craft-beer lover in your life.
For smoky flavors to go with smoky glances, there’s the Wildfox Mesquite Fired Kitchen on Alameda del Prado, and for those who want to spice things up, you’ll find Thai, Indian and other cuisines in our restaurant directory.
Interested in a tasting flight for two? The new Mantra Wines Tasting Room on Grant Avenue is a great destination for enjoying a glass or two in stylish surroundings, and just a short, romantic stroll (one block to be precise) from Novato’s small business of the year Trek Winery.
Parents, don’t forget that kids are often swapping Valentines with classmates in bulk these days. Making them can be a fun activity, but it helps to plan ahead. Check out some online craft sites and Pinterest boards for project ideas or visit Art Zorro on Grant for art supplies and craft ideas.
And finally, don’t forget to plan ahead if you want to say it with flowers. If you’re in the Downtown area, drop into Morning Glory Florist on Grant Avenue. Elsewhere, on Alameda del Prado, you’ll find a friendly welcome at Alondra’s Flowers. On San Marin Drive, namesake San Marin Flowers is taking Valentine’s Day orders, while weddings specialist Kate’s Blossom’s offers by-appointment consultations for custom creations. For contemporary arrangements, Natalie and Daria’s is a firm favorite.
Enjoy your Valentine’s Day and don’t forget that your local merchants love to see you at any time of year.
