Valentine’s Day specials

Valentine’s Day -- that hulking Cupid of a holiday -- is just around the corner. And as it lurches toward your person toting its painful little arrows, you suddenly realize one of two things: You are either uncomfortably single, or you are blissfully attached but wholly unprepared to satiate the monolithic desires of your loved one when it comes to the expectations of the ultimate Hallmark holiday.

Well, relax. Taking your date out to eat is always a fine plan. And fortunately for you, Los Angeles’ restaurants are dolled up and ready for your Sunday arrival. Just make that reservation, and don’t forget the flowers.

Here are a few of our favorite Valentine’s Day dining options. For a full list, go to: latimes.com/valentines.

Nic’s Beverly Hills: If you love vodka (and who doesn’t?), head to Nic’s. Soak up the liquor with a four-course “Lover’s” prix fixe menu ($80 per person); or drink more with a “Vodka Rendezvous” consisting of a three-flight premium vodka pairing ($15 per person). There will also be French music performed by Jacob and the Love Makers. Nic’s Beverly Hills, 453 N. Canon Drive, Beverly Hills (310) 550-5707; www.nicsbeverlyhills.com.

Chaya Downtown: Combine healthful food with your already healthy love at Chaya. If you’re attending a show downtown, Chaya offers complimentary shuttle service to and from theaters for diners. For food, try a hot pot for two featuring Maine lobster and porcini mushrooms ($62). Chaya Downtown will officially open on Sundays beginning Feb. 14. Chaya Downtown, 525 S. Flower St., Los Angeles; (213) 236-9577; www.thechaya.com.

Oak Fire Pizzeria & Pub: There are options for singles and lovers alike at this low-key pizzeria. Beginning at 7 p.m., you can order two-for-one pizzas, which come with a rose and a free dessert. Or partake in the “Screw Cupid” party and get half off all cocktails. The best part is that if you hand a picture of your ex to an Oak Fire employee, it will be ripped up in front of you and you will be handed a free drink. Oak Fire Pizza, 829 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood. (310) 659-8848; www.oakfirepizza.com.

Ninethirty at W Los Angeles-Westwood: An unforgettable evening can be had with Ninethirty’s “renew your vows” Valentine’s day package. It includes dinner for two by executive chef Monique King; the option of renewing your vows through Ren Hirose, the general manager of W; a photographer to shoot pictures of the affair; floral arrangements; an official certificate; and a chance to win a night in a decorated suite at the hotel. $125 per couple. Ninethirty, 930 Hilgard Ave., Westwood. (310) 443-8211; www.ninethirtyw.com.

Descanso Gardens: Spend Valentine’s Day in the historic Boddy House on the grounds of Descanso Gardens while enjoying a three-course dinner prepared by the Patina Restaurant Group. The cost is $73 per person and includes a glass of wine. Menu items include gingered carrot and cream of celery root soup with crisp pancetta; tagine of spring vegetables and creamy polenta; and filet of beef with forest mushrooms, spinach and pepper sauce. Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge. (818) 790-3663; www .patinagroup.com.

Dakota Chop House at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel: Delectable steaks are served in one of Old Hollywood’s most classic environments. Valentine’s Day features a special three-course “aphrodisiac-enhanced” menu. After dinner, visit the dessert bar in the lobby, complete with a chocolate fondue fountain and music by singer Ana Maria. $95 per person. Dakota, 7000 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles. (323) 769-8888; www .dakota-restaurant.com.

The Dining Room at the Langham Huntington Hotel: If your sweetie is a “Top Chef” fan, you might want to consider treating him or her to the “Very Voltaggio Valentine” package, which includes an overnight stay at the hotel, as well as a five-course tasting menu prepared by the “Top Chef” winner himself. Packages start at $499. The Langham Huntington, 1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena. (626) 568-3900; pasadena.langhamhotels .com/en/index.html.

jessica.gelt@latimes.com