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Romantic Rooftop Restaurants Around the U.S.

February 3, 2014 By CityPASS

Valentine's Day is a special holiday for many love-birds out there. Whether you're planning a getaway to warmer climates on the West coast or in the deep South, or if you're stumped for romantic Valentine's Day plans, CityPASS has got you covered!

While a respite from the wintery chill is always welcome, one of the best parts of any trip is experiencing fine dining in an unfamiliar setting. Just in time for Valentine's Day, CityPASS is here to help you uncover some of the most unique and romantic rooftop restaurants in the regions of the U.S. that enjoy moderate weather even in the thick of winter – no "polar vortex" in these parts!

The Sky Room (Long Beach, CA)

Considered one of the most romantic restaurants in Southern California, The Sky Room is situated atop the 15th floor of the Historic Breakers Building at 40 South Locust Ave. The restaurant, open since 1926, still retains much of its original charm, giving it a Gatsby-esque feel. Dishing out fine contemporary French and American fare, The Sky Room focuses on a sustainable menu, standing proudly among the ranks of the farm-to-table movement and offering hormone free meats and locally-caught seafood. A piano player gently tickles the ivories with Parisian jazz as you and your date experience delectable dishes and sample The Sky Room's award-winning wine list that can be pre-paired with dinners. The restaurant offers a beautiful 360-view of the Pacific and a lovely look at the coastline.

Nikolai's Roof (Atlanta, GA)

For a memorable dining experience unlike any other, pay a visit to the award-winning Nikolai's Roof in Atlanta. Offering sumptuous French and Russian cuisines, the restaurant is located on top of the Hilton Atlanta at 225 Courtland Street. Diners are afforded a breathtaking panoramic view of the Atlanta skyline from the 30th floor of the hotel. The opulent rooftop ambience is complemented by designer Dior plates at each table.

Guests can select from a sumptuous four-course dinner menu or enjoy a hand-selected Chef's Menu with an early dining special, or an even more extravagant seasonal chef's menu. Each meal comes with a complimentary order of house-made pieroshkies (a dish more commonly known as "pierogies" - an Eastern European staple that's been Americanized) stuffed with shrimp, beef, and pintade – a type of fowl – smothered in Bearnaise sauce. Diners who choose to clink their glasses with an alcoholic beverage (or two) can choose from Nikolai's ample wine tasting menu or imbibe flavored vodkas infused with palate-pleasers like Lime Cinnamon, Caramel, and Peppercorn.

Spindletop (Houston, TX)

Deep in the heart of Texas lies Spindletop, Houston's one and only rotating rooftop restaurant. Seated atop the 34th floor of the Hyatt Regency hotel at 1200 Louisiana Street, Spindletop features glass walls that offer patrons an incomparable 360-view of the city and many of Houston's most famous attractions from above. Every 45 minutes, the restaurant rotates, giving diners a chance to check out the city's landmarks from all points of view. Spindletop is noted for its succulent seafood dishes served with a dash of Southwestern flair. The rooftop restaurant's seared salmon is accompanied by a Poblano cheddar corn cake, while lighter fare like the Southwest Caesar Salad offers a jalapeno kick and a savory chipotle-Caesar dressing to top it off.

Foreign Cinema (San Francisco, CA)

What's more romantic than a rooftop dinner? How about a rooftop dinner and a movie? Arguably one of San Francisco's most unique dining experiences, Foreign Cinema is situated at 2534 Mission Street. Open 7 days a week, the restaurant's menu changes daily and features an inspired mix of Mediterranean food with a dash of Californian flavor.

Outdoor rooftop dining is protected by a clear plexiglass covering, and indoor heating ensures diners don't catch some of the brisk Frisco winds that occasionally blow through the Mission District. Diners can also opt for seating in the mezzanine area. The mezzanine overlooks yet another dining area and offers a better view at the myriad independent and foreign films shown on a monolithic white wall. Foreign Cinema is a must-visit San Francisco attraction that is a feast for all the senses.

With so many amazing rooftop restaurants scattered throughout the U.S., it's hard to choose just one to be your perfect Valentine's Day escape. Start planning your mid-winter getaway now and consider making reservations at one of these spots. CityPASS can help you plan a thrilling itinerary to make the most of your trip! Remember, as memorable a time as these locales promise to offer, the memories are better when they're shared with a special someone.

(Photo credit: Cmplaya)

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