Valentine's Day on the Westside of Los Angeles

There are many romantic restaurants in West Los Angeles, it's so hard to just pick out a few. Being a native Westsider, I made a list of a few places that I've been lucky enough to experience. I tried to go all over the board from small and intimate to the big blue sea.

La Cabana

If it's Mexican food your love yearns for, try La Cabana in Venice. This restaurant is quaint, comfortable and has several types of seating; the patio for a romantic evening, complete with heaters; at the lively bar area for nachos and drinks; or indoors where it's cozy with dim lighting and if you sit close enough, you can feel the warmth from the brick fireplace where tortillas are being handmade, not to mention the intoxicating aromas. A fun feature of La Cabana is that it stays open until 3am nightly! There's a full menu of authentic Mexican food, from appetizers to entrées of tacos, enchiladas, burritos and 18 varieties of Margaritas. La Cabana is located on the corner of Venice and Rose at 738 Rose Avenue in Venice, 310-392-6161.

Culver Plaza Hotel

Located in the center of downtown Culver City, the nostalgic Culver Hotel makes you feel as if you've been swept away to another time. The architecture is exquisite, the service is friendly and the atmosphere is, well let's just say, I half expect to see Clark Gable walk into the room. The food includes appetizers, pastas, fish and salads, there's also a full bar. Your Valentine will not be disappointed and will feel as if she's in a 1930's movie. Reservations are encouraged and ask about the special Valentine's menu. The Culver Hotel is located at 9400 Culver Blvd., Culver City, 310­-558-9400.

C&O Trattoria

Sweep your Valentine off her feet, Italian style at C&O Trattoria. You can both linger over wonderful pastas, desserts and wine. Don't forget to come hungry, but don't order too much, C&O Trattoria is famous for their colossal portions of food. The "Killer Garlic Rolls" are sinful, but indulge, romance is in the air. The atmosphere is relaxed, comfortable and the service is always excellent. C&O Trattoria is located in Marina del Rey at 31 Washington Blvd., 310-823-9491.

Hornblower

If your love is adventurous, likes to dance and take strolls in the moonlight, take her on a dinner cruise. These cruises, depending on which you choose, can be from 2 to 3 hours long. During that time you can enjoy your dinner, have drinks while listening to romantic music at your candle lit table. After your meal you can take a walk and enjoy drinks in the fresh air while appreciating the beautiful scenery. Don't forget to have your pictures taken to always remember this memorable Valentine's night. Hornblower Cruises & Events is located in Marina del Rey, 888-467-6256.

Happy Valentine's Day and I'll leave you with memorable, romantic words from a connoisseur of love, "... there is very little difference between men and women. But, VIVE LE DIFFERENCE!!" Pepe Le Pew.