Tips for a perfect valentine’s day, both this year and the next

by nicholas harary

There is no doubt in my mind that Valentine’s Day was invented by a restaurateur. The middle of
February? Right in the middle of our slow season? Simply timing-perfect. And how busy is it? Busier than every other holiday combined!

Over the last 17 years at Restaurant Nicholas, I have seen and heard everything related to the celebration of the thirdcentury Roman saint, Valentinus. I actually give my receptionist the day off and answer the phones myself, just because I get a kick out of hearing the creative excuses from guys who forgot to make reservations. Over 95% of such requests are made by men, nearly all of them in trouble with their significant other, and offers get more creative the closer we get to dinner. At some point, they’ll accept any reservation offered. (How else could we book an 11:00 p.m. reservation in the suburbs?)

Tips for next year
A. Stop reading this article right now, go to your phone calendar, and set a reminder for
Jan 15th, 2018 to make a reservation.

B. Open a restaurant. You will never be held accountable again for not doing enough for your wife on February 14.

C. (This one is good if you fail at A and B) Each year, I hold one 7:30 table for two and give it away to the guy who gives me the best excuse. So be prepared with something good.

If you screw up this year, and Valentine’s Day turns out to be not what you’d hoped, buy a case of Château Reverdi Listrac-Medoc 2011. The vineyards of Château Reverdi are classic Medoc old-vines planted in mineral soil. Position in the far north of the appellation allows for long, slow ripening, its mineral soil lending complexity and structure, and the 30-yearold Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot vines are farmed naturally. The wine is a deep ruby, with purple hues, and has an earthy nose of cedar, lead pencil, and cassis. This wine defines the underrated 2011 vintage; with aromatic intensity, deep, dark color, superb fruit and a long, long finish.

Regular Price is $35, but Nicholas Wines’ Price is $27, with a case price of $291.60.

Start your comeback with a kiss from France. You won’t be sorry.

Restaurant Nicholas
160 Rt. 35, Red Bank / 732.345.9977
restaurantnicholas.com
nicholaswines.com