Venice Valentine's Day

Question

I will be flying in from Atlanta and staying with my Aunt who is in her mid 70's. She's still very active. She is by herself in Florida and has endured a lot of heartache and loss. I want to do something special for her and take her on a date for Valentine's Day. Expense doesn't matter. Is there a really nice steakhouse or seafood place we could go? Any fun activities or experiences you could recommend? I thought of a cooking class but it looks like all the one's I found online are already booked. I'm just not familiar with the area at all. I really appreciate any suggestions to make it a memorable night for her.

Answer

Venice, Florida offers some wonderful options for a special Valentine's Day celebration, especially if you want to treat your aunt to a memorable night of great food and experiences. Given your description, a mix of fine dining and a unique activity would be ideal.

For an elegant dinner, consider these highly-rated steakhouses and seafood restaurants in or near Venice:

Der Dutchman Restaurant – While more known for hearty Amish cuisine than high-end steak, it’s cozy and has a warm atmosphere for a special homey dinner if she enjoys comfort food.
Fins at Sharky’s – Excellent seafood with a relaxed waterfront vibe. Fresh catches, beautiful presentations, and often live music.
Osteria Tulia – Upscale Italian with seafood and steak options, romantic ambiance, perfect for Valentine’s Day. Great for a quieter, elegant dinner experience.
The Crow’s Nest – A casual but excellent spot for seafood with beautiful views overlooking the water. Ideal for sunset dinners.
Shore Diner or the Capital Grille in nearby Sarasota – High-end steakhouses if you are willing to drive 30–40 minutes for a truly luxurious dinner experience.

For activities before or after dinner, Venice and the surrounding area offer experiences that could make the day extra special:

Sunset at Venice Beach – Venice Beach is famous for its shelling and stunning sunsets. Take a short stroll along the shore, hunt for shark teeth, and enjoy the view.
Boat or sailing charter – Private tours or sunset cruises in Sarasota Bay or Venice Lagoon can make for a memorable and serene experience.
Art Center or gallery walk – Venice has a charming arts scene. A visit to the Venice Art Center or a gallery walk downtown can be a delightful afternoon before dinner.
Wine tasting or cocktail experience – Many nearby wineries or bars offer tastings; even pairing a pre-dinner wine tasting could add a special touch.
Live music or theater – Check out local theater or live music events happening around Valentine’s Day; some venues host special performances or dinner shows.

For a truly personalized experience, consider combining a romantic dinner with a quiet sunset stroll on the beach or a private boat tour. Since expense is not a concern, booking a private dining experience or a chef’s table at one of the higher-end restaurants could also be a memorable option.

Overall, the combination of a refined meal, scenic outdoor activity, and thoughtful touches like wine or a sunset view will make the day unforgettable for your aunt.