Patch Picks: Fridley's Five Most Romantic Restaurants

In Minnesota, Valentine's Day comes at the time of winter when many people would rather be somewhere else. A romantic night out at a restaurant with cuisine or decor that conjures up another part of the world could be just the thing. Here are five restaurants in Fridley or nearby that will nonetheless transport you far from our crusted snowbanks to lands of sun, seas and mountain peaks.

1.

The setting, on the northern bank of Moore Lake, is perhaps Fridley's most romantic. Inside, let food and drink with a Greek pedigree take you to the shores of the Mediterranean.

2. King's Korean Restaurant

It's likely you'll find yourselves dining alongside diners from the Korean-American community at King's, where fine Korean dining is a hallmark.

3.

Couples who just met or who have been together decades like to try something new. Osaka just opened on 85th Avenue NE this week. Pick a spot to match your romantic mood, from the vibrantly-colored sushi bar to the mellow dining rooms.

4. La Casita Mexican Grill & Cantina

You aren't in Mexico but you might as well be, if you close your eyes as you sip a La Casita margarita. You and your date will leave feeling about 80 degrees warmer, with your compasses recalibrated by about 11 degrees south.

5.

Spices took a slightly milder turn when the former India House became Himalayan Restaurant II. But the dishes and decor remain exotic, making this a little bit of Nepal along Central.

And if none of those quite fit the bill, call 651-646-1811, ext. 12 to make a reservation for White Castle's trademark red-tablecloth Valentine's Day dinner.