Reno’s Guide To Romance!

Models: Jana Jin and Matt Dickens

Love is in the air again, and most of us have an inner romantic that needs rousing. Whether you’re visiting Reno or you remember what the Mapes Hotel looked like, here’s a guide to new, romantic hotspots and long-standing favorite places to hold hands at a corner table. If you’re anxious to impress or simply want to try something different, this year’s Valentine’s Day guide to love will have your sweetheart savoring your romantic endeavors for months to come.

Chocolate Bar | 475 S. Arlington | 13979 S Virginia St | http://www.thechocbar.com

Wine and Chocolate provided by West St. Wine Bar and Sierra Nevada Chocolate

With a mouth-watering menu of edible and drinkable deserts, Chocolate Bar is a sophisticated meeting place. Chocolate, espresso and a wide variety of gourmet libations ensure a successful date, particularly if you have never met or do not know each other well. Now, you can get the same quality and service on both sides of town: the original Chocolate Bar is located on 475 S. Arlington Ave, and there is another one at the Summit Sierra Shopping Center south of town. If you are visiting the mountains, Chocolate Bar has also opened a new location in Northstar at Tahoe. Both the Summit Sierra and Northstar locations offer a savory menu in addition to irresistible deserts. What makes the Chocolate Bar a great place to take a date? “It’s the atmosphere,” says General Manager Johnny Hicks. Come for dinner- it’s every bit as good as the desert!

Reno Passport Romantic Pick:
German Chocolate Cake- Frangelica, Crème de Cacao, Malibu Rum and Cream with a chocolate coconut garnish served in a Martini glass.

West Street Wine Bar | 148 West St | 775.336.3560 |
http://www.weststwinebar.com

Centrally located in downtown Reno, this is an ideal location for all romantic situations: single, first date, long married, everyone feels comfortable in its intimate, understated elegance. There are no televisions, which compels patrons to interact with each other. West Street Wine bar offers gift certificates, so you have the option to treat someone else to a special experience. Proprietor Rick Martinez scours the globe for the finest wines, and his description of his selection process reflects the subtle, relaxing atmosphere of his bar. The wine list evolves, often more than once a week. “I like a wine that’s well made, balanced, and interesting,” explains Martinez. His taste in wine matches the ambiance of the West Street Wine Bar, a local favorite for a classy, romantic experience.

Reno Passport Romantic Pick: Paul Cheneau Cava Brut: $24.50 bottle

Chocolate Walrus | 1278 S. Virginia St. | 775.825.2267 |

http://www.chocolate-walrus.com

This exuberant store puts the R in Romance. It will make you giggle. It might make you blush. You will definitely learn something that you didn’t know before after interacting with the friendly and well-informed staff at The Chocolate Walrus. The shop offers everything from lingerie to an impressive assortment of romantic toys and products. Owner Tammy Bordè recommends the Kissable Kandle as a great Valentine’s Day gift. It is a low heat candle that does not burn the skin- pour the melted wax onto skin, and it turns to massage oil. Plus, it’s edible! Stop by the Chocolate Walrus to find the perfect gift for your sweetheart…and yourself. “Everybody should have a treasure trove,” says Bordè. “All you have to do is add something. It will change everything!”

Reno Passport Romantic Pick: Kama Sutra Sweet Honeysuckle Honey Dust with Boudoir Puff $32.00

Sierra Nevada Chocolate Company | 1286 S. Virginia St. | 775.323.2462

Right next door to the Chocolate Walrus, Sierra Nevada Chocolate Company is a great spot to satisfy your sweet tooth after a pheromone-filled shopping experience. Sierra Nevada Chocolate Company is a family affair. The Chocolate Walrus owner Tammy Bordè also owns the shop next door. Her mother, Louise Coffin, runs the immaculate sweet shop and makes handmade chocolates “Like they did in the 1800’s.” With over twelve thousand different molds, Sierra Nevada Chocolate Company has a design for every occasion. It’s best to order early for Valentine’s Day when it comes to chocolate: these delectable treats go fast.

Reno Passport Romantic Pick: One Dozen Chocolate Covered Cherries: $5

Silver Peak | 135 N. Sierra St. | 124 Wonder St. |
http://www.silverpeakbrewery.com

With two locations and a loyal local following, Silver Peak is a number one pick for a casual yet romantic date. Silver Peak Restaurant and Brewery is located on 124 Wonder St, and Silver Peak Grill and Taproom On The River is conveniently placed next to the Riverside Theatre on 135 N. Sierra Street. After a romantic day at the ice skating rink, you only need to walk half a block for part two of the date. Plus, if you drink nothing but beer but your date prefers wine, Silver Peak has an excellent selection of both, plus an impressive bar, to bring out the Bacchus in both of you. If you’re a stickler for service, both locations are sure to impress- the staff is known for being knowledgeable, friendly and efficient.

Reno Passport Romantic Pick: Chocolate Port Trentadue “Chocolate Amore” $11.00

Text by Nicole Seaton
Photos by Asa Gilmore