Bedrock Bar & Grill
Look past the cartoon-inspired name and list of choice cuts at this steakhouse and you’ll find Number 11 ($11). A simple but yummy shooter with a Pisco base, there’s also pineapple syrup to be found, spiced with ingredients like cinnamon and star anise, and a splash of Prosecco for good measure.

Brewerkz
Well-known for their extensive list of beers brewed in-house, spirited atmosphere and extensive screening of sports, these folk also do a Pisco cocktail called the Mad Rabbit ($15). With carrot juice, apple liqueur, lemon juice and Pisco (of course), this is a drink that’s made for those with a bit of a sweet tooth.

City Space
A luxe space with a stunning view of the city skyline, City Space also serves up some mean drinks, care of talented cocktail architect Richard Gillam. In addition to the star ingredient, Barsol Quebranta Pisco, Gillam’s rendition of a refreshing Peruvian Pisco sour ($20) calls on lime juice and passion fruit for zing and some fruitiness, finished with a dash of aromatic bitters.

For some fuss-free Italian, take advantage of the Al Dente Trattoria set deal, which is $68++ for reservations made between 6-8pm and $88++ for the second seating on Valentine's Day only. 

The people behind Les Amis present a six-course menu at Au Jardin that includes pan-seared quail and oven-roasted veal rack especially for Valentine's Day. $200++ per person.

Hot date? We've got you covered with our 2014 Valentine's Day deals

The alfresco area at Barossa is perfect for enjoying the breezy Esplanade courtyard and they've got a $58++ deal for one set meal on Valentine's Day too.

We recommend the posh yet cozy dining space Brasserie Wolf for its five-course Valentine's Day set menu that promises grilled foie gras for $170++ per couple.

Quite unmissable is Breeze's Platter for Two ($98++ per person), a dinner menu that includes an oyster platter, mixed seafood salad, a scrumptious-sounding mixed platter with rack of lamb and salmon skewers, as well as a white choc mousse cake—yum-my. 

Dine in at the lovely (and dog-friendly) Casa Verde with a three-course set for $70 nett per person only on Feburary 14.

The Courtyard is offering a delectable Valentine's Chocolate Buffet ($42 per person) on the evening of February 14, featuring exquisite love-inspired creations like a pink chocolate fountain, dark chocolate rose mousse cake and heart-shaped pralines. Also notable is their bespoke hot chocolate, made a la minute. There's also an afternoon tea set option here, where you can find anything from heart-shaped vanilla and raisin scones to duck rillettes and blueberry crouton. Available for $46 per person from February 11-14.

The happy hour at District 10 is great, but if you're spending V-Day here, check out their special menu (available February 11-14) with the Mediterranean Seafood Salad, Braised Wagyu Beef Cheek or Grilled Salmon Steak ($58++). Includes a glass of Veuve Cliquot Rose.

This exquisite six-course set at Fat Cow specially created for Valentine's Day includes an impressive lil' something: Wagyu tasting. $388++ for two.

Specially for Valentine's Day, the Fremantle Seafood Market is offering a special set meal for $68++ (6.30-8.30pm) and $88++ (9pm).

One of Singapore's best fine dining restaurants Garibaldi, is offering a customized six-course dinner set that includes caviar for $138++. Only available on Valentine's Day.

Go all the way with a seven-course modern European tasting set menu for $388 per couple at Gordon Grill. Includes a demi bottle of champagne and only available on February 14.

Only on February 14, Graze at Martin No. 38 is offering a four-course set ($100 per person) that includes a complimentary glass of Prosecco. Add $50 for additional wine pairing. 

It's a little offbeat but maybe that's why we're attracted to the seafood-centric buffet dinner option at Greenhouse. Available only on February 14 at $109 per person.

Dine in the garden at Halia, with its four-course dinner set from $300 nett per couple, which includes noteworthy wine pairings from Brown Brothers. Only on February 14.

For $98++ per pax, enjoy an exclusive Valentine's Day dinner at Hot Stones, which has a great range of flavored meats for your cooking (and eating) pleasure.

$660++ per couple may sound a little steep but we suspect the nine-course degustation dinner (comes with a glass of Dom Perignon each) at JAAN will be worth it.

Where to eat in Singapore on Valentine's Day 2014

Indulge in an oriental five-course set ($88 per person) that includes Pearl Lobster at Jing, one of Loh Lik Peng's many ventures.

Experience the good food (and good service) at modern European restaurant Keystone, which has a five-course menu (with special cocktail included) priced at $138++ per person exclusively for Valentine's Day.

Enjoy some Japanese fusion at Kinki Restaurant + Bar withs its $148++ dinner set meal that includes a complimentary glass of Moet & Chandon. Only for February 14.

The Knolls at Capella Singapore is going for $298++ per couple ($698++ with wine pairing per course) and includes king prawns with Mediterreanean rice as well as wagyu beef cheek.

From February 10-19, tuck into a delightful meal of tempura style Sydney rock oysters, roast black cod loin and slow cooked duck leg at Ku De Ta for $148++ per person.

Oysters, Champagne and Iranian caviar for dinner ($328 per person for a six-course menu) at Les Amis maketh a lovely Valentine's Day date.

From 6.30pm, get caught up in a lovely Italian romance with The Lighthouse's five-course dinner set menu ($198 per person) with items like Rossini Cocktail, baked scallops, crispy baby chicken and an Orange Blossom Tiramisu.

Talk about love and all that jazz at Lobby Lounge over your five-course dinner set complete with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Yellow label champagne. $188++ per couple only available on February 14.

Enjoy five delish courses with a bottle of German wine (for two) at Magma German Wine Bar & Bistro. Menu includes prawn cocktail with fruit, double boiled chicken broth (with heart-shaped tomato dumplings—nice) and grain-fed beef tenderloin. $69++ per person.

Celebrate love with a six-course menu at Majestic Restaurant, which includes braised whole abalone at $199 per couple. Only for Valentine's Day.

The four-course set at Mezza9 at Grand Hyatt is accompanied by two glasses of Perrier-Jouët Champagne and a nine-piece praline gift box for $211++ per couple on February 14 only.

Mikuni's got a 10-course rose-inspired set menu creation you may want to check out from February 11-14. $150++ per person.

$78++ per person for items like tian of salmon and scallops tartare served with avocado mousse, duck confit cake, lobster bisque, cod fillet and char-grilled beef medallion is a serious steal. Available at Our Korner from February 7-14.

Seat yourself by 7pm and you can enjoy a six-course set for $118 at Prive. Regular price is $138++ per person. Available only on February 14.

A firm stalwart among Singapore's Italian restaurants, Ristorante Bologna is a sweet option for Valentine's Day, with its seven-course set dinner menu from February 11-14. $128++ per person with a glass of Prosecco with strawberry.

Opt for a five-course set ($188) with a glass of champagne or wine included for Valentine's Day only at Shenton Room at M Hotel.

At $108++ per couple, you can enjoy pan fried scallops, cheesy baked green mussels, chocolate mousse, Champagne and even roses at Shiraz.

If you don't fancy having to hunt for a restaurant no matter how good the food is, The Steakhouse just by the Clarke Quay taxi stand is a safe bet. Its V-Day set meal costs $58++.

For $128++ per couple on February 14, partake in a three-course set amidst the  lush and tranquil setting of Pantry at the Stables.

Spice up your Valentine's Day at Patara Fine Thai Cuisine with its $98++ menu exclusive to February 14.

We recommend the alfresco seating for tucking into Pierside's three-course Valentine's set menu ($288++ per couple), which comes with a refreshing gin & guava cocktail. Only available on February 14.

Probably one of the cheapest deals, the Valentine's Day menu ($49.90++ per pax) at Al Dente Pronto is worth checking out.

At the Singapore Flyer, you can have a four-course dinner for two for $299 from February 10-12, and $339 from February 13-14, with sittings at 7pm and 8.30pm. Each meal lasts an hour.

There's a handful of great vegetarian options at Skyve Bar & Bistro, which is offering a customized five-course set for $80++ per person (with additional wine supplement for $20++) only for Valentine's Day.

Spices Café is offering a buffet dinner with a complimentary glass of wine from February 11-14 for $65++ per person. They're known for their yu sheng, which has a vibrant Singaporean twist.

If the Swissotel The Stamford's Helipad Soiree ($9,999++) doesn't impress, we don't know what will. This exclusive 12-course set dinner with two bottles of Dom Perignon Champagne includes a night at the Executive Club Room and limo transfers. Swanky.

If the sea breeze does something to you, Tanjong Beach Club is the way to go with their seafood-heavy, four-course dinner only for Valentine's Day. $108 per person.

For a taste of great meats and Singapore's unique colonial history, dine at the Tongkang Colonial Bar & Restaurant, whose V-Day deal $88++ per pax.

The White Rabbit is perfect for charming your date, with its old world vibe and gender-differentiated five-course set menu. Only available on February 14 for $108++ per person.

Another great steal is the gourmet semi-buffet dinner at Town Restaurant by the Singapore River, which includes oysters and sashimi, as well as mouth-watering desserts like red velvet cupcakes. $78 per person with complimentary glass of Kir Royal or Strawberry Rossini.

Even if you're not an NUS alumni, you can enjoy the five-course set deal at The University Club for $98++ per person from February 10-14.

If you want quiet, lush surroundings to romance your date in, the Vineyard @ HortPark has a special $88++ (per person) deal from February 10-13 and a $188++ one on Valentine's Day.

And if you think having a limited menu to pick from will just complicate things, here are some restaurants with great ala carte options that are just as romantic:
 

Probably one of our favorite Spanish eateries is Don Quijote, whose Paella Especial made it to our 50 Things to Eat Before You Die list in 2010.

If you prefer your meal less spiffy, make a date with the wood-fired pizzas at Modesto's, which we like for its charmingly unpretentious ambiance.

We gave NUOC at Orchard Central four stars in our latest review and it's no wonder—this place has got a stunning view and features stewed clams, also one of I-S Magazine's 50 Things to Eat Before You Die.

For other things to do, check out Singapore's best staycation deals & events for Valentine's Day.

Drinking & shopping—a dangerous combination? We don't know about that but MAAD Pyjamas this Friday (February 10) with its live music and designer goodies sounds like such a thrill.

Social Media Week finally arrives in Singapore, with some of the digital world's most celebrated names  such as Trendwatching.com, Travel Massive and Pat Law of Goodstuph taking part.

Fans of The Horrors, Feist, M83, Twin Shadow Chairlift and other world indie favorites will do well to get their tickets for Laneway Festival Singapore 2012 fast.

Hot K-pop group Super Junior returns for Super Show 4 in Singapore with their latest album Mr Simple, which won Album of the Year 2011 at the Mnet Asian Music Awards.

We only have good things to say about Spring Awakening, which opened this week. Runs through February 26 at The Drama Centre Theatre.

The M1 Fringe Festival 2012 starts this month, and we're already penciling in the provocative-sounding Tongues, an interactive theater piece at the Gallery Theatre.

Hit by the travel bug? The NATAS Fair 2012 makes sure you don't burn a hole in your pocket when you decide to humor it.

On February 25, the world's top tier boxers like Andy Souwer and Albert Kraus hit the ring for some action at the Fighterzone Kickboxing World Series 2012. At the Singapore Expo.

Possibly the world's toughest sailing competition is the Clippers Around the World Race, which pays a visit to Keppel Bay this year.

A regular fixture on DJ Mag's Top 100 list, UK DJ John Digweed dishes out his signature progressive house and techno beats for Avalon and Supermodified Present John Digweed.

Looking for V-Day stuff? Check out our date ideas.

Training for a marathon? No, neither are we. But we did wonder whether these instant exercise boosters would make a difference to our once-a-week slog around the Botanic Gardens.

GU Energy Gel

Various flavors including lemon sublime, tri berry, mandarin orange. 32g / $3.95 from GNC.
The first one we tried (and the most widely available), and boy was it an intense introduction. With a taste like kid’s candy, it put a spring in our step almost instantly. Trouble is, the spring kept going and 30 minutes later our heart-rate was as high as a hummingbird’s, and we ground to a halt.

Power Bar Gel

Various flavors including green apple, vanilla, raspberry cream. 41g / $3.21 from GNC.
Ugh. The non-caffeinated vanilla version tastes pretty horrendous; though we guess after three hours on the road you’re not missing the subtle hint of umami in what you eat. And it did at least seem like a slower and more steady release: Half an hour in—the same point at which the GU gel had done its worst—our legs felt encouragingly light and ready for more. We didn’t give it to them, of course.

2nd Surge Ultra Energy Gel

Chocolate flavor. 29g / $4 from 2XU.
Basically an espresso shot in a packet, this is one for serious athletes (and perhaps extremely tired amateurs) only. It’s based around a blend of superfoods, including goji berries, mangosteen and cranberries, and even contains protein, making it easy to kid yourself that it’s good for you. Although it’s the best tasting of the three, it’s also the most expensive and, with a serious caffeine kick (100mg per packet), is probably better suited to ultramarathoning, not 20 minutes on the treadmill.

Essentials
GNC
2XU KPI Store
You can also buy in bulk from locally-based web store Energy Gel Addict

How Do Energy Gels Work?

The carbohydrate combo provides both quick (fructose) and slow release (maltodextrin) energy to your muscles. The manufacturers reckon it kicks in within 5-10 minutes of ingestion. Based on our non-randomised, non-blind, entirely unscientific trial, that’s more or less on the money.

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, credited with all kinds of powers, including neutralizing lactic acid and aiding in recovery. Sounds great, huh? Trouble is, there’s almost no evidence for this. Even hardcore bodybuilding websites admit the jury’s still out on whether they have any benefit at all.

The caffeine helps your body convert fat to energy more efficiently, improving endurance, reducing fatigue and helping you focus. This is actually proven science; which can’t be said for most other supplements. It’s a mild diuretic though, so don’t take in too much before you head out.

Buyan Russian Haute Cuisine & Caviar Bar

A perennial newsmaker for its astonishing wine museum valued at over $5 million, Buyan is also known for its unrivalled selection of over 50 vodkas and the best Russian cuisine in town.

District 10 Bar & Restaurant

Their range of cocktails is pretty comprehensive, with everything from classics (from $14) to passion fruit daiquiris ($15), alongside yummy Italian pastas (from $18) which can be enjoyed at its spacious alfresco area.

Pasha

With a well-lit, elegant restaurant on the ground floor and an attractive bar to chill out at on the second, Pasha serves up Moroccan classics, signature cocktails with Middle Eastern influences and wines from exotic locales like Lebanon and India.

Plan a day at full day at the spa: Damai's Valentine's Day Promotion (includes their signature Orchid Massage as well as free champs and chocs), and the Royal Love Story at Ayuthaya package (comes with a complimentary Thai love songs CD) are some ideas to get your started.

Ride the ferris wheel: For four days in February, enjoy a full butler service, special menus and even a souvenir on the Singapore Flyer at Sky Dining Valentine's Day 2012.

Catch a movie in the "heavens": During The Jewel Box Starry Valentine season, you can (and should) indulge in a private cable car ride, after which you can watch a classic film over cocktails at Moonstone Bar. 

Whip up your own bouquet: This Chinese New Year & Valentine's Day Special: Introduction to Flower Arrangement class should help you impress your girl (and her mom too, probably).

Gift a handmade puppy: Or anything else you learn how to make at this For Your Valentine: Balloon Sculpture Workshop.

Impress with your humor: Singapore's newest standup comedy show Comedy Masala also has an open mic segment—time to get your act together.

Watch a local production: If you're both feeling frustrated with life (and aren't we all?), you should watch the award-winning Spring Awakening musical for its self-discovery theme.

Appreciate local art: A new artist is in town and she's holding a special showcase, Beautiful Love 2012 this Valentine's Day, with 50% of the sales proceeds going to charity.

Want something more?

Here are Singapore's top staycation & dining deals for Valentine's Day.

Last chance to catch the nostalgic Giselle by Paris Opera Ballet on January 21.

At Klazz Brothers: Classic Meets Cuba, you'll witness some mind-blowing renditions of timeless music you thought you knew everything about. Happening January 21.

Set the mood at Poptart with weelikeme, Jah & Jinmart happening on January 21.

You can't possibly miss Tanjong Beach Club's sensational party Smack My Beach Up: The Chinese New Year Edition on January 22.

Party up (literally) at Ku De Ta's Lunar New Year Weekend (January 22-23) with its resident DJs Titus and Suren.

Ring in the Lunar New Year with the vibrant colors of rainbow lories at the Jurong Bird Park during the month-long Celebrate CNY at Jurong Bird Park season, which also features the three Gods of Fortune and lion dances.

Come upclose with auspicious creatures such as the dragon fish, komodo dragon and bearded dragon at Celebrate CNY at the Zoo, where you can also take photos with a cool 3D dragon sculpture.

The River Hongbao 2012 festival is probably one of the best places in Singapore to retire to for a drink after all that house-visiting—scenic and lots of pubbing options.

Of course, there's no missing the Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations 2012 with its traditional dance performances, countless food and knick-knack stalls, lion dances and camera-ready light-up. Through February 21.

If Chinese New Year to you is about revisiting the past, the Imagine Dragons exhibition at the Singapore Philatelic Museum (happens all year) will be interesting.

GONG XI FA CAI, EVERYONE!

If you’ve always wanted to travel the world to see great art, you won’t want to miss Art Stage, which showcases over 100 galleries from all over the world.
Jan 12-14, 15

MAAD Pyjamas: Friday the 13th looks like a lot of fun. With designer goods, live DJ mixes and great cocktails, how can it not be?
Jan 13

Their songs have been getting constant airtime in Singapore, not counting all the movie and TV soundtracks we've been hearing them on—time to catch Foster the People live, then.
Jan 14

The People’s Party returns to Asia, this year bringing celebrated acts like Metronomy, The Jezabels and Bombay Bicycle Club to Singapore.
Jan 14

Catch the critically-acclaimed classical jazz trio from Germany live in the Klazz Brothers: Classic Meets Cuba concert featuring Cuba’s finest percussionists.
Jan 21

Tanjong Beach Club’s regular Sunday night jam gets a lunar twist with Smack My Beach Up: The Chinese New Year Edition.
Jan 22

Trust Zouk to get things rolling in 2012 with Dash Berlin, ranked 15 in DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs 2010 poll.
Jan 23

Award-winning London underground musician SBTRKT comes to town with a full live show, which we hope features some of his best-loved remixes of Basement Jaxx, Radiohead and Mark Ronson’s music.
Jan 25

If you loved the Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon soundtrack, go see its composer in action at the Huayi Chinese Festival of the Arts 2012: Tan Dun Martial Arts Trilogy.
Jan 27-28

Observe one man’s relationship with public empty spaces in Singapore in Heman Chong: Calendars (2020-2096), an archival exhibition of 1,001 photographs.
Through Jan 29
 

More things to do in Singapore this week