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7 ways to get a last-minute dinner reservation

By Nancy Fornasiero

Need a dinner reservation, fast? Don't despair -- Canada's top chefs give us seven ways to score a last-minute dinner reservation.
Last-minute dinner reservation tips 5 - 7

YEW restaurant + bar
Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver

5. Go early -- or really late
Several restaurateurs surveyed remind us that timing is everything. Mark McEwan advises to “call the restaurants you would like to go to and ask if they have room in their early or later seatings; you might get lucky.” When choosing the spot for your special night out, remember that ambiance is as important as the food. Chef McEwan described Sanafir’s “four sexy Moroccan beds (image at left) separated by silk curtains. You lounge on the beds and sip champagne, eat good food and enjoy each other’s company. I think they were made for Valentine’s Day.”

6. Don't be in a rush
For last-minute plans, Costas Spiliadis and family -- owners of Milos, Montreal’s sexiest Greek restaurant - also recommend being first and foremost “flexible about timing.” Daughter/manager Evridiki wisely points out that early or late seatings allow for “a more intimate dining experience” and that, regardless of the hour, “if you’re with the right partner, you will have a memorable time!”

7. Remember - romance can continue past the 14th
At Toqué!, another popular Montreal spot, co-owners chef Normand Laprise and manager Christine Lamarche ingeniously recommend taking the flexibility factor one step further. “First of all, we have a wait list so you might be lucky! But remember that you can also come the following Friday or Saturday since we will still feature the Valentine’s Day menu. Or, celebrate before everyone else by coming the night before.” Think about it… you might very well be lingering over dessert at midnight (technically February 14th) and, as they are quick to note, “you will be sure to have a very romantic evening because the restaurant is quieter!”

Read more:
14 sparkling wines and Champagnes for every taste and budget
Aphrodisiac menu for Valentine's Day

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  • Keywords : restaurants

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