Shinzo
Did you know that Shinzo means “heart” in Japanese? It’s the perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Dedicated entirely to the art of the cocktail, Shinzo offers creative cocktails with a host of homemade preparations, such as “hydrolats,” one of the establishment’s signatures. The cocktail menu also follows the seasons. There are several signature cocktails, including “U will love it,” “Tell me why” and “Disa… Pear.” The decor is also a great success, with a hushed blue and gold atmosphere. You can also order some dishes to share, just as creative as the cocktails. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice on pairing.
8 Grand-Rue, Luxembourg. Tel: 27 84 98 74
Amore
The name fits perfectly with the theme of a Valentine's Day evening: Amore, located in the city centre, offers a fine selection of natural and organic wines. There are cocktails too, many of which are made with St. Germain elderflower liqueur. We love the retro-chic bistro decor, with its large counter. And as one pleasure never comes alone, you can also order prettily arranged side dishes to continue the evening.
11, rue du Marché-aux-Herbes, Luxembourg. Tel: 27 40 40 50
Le 18
The bar at the Place d’Armes hotel has a very chic and intimate atmosphere. You can sit along the magnificent marble counter or around the small round tables in comfortable armchairs and benches. But the main attraction is the expertise of bar chef Ayrton Mongenie, who creates incredible cocktails inspired by the great masters of painting and perfumery. For Valentine’s Day, Le 18 is offering a “Kir Saint-Valentin” made with vine leaf, Amarena cherry, port, cedar of Lebanon, Mathes crémant and Arabica flavour--or, if you prefer, the “Cupid” (non-alcoholic) made with Sichuan pepper, Jasmine and Peach. A classic drinks menu completes the offer alongside a fine selection of rums. Hungry? Grab a side dish too.
18, place d'Armes, Luxembourg. Tel: 27 47 37 21 1
Bellamy
Sebastiaan van der Weerden (Go Ten, Konrad, Octans…) is the founder of this fine dining bar, which combines fine wines selected by Rodolphe Chevalier (Vinoteca) with Sébastien’s cooking to share. The chef draws his inspiration mainly--but not entirely--from France. The result is “gastro tapas,” which are paired with a wine chosen to match. Cocktails are also available.
16, rue de la Boucherie, Luxembourg. Tel: 26 20 11 04
An example of a cocktail served at Bellamy. Photo: Romain Gamba/archives Maison Moderne
Mama Shelter
For a more festive atmosphere, head to Mama Shelter with its eclectic decor. The atmosphere is relaxed, cosy and friendly. For Valentine’s Day, there will be “Love Games” and, from 8pm, a candlelit concert. For drinks, around the pink marble counter: signature cocktails, such as the “Laisse pas traîner ton Fizz” or the “Flight Club,” complement a full menu of classic cocktails. In the cellar, there’s also plenty to enjoy. And we are happy to stay for dinner too, with Mediterranean cuisine complemented by homemade pizzas. And as the Mama Shelter is also a hotel, you can stay overnight.
2, rue du Fort Niedergrünewald, Luxembourg. Tel: 20 80 44 00
This article in French.