Valentine's Day is coming, and if you like to go out for a romantic dinner, keep in mind that it's one of the busiest nights of the year for restaurants. Reservations are always a good idea; so is going out early or late to avoid the crowds. And if you don't have a reservation, it's smart to have a backup plan or two. Here are some recommendations at every price level, plus alternatives to each if you need them.

Abbott's ($$$$)

1414 Hewitt Ave.
Everett, WA 98201

Ambience is easy to come by on Hewitt, where many of the restaurants and bars have exposed brick and hidden back patios and rooms. Dine by candlelight at Abbott's, where you and your date can try stuffed chicken, swordfish, or steak au poivre. Note that some entrees are served a la carte, and side orders can add up quickly.

Equally decadent options can be found across town at Emory's on Silver Lake, which also has a gorgeous view. For something closer, pop across the street to Sol Food.

Bluewater Organic Distilling ($$$)

1205 Craftsman Way, Ste. 109
Everett, WA 98201

Bluewater is always a great place to spend a special evening together. They keep their menu small so they can focus on quality using local organic ingredients, which means you can always count on everything tasting great. Take an Uber or Lyft there so you can enjoy a few of Bluewater's incredible cocktails. Reservations aren't normally accepted for parties smaller than nine people, but they're taking reservations for Valentine's Day from 3-10 p.m with a special prix fixe menu in the bar.

If Bluewater is full, walk to Jetty Bar & Grille or Lombardi's for dinner, then come back to Bluewater for a nightcap before you summon your ride home.

Bhu-Ping Thai Cuisine ($$)

6600 Evergreen Way
Everett, WA 98203

If you like a restaurant that's full of surprises, book a table at Bhu-Ping. It shares a building with a Supercuts and a nail shop, but has a beautiful dining room, plus a patio near the entrance. Try delicious dishes like Bangkok fried chicken, three-flavor trout, and pad cha lamb. You can split a bottle from the large wine bar, and if you'd like another to take home, there's a wine shop and tasting room in the back!

If there aren't any tables left at Bhu-Ping but you still have a craving for Thai, Hua Hin and Lanna Thai are less than a mile away.

For the absolute cheapest Valentine's Day dinner, you need to get personal. Who makes your sweetheart's favorite sandwich? Where was your first date together in Everett? It's fun when money's no object, but sweet when a lot of thought goes into the day because you have to make those dollars stretch. 

Christopher Bragg works from home in Everett and loves walking, swimming, and cats. You can find him all over town, but only if you keep weird hours and avoid crowds like he does.