Whether we like it or not, Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. The holiday can either be the most dreaded or most anticipated day of the year.

Depending on where you fall on the spectrum, I have chosen five restaurants in the DeKalb area that have absolutely delicious entrees and could be great for your Valentine’s Day dinner plans.

Nats on Maple

Although this restaurant, 112 S. Maple St. in Sycamore, is a little on the pricey side, Valentine’s Day is worth spending the extra cash. Nats on Maple offers delicious American food. Dressing up is a requirement with this elegant atmosphere. My recommendation is the tomato basil angel hair pasta with added chicken. This is a foolproof, yummy restaurant your honey will love!

Mikimoto Japanese Steakhouse

The atmosphere at Mikimoto, 826 W. Lincoln Highway, is unbeatable when it comes to restaurants in DeKalb. The hibachi, an exciting way for the chef to cook food in front of guests, is the perfect combination of food and entertainment for you and your lover on Valentine’s Day. The Asian cuisine is unbeatable and no doubt will leave you satisfied. My recommendation is the Chicken Hibachi.

Fanatico

This Italian restaurant, 1215 Blackhawk Road, is utterly delicious. The never-ending bread before your meal is worth the more expensive dining experience. Fanatico reminds me of Olive Garden, but with way more authentic Italian food. My recommendation is the Vodka Pasta.

Los Rancheros

Mexican food is another foolproof decision on Valentine’s Day. Los Rancheros, 2350 Sycamore Road, offers delicious Mexican food at a reasonable price. They usually offer drink specials to go along with dinner. The atmosphere is laid-back and fun when the pressure to impress may be high. My recommendation would have to be the steak fajitas.

O’ Leary’s Ale House

Just to make sure I covered all the different styles of food, this Irish pub, 260 E. Lincoln Highway, needs to be considered for your big Valentine’s Day dinner. The atmosphere is very laid-back and the food is extremely good. Every time I dine at O’Leary’s I order the Oktoberfest Chicken sandwich, which is delicious, but the entrees are also great. I recommend the Cajun Pasta.