Bites Nearby: Cafe Via

Cafe Via, 310 E. Maple Road, Birmingham (248) 644-8800

Looking for a nice romantic dining spot this Valentine's Day weekend? fits the bill.

Chef Jay Gundy has been in the kitchen since this small gem of a restaurant opened in the heart of downtown Birmingham in March 2009, lending consistency to the menu of American dishes.   

's fare is well-prepared, unpretentious and classically simple, with such dishes as omelets, a great burger, prime rib (on Sundays) and roast chicken.  

Ted Fuller is the proprietor behind this handsomely detailed restaurant, putting it first in the hands of the Birmingham firm Ron & Roman for the architecture and design, and then handing it off to a professional staff headed by Carol Cahalan. 

Recommended dishes: Roast chicken, beet salad, burger

Prices: Appetizers $10-$17, entrees $10-$38, desserts $8-$9

 Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 4-9 p.m. Sunday.

Credit cards: All major