1) The Pearl Theatre at Avenue North, 1600 N. Broad St.
Positioned on the border of Temple's campus, The Pearl Theatre is (like The Rave) sleekly modern and (not remotely like The Rave) abnormally cheap. Shows on Tuesday are only $6 all day, and — lucky for you — Valentine’s Day falls on a Tuesday this year. After the movie, jump back on the Broad Street Line and get off at Spring Garden to try Route 6 (4) (600 N. Broad St.), Stephen Starr’s version of a seafood shack. The lobster roll is fantastic, as are the oysters (one of nature’s most effective aphrodisiacs).
2) Ritz Five, 214 Walnut St.
Perhaps the most well--–known art–house theatre in Philly, Ritz Five is a hotspot for the newest independent and foreign cinema, as well as special screenings. Though not necessarily the cleanest or the most modern (note the lack of arena seating), Ritz Five exudes a certain charm, probably due to the kind, quirky staff. Just a couple of blocks away, Han Dynasty (5) (108 Chestnut St.) serves some of the hottest and most inventive Chinese cuisine in the city. The portions are big, and the atmosphere is decidedly jovial, making Han Dynasty the perfect place to unwind after some of the Ritz’s heavier offerings.
3) The Roxy Theatre, 2023 Sansom St.
If nostalgia is your thing, head on over to the Roxy, an old–school two–screener on Sansom. The chairs may be broken, the floor may be sticky and the sound may not be the best, but at least the Roxy won’t gouge you on ticket prices or concessions. So schlep on down to Center City for an evening distinctly lacking corporate grace and rejoice in one of the few bastions of mom–and–pop ownership in Philly. Right around the corner from the theater, Tinto (6) (114 S. 20th St.) has a northern Spanish menu that represents Jose Garces at his most romantic. All of the plates are meant for sharing, and the wine list is among the best in the city.
Feeling adventurous? Try these …
UA 69th Street 9, 53 S. 69th St, Upper Darby
Take the Market–Frankford Line all the way west and you’ll be in Upper Darby, West Philly’s not–so–suburban border town. The theater is much closer than most Penn students realize, and the Valentine’s Day options in the neighborhood are abundant. Head to Rodeo Karaoke (7060 Terminal Square) for an authentic Korean karaoke experience. Or, right next door, Tomo Sushi & Sashimi offers some delicious rolls. The menu is hardly adventurous, but sushi lovers will enjoy reliable versions of their favorite dishes.
UA Main Street 6, 3720 Main St, Manayunk
The UA Main Street 6 is not, in so many words, special. Average in almost every way, this standard theatre lacks any distinguishing factor, save for its clientele. Known to be particularly vocal with their commentary, the patrons of Main Street 6 can make many movies more watchable, though vulgar language should be expected. Afterwards, take a stroll to the waterfront — even the Schuylkill could help purify your virgin ears — or head up Main St. to Agiato (4359 Main St.) for a casual, boisterous Italian night out. Grab a spot at one of the communal tables and share some of the city’s best paninis. We recommend the pancetta with arugula, tomato and lemon aioli.
