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ROMANTIC SPOTS
Stunning locales bolster love in Stockton, Lodi
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The mezzanine is the upper floor of French 25 cuisine located at the historic Stockton Hotel. Its one of the most romantic views in the 209. - photo by Photo Contributed

Love is in the air with the “Love You Baby Lunch” on Friday, Feb. 13, made possible by the Downtown Stockton Alliance.

Those dining at any of the participating restaurants from noon to 1:30 p.m. will have a chance at winning a free lunch.

But there’s a catch – for starters, all lunch guests must wear the oversized DSA-distributed “Love You Baby” buttons.

If there’s more than one table with all guests wearing the buttons, the DSA Ambassador can determine the winning table based on a “Valentine’s Day Spirit” of the group based on themed outfits, decorations, or performance of a loved-theme song.

One of the participating restaurants is the French 25 cuisine at the historic Stockton Hotel.

It’s also one of the romantic views in the 209 – imagine a sunset overlooking DeCarli Plaza and the Deep Water Channel from one of the window seats.

For an even more spectacular view try the mezzanine. This roof-top atrium is open only for special events at least until the weather warms up.

The French 25 menu is inspired by the dishes made popular at the French Quarters in New Orleans.

Since Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday, couples or families should plan ahead for that day.

French 25 will be open from 4 to 11 p.m. Reservations will be required.

French 25 is located at 110 N. El Dorado St. Validated parking is available at the Stewart-Eberhardt Parking Garage at El Dorado and Center streets just south of Weber Avenue.

For more information, call 209.451.0617 or log on to www.french-25.com.

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Lodi wine country

Speaking of Valentine’s Day falling on a Saturday, there are plenty of places to spend the day with a packed lunch and a chance to sample some of the finest wines in the world.

Take Oak Farm and Viaggio, for example.

In October, Oak Farm, located at the DeVries Road – just off north of Peltier Road – opened its brand-new spacious tasting room.

It sits on the historic property that once belonged to William DeVries. Along this 60 acres vineyard are enormous oak including the 150-year-old tree.

There’s plenty outdoor seating for those who are looking to have a picnic along the quiet yet picturesque surroundings.

The tasting room is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, call 209.365.6566 or log on to www.oakfarmvineyards.com.

From historic to modern, the Viaggio on the River Estate & Winery at 100 E. Taddei Rd. is located a few miles east of Oak Farm on Peltier Road.

Among the vineyards and walnut orchards is the stunning backdrop of the Mokelumne River. A great view of that is from the grand staircase overlooking the sweeping yet well manicured lawn.

But there’s more to Viaggio. Included are the outdoor tables and the elegant tasting room that’s open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on this special day.

For more information, call 209.368.1378 or log on to www.viaggiowinery.com.