Whether you love it or hate it, Valentine’s day is just around the corner. We talked to some USC students to see if love is truly in the Trojan air, and where the best date spots are around the USC campus. Here are the top eight recommended restaurants and date spots for Cupid’s day.
Nature’s Brew
Price: $$
Distance from UPC: 1.1 mi
Start your morning with a cozy breakfast date with your significant other at Nature’s Brew Cafe. Only a 15-minute walk from campus, this warm coffeehouse is located on 2316 S Union Ave. The various drink options, yummy pastries and warm ambiance make it the ideal spot for couples (and friends!). The service is both efficient and friendly, setting the perfect atmosphere for a romantic morning.
Moreton Fig
Price: $$
Distance from UPC: On campus
USC’s very own Moreton Fig Restaurant + Lounge is located right in the heart of campus at 3607 Trousdale Parkway. This restaurant features gourmet menu items, bar items for the parents and a remarkable view of Moreton Bay fig trees. A cute and close date night idea for the students who don’t want to go too far for Valentines Day!
Rose Garden
Price: Free
Distance from UPC: 0.3 mi
One of the most iconic places near USC to have the perfect date, the Exposition Park Rose Garden provides an elaborate variety of colorful roses. Right across the street from USC’s campus, 701 State Drive is a refreshing place for a date at any time of day. Bring your significant other and enjoy walking around a garden full of vibrant colors and smells.
The Last Bookstore
Price: $
Distance from UPC: 4.1 mi
Located on 453 S Spring St Ground Floor, The Last Bookstore is California’s largest used and new book and record store and is a fan favorite of book lovers. Valentine’s day is the perfect opportunity to share your favorite novel with your significant other, and perhaps stick your nose into a new romance series.
“It’s so cute because I think the interior of the bookstore is just so fun. I think a really fun date idea would be to pick out a book you think your date would like,” said astronomy student Lynn Wee.
Perch
Price: $$$
Distance from UPC: 3.6 mi
One of the prettiest views right in downtown Los Angeles, Perch LA is an outstanding rooftop bar with a menu full of delicious entrees, appetizers and deserts. More on the expensive side, Perch LA has the full date-night experience. With live singers and talented artists, this iconic restaurant is located at 448 Hill Street.
Bacari W. Adams
Price: $$
Distance from UPC: 1.2 mi
Bacari W. Adams is a stylish, Venetian-inspired restaurant located on 2308 S Union Ave and is relatively close to the UPC. The restaurant serves Mediterranean and Italian staples like their Asian pear & brie pizza and polenta fries. With their emphasis on ordering multiple, sharable items, this restaurant is an excellent choice for a charming date night.
Unlimited KBBQ
Price: $
Distance from UPC: 3.6 mi
One thing USC students have in common is their love for Korean BBQ. After exploring the diverse neighborhood of Koreatown, stop by your favorite local cuisine. One staple restaurant, Bud Namo Korean BBQ on 809 S Ardmore Ave, offers all-you-can eat with delicious items ranging from beef brisket, bulgogi, and flavorful pork belly.
Staying In
Price: Varies
Romance doesn’t need to be extravagant. Having a cute and intimate date night right in the comfort of your apartment is a great way to spend Valentines. Doordash and Uber Eats are right at your service to make the most out of your at-home Valentines Date night! Get some decorations, put on your significant other’s favorite movie and order some food online to have a warm and cozy night in!
“I think staying in is always a great idea. Especially watching a rom-com, as cliche as it is,” said USC student Andy Rodriguez. “You can never go wrong with being cozy and having snacks.”