From OC Register, 7 sweet spots to stir romance on Valentine’s Day.

In case anyone out there (hello, dudes) forgot, Friday is Valentine’s Day. If you’ve got a sweetheart – or hope to seal that particular deal Friday – we suggest these seven romantic ways to celebrate your heart’s content.

After all, when you have Orange County, who needs Paris?

Savor some chocolate: Michelle haute Chocolat in Costa Mesa

There’s chocolate and then there’s Chocolat, the kind that stirs the same sensual pot into which big screen lovers Johnny Depp and Juliette Binoche once dipped. Valentine’s Day indulgences you can buy from this shop at The OC Mix at SOCO include a 12-piece “Love Box” truffle assortment and an exclusive Valrhona M bar Collection, described on the shop’s website as “23k Edible Gold layered over French Valrhona bittersweet chocolate with your choice of saffron, rose salt or rose petals.” OK, that might be a bit rich, but the thing comes tied in clear packaging with a red bow. And wait! There’s more! Valentine’s Day customers from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. can get a complimentary glass of champagne and hand-dipped strawberries. Sweet! 3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa. 949-630-5886 ormichellehautechocolat.com