So you’ve gotten your sweetie a local Valentine’s Day gift when you suddenly realize you forgot to make a reservation for dinner. At this point, reservations can be pretty tough to come by…but don’t worry. A romantic evening in with a bottle of wine, growler of your favorite beer, and some tasty takeout sounds pretty great to us! And, if you spin it the right way, your honey will never know you didn’t plan it that way 😉

Baby Loves Tacos (Bloomfield)

If you’re looking for great tacos, burritos, nachos, and all the fixings, check out Baby Loves Tacos. They have plenty of meat and veggie fillings, and you get to build your own meal like at the chains. But these guys are definitely not a chain – they source as many ingredients locally as they can.

Smiling Banana Leaf (Highland Park)

Is Thai takeout your love language? Smiling Banana Leaf has you covered! They have all the classics, like Pad Thai, fried rice, and curry. And don’t forget, they’re BYOB if you do manage to snag a reservation.

Ki Pollo (Lawrenceville)

If you’re surprised you can get authentic Argentinian empanadas at the same restaurant that makes some amazing Korean fried chicken, you’re not alone. But Ki Pollo is killing it with both! Call ahead and they’ll have everything hot and waiting for you. Pro tip: get a couple extra empanadas for leftovers the next day.

Nakama (South Side)

Everyone knows Nakama makes delicious sushi and hibachi, but don’t forget that you can get it to go. And also don’t forget to ask for extra sauce with the hibachi! We can’t get enough of their shrimp tempura roll, and don’t even get us started on their mushroom appetizer with the hibachi.

Gaucho (Strip District)

Yes, Gaucho does takeout! It’s a great way to skip the long line, and obviously perfect if you forgot to make reservations somewhere or don’t feel like waiting for a table there. And, bonus, no one will know if you order enough food for four people when there are only two of you…not that we’re speaking from experience.

Piccolo Forno (Lawrenceville)

There’s something romantic about Italian food, isn’t there? Luckily, Piccolo Forno has some of the best Italian around. Remember that while they normally don’t take reservations for fewer than 5 people, they do take them on Valentine’s Day for two or more…so get your wood fired pizza to go.

Ready for one last bonus tip? If you have a favorite restaurant that you’re super bummed about not getting a reservation…call them and ask if they can do your meal as takeout. Most restaurants can accommodate you! Just consider how well your favorite dish there will travel all wrapped up in a container – some are best enjoyed dining in.

This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.