Durham’s Alley Twenty Six, which was just named one of the Triangle’s Most Romantic Restaurants by Eater Carolinas, is offering a five-course prix fixe menu with cocktail pairings on Feb. 14 for $135 per person. Make a reservation at alleytwentysix.com. Here is the full menu:
• First course: Chef’s amuse-bouche; paired with the Meet Cute, a sparkling sip with hints of strawberry.
• Second course: Bibb Lettuce and Radicchio with Bacon Lardons, Valdeon Blue, Castelvetrano Olives, Lime Buttermilk Dressing and “Funyuns;” paired with the Talking Stage made with Gin, Vermouth and Americano.
• Third course: Marinated Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado, Pickled Red Onion, Lime, Sesame, Watermelon Radish and Cucumber-Cilantro Water; paired with the Third Date with Blanco Tequila, Coconut, Cucumber, Lime and Spice.
• Fourth course: Cocoa Rubbed Steak with Braised Greens, Sweet Potato, Fennel, Mushrooms, Toasted Pecan and Cranberry Demi-glace OR a Vegetarian option: Cocoa Dusted Roasted Sweet Potato with Braised Greens, Fennel, Mushrooms, Toasted Pecan and Dried Cranberries; paired with the Honeymoon Phase made with Whisky and Rum, Cranberry, Dubonnet and Southern Spring Bitters
• Fifth course: Cheese Board with Passionfruit-Lime Jelly, Toasted Coconut and Crostini; paired with the Golden Years made with Passionfruit, Sparkling Wine and Bitters OR Fudge Brownie Sundae with Salted Butter Caramel Ice Cream, Chocolate Sauce, Graham Cracker Crumb, Whipped Cream and Strawberry; paired with Bittersweet Surrender made with House-made Amaro, Cognac infused with Decaf Coffee, Strawberry and Mint.