It's always a race to snag the best seats for Valentine's Day dining. And many local restaurants still have seats available, but you'd better hurry, be happy eating at 4 p.m. or 9 p.m., or plan to celebrate this weekend instead. To help you, sweethearts - here are some romantic suggestions for where to go.

BEST CORNER SEAT
Stanley and Seafort's

Step into Stanley and Seafort's lounge, head toward the giant window, then snag the far left corner table. Slide into the seat and absorb the fantastic view of the city of Tacoma, alive and electric in the foreground, and Commencement Bay, calm and commanding in the background. A breathtaking panoramic view as a conversation piece and an excellent dinner make this seat an A+. Bonus: the bar is always hopping.  115 E. 34th St., Tacoma, 253.473.7300

BEST SEAT TO EAT ON A COZY PIANO
El Gaucho

The downtown fine-dining restaurant - known for its 1940s feel, grand staircase down to the dining room, romantic ambiance and giant steaks also hosts the best piano lounge in the South Sound. When the Volcano dines at El Gaucho, we pull up a stool next to the piano and dine on the top of the see-through piano. You should, too. Watch the magic of the keys moving as a pianist plays "Girl From Ipanema," while enjoying a cut of filet mignon.  2119 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, 253.272.1510

BEST SEAT TO GET COZY
King Solomon's Reef

While you won't need reservations or a tie to enjoy a delicious dinner at King Solomon's Reef, it is the perfect lounge to unwind with your sweetie, and maybe enjoy a little more than a hand squeeze. Dark, with diamond tuck seats, easy-to-saddle bar stools and the romantic light of the Frogger machine and vintage lamps, the Reef's lounge is one of the best seats in town. Whole groups of people are often seen cuddling in this hole-in-the-wall bar while Iron Maiden plays in the background.  212 Fourth Ave. E., Olympia, 360.742.3199

BEST SEAT THAT IS A SKI CHAIRLIFT
Harmon Brewery and Restaurant

Take your snow bunny out for a treat at the Harmon Brewery & Eatery's one-of-a-kind seat. An old chairlift slapped with stickers is where you'll snuggle in for delicious pub food and micro brews. More than 30 skis line the backside of the chairlift, making a unique and private setting at this downtown Tacoma brewpub. 938 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, 253.383.2739

BEST SEAT TO VIEW CAPITOL LAKE
Swing Wine Bar and Café

Located in a quaint house overlooking Capitol Lake, Swing Wine Bar stands apart in restaurants with a view. Sure, you can head down to one of Oly's many port restaurants with views of the Sound. The Weekly Volcano prefers to venture up Capitol Way for a slice of eye-candy no other restaurant offers, plus amazing wine, food and spirits. And for those who would prefer a seat suited for live music, Swing's wine cellar doubles as a cool and cozy venue.  825 Columbia St. SW, Olympia, 360.357.9464

BEST MOVEABLE SEAT
Brix 25

Located in historic downtown Gig Harbor, Brix 25 is charming and lovely. With modular booths that can be moved around, partitioned for privacy or opened up for more room, any seat can be the best in the house. In the summer, you'll find the Weekly Volcano close to the back patio. 7707 Pioneer Way, Gig Harbor, 253.858.6626

BEST FIRESIDE SEAT
Matador

Get to the Matador before the crowd for a seat at the circular fireside table. Perfect for a chilly February night, the fire adds heat to an already warm atmosphere created by exposed brick, distinct southern decór and handcrafted tables. The Tex-Mex food packs some heat with the popular carne asada or rib-eye as a nice choice for a Valentine's meal. The margaritas are strong, but delicious. 721 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, 253.627.7100