Greater Boston restaurants are preparing for Valentine’s Day, hoping the holiday will provide a needed economic boost after a slow start to the year.
A Challenging Start to the Year
Steve Clark, president and CEO of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, stated that Valentine’s Day is “always kind of that opportunity to shake off the winter doldrums in the restaurant industry.” However, several factors have contributed to a quieter-than-usual January and February.
“Dry January,” a trend of abstaining from alcohol for the month, contributed to fewer people dining out. This trend continued into February, compounded by recent snow and cold weather. Despite the Patriots’ extended playoff season, which typically increases foot traffic in sports bars, overall business remained slow.
Valentine’s Day: A Double-Edged Sword
Whereas Valentine’s Day is expected to bring increased spending – projections suggest a nearly 27 percent increase over last year – Clark noted that the holiday falling on a Saturday presents a mixed outcome. Saturday is already a busy day for restaurants, meaning the increase may not represent entirely new business.
Restaurants like Estella in Boston and Foxborough are preparing special menus and decorations. Manager Dre Vincent reported over 800 dinner reservations, a shift from the restaurant’s usual larger parties. The Capitol Grille in Dedham is also fully booked for the weekend, anticipating between 400 and 500 reservations on Friday and Saturday, and over 350 on Sunday.
The Capitol Grille plans to offer special entrees, including a porterhouse steak with a South African lobster tail, along with chocolate-covered strawberries and roses for diners.
Signs of Improvement
Despite challenges, there are indications of a slight recovery. State meals tax collections are up 3% compared to last year, according to Clark. He expressed hope that Valentine’s Day will further contribute to positive momentum for the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors have impacted restaurant business at the start of 2026?
“Dry January,” the weather, and the timing of Valentine’s Day have all played a role in a slower start to the year for restaurants in greater Boston.
How are restaurants preparing for Valentine’s Day?
Restaurants are preparing special menus, decorations, and are anticipating high reservation volumes. Estella has over 800 reservations, and The Capitol Grille is fully booked for the weekend.
Is the restaurant industry doing better than last year?
Steve Clark says the industry is in a better place than it was last year, and state meals tax collections are up 3% compared to last year.
Will the boost from Valentine’s Day be enough to offset the challenges restaurants have faced this year?
