It sounds like it’s going to be a very busy Valentine’s Day for restaurants around the country – and we’d like to know, “are you ready?”

According to this great info-graphic from OpenTable, diners are going to be reserving tables early, spending at least at much as last year, and they aren’t going to be limiting their Valentine’s Day dining to traditional dates, with 76% of respondents noting they would be more than happy to dine out with a group of friends…

Get ready for a busy holiday! But, keep in mind that since the 14th falls on a Tuesday, you might see increased traffic on Saturday the 11th as well. According to the OpenTable survey, 26% of diners are planning their romantic dates for Saturday (with 47% aiming to celebrate on the 14th).

So, what kind of seafood are you putting on the menu?

Sure fire sellers like live Maine lobster, dry pack u/10 scallops and of course, oysters on the half-shell are always great options, but don’t stop there! With celebrating couples (and groups) out to have a good time keep them happy with lobster tails, caviar and other luxury items.  Sushi is a fun, light and gorgeous way to feed your guests, get creative!  What about some menu items that are designed to encouraging sharing like a gorgeous seafood tower with plenty of options for accidental hand grazing… try some snow crab claws, shrimp or oysters.

Valentine’s Day is also a fun day to play with the idea that seafood is “heart healthy”! Serving fish with good omega-3 fatty acids like wild Alaska king salmon is a great way to literally show your customers you care!

Your Santa Monica Seafood Sales Representative is here to help you with getting your pre-orders in to make sure you have a successful and stress-free Valentine’s Day!!