Brookfield Zoo Offers Valentine's Dinner and Brunch

Submitted by the Chicago Zoological Society.

Brookfield, IL - Treat your sweetie to a Valentine’s dining adventure at Brookfield Zoo on Saturday, Feb. 13.

The unique evening begins at 6:30 p.m. with cocktails and a variety of hors d’oeuvres — artichoke beignets, brie and raspberry en croute, pepper-crusted fresh salmon with tarragon aioli, and stuffed mushrooms — at the Seven Seas underwater viewing gallery, where you can see the dolphins swimming in their habitat.

Afterwards, take a cozy heated ride to the zoo’s Bocaditos dining room for a delectable four-course meal prepared by the zoo’s executive chef. Dinner begins with a tomato bisque en croute and mixed baby greens with a champagne or raspberry vinaigrette.

An intermezzo of lemon sorbet served in a frozen lemon rind bowl precedes the main course of petit filet and lobster tail. Accompaniments include wild mushroom ragout, twice-baked potatoes, and French green beans. A vegetarian option of linguine primavera with grilled vegetables in a roasted eggplant bowl is also offered. Be sure to save room for a mouthwatering dessert of chocolate Marjolaine — two layers of chocolate meringue filled with white chocolate mousse, ganache, and dark chocolate ruffles. After dinner, take a spin or two on the dance floor. The cost, which includes full bar service, tax, and gratuity, is $225 per couple.

As another option, bring your significant other or the entire family to Brookfield Zoo on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, for a scrumptious all-you-can-eat champagne brunch. Enjoy an array of delicious items, including eggs Benedict, pancakes, bacon and sausage, Caesar and mixed greens salads, butternut squash soup, made-to-order omelets, smoked salmon, crab cakes, grilled lamb kabobs, shrimp cocktail, round of beef with port wine sauce, and salmon in puff pastry with lingonberries.

A decadent sweets table will feature chocolate fondue dip with fresh fruit, assorted pastries, pretzel sticks, and marshmallow treats. Afterwards, take a stroll through the zoo to see your favorite animals. The cost, which includes zoo admission and parking, is $45 for adults and $35 for children ages 3-11. Children 2 and under eat for free.

Seating is limited and reservations are required for the dinner and the brunch. For further information, including a complete list of menu items, and to make reservations, visit CZS.org/UpcomingEvents or call (708) 688-8355.