Valentine’s Day expected to bring record spending as CT restaurants see busy night

MIDDLETOWN, Conn. (WFSB) - Restaurants across Connecticut wrapped up one of the busiest nights of the year as Valentine’s Day spending was expected to reach record levels.

At Esca Restaurant and Wine Bar in Middletown, owner Elisa Bramato served more than 350 customers in just a few hours.

“It’s been all weekend. We’ve had reservations Friday, Saturday and Sunday,” Bramato said.

The National Retail Federation predicted Valentine’s Day spending to reach $29.1 billion this year, up $1.6 billion from last year. Most people budgeted nearly $200 for gifts.

Couples celebrate across generations

Wesleyan students Teddy Kim and Ilana Chaad planned an indoor date in spite of the cold weather.

“We just went to a dessert place to get fruit mousse and now we’re headed to a pottery class,” Kim said. “Even though it’s cold, but we’re doing all indoor activities.”

For Chaad, it marked her first Valentine’s Day at Wesleyan. “This is my first year at Wesleyan, his second,” she said.

Meanwhile, Frank and Suzanne Czerwinski of Middletown celebrated their 45th year together. When asked about the secret to a successful marriage, Suzanne laughed and said, “tolerance.”

Weather cooperates for busy night

Restaurant owners expressed relief that winter weather stayed away for the holiday. Bramato said good weather was crucial for the busy evening.

“We do not look forward to that [weather] but it hasn’t been too bad so thankfully tonight we have good weather and we are looking forward to all the customers,” Bramato said.