The River Cafe Means Romance (Annie Fitzsimmons)

Life certainly has its highs and lows, doesn't it? (Duh)

This week, in the span of six days, I took four flights, celebrated two birthdays (my husband & his sister share one!), danced at the surprise wedding of one of my best friends (due to very real concerns about her dad's health, they wanted to push the wedding up), and attended the wake and funeral of one of the most important people in my life, my cousin (more like an aunt), Annie Pontrelli.

Annie lived in Brooklyn Heights with her 9-year-old daughter and we always celebrated holidays with them. She was all about family, laughter, debating, and celebrating LIFE. She always treated me like I was the greatest thing that walked the earth. I know all too well that that kind of unconditional love is rare.

The River Cafe, which just might be my favorite restaurant in NYC, had closed because of Hurricane Sandy and we had tried to go together before she died. Unfortunately, it didn't reopen in time.

Andy surprised me with a River Cafe reservation last night for Valentine's Day (does anyone else always go out on the 13th? I don't leave my house on the 14th). I love it so much. It is actually on a barge in the East River, tucked under the Brooklyn Bridge and the dining room is heart-stoppingly romantic, full of flowers, live music, and VIEWS of the twinkling skyline. It isn't cheap but it's absolute heaven for special occasions. I love going at lunch too.

It felt a little empty driving through Brooklyn Heights to get there. New York isn't the same without Annie. But she loved the city, and loving it and exploring it is honoring her.

We went on a snowy, windy, slushy night. That didn't stop me from wearing heels.

Winter night Gorgeous flowers in the entrance - there is a row of tulips that leads you along a red carpet to the dining room.

You won't regret begging for a window seat when you see the views.

Their branzino is one of the signature dishes, and I highly recommend it. The fish is on the bottom, with a layer of shrimp & chorizo goodness, and a crispy crust. But you can never go wrong with lobster.

One of you at the table has to order the signature chocolate Brooklyn Bridge for dessert. I mean...just look at it. It's so much fun (and delicious too, I can confirm).

Geeky Anglophile moment: I'm getting ready to spend two weeks in England in March and I was so excited to see Penhaligon's in the bathroom! They're an English perfume company (and have a royal warrant!). I love the Quercus scent - I wouldn't necessarily use it at home, but it's got a great fresh scent for hotels and restaurants.