Late last year, we presented some date ideas that ran through April. The show that was highlighted for February is opening at the Kranzberg, so we decided to bring the article back. To find an article about romantic theater offerings, click here .

February Fling

City Diner and HotCity Theatre's "Why Torture Is Wrong and the People Who Love Them" at the Kranzberg Arts Center

By the time this play arrives at the Kranzberg Arts Center February 12 (runs through February 27), City Diner's new second location will be serving up its renowned all-day breakfasts and blue plate specials in Grand Center. "Why Torture Is Wrong and the People Who Love Them," a satiric look at the "War on Terror," tells the story of a young woman plagued by suspicions that her new husband and possibly her own father are actually terrorists. Get ready for this dark comedy in the cold of winter with a warm cup of chili ($3), a grilled polenta appetizer ($6.50), a meatloaf dinner ($8.50) and a roasted veggie sandwich ($7.25). A Bud Light ($3.50) and a Rolling Rock (3.75) complete this rock 'n' roll dining experience.

March Meetup

Las Margaritas and Avalon Theatre's "The Country Girl" at the ArtSpace at Crestwood Court

Whether an aging actor's spouse is a supportive wife or a major career hindrance is the crux of "The Country Girl," to be produced March 11 through 28 in this venue inside the former Crestwood Mall. Before enjoying this story of a man poised for a late-in-life comeback under the scrutiny of his young director, stop by Las Margaritas for some south-of-the-border cheer. What better way to begin than to dip your chips in some queso ($3.25), followed by a shrimp chimichanga ($8.49) and enchiladas rancheras ($6.99), perhaps with a chili relleno on the side ($2.75)? Enjoy this Mexican bounty with a jumbo margarita ($7.49) and a Tecate cerveza ($3.25).

April Affair

Katie's Pizzeria and New Line Theatre's "The Wild Party" at the CBC Theatre

Meaningless sex, drugs, jealousy, betrayal and murder are the ingredients of "The Wild Party," presented by New Line Theatre April 22 through May 15. In the "Chicago" meets "Cabaret" musical, the party to end all parties is the ultimate showdown between two vaudevillians. On the way to this unorthodox romp, check out Katie's Pizzeria, where you can choose from among numerous unconventional pies. For a twist on a St. Louis favorite, sample the gorgonzola and artichoke toasted ravioli with pesto dipping sauce ($8). Follow that up with a pizza topped by fingerling potatoes, parsnips, pancetta, parmiggiano, onion and rosemary ($16.95). Toast to decadence with a glass of pinot noir ($8.50 each).

Check your calendar or take your relationship's temperature: Is it time for a date night? If so, start saving up for a special evening of dinner and theater during the holiday season -- or make it a resolution for 2010. Numerous local theatre venues are conveniently located near some great eateries -- many within walking distance.

December Date Duo

Almond's restaurant and New Jewish Theatre's "Brooklyn Boy" at Clayton High School Theatre

Reading like the plot of a Dickens novel, "Brooklyn Boy," onstage December 2 to 20, portrays "the best of times" and "the worst of times" as it explores the life of a writer who hits the bestseller list just as the rest of his life is crumbling. Prior to this exploration of fame, friends and family, enjoy the comfort food of Almonds restaurant, known for several "bests" including their mashed potatoes. Popular entrees include the $13.95 pan-fried chicken and the $19.95 peppercorn filet. Split an order of crab cakes ($7.95) and a chopped veggie salad ($5.95) and savor a glass of wine ($7 each) to complete a satisfying pre-theater meal for two.

January Gig

Van Goghz Martini Bar and Bistro and Stray Dog's "Sister Ignatius Explains It All for You" at Tower Grove Abbey

Before you see Stray Dog Theatre Company's holiday hoot about sin, redemption and homemade cookies at Tower Grove Abbey December 3-19, head over to Van Goghz. Two can share an eclectic $13 Tapas Flight trio, choosing from among coconut shrimp, spanakopita and portabella puffs, to name a few. Split a pulled pork, vegetarian or other pizzeta for $8 and wash down dinner with a couple of martinis: perhaps the Almond Bar ($8.50) and a Pineapple Cosmo ($7).