It opened 24 years ago in one of the most beautiful locations on the Island. And Lido is still a firm favourite for those going out for a special meal . . . especially for Valentine’s Day.

“This year is going to be extra special on Valentine’s Day (February 14) at Lido,” said general manager Ennio Lucarini. “Of course our executive chef Serge Bottelli will be making a special menu but all the people coming for dinner will have free entry into The Deep, our nightclub. And since Valentine’s Day is on a Friday this year it will be a nice romantic start to the weekend. Of course the DJ will be playing special songs appropriate for Valentine’s Day.”

Mr Lucarini said that while Elbow Beach may be closed, he wanted to emphasise that Lido is open as usual. “People have this big assumption that because the hotel is closed that we are closed as well. But we are not. We are doing business as usual.”

Top chef Mr Bottelli said: “For the big occasions like Valentine’s Day we do a special menu. I also try and follow the trends from around the world on Valentine’s Day and see what I can bring in but we also know what the local trade wants. Most of our customers for dinner on Valentine’s Day tend to be locals and they do eat a little different than say New Yorkers or Londoners. But we also like to keep an eye on what other people around the world are eating. The dinner menu for Valentine’s Day is directed at our clientele. For instance we may have ravioli shaped like a heart. Things like that.”

Adnana Blaj said of opening The Deep nightclub: “It is just a nice way to extend the evening especially since Valentine’s Day is on a Friday night. If people want to go home after dinner they can go but if they want to extend the evening they can do that at The Deep and dance the night away. We have the luxury to have The Deep right here and the parking is also very good at Lido.”

Mr Lucarini added: “Of course after dinner some couples, depending on the weather, may want to take a romantic walk on the beach and then head to The Deep. Everything you need is right here.”

They will be serving dinner, starting at 6.30pm, indoors but as Mr Lucarini said: “It is still beautiful. The beach is lit up and we have these big windows. It is like being outside but without the cold. The view is stunning . . . perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.”

To start the dinner there will be the ‘Bottelli cocktail’ which is Prosecco Sparkling Wine and Peach Nectar and then the real fun begins.

Starters include Poached Jumbo Shrimp with sauces along with House Cured Salmon and Caviar Creme Fraiche. Then there is the Pumpkin and Ricotta Cheese filled Ravioli.

Second course includes White Bean and Truffle Soup or Arugula, Frisee and Spinach Salad with a Lemon Grass Vinaigrette while the main course includes Herb coated and Roasted Black Cod, Charcoal Grilled Angus Sirlion with a Pink Peppercorn Sauce or Freee Range Chicken Supreme filled with Wild Mushrooms.

Of course the dessert will be extra special and you will have to go there to find out exactly what Mr Bottelli has dreamed up!