The SpeakEZ Lounge, a restaurant and bar at 600 Monroe Ave. NW in downtown Grand Rapids, is a phenomenal setting to eat, especially with Valentine’s day right around the corner. From the wide variety of beer and wine to the eclectic food, and dim mood lighting, the “speakeasy” style pub setting will send you and your significant other on a simply romantic venture.

SpeakEZ Lounge is following Michigan restaurant guidelines remaining at 25 percent capacity, which is around 42 people for their Lounge. The atmosphere is very safe, with tables remaining six feet apart. Employees also thoroughly sanitized tables and seats in between customers. Walking into the Lounge, it is required for customers to have a mask on (though obviously, eating and drinking is a “masks off” activity).

TheSpeakEZ Lounge is a unique atmosphere with live music filling the air right as you eat. A variety of local musicians come in and jam out while you enjoy good conversation, excellent speedy service and delicious food. The lights are low, and there is a moody feeling throughout the Lounge.

The Lounge has a signature cocktail menu with modern cocktails along with old time favorites. There is something for just about anyone’s taste buds. SpeakEZ also offers twelve savory craft beer taps and an outstanding collection of wine.

Not looking for something to drink? Lucky for you, SpeakEZ has hot savory grilled sandwiches, premium salads and unique entrees. These all feature fresh-sliced deli meat, veggies and their famous house-made signature sauces and dressings. The lounge also has several specialty handcrafted meals perfect to share with your significant other, or to gobble down yourself.

SpeakEZ Lounge isn’t your average joe pub. This restaurant brings character, live music, drinks made with passion and flare. Their food options offer casual as well as high class. Some of their signature favorites are the Pesto Pasta Primavera, the California Club Wrap, and my favorite: “The Greenbrier,” which features seared medallions of fresh-cut beef tenderloin with brussel sprouts, bacon, green apple and garlic-wilted spinach sautéed in a balsamic reduction.

The restaurant also caters to your sweet tooth; and let’s be honest fellas, that’s usually what your woman is looking forward to (especially on Valentine’s Day). SpeakEZ offers a flourless chocolate torte served with blackberry sauce, chocolate chip cookie cake with house-made chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream, and a seasonal crème brûlée.

SpeakEZ Lounge is usually closed on Sundays, but on Valentines day: Sunday, Feb. 14, they are keeping their doors open. SpeakEZ is certainly ready to roll and create a special evening for couples that they just won’t forget.