With small-plate restaurants popping up everywhere these days, sometimes it’s easy to forget the pleasure afforded by large plates. A romantic dinner is made even more so when you share a single delicious dish. And if you’ve forgotten the fun of going halves on a roast chicken or an airy souffle, plenty of Bay Area restaurants haven’t. Order these dishes for two, and you won’t have to worry about stretching across the table for a bite. For two people who finish not only each other’s sentences but also each other’s dinners, these restaurants are the perfect places to celebrate.

French kiss

Cafe Jacqueline would be among the most romantic restaurants in town even if it weren’t for the creamy souffles at the menu’s heart. Order the delectable crab souffle ($50); you’ll have plenty of time to gaze into each other’s eyes before it arrives, puffed, browned, and rich with crabmeat. The only thing better is the chocolate souffle for dessert ($30). Technically, it’s big enough for three or four people, but my husband and I were enchanted enough to spoon up every sweet bite. Special menu on Valentine’s Day. Dinner Tue-Sun; reservations required.