where to party: v-day edition

OK, so this radio station's decision to give away a free divorce for Valentine's Day might kind of put the holiday in jeopardy...but don't lose faith entirely. Plenty of Columbus hot spots are celebrating tonight.

Here are my picks for the best local parties:

*Operating on a motto of "love stinks"? Hit up Soho Bar & Grill, 5751 Milgen Road, for a Classically Raunchy Valentine Party. You can look forward to Pabst Blue Ribbon, pork skins and rock music from Echovalve. There's also roses, candlelight and champagne in Dixie cups. 706-568-3316.

*If you're looking for something a little more refined, try dinner at a local restaurant. Among the options is the newly remodeled Buckhead Grill, 5010 Armour Road, where you can expect the usual fine dining menu plus some specials. 706-571-9995.

*Ben's Chophouse, 5300 Sidney Simons Blvd., will also offer some extra food specials. Musician Jared Averett will perform. 706-256-0466.

* If you're opting for uniqueness, go for the dinner special at the Shanty Shack, 4475 Warm Springs Road. From 6 to 10 p.m., you can get two 12-ounce ribeye steaks, two baked potatoes, two side salads, two pieces of Texas toast and two miniature bottles of champagne -- for a total of $29.95. 706-507-3418.

*The Mediterranean Cafe, located in the same shopping complex as Ben's Chophouse, has a special five-course Valentine's menu that includes appetizers, salads, soups, entrees and desserts. It's $49.95 per couple, $26.95 for singles. Pipers Down and Big Saxy will perform beginning at 9:30 p.m. 706-320-9111.

*Diners at Mediterranean eatery Mario's Restaurant & Pop, 1010 Broadway, can look forward to a special dinner featuring an appetizer plate, salad, entree, dessert and a glass of champagne. It's $19.99 per person. 706-571-9830.

*Meritage Cafe, 1350 13th Street, has an extensive Valentine's Day menu spanning seven courses. It's $140 per couple. 706-327-0707.

*Seafood restaurant The Market, 4403 17th Ave., will get a fresh shipment of fish, making for specials ranging from horseradish-encrusted grouper to twice-baked lobster. The specials will be offered throughout the weekend as well. Make sure you have a special bottle of wine ready for your sweetheart at this bring-your-own-beverage restaurant. 706-320-9733.

*The Hilton Garden Inn, 1500 Bradley Lake Blvd., has a dinner for two that includes a petite filet and shrimp scampi surf and turf, a bottle of wine and dipped strawberries. It's $79.95. 706-660-1000.

*Caffe Amici, 2301 Airport Thruway, will have some extra food specials to complement its menu of Italian cuisine. 706-653-6361.

*Finally, end your night by stopping at cigar and martini bar Belloo's, 900 Front Ave., where you can catch a performance by Las Vegas songstress Rita Graham beginning at 8:30 p.m. There's no cover, and ladies get a gift card for the bar. 706-494-1584.