White Castle and beyond: How Staten Island celebrated Valentine’s Day 2026 (92 photos)

After weeks of cold weather across Staten Island, residents embraced warmer temperatures on February 14th to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The day saw expressions of love and affection through romantic dinners, gift-giving, and, for some, a significant life milestone.

A Day for Celebrating Love

Valentine’s Day is traditionally a time to honor love in all its forms – for partners, family, and friends. Restaurants across Staten Island experienced increased business as people sought special meals to mark the occasion, often featuring symbols of love like hearts and flowers.

Weddings and Last-Minute Gifts

For Christine Russo, a fourth-grade teacher, and Dr. Matthew Barreto, a pediatrician, Valentine’s Day marked the beginning of their married life. The couple, who met ten years prior at Tottenville High School, chose the date because, as Dr. Barreto stated, they “love each other more than you can ever imagine.” Meanwhile, WCBS-FM radio personality Joe Causi and his wife of 41 years, Lucille, made a quick trip to Target for a forgotten gift, recognising that “nobody should ever be forgotten on Valentine’s Day.”

Did You Know? Mario and Barbara Belluomo have made Valentine’s Day at White Castle a five-year tradition.

Traditions and Community

Jeffrey Moran was seen purchasing flowers and a teddy bear for his mother, demonstrating the day’s broader focus on familial affection. For some, Valentine’s Day involved upholding cherished traditions. Lorraine Green and Charles Scheffold traveled from Brooklyn to Staten Island’s White Castle, a nostalgic trip as their local branch is now closed. They described the experience as a return to their youth.

White Castle: A Valentine’s Destination

White Castle in Grant City transformed into a “Love Castle” for the evening, offering hostess seating, table-side service, and Valentine’s Day decorations. Fans who secured reservations enjoyed the restaurant’s signature sliders – 2×2-inch square beef patties steamed with onions. Elise Crossen worked at the grill, serving both dine-in and drive-through customers.

Expert Insight: The enduring popularity of traditions, like the Valentine’s Day visit to White Castle, highlights the human need for connection and shared experiences, particularly during times that call for celebration. These rituals provide a sense of comfort and continuity.

Local Restaurants Embrace the Day

Canlon’s Restaurant in Oakwood welcomed a steady stream of guests, prompting chef and owner Eddie Canlon to bring in extra staff. Over the past 40 years, Canlon’s has been the site of numerous proposals and engagements, with couples often returning to celebrate future Valentine’s Days with their families. Canlon created special dishes for the occasion, including a “Cupid’s Arrow” appetizer and a “Love Potion” cocktail.

Corrado’s Cucina in Greenridge also saw increased activity, with owner Frank Cina offering a special menu featuring filet mignon, lobster tail, and heart-shaped ravioli. Chef Giovanni Amato, originally from Palermo, Sicily, worked to serve the restaurant’s Italian community. Bartender Sidney Rodriguez prepared specialty drinks.

Lobster House Joe’s, located under the Outerbridge Crossing, drew diners with its fresh seafood offerings. Owners Joe and Joann Barzo featured a two-and-a-half-pound lobster special for $99. Blue Pearl in Stapleton, a newer establishment, offered oysters and a variety of dishes, including lamb, chicken, and vegan options. Regulars Laura Morton and Jim Columbo enjoyed Valentine’s Day drinks, describing the restaurant as having a “cool vibe.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of restaurants were busy on Valentine’s Day?

Restaurants across Staten Island, including White Castle, Canlon’s Restaurant, Corrado’s Cucina, and Lobster House Joe’s, were busy serving diners on Valentine’s Day.

Where did Lorraine Green and Charles Scheffold travel from to celebrate at White Castle?

Lorraine Green and Charles Scheffold traveled from Brooklyn to Staten Island to visit White Castle.

What special dishes were offered at Canlon’s Restaurant?

Canlon’s Restaurant offered a “Cupid’s Arrow” appetizer, an “Adam and Eve” gluten-free dish, and a “Love Potion” cocktail.

How do you typically celebrate Valentine’s Day, and what traditions do you cherish most?