Beautifully redecorated in true Victorian fashion, the first floor features a bar area and dining room that is distinguished by a warm, rich color scheme of red and gold. Faux-painting techniques abound. The works of local artists grace the walls. A marble-framed fireplace is the focal point of the raised area of the dining room. Another fireplace enhances the lower level. The high ceilings provide the room with a spacious, lofty feeling that’s further emphasized by mirrors that are scattered throughout the area.

To emphasize the “entertainment factor,” the entire first-floor area is festively decorated for all the holidays – with the next, of course, being Valentine’s Day. Advance reservations are recommended for the day itself, as well as the weekend preceding it.

The second floor is home to Crazy Shirley’s, the jazz bar/piano lounge named after long-time associate and staff member Shirley Fultineer. The space also hosts functions such as business meetings, private parties and rehearsal dinners.

The menu changes seasonally to take advantage of fresh, local produce. “We’ve been a supporter of ‘Buy Fresh, Buy Local’ for quite some time and Chef Steve Drake [who has been with the restaurant for seven years] has a strong commitment to organic, fresh foods,” Dean explains.

The lunch menu features an array of salads and sandwiches, and the Belvedere’s signature item is its grilled Caesar salad. “For the past 13 years, it’s been the most popular item on our menu,” Dean notes. Other customer favorites include crab dip & bruschetta and mini Kobe burgers (sliders). Dean admits that his favorite is the braised short ribs, which are cooked for four hours in California Madeira.

The dinner menu is where Drake’s talent shines, as he combines classic entrées with the latest trends and influences. For Valentine’s Day, the regular menu will be augmented by several chef’s specials.

The Belvedere also has an extensive martini menu. “The Belvedere is more than just a restaurant. We have a special niche – people come in and have a drink followed by dinner, or dinner and a drink – and then go upstairs to have a martini and listen to jazz,” Dean says. “We also get a number of people coming in for dinner after shows at the Fulton or on First Fridays.”

Belvedere Inn, 402 N. Queen Street, Lancaster.717-394-2422. belvedereinn.biz.