I also like the Lake Route Cafe in the Rainier Beach area. Not as polished as Geraldine's but good food at great prices.
http://www.epinions.com/rest-Restaurants-All-Lake_Route_Cafe

I had less than stellar breakfast/brunch experiences at The Wellington in Columbia City and Susan's 1500 Bistro in Seward Park but you could give 'em a try.
http://thewellington.biz/
http://www.susans5100bistro.com/

Heads up that Lark is hosting their 2nd Annual Whole Beast Dinner on valentine's day and I believe it's by reservation only.

http://www.larkseattle.com/events.html

Can't go wrong with French...maybe Place Pigalle, Le Pichet or cozy up in a corner @ Sambar?

Should you not want to drive three hours north, Seattle's Cafe Campagne will actually send their cassoulet to you:
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/food/29...

Ravishing Radish and Lisa Dupar are both great.
Lowell Hunt is excellent (now just run by Lowell but still fabulous).
I've also enjoyed food from Herban Feast, City Catering Company and Blue Willow Catering. Blue Willow is also not likely to break the bank if that's a concern.

Collins Pub in the Smith Tower does a reliably terrific burger.
The lamb burger @ Moxie is yummy and available during their happy hour for a superb price.
Cascadia mini burgers are great fun for happy hour, too.
Hattie's Hat in Ballard used to make a superb blue cheese bacon burger but I haven't been there lately to know if it's still a) on the menu and b) all that.

Matt's would be terrific for solo, as would Palace Kitchen.

For the group I would also suggest Brasa and Marco's Supper Club.

I've not been to Veil but understand from others that it's a place to go for special occasions - sort of precious and definitely pricey. Wild Ginger would be great for your group meal.

Old School Pizzeria in Olympia is worth a visit, too. Great on road trips 'twixt PDX and Seattle.

All Purpose Pizza is pretty tasty but may not hit the spot for those loyal to Chicago or New York style pies.