This Valentine’s Day, challenge yourself to create a romantic evening meal that’s more than just the usual for this holiday. Don’t just buy a dozen red roses, set some music, and order in! Instead, get a little more creative with romantic dinner ideas that cater to your partner’s needs and interests.
If you’re feeling lost, this list has a few romantic dinner ideas that can help you out. Explore these recommendations and get inspired to create a new and unique experience for both you and your partner this Valentine’s Day.
Picnic in the Park
You’ve probably had a picnic at a local park or beach before. But when it comes to a Valentine’s Day picnic, you need to elevate your game. Instead of a checkered blanket and disposable tableware, pack up the car with some poufs and a small table to create a cozy, comfortable seating area.
You should also get a large picnic basket that can hold real utensils, serving bowls and platters, and glasses — along with all the food you plan on bringing. And don’t forget to grab a lantern so you can see each other and create a romantic ambiance in the dark.
Some other thoughtful touches that can enhance your Valentine’s Day picnic include:
- Bluetooth speaker to play music
- Tealights and rose petals to decorate the table
- Blankets in case it gets cold
- Cold and hot drinks to pair with the meal and dessert
Balcony or Rooftop Dinner
Whether you opt for a restaurant with a view, use your own balcony, or borrow a friend’s rooftop, this is a super romantic dinner idea for Valentine’s Day. Being outside offers a refreshing and unique perspective that you may have forgotten when eating all your meals indoors.
If you’re setting up this dinner yourself, you might want to make it easier to plan by ordering takeout and focusing most of your energy on the ambiance. Create a romantic setup with a beautiful table and tablecloth, along with a backdrop or arch. This type of decor is perfect if you have a special proposal in mind!
Four-Course Home-Cooked Meal
Cooking for your partner takes particular thought and consideration. It goes above and beyond simply paying for a fancy meal. When you have to create the menu, purchase all the ingredients, and follow recipes, you show your partner that you genuinely care about their needs by putting extra time and effort into a Valentine’s Day meal.
Your four-course meal should include an amuse-bouche, appetizer, entree, over-the-top dessert, and a few drink pairings that suit your preferences and budget. If the two of you love wine, you can get a bottle for every course. Is your partner sober? There are unique non-alcoholic drink pairings for every type of meal, including flavored sparkling waters, specialty lemonade mixes, and non-alcoholic cocktails.
Michelin Star Restaurant
If you don’t eat out very often, dinner at a restaurant is much more special than a home-cooked meal. Instead of going to any old restaurant in your neighborhood, consider one with outstanding reviews and special dishes — like a Michelin Star restaurant. If you’re eating out so rarely, make this occasion outstanding when you splurge a little bit more.
Keep in mind that restaurants book up quickly during this romantic holiday, especially five-star eateries. So make your reservation extra early to guarantee you’ll have a space.
Virtual Cooking Class
Just because you’re the one planning a romantic night doesn’t mean your partner can’t participate. A virtual cooking class is a great idea for Valentine’s Day because you get to bond while learning something new. So sign up for a class that introduces you to new flavors and techniques!
You may want to set up your table with linens and tableware ahead of time so that you can simply plate your meal and enjoy it in a romantic environment as soon as the class is over. Keep up the Valentine’s Day theme with table decor like a bouquet of roses, fancy silverware, and candles.
Spa Night with Snacks
For this romantic dinner idea, you can focus on pampering your partner or creating a spa night that both of you can enjoy. Prep snacks and food that can sit out until you’re ready to eat, or choose items that you can nibble on throughout the night. Focus on cold appetizers, like gazpacho, cheese boards, and veggie platters.
With your food ready to go, plan a series of spa activities that make you feel relaxed and refreshed. Consider these favorites:
- A bubble bath with aromatherapy
- Store-bought or homemade face masks
- A foot and hand scrub
- A massage with scented oils
Don’t forget to set the mood with dimmed lights, light music, and rose petals in every corner!
It’s Your Night
Do any of these ideas appeal to you? Leave a comment about your favorite below!