Do Valentine’s Day your way

Valentine’s Day is often synonymous with candlelit dinners at bustling restaurants, but it doesn’t have to be. If sitting in a restaurant with 30 other couples, dodging waiters, and making awkward eye contact with strangers is not your idea of romance, why not turn your kitchen into a five-star restaurant?

Pick a theme—such as Italian, French, or Japanese—find a few exciting recipes, and cook a meal together. Light some candles, put on a romantic playlist, and enjoy a cozy, intimate dinner at home.

Just make sure you and your partner agree on who’s doing the dishes afterwards, or the romance might fizzle faster than an open bottle of sparkling wine!

If that is too daunting for you, why not order food from a restaurant and use the ‘good’ plates for it? You know, the ones that only come out for special occasions—like Christmas, anniversaries, and when your in-laws visit. Get a nice bottle of wine, dim the lights, and create your own ambience at home. Bonus points if you pretend to be a waiter and dramatically present the meal with a fake French accent.

For those who appreciate convenience, supermarkets like Marks & Spencer offer Dinner for Two ready-made meals that take the pressure off entirely.

I, for one, loved it when Mr T cooked a Valentine’s dinner for me. I was not allowed in the kitchen (probably for my own safety) but was handed a glass of prosecco and told to wait in the living room. The noises from the kitchen were… concerning, and I may have learned some new curse words while he tried to decipher a recipe.

After what can only be described as a dramatic (or traumatic) culinary adventure, the result was absolutely delicious. Granted, he could have fed a small army with the volume of food, but it was made with love. Plus, we didn’t have to queue for a table or be politely told to leave before the next seating.

But who says Valentine’s must be about dinner? How about a Valentine’s breakfast? A heart-shaped stack of pancakes, some fresh fruit, and a generous serving of coffee could be the perfect way to start the day.

For those who would rather skip the romantic festivities altogether, why not gather your besties for a Galentine’s celebration? Some restaurants are even happy to host larger groups or a potluck party ensures that no one is stuck stressing over the stove, and everyone gets to enjoy a variety of dishes.

I have fond memories of my friend Wendy’s legendary potluck parties—she wasn’t one to cook, but she sure knew how to throw a gathering. Thanks to her talented friends, I’ve enjoyed everything from Italian desserts to Polish cookies and beyond.

At the end of the day, Valentine’s should be about joy, laughter, and making memories—whether it’s with a partner, your friends, or just treating yourself. So, ditch the stress, embrace the fun, and celebrate love in all its forms—love, friendship, fun, and a deep appreciation for good food.