Valentine’s Day will be upon us in just over a week, and while you may be thinking “Oh, I have plenty of time,” procrastinating would be a mistake. For one, it gets harder to make reservations anywhere as we get closer to the date, and second, it just sounds impressive to be able to say to your loved one “Babe, I’ve made special plans for us for Valentine’s Day.” Sure, you could make reservations at a restaurant, and that would be fine, but I’ve come up with a list of 5 interesting date ideas, with input from my husband, Nick.
1. Cheese Tasting at L’Albatros Brasserie: This is one of my Top 3 restaurants in Cleveland. Not only is it a little taste of France, but the restaurant has a reputation for carrying some of the BEST cheeses in Cleveland. Grab yourself a glass (or bottle) of wine from their extensive selection, and ask the fromagier (that’s a cheese expert) for his/her recommendations! Its fun to pick out cheeses with your date, and the presentation is really impressive. Did I mention the cheese will BLOW. YOUR. MIND!?
2. Parisian Desserts at Coquette Patisserie: This small yet charming spot specializes in wine, oysters and the most decedent, delicious french pastries and desserts that are almost too pretty to eat! Live dangerously and get dessert for dinner!
3. Spend some time outside at the Tobaggan Chutes: Now this only works when the temperature isn’t below zero, but what better way to get some adrenaline pumping that flying down a hillside at over 50 miles/hour!! If you want to get really fancy, you could even do a private rental
4. Play some games at Superelectric Pinball, 16-Bit Bar, or TableTop: Whether you prefer pinball, arcade games or board games, these three venues have you covered. A little friendly competition always makes for a fun evening, although if you or your date are super competitive, I would perhaps reschedule this for another time.
5. Get tickets to a show: There are a number of theatre options in Cleveland from Playhouse Square (presenting The King & I) to smaller venues like Near West Theater. A full list of performing arts venues is available here.
There you have it: 5 fun and interesting date ideas for Valentine’s Day, or date night for almost any time of year! Do you have any favorite date spots in Northeast Ohio?
Disclosure: This post is adapted from a version that appeared in the Bombay Taxi Boutique Blog in January, 2016. For thoughtful Valentine’s Day gift ideas under $50, visit this post.