Romantic Dining & Romantic Restaurants

Food... the tastes, textures, and heavenly scents of freshly prepared food is one of the joys that can enhance a special romantic occasion. Romantic dining offers couples a way to relax and be catered to, enjoying attentive but discreet service, a glass of wine, and a sumptuous meal with the person you love. If you're looking for a quiet way to celebrate a special occasion, a romantic dining experience may just be what you're looking for.

Dining Out

Some romantic hotels offer on-site restaurants as well - or even room service for those who prefer to dine in the privacy of their rooms. Whether you want to head down to the dining room to enjoy the ambiance or the views, or you want to sleep in and have breakfast delivered to your room... here are a few tips to help you plan your romantic dining experience:

• Give advance notice. Make reservations early, even several weeks ahead if you'll be patronizing a popular restaurant. For couples who will be dining at small restaurants with set menus, or at bed & breakfasts, mention any special requests (or allergies to certain foods) early so that they can see if they will be able to accommodate you.

• Check around for your ultimate romantic restaurant. Some couples love a secluded little restaurant tucked in by the water. Others may prefer sweeping night-time views of the city lights, from a restaurant perched high above the city.

• Be flexible. If you find a wonderful restaurant that you absolutely must try, be flexible about what time you'll dine - popular restaurants are often booked solid and may have to try to "fit you in". Use the time while you wait to enjoy a glass of wine together, or go for a romantic stroll hand-in-hand.

• If budget is a concern, try breakfast, lunch, or even brunch. Many delectable menu options are available all day long, and your romantic meal does not necessarily need to be dinner. Have a romantic meal early in the day and spend the rest of your day exploring the local sights and sounds, or just have a lazy day relaxing with your sweetheart.

Preparing a Romantic Meal
(or Having One Prepared For You!)

Your accommodation may provide a kitchen (or kitchenette), but even if you don't have access to one, you can still have a perfectly great romantic meal - prepared just for you!

• Ask the on-site restaurant (or other local romantic restaurants or cafes) if they'll pack a meal for you. They may be able to assemble a goodie basket that you can take with you for a romantic outdoor picnic by the water, from a mountaintop viewpoint, or in a secluded spot just for the two of you.

• Check out the local gourmet food stores. Many carry delicious sandwiches or freshly prepared "take-away" meals and desserts, as well as salads, dressings, and beverages of all types.

• Prepare the meal yourself, keeping it simple whenever you can. Instead of spending all your time in the kitchen, spend it together, so try to go for easy but tasty meals ... and share the preparation!

  Check for fresh in-season fruit (perhaps dipped in a chocolate fondue?); grill up some steaks or other fresh cuts of meat or fish; toss together a nice light salad; and prepare a delicious but easy dessert such as a chilled chocolate mousse. If you're short on time, you can purchase some of your meal from a gourmet shop or one of the local romantic restaurants... and the time you save can be spent together instead!

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Heavenly Hideaways - Romantic Getaways and Honeymoon Resorts! Many luxury and private hotels, resorts, and other accommodations offer on-site romantic dining options. A quiet, romantic restaurant can help make your special occasion even more memorable.