You may think Valentine’s Day is a crass cash grab or a silly pink holiday that celebrates antiquated notions of romantic relationships. I wouldn’t disagree, but a day that celebrates love is always a good thing.
Creating a romantic experience that woos someone new or renews a longtime love is a beautiful gesture. What better way to show your affection than planning a great meal?
Here are options for people celebrating years together or someone trying to attract a potential lover this Feb. 14. I’ve included places to dine out that still have reservations available, spots to grab a few things to easily heat up and assemble at home, inspiration for someone interested in doing the least and a coffee date option for a more low-key encounter.
Go out
The Sedgwick (801 Washington St., Vancouver; 360-433-9776) typically only takes reservations for parties of eight or more, but for Valentine’s Day, the restaurant is accepting reservations for all party sizes by phone. Shareable plates such as duck fat fries in a fennel peppercorn gravy ($15), baked brie with lavender peppercorn honey, tamarind chutney, ginger pear chutney and housemade focaccia ($20), as well as larger dishes including ribeye in a coffee coriander crust with pistachio chimichurri and calabrese romesco ($58) make for a lovely dinner for two. The Sedgwick is also offering a special menu of aphrodisiacs.