Valentine’s Day is a time to show love, gratitude and affection to the ones you adore. While some may celebrate with a romantic dinner at a fancy restaurant, others may focus on friends. This year, if you’re not spending it with a partner, embrace the cultural approach of celebrating platonic love instead!
In Finland, 14th February is a “Friends Day”. In Guatemala it is known as the Day of Love and Friendship, in Argentina it’s referred to as “a Week of Sweetness”, and in Estonia they describe it as “a Festival for Everyone.” To acknowledge love and connection, you really don’t need a romantic partner, so this year let’s all acknowledge the people and places we adore!
This exciting day is fast approaching, and we’re sure you’ve seen stuffed toys and heart shaped candies flooding the stores. However, while gifts are always welcome, we’ve got some ideas for you to make Valentine’s Day a little more memorable this year. Here are some of our ideas to ensure your day is fun and meaningful, while avoiding the Valentine’s Day clichés.
A sunset stroll on the Sea Point promenade
The beautiful Sea Point Promenade is right on our doorstep but is so often overlooked. Take your partner, or friends, for an evening walk and spend some alone time together to really connect. Long walks are the perfect activity to strengthen a relationship and share stories while unwinding at the same time. Studies have shown that talking while walking allows for more vulnerable information to be shared, and greater intimacy created, as people feel more liberated when not maintaining eye contact. Fresh air, inspiring views, and a bit of gentle exercise is always a great combination.
Sundowners and snacks with a view at Sotano
Set opposite the iconic lighthouse, Sotano in Mouille Point is the perfect spot for a glass of wine and some afternoon tapas. From there, you can watch the sun sinking over the Atlantic Ocean in a relaxed setting. Their Pintxos Platter, consisting of hake croquettes, grilled baby aubergine, lamb meatballs, olive bread and more is the perfect feast of treats to enjoy while soaking up the afternoon sun. Be sure to book, as this spot will be especially popular on Valentine’s Day!
Phone: 021 433 1757
Address: 121 Beach Rd, Mouille Point, Cape Town, 8005
An indoor picnic in the comfort of your home
If you want to do something meaningful, but avoid the crowds, why not organise an intimate dinner in the comfort of your living room? Any space can become a hotspot for connecting and relaxing! Whether you’re sharing the night with a partner or some friends, throw a couple of cushions onto the floor, clear the coffee table and string up some twinkling lights for instant atmosphere.
Why not start the evening with a classic cheese board? A little wheel of brie, some almonds, grapes, olives and water crackers for everyone to nibble on as you swap stories and catch up. For a real picnic vibe, stick to finger foods like melon, mozzarella and prosciutto skewers, or mini bacon and cheddar quiches. It’s a special day, so of course dessert’s a must! We suggest fresh pastries from Giovannis Deli World, which always go down a treat!
A luxurious dinner at Pigalle
For a dreamy evening of good food and soft lighting, Pigalle offers a beautiful out of town experience. Their award-winning dining experience includes red velvet carpets, live music and dancing. Upon arrival, be sure to order one of their delicious cocktails. We love the Louis Armstrong, made with Woodford Reserve, Amaretto, pineapple, lemon, and mint. For dinner, we recommend sharing their seafood platter for two, where you can indulge in a healthy plate of baby lobster, prawns, langoustines, line fish, calamari and mussels, so come hungry! Pigalle may be a little over the top for a casual meal, but it’s worth it for a celebration of your loved one on this special day!
Phone: 021 421 4848
Address: 51A Somerset Rd, Green Point, Cape Town, 8051