How to Stage a Romantic Dinner at Home

romantic dinner

It's nearly Valentine's Day! But it can be hard to feel especially romantic when you're eating at your kitchen counter with the TV on in the background and checking your Instagram feed. A little preparation can go a long way toward setting the stage for a romantic dinner at home. Here are some of our best tips:

  1. Choose a simple but elegant menu. Unless you love to whip up gourmet meals, the frustration of trying a new, complicated recipe will put a damper on your lovely evening. Stick with a classic favorite, like spaghetti and meatballs (à la Lady and the Tramp), chicken parmesan, or oven-roasted salmon with potatoes and veggies. To elevate your dish, try out new spice blends, add an edible garnish, or pair your meal with a particularly nice bottle of wine. (If you are simply not a chef, order take-out and skip to step 2.)

  2. Plate your food. Part of the reason food feels decadent at a restaurant is that it's presented beautifully, so pull out your serving platters, butter dish, and crystal glasses. To plate your food, think about playing with color, texture, and height (stacking food is often a better look than spreading). Consider the rule of threes— odd numbers tend to catch the eye. Use precision tongs to place items on the plate in the exact configuration you want. And, finally, leave room around the edge of the plate, allowing it to frame the food.

  3. Create ambiance. Pick a space that feels different from your usual routine. Perhaps you'll choose to eat in your dining room or on your patio rather than in your kitchen. Dim the lights and light candles if available. If you don't have candles, swap harsh overhead lights for lamps to create a softer glow. Extra touches like a tablecloth and cloth napkins can make the occasion feel more formal. Select a soundtrack that's cheerful but not distracting, so you and your partner can carry on a conversation—Spotify and Apple Music have great dinner party playlists.

  4. Turn off your devices. There's nothing less romantic than getting a news alert or a text in the middle of your Valentine's dinner. Put your phones out of sight and take time to talk, laugh, relax, and enjoy each other's company.

  5. Include the kids (or not). When Valentine's Day falls on a Tuesday, a babysitter may be hard to come by. If your kids are celebrating with you, get them involved in preparations. They can create decorations, design place cards, and learn how to set a table. They may also enjoy dressing up for the occasion, either in a fancy outfit or their favorite costume.

This is the perfect recipe for a stress-free romantic dinner on Valentine's Day or any other day you want to celebrate. But if you'd rather avoid having to wash dishes, call The Leaf for reservations— we would be delighted to make your Valentine's Day special!

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest specials and new menu items. Make your reservations at OpenTable or by calling 330-804-0126. Interested in holding your next event at The Leaf? We are happy to accommodate larger parties or planned gatherings.

Jason Stine