Date night in Richmond

It’s just about Valentine’s Day, which means that it’s that time of year, again. Hey, you don’t have to make excuses to me–I know how busy you are. I know that it’s hard to find the time to plan a romantic evening out that will engender those “warm feelings” in your loved one. So I’ve done it for you!

February 8, 2012; 6:00 AM • by Ross Catrow

It’s just about Valentine’s Day, which means that it’s that time of year, again. Hey, you don’t have to make excuses to me–I know how busy you are. I know that it’s hard to find the time to plan a romantic evening out that will engender those “warm feelings” in your loved one. So I’ve done it for you! Here’s three simple and affordable date night options. You can thank me later.

Bombolini pasta pick up and a movie

Have you guys been to Bombolini yet? No? WELL YOU NEED TO. Situated on the corner of Main and Lombardy (directly across from the RVANews palatial offices) is the spot to pick up fresh pasta and sauces in the Fan. Grab a bit of both, some antipasto for an appetizer, and a bottle of wine. Boom! Homemade Valentine’s Day dinner for two–all for under $35 bucks. On the way home stop by the Redbox and pick up a movie¹ to enjoy while cramming delicious pasta into your pie hole.

Dinner+, two ways

Anyone can take their lover to dinner, but this is Valentine’s Day! Societal pressures dictates that you must ratchet it up a notch–and ratchet ye shall.

First option: Take your stomach (and the stomach of your loved one) over to Garnett’s for their incredible date night special: $30 for any two menu items and a bottle of wine. Then, and here is where it gets next level, grab some coffee to go, and take a romantic stroll–hand-in-hand of course–down historic Monument Avenue.

Second option: You’re going to need all ten fingers for this next one: dinner at Pasture. Pasture focuses on finger foods and small plates with a Southern bent, which is great for sampling most of the menu without having to unbutton your pants (at least until later). But beware! If you and your date can’t agree on the day of the week, picking out a handful of dishes to share may just end your evening (with your pants fully buttoned). After you finish dinner, and this is super next level, head down to Centerstage for Richmond Ballet’s Coppélia.²

Pizza with Shaka Smart

Are you in love with a diehard member of Ram Nation? Well check this out: the big game at George Mason is this Saturday at 9pm. That gives you plenty of time to set the mood and still make it back in time to catch the game (on Comcast SportsNet).

Head down to Strawberry Street between Park and Stuart and you’ll find everything you need to create an evening of romance AND SPORTS. Pick up a pizza from 8 ½, some flowers from Strawberry Fields, and a bottle of wine from the Strawberry Street Vineyard. If basketball isn’t your thing, or if you’re celebrating on some other day, rent a movie from Video Fan.

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Photo by: taberandrew

February 8, 2012 6:00 AM 0