How to do Valentine's Day right

By Ben Salzer

Whether it’s your first date or your fiftieth, these three foolproof nights will ensure a cute ‘cupload’ and maybe even a call back this Valentine’s Day.

It may be a classic, but dinner and a movie is always a good call. One of my favorite movie theatres is the Bryn Mawr Film Institute, famous for Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence’s scene in Silver Linings Playbook. Not only does it show all the great new movies, but it also boasts spectacular architecture. Parking is easy in Bryn Mawr, as there are free spots behind the theatre. Even easier, a great restaurant, Verdad, is just three doors down. Make sure to get a reservation because it’s quite a popular spot. I would recommend ordering the Papas Fritas as an appetizer, and then choosing three different tacos (especially on Taco Tuesday, when tacos are only two dollars!). My favorites are the mahi-mahi fish and the beef. After some delicious tacos and good chitchat, head on down to the theatre early enough to get that perfect middle seat behind the railing, where you can put your feet up and relax. The seating is extremely comfortable, so sit back, eat your popcorn, and enjoy. This date is perfect for a low stress, low budget, and informal night.

A little more ambitious, night two takes place in Center City. If you’re feeling bold and are a stud parallel parker, then drive down and park around Rittenhouse Square. But if you’re like me and would rather do without the stress of city driving and parking, I suggest taking the “el” down to 13th street station, because it’s pretty cheap and easy to figure out. Then, take a short walk to Steven Starr’s Continental. Although it sounds super fancy, the attire is actually quite casual. Ask the maître d’ to sit in the hanging chairs on the second floor—you’ll know what I mean when you get there. The unique décor does not disappoint, and neither does the spectacular food. The shoestring fries are a must, as well as the lobster mac and cheese, but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. After a short walk around Rittenhouse Square to work off the meal, head to Capogiro’s for some gelato, an incredibly creamy and tasty Italian variation of ice cream. My favorite is the dulce de leche, but I’ve heard good things about the mango. Many people see a date in the city as difficult and stressful, but this night is original, easy to manage, and most importantly, a great time.

If you want to bump it up another notch, try ice-skating and dinner in Old City. Bundle up in your puffiest coat, gloves, and a warm hat because there will be plenty of outdoor activity. Hop on the regional rail at Wynnewood, Merion, or Narberth, and pay the five dollars for the train ride down to Suburban Station. Next, follow the signs towards City Hall to find Dilworth Park. The ice rink, located in front of City Hall for a limited time (until February 22), is a popular attraction. Attendance has died down slightly after the holiday season, but still many flock from far and wide for the experience. Whether you’re a pro ice skater, or need to hold onto the side for balance (yours truly), it’s a great place to kick off a date. Even though your date will probably laugh when you fall, it’s still a very enjoyable time for everyone (with many instagrammable moments). When you’re exhausted from skating and your ankles are sore from overuse, stop next door for some hot chocolate to fuel up for your walk to Old City. The next destination is Cuba Libre near Penn’s Landing. While strolling straight down Market Street, check out the beautiful view of Center City in the distance and appreciate the neighborly feel of Old City. The inside of Cuba Libre will remind you of a cozy, rustic Cuban outdoor scene. I recommend the guava barbecue ribs, the best fall-off-the-bone, tender ribs I have ever had. The empanadas were also exquisite, as well as the fried plantains. This night is the perfect blend of romance, delicious food, and even some exercise!

These date night ideas are just the beginning. Once you get the hang of it, you will come up with many new, fun, and exciting experiences that will surely lead to fond and lasting memories.

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