Ten days. That is the amount of time you have left before Valentine’s Day 2022. Whether you’re trying to avoid crowds, ward off Omicron, or simply didn’t book a reservation on time, these five at-home Valentine’s Day ideas have you (and your date) covered.
1. Keep It Casual
Maybe you just started seeing someone and aren’t ready to drop $60 on a candlelit dinner. No judgement! There’s nothing wrong with pizza and a movie. Might I suggest Sleepless in Seattle, When Harry Met Sally, or (my personal favorite) 10 Things I Hate About You? If you’re sick of screens, break out a board game. Who says you can’t bond over checkers? Or, help each other solve the daily Wordle!
2. Or, Go All Out
Have the candlelit dinner at home. Dress up. Invest in a tablecloth or some string lights. Try your hand at chocolate covered strawberries. Go full romance novel. If you’re feeling extra sentimental, try making a Valentine’s Day scrapbook! This can consist of photos, old concert tickets, gift receipts, love letters or anything else significant to your relationship.
3. Order Fancy Takeout
The same great food, minus Valentine’s Day crowds. We are a city blessed with DoorDash. Il Corallo Trattoria is a wonderful Italian restaurant in SoHo that delivers. There’s also Eataly, Claudette, Boucherie and countless other East Village restaurants (that you’ve probably walked past on your way to class).
4. Actually Cook Something
If you’re looking for something quick with minimal clean up, try this one-pot pasta recipe. If you want something a bit more involved, here are two recipes for roast chicken and homemade pizza. For dessert, try this chocolate mousse.
5. Do Something Nice For Yourself
Valentine’s Day is for everyone, whether you’re dating or not. Take some time to reflect on things you love about yourself. Put on your favorite album. DoorDash rigatoni and eat it all in one sitting. This is also the perfect excuse to splurge on whatever’s been sitting in your online shopping cart for a week!