A&L Desk Recs: Valentine’s Day date ideas

Graphic illustration by Grace Everett | Photographer

By Emma Weidmann | Arts and Life Editor

Here are some ideas from the Arts and Life desk for a Valentine’s Day to remember.

Emma Weidmann | Arts and Life Editor

One of my favorite local restaurants is Baris. Cozy, always crowded and maybe a little loud, this Italian spot is perfect. The plates are huge and not too pricey, but are still delicious. I always opt for the Tortellini Pink.

As a music fanatic, live music is a big component of the perfect night. You can find a lot of live music listings here or look around on social media that both you and your person will enjoy. Extra points if you grab dinner at Baris before the show.

Caitlyn Meisner | Copy Editor

A local favorite of mine is The Olive Branch; even though I take almost anyone who visits me to this cozy restaurant, it’s perfect for a date! Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, you’ll get your money’s worth and the chance to choose from a wide array of dishes. My personal favorite is the creamy Tuscan chicken on their lunch menu.

If you’re looking to impress a date this Valentine’s Day or want to save a bit, cooking at your apartment is always a cozy and intimate option. I’ve found cooking and baking is a love language for me, so it’s always enjoyable to put on some music and cook with your date by your side. It’s a unique way to get to know your significant other a bit better. My favorite dish to whip up, especially in the winter, is chicken pot pie.

Avery Ballmann | Arts and Life Writer

One of my favorite restaurants in Waco is Di Campli’s. It’s romantic, the service is amazing and so is the food. Ask to sit on the outdoor patio — it has heaters and lots of plants. For the table, order the bruschetta and the margarita pizza to split.

For a more unique experience, take your valentine to the park, specifically Mouth of the Bosque. There are tons of trails and it’s next to the river. Grab yourself a picnic blanket or take a seat at the gazebo to create the perfect evening.

Olivia Turner | Arts and Life Writer

Here’s one for the study bugs and the book nerds — a date with your significant other at Fabled Bookshop & Cafe! This date idea is perfect because you can enjoy the comfortable ambience of the shop however you want. Whether you’re snuggled together on the sofa with book in hand, chatting and sipping a brew at the coffee bar or busy studying together among the bookshelves, you and your date can enjoy some relaxing time away from campus, even on a Tuesday.

If books aren’t really your thing (or your partner’s), there’s still fun to be had at Practically Pikasso where you can get crafty and paint your own pottery. I like this idea because you get to keep the results of your fun date and the memories you made with your partner will live on whenever you look at your creation. Plus, this is a great opportunity to make something one-of-a-kind to gift to your special person.