Looking for a “night out” idea at home? Or just a relaxing date night? Here’s that great date night idea that can transport you even while you stay at home.
Start by thinking about your evening as a special event. Set a date and time as you would if making plans to meet someone at a restaurant. Take time to get dressed up and put on that outfit you never get the chance to wear.
You could even make it a surprise for your partner. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weekday night, get a small gift or flowers. If you do flowers, they can double as a decoration for the table.
To show off the flowers, nothing beats candlelight. It can illuminate any table and company for a beautiful photo to share. Whether you already have some scented candles around the house or a package of tea candles, turning down harsh, overhead lighting can drastically change a space.
If an open flame isn’t ideal for your household, small electric candles can mimic the flicker of the real thing. To add to the mood, you can update date night with color lighting that is in sync with your background music. Many Bluetooth speakers pair with downloadable apps that allow you to customize their lighting display.
While it may be tempting to stream your favorite show while you’re eating, don’t. Give your partner your undivided attention. Whether it be at a table or on the floor, try sitting facing your partner and forfeit your screens for the evening. After, of course, taking a quick photo of your wonderful in-home set up. Your romantic table setting could be Instagram-worthy.
Silence can be intimidating, and background music can help build the mood you’re looking for. A playlist or album that is at least two hours of music with little or no lyrics will give you a soundtrack that will compliment your conversation rather than overpower it.
If classical is too stiff, jazz may be a good choice. If you’re looking for something more modern, any playlist labeled “low-fi beats” would also provide a lovely soundtrack to your evening. Sprinkle in a couple meaningful tracks for the two of you to personalize the listening experience.
Whether you are a talented and highly motivated cook or not, it’s easy to create a tasty and memorable meal. If you don’t have all the skills or are just plain tired, you can order in from your local favorite restaurant or try ready meals. Our products at Arlene have the flavor and quality of a restaurant meal and the nutritional value of home cooking. With a handful of small additions, many of which you may already have at home, you and your partner will have a magical night to remember without ever leaving your home.
For our readers who can partake in alcoholic beverages, here are some wine pairings for two of our meals. For Arlene’s Kebab with Pistachio, the American Pistachio Growers suggests a Prosecco to compliment the flavor of pistachio.
If you’re not a fan of wine, they give the alternative of a pale ale. For the second pairing we have Arlene’s Falafel. Wine Folly recommends “fruity whites with roundness such as Grenache Blanc or Viognier.” A Sauvignon Blanc would also be a wonderful compliment to the falafel. Whether you choose one of these to drink on your date or you and your partner’s personal favorite, pull out the nice glasses to showcase it.
You can get even more food and wine pairing ideas here.
Before you head off for a night of passion and good food, here are some basics. Set the table, pull out the cloth napkins and tablecloth, and use your imagination. Your kitchen table can become a five-star, rooftop dining experience with a handful of props and the right attitude.
If you have any children running around, include them and teach them the game of playing waiter or waitress. It may seem intimidating to take on a setting up a night out while being at home, but at Arlene we’re here to make it easier. You won’t have to worry about burning the meal, adding too much salt or last-minute ordering in. All you’ll have to worry about is the decoration and serving our delicious, flavorful meal.
