By: Lauren VerBrugge
It seems like Valentine’s Day always sneaks up on us. Instead of scrambling to make plans and find the perfect gifts, let us do the work and lay out a fool-proof plan to have a successful romantic night in Downtown CoMo, or a cozy night in while supporting local businesses.
NIGHT OUT
- Next level dinner options:
Have a sophisticated and delicious dinner at Sake Japanese Bistro and Bar. With over thirty signature rolls and non-seafood entree options, there is something for everyone. Located on 16 N 10th Street, Sake is a beautiful and convenient option for a romantic dinner with your partner.
Teller’s Gallery and Bar is the perfect place to have a warm, classic American meal. There is a great selection of soups, wraps, sandwiches, pasta, and salads, but my personal favorite is the Baked Brie in Puff Pastry appetizer, “served with honey, walnuts, assorted crackers, and fresh fruit.” Pair this with a bottle of wine and you’re set for the evening!
2. Snag some drinks to keep the night rolling at Pressed.
Located at the penthouse level of the Hawthorn Bank building at 803 E Walnut Street, Pressed offers a selection of signature cocktails with a lovely view of Downtown CoMo. Order a glass of house red wine and an appetizer of Très Chèvre Charcuterie while enjoying the rooftop ambiance and a “modern twist” on a Missouri bar. Some notable libations include their “Illuminate Me” and “Spiced Gold” drinks.
3. Remember the night forever with these picture-perfect spots:
Children’s Grove revealed new butterfly murals painted by Resident Art artists in Alley A. The butterflies are a symbol of kindness. The murals are a popular spot to take photos as they are displayed for people to stand in front of to look as if they have the wings. If you are interested in donating to Children’s Grove, click here.
The top of the 5th and Walnut parking garage offers one of the best views of Downtown CoMo and the perfect spot to capture the sunset. To really make the picture, capture the iconic Tiger Hotel sign in the background!
NIGHT IN
- Elevate your romantic night in with a themed CoMo Picnic.
- There’s no reason for your night in to be boring. Book a Winter Warmth picnic to be set up in your own home! Booking is easy. Simply choose when and where you would like your picnic to be, your theme, and if you would like any “add-ons”. Choose from champagne, charcuterie boards, catered appetizers and meals, desserts, and even a professional photo session. To see some past picnics and theme options, view the CoMo Picnic Instagram here.
2. Conveniently order your meal online:
44 Canteen has one-of-a-kind and delicious tacos, sandwiches, and burgers. As a sister restaurant to 44 Stone, some plates feature special meats such as 44 Stone bacon on the Korean Bacon Burger. My personal recommendation is Canteen Nachos which comes with your choice of either pulled chicken, chorizo, steak, and a selection of add-on toppings. To order online, click here.
Seoul Taco takes an interesting Korean twist on the classic taco. Choose from tacos, a gogi bowl, burrito, quesadilla, nachos, or gogi and waffles and then determine your protein: bulgogi steak, chicken, spicy pork, or tofu. I recommend the gogi and waffles with tofu for a hearty meal with a bit of a kick. To order online, click here.
3. Turn your movie night into a double date with Teleparty!
Teleparty is a Google Chrome extension that allows you to stream your favorite movies and shows with all your friends. With an easy installation, create a link for your Teleparty to share with your friends, choose a movie or show on Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO, or Prime, and enjoy watching all at the same time. Teleparty also creates a group chat for your viewing party to keep everyone connected.
Not sure what to watch? Here are some Valentine’s Day movie recommendations:
- A classic feel-good: “About Time” (Netflix)
- For laughs: “10 Things I Hate About You” (Disney+), “Pretty In Pink” (Hulu)
- For drama: “The Bachelor” (Hulu)
- A tear-jerker: “The Time Traveler’s Wife” (HBO Max)
- Brand new: “Marry Me” (Peacock)
GIFTS
- Surprise your partner with a bouquet from My Secret Garden.
With a wide selection of pre-designed bouquets as well as customized options, you cannot go wrong with an arrangement from My Secret Garden. For a more classic Valentine’s treat, they are offering arrangements of “premium roses” in both a dozen and half-dozen option. Located at 823 E Broadway, ordering a bouquet for pick-up is easy as can be. My Secret Garden also has delivery options, but it is recommended to order ahead of time, sooner rather than later.
2. Wrap up the night with something sweet from The Candy Factory.
Chocolate-covered strawberries are a Valentine’s Day staple. Pick some up at The Candy Factory located at 701 Cherry Street, or browse other options ranging from assorted chocolate boxes, caramels, cookies, and truffles. There is a wide selection and even opportunities for custom boxes!
3. Plan ahead with a True/False Film Fest pass!
Keep the love coming by attending the True/False Film Festival the weekend of March 3-6, 2022. There are five different options for passes, for those wanting just a taste of the festival, or those wanting to dedicate their whole weekend to the experience. If you act now, there is a True Love event happening on Saturday, February 5, 2022 “where 10% of proceeds from in person and online purchases or services will be given to True/False. Save your receipts! Ragtag Cinema will offer True/Love shoppers 1 free ticket (limit 5) for every $25 spent at participating retailers.” View the list of participating retailers, here.
Hopefully this gives you an idea or two to make your Valentine’s Day evening special.
