Celebrating love in NYC

I realize that we’ve barely finished putting away our holiday decorations, but as the day of love approaches, New Yorkers are planning ways in which to show affection for their special someone. I’ve recently shared ideas for a romantic winter experience in New York City, but Valentine’s Day, or any romantic celebration in the Big Apple has to be taken to the next level.

Whether you celebrate Valentine’s Day or just like impromptu ways to say, “I Love You,” here are some places that make being in love in NYC very special.

Eat

I have several chocolate spots in the city that I enjoy, but when it comes to special gifts and tastings with my love, I like to stop into Jacques Torres Chocolates (they have several locations, but my favorite is in the West Village) and La Maison du Chocolate, which aside from offering some of the best ganache, éclairs, and liqueur directly delivered from France, also offer tea, coffee, and chocolate pairing classes that are perfect to take with your honey.

Chocolate pairing

Do

For me, food is love. I express my affection to my friends and family through food. So it’s no surprise that I would list taking a cooking class as being one of the most romantic things a couple can do together.

Some of my favorite cooking classes are at La Scuola di Eataly. Choose to enjoy a crash course in language and food or a showcasing of the chefs’ favorite dishes and specialties, all paired with wine, of course.

Viewfinder Tip: More active couples can fall in love with the city and each other by taking in the sights and flavors while on a food tour, another perfect date option any time of the year.

If you want to vamp up the sexy a bit more, then sign up for a class with Appetite for Seduction. These couples cooking classes offer a special Valentine’s Day dinner, as well as ongoing cooking courses focused on favorite culinary regions, such as France or Italy.

See

If you think that a date night at The Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center is not your cup of tea, I’d like to refer you to the movie Moon Struck. Visit the opera’s website and it will guide you to experience the opera based on your interests. The most romantic must-see productions include Madama Butterfly, La Sonnambula, and La Cenerentola. The opera house alone is a magical place with its beautiful halls wrapped in red velvet, displaying beautiful artwork and crystal chandeliers.

How do you enjoy celebrating love in your favorite city?