Hot chocolate covered in whipped cream

Couples’ making gingerbread houses and savouring seasonal drinks is pairs’ having crumpets and tea in Heaven while being dubbed angels. This date allows duos who are too tired or sluggish to venture outdoors, to entertain themselves at home. All it requires is a gingerbread house making kit and egg nog. People who’d like to keep the gingerbread house should be careful, however, not to eat the entire creation. In that case, it may be desirable to purchase multiple gingerbread house making kits, gingerbread cookies and/or other decadent treats.

Such a date is inexpensive. It does not add up to the cost of purchasing movie tickets, popcorn, candy and drinks. It is not near the cost of skiing admission and gas. Moreover, it does not equate to the price of a play, dinner and parking downtown. Ingredients, the only cost of this cozy date, should ring up to about $25.

This activity also takes place in a comfortable setting. One gets to sit by the fire drinking egg nog with one’s sweetheart rather than sitting in a rigid seat in a restaurant, which may be chilly due to doors frequently opening and shutting. In addition, this date involves no waiting outdoors for admission, in the cold. This environment may be suitable for romance, too; there are no servers checking up on the duo constantly, no noise and no distracting media, allowing the two to bond without interruption. On the other hand, if a pair wishes to watch a Christmas movie during their time together, this date allows the twosome to do so.

Furthermore, this date allows participants to please their taste buds. Pairs can add jellybeans, chocolate chips, icing and whatever else they’d desire in the candy department, to their delectable houses. Not everyone has a taste for egg nog, but there are many other scrumptious beverages twosomes can enjoy. These include: coffee topped with froth, milkshakes, mochachinos, hot chocolate, cider, caramel cocktails and chocolate-mint martinis.

The following are recipes for drinks couples may wish to enjoy this holiday season:

• Frothy coffee
• Hot chocolate
• Milkshakes
• Mochachinos
• Apple cider
• Caramel cocktails a.k.a. “Liquid Caramel”
• Chocolate-mint martinis

In the movie An Affair to Remember, Terry McKay says, “Winter must be cold for those with no warm memories.” This is definitely the case. Winter does not have to be drab. Slush, snow and cold are factors that won’t bring down one’s mood if he or she doesn’t let it. Couples’ making gingerbread houses and drinking seasonal beverages is one enjoyable date the weather should not ruin.

Many possess the notion that dating has to be expensive. This belief is not necessarily true; while people do require funds for the occasional outing, one can still be frugal while spending enjoyable, quality time with a romantic companion.

Good times do not always have to be over the top; they merely rely on change of scenery, good company, and exciting activities in which to partake. If you and your honey are tired of your typical routines and attempting to save some cash, try any of the following:

- Baking. Cooking scrumptious treats is not only fun, it also provides a duo with delectable desserts on which to munch. Moreover, couples can purchase baking ingredients at a low cost. Packages of cookie dough and dough for making cinnamon rolls typically range from $4-$7.

- Friendly Get-Togethers. If a pair begins to consider their date ideas tedious, their having a small gathering of pals may uplift their spirits. There does not necessarily have to be alcohol involved, as it will only increase the pricetag of such an event; however, a double-date at home wouldn’t require much alcohol anyway – a bottle of wine, and/or a few coolers. Cards, juice, board games, and perhaps even some snacks, however, are viable, inexpensive options for a small group gathering at home.

- Homemade Dinner. Want to romance your other half without dipping too far into your savings? Look no further than preparing a home-cooked meal for your sweetie. The act in itself is romantic, as it chivalrous, and one’s partner may appreciate the spontaneous nature of such an evening.

- Dancing. Contrary to the views of some, clubbing doesn’t have to be costly – if you do it right. Forget bottle service; forget the booth; keep your coat in your car when the weather permits. You’ll save tons of money that way. In addition, many Toronto nightclubs have low admission prices. Some include:

Bar 244- Admission: $5

On the Rox Nightclub – Admission: $10-15

The Annex Wreck Room- Admission: $5-$10

Mansion Nightclub – Admission: $10-$15 if you add your name to the guestlist

Blue Suede Sue’s- Admission: $5-$10

- Mini-golfing. Mini-golfing usually costs between $10 and $15 – at Putting Edge, it’s $10.50 – and it’s an activity that allows a duo to be active, playfully compete with each other, and get out of the house.
Putting Edge | In Play

Therefore, it is unnecessary to spend heaping amounts of money in order to see a love interest. Moreover, less costly date options can be just as pleasant as the more pricey locations. After all, fun dates require creativity, not money.

Although it is true that one can make any day special for their sweetheart, the approach of Valentine’s Day just holds so much excitement! Here are some tips to make this Valentine’s day -or any day, that is – memorable:

• Surprise your other half. Plan something thoughtful, whether it’s a romantic fantasy they’ve mentioned, or simply something spontaneous. An evening full of romance, out or in, or a getaway weekend for two are just some examples.
• Do something out of the ordinary. If the two of you are used to a routine, break out of it. Try pampering each other. Giving each other massages with oil or feeding each other fruit dipped in chocolate are just some ideas.
• Make your significant other feel appreciated. One can do this by writing a meaningful card or letter for their mate. (To add a surprise effect, place the love note somewhere they are guaranteed to look, and have them find it. It makes the gesture even more sweet.)

Remember that gifts on Valentine’s Day are not necessary to show your love for another. However, if one or the two of you feel like giving gifts, remember that presents don’t have to be expensive to be heartfelt. A simple box of chocolates often suffices; something home-made or something thoughtful are also good options.

My Recommendations:

This eatery provides exquisite dining for an inexpensive cost. Not only is the food tasty, the atmosphere is intimate and cozy – a perfect place for a romantic date.
7225 Woodbine Avenue
Markham, ON L3R
(905) 940-1900
www.FrankieTomatto.com

This adorable little café serves both delectable desserts and scrumptious meals. This is a great place to indulge in mouth-watering foods and make memories with your lover.
255 Bass Pro Mills Drive
Vaughan, ON L4K
(905) 738-9198
www.CafeCache.ca

Some may think that a duo cannot have an enjoyable time at home, but I beg to differ. Each other’s company is what’s most important. If a couple cares to do something entertaining indoors, there are many options available; these include back rubs, baking decadent treats, playing trivia games, ordering in food or making food for each other, painting, and so on. Not to mention, this option is the least costly and most intimate setting.

‘Hope these tips bring some spark to your Valentine’s Day and/or overall lovelife!

 From the official Toronto.ca website:  “The WinterCity Festival wouldn’t be complete without Toronto’s favourite winter gastronomic celebration. Now in its eighth delicious year, Winterlicious again offers two popular programs for you to savour.

Winterlicious Culinary Events
10 mouth-watering culinary events featuring some of Toronto’s diverse cuisine and notable chefs.

General Reservation Date: Thursday, January 14, 2010

Please remember… You MUST cancel your reservation at least 48 hours in advance if you cannot keep it.”

An example of someone's work at Bisque It!

Bisque It is not your regular ceramics shop. Here, the peices are already completed (professionally done and your partner won’t be guessing if you made her an ash tray or a bowl) and all you have to do is paint and create your own design. In a few days, your design is glazed and polished for quick pickup!

On September 5th, make a reservation for date night!  Their website has a quick write up about what you can expect, but best to check out their official website and call them for more details.

Date Night
Saturday September 5th, adults only
Spend some time painting with your sweetheart (or win them over with this unique date!) and enjoy an evening of music, coffee, and snacks! (all included with your studio fee on this special night)
Guys: paint something especially for her … & double those brownie points for sure!

Have a martini at the Roof Lounge in the Park Hyatt . Picture by: The Giant Vermin

If you like rooftop views like the one at the Panorama on Bloor, you’ll also like the one found at Park Hyatt’s Roof Lounge.  This is one of Toronto’s upper class bars located just above the hotel and features one of the city’s best dry martini’s.  Come dressed in smart casual and you’ll look the part. Prices in this place can be under $50 per couple so long as you’re not going for dinner and drinks. You can still enjoy a really relaxing after work drink or meet here for just under $40.

Great Date Idea:  This is a fabulous place to celebrate some good news.  Order a drink and make a toast!  There’s also an amazing view of Toronto’s skyline, which is always a sight to see during sunset.  Just outside, you’re right outside of Yorkville for shopping and more boutique stores to take a peek in and a light walk. In the fall, there’s a big fireplace to warm up after a nice brisk walk along Toronto’s trendiest neighborhood.

Address:  4 Avenue Road, Toronto, Ontario, Canada  M5R 2E8
Phone:    416.925.1234
Email:    concierge@hyatt.com
Website:  http://www.parktoronto.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/entertainment/lounges/index.jsp
Parking:  Underground parking available, street parking is limited and will need a walk
What’s nearby:  Lots of restaurants and shops outside.  Consider spending a night at the hotel if you’re too drunk to drive
Why you should go:  To-Die-For roof top view on the 18th floor.  Clear views of the CN Tower and skyline.  Great food menu too.

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The Fifth, 221 Richmond Street West

I was stunned by the ambiance and romantic feel when my bebe and I stepped onto The Fifth’s patio at 221 Richmond Street West a few nights ago.  While the place can get a bit crowded after work (especially when there’s nice weather), last night was perfect.

Our evening started with a half-dozen oysters as an appetizer.  When the oysters arrived, I tried to remember the last time I ordered some and why it took me so long to have them again.  I’ve not had fresh oysters in a while, so these hit the spot.  For our mains, my bebe decided that she would try the organic Irish salmon and I would have the rack of lamb.  The service was excellent tonight, prompt and very well attended. Both dishes came reasonably quickly or at least I thought that they did; the entire evening was spent relishing in the beautiful Toronto scenery and cabana that was set up here.  Candlelit and very romantic, the atmosphere is perfect. The food was great too, there were many moments were we didn’t even talk to each other because we were enjoying the food so much.  Big portions and lots to take home.

Great Date Idea:  Come out just after work, enjoy the sunset and look forward to dinner here.  Relax.  Afterwards, a hustling Toronto walk along Richmond Street awaits!

Address:  221 Richmond Street West, Toronto, ON, M5V1W2
Phone:    416.979.3005
Email:    thefifthgrill@thefifth.com
Website:  http://www.thefifth.com
Parking:  street parking available
What’s nearby:  Princess of Wales Theatre (4 blocks away)
Why you should go:  One of the most romantic patio’s we’ve ever been on, excellent oysters, great service!

Photo by: abluedude

A note to my bebe.

Hello Bebe!  I take it you’re reading this because you’re wondering what I want  for my birthday, or, you’re just curious to see if I’ve written something special on today’s occasion.  Well, I hate to admit  you’re right, but you’re right – twice!

So, here’s a short little list of what I’d love to do on today’s SPECIAL occasion right after work (yeah, I couldn’t take the day off because of a big project I’m working on, maybe next year?):

Dinner: Let’s go to Monsoon, located at 100 Simcoe Street.  I’ve been reading some really great things about this place, specifically that its interior design was by the world reknown Yabu Pushelberg.  Oh, the food?  It’s Thai baby, Thai.  I’ve been drooling over the menu all day at work, I think I’m going to have the:  “Massaman curry of slow braised beef with pearl onion fingerling potato and pickled mustard greens”.

After Dinner: I’m going to feel a bit full from all that eating, so how about a nice walk to Front Street over to this nice cafe called:  EPIC, just at the foot of the Fairmont Royal York Hotel.  You know how much I love just relaxing at the cafes in fancy hotels.  Plus, it’s at the Fairmont Royal York, so if we’re feeling a bit tired…  on to the next step:

Sleepy Times: Why not just stay at the Fairmont Hotel for the night?  We’ll wake up slightly early and have breakfast there too.  So what if we have to drive into traffic, I’m the one who’s driving .  It’s cheaper if we’re there mid-week and there’s  a Harborfront view that’s under $200!

Ok bebe, I’m sure you get the picture.  Looking forward to coming home tonight and eating a Massman curry, whatever that is.

Thanks bebe, you’re the best!
XOXO!

Canoe Restaurant

This is one of my favorite restaurants when I can afford it.  With the recession upon us, this is one place that I will always come back to when the pocket book allows it because it is well worth the experience. Canoe Restaurant and Bar, located on the 54th floor in the TD Bank Tower, is a very well appointed restaurant designed by the legendary interior designer Yabu Pushelberg.  Inside, tables for two are evenly spaced and have reasonable room between two parties.  Dinner doesn’t feel cramped and you won’t feel overwhelmed by the wait staff  bustling by the isles.  The service is very good with your server attentively looking out for you.

Our dinner started with the Alberta Lamb Loin and Junior’s Wellington County Prime Ribeye.  The choices made here are all Canadian grown and locally fresh.  The food was very delicious, but I especially liked the lamb over the ribeye because I was craving it (I saw the menu before I went).  My date felt that both were equally satisfying.  We finished off with the Warm Sticky Date Pudding which had a salty sweet (weird, i know) flavor due to the bacon and date mix.  Served with coffee, a breath taking view (if you enjoy going to the Panorama on Bloor, you’ll LOVE this one too) and a dash of romance; you’ve got yourself a very memorable date experience!

Address:   54th Floor, Toronto Dominon Bank Tower.  66 Wellington Street West. Toronto ON
Phone:  416.364.0054
Email:   canoe@oliverbonacini.com
Website:  http://www.oliverbonacini.com/canoemovie.html
Parking:  Street and underground parking
What’s nearby:  Harborfront, Hockey Hall of Fame, Rogers Centre
Why you should go:  Toronto Life’s 2009 best restaurant, unforgettable view, excellent food

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