My true love!
by Laura
Yes, Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and the Triangle has a number of fancy restaurants with starched table linens, roses, and wine pairings at the ready. Personally I tend to believe that major holidays are the worst time to splurge on somewhere fantastic – the staff is bitter that they have to be there, you’ll be constrained by a pricey prix fixe menu, and decent reservation times are hard to come by. Here’s a few suggestions for ways to have a darn lovely time without breaking the bank:
#1 – Are you classy?
The North Carolina Symphony hosts a special evening of Broadway tunes & love songs on 2/14, from $25 on up with AAA & AmEx discounts. Who doesn’t enjoy a little West Side Story? Plus, being in the middle of Raleigh means that you’ll have a good selection of pre-show dinner spots to choose from.
We’ll probably hit up our downtown standby, Caffe Luna, if we can get a reservation. Apparently on some days there’s even a free shuttle that will take you from the restaurant to the concert hall doors!
#2 – Are you cheap?
If you’re looking to catch up on your Oscar-nominated movies, the UNC theater is screening Precious on 2/12 & 2/13, which I’m hoping has a little bit of inspiration mixed in to balance out the heart-wrenching plot. Free with student ID for you & a guest.
#3 – Are you single?
Want to laugh it all off? On 2/12, a local improv group puts on an annual show about the trials and tribulations of romance. Tickets are just $7 for students, and although I can’t vouch for the humor level, the promos brag that it features “every cast member kissing every other cast member on the lips at some point during the performance”.
Mardi Gras bowling in Durham is offering a “Lonely Hearts Deal” on 2/14, with 2 games and shoe rental only costing you $10. Although, I would find it a little depressing to identify myself as a lonely heart, so they may want to work on their marketing scheme. If there’s two of you, it’s just $14 per couple, so if you’re going with a pal, I’d pretend that you’re a pair.
Or, if you’re in a spicier mood, FUBAR Raleigh offers an evening of free pole dancing lessons & drink specials.
#4 – Are you a lush?
For just $13/each, Southern Season’s Friday wine tasting promises to get you and your loved one tipsy from a selection of reds. Best to reserve space in advance – and if you really want to go all out with the cuteness, there’s a couple’s brunch cooking class on Valentine’s Day itself.
#5 – Are you altruistic?
The SPCA of Wake County holds a “Bark & Wine” event on 2/11, where just $25 gets you wine, microbrews & snacks in the name of a good cause. Plus, their promotional video consists entirely of puppy & kitty kisses. Puppy kisses! Have you no heart?
Laura
Harold
