“What Can I Do That’s Romantic, Without Setting Expectations Too High?”

LA Feature

Dear Infatuation: A Valentine’s Day Restaurant Advice Column

Dear Infatuation,

It’s our first Valentine’s Day together as a couple. What can I do that’s romantic, but without setting the expectations too high for later?

Thanks,

Slow Burn

Shot by Yasara Gunawardena

Dear Slow Burn,

Ah, the eternal dilemma. It’s like not wearing too much makeup to work, or randomly saying something nice to your sibling—just enough effort to seem like you’re trying, but without going over the top and leading them to think, “Hey, this should happen more often.” It’s a delicate balance.

The obvious answer? Do something fun and preferably low pressure. Think park picnics, rides up the PCH, or a movie. Just make sure you don’t do something wild, like buy them jewelry or cover a bed with dozens of roses—you never know who’s going to develop late-onset pollen allergies. You want their eyes puffy from tears of joy, not so swollen they can barely see. Trust us.

So grab a messy, red sauce sandwich from Eastside Market Italian Deli in Chinatown and head to Everett Park for skyline views of Downtown LA at dusk. Or drive up the coast for an oceanside seafood basket at Neptune’s Net and stay for the seas of biker gangs, beach access, and excellent clam chowder bread bowls.

XOXO, The Infatuation LA ❤️