Valentine's Day - you either celebrate it or you don't, be it with the love of your life or your best girlfriends, it's a day people love to hate. This year, however, the day of love falls on a Friday which seems to have added a little more excitement for everyone so I've narrowed down five perfect date night spots for Valentine's Day in Southampton.
Gusto Lounge -1 Commercial Rd, Southampton SO15 1GF
Gusto Lounge is set within a beautiful Victorian Building and as you step inside you'll discover little nooks and crannies full of tables, low lights and beautifully lit candles. Traditionally an Italian restaurant, the menu is full of choice from build your own burgers to pizza and pasta but what has got us drooling on previous visits are the specials. The specials board changes most days with a mix of pasta, seafood, meats and more. There was a really great selection available.
If you have a sweet tooth, make sure you leave room for dessert because they're delicious, I would definitely recommend the dark chocolate torte if it's still on the menu. There are so many reasons to visit Gusto Lounge, from the food to the service and the beautiful building to the atmosphere and quirky interior. It's a not so hidden gem that would make the perfect Friday night dinner location.
You all know I have a lot of love for Ottoman Kitchen and is it has since been awarded Best Middle Eastern Restaurant in the UK! It sits within the old Woolwich Building Society on the highstreet, a Grade II listed building which dates back to 1866, it's really beautiful and inside it's awash with flushes of blue, beautiful pictures of Turkey, high ceilings and the most beautiful chandeliers.
For Valentine's Day this year, they have a fabulous four-course menu created by their award-winning chefs as well as a local singer and acoustic guitarist which will set the mood perfectly. Guests will be greeted on arrival with prosecco before an evening of fabulous food.
It is the perfect time to try Ottoman Kitchen if you haven't already, you are sure to fall in love.
Lakaz Maman, meaning Mum's House in Mauritian Creole was opened by Shelina Permalloo who won Masterchef in 2012 and it is probably one of my favourites - it's colourful, full of flavour and there's always something new to try on the menu. Situated in Bedford Place, it's a tropical paradise that transports you away from Southampton, the smell of cooking is mouth-watering and I urge you to try the Anana Confit, it's my favourite.
It's a great location for a date night and Lakaz Maman runs a bring your own service so you can take your favourite tipple with you too. You can find corkage fees on their website.
We're hoping to head in later this month (babysitter depending) for a date night ourselves!
I was very late on the Mango Thai Tapas train but oh my was I missing out, I've been back a few times to make up for lost time though. I always find the service is super friendly and as there are three locations in Southampton found at Ocean Village, Above Bar & Portswood - it's really easy for anyone to get to.
You can choose from a selection of tapas or stick to their mains such as the Green, Red or Golden curries or Yellow Noodles. The tapas are where it's at though, from Mango Corn Cakes and Crispy Beef to Vegetable Spring Rolls and Chicken Satay - there really is something for everyone. The cocktail menu is pretty impressive too.
Each venue has the most gorgeous decor and as it's dark with lots of warm lighting, it really is the perfect place to be tucked away in a corner.
My last recommendation is The Stable because you just can't go wrong with a pizza and some cider. I always find the atmosphere there is brilliant whether you're with friends or little ones so it's great for so many occasions. I feel like this would be the perfect no-fuss Valentine's date location - with relaxed bench-style seating, music and a pizza menu to die for you just can't go wrong.
The West Country inspired menu has something for everyone and with menus being switched up seasonally, no two visits are the same. The pizzas really are something to shout about though and with choices such as Billy the Kid with delicious Goat's Cheese and the Longhorn Jim with ground beef and chorizo - I'm sure there won't be a boring Margherita in sight.
Just be sure to book so you're not disappointed.
You can find more Southampton food recommendations by clicking here - Food.
