Relationships have been tested since the pandemic began. Now, as we approach the two-year mark into the pandemic, some are celebrating their love this Valentine’s Day. It’s a holiday for lovers and it is just around the corner, and “cuffing season” is fully in effect. If you’re looking for something romantic to do, here is a helpful list.
Roberta’s
The classic, low-lit date spot in Bushwick is Roberta’s. Even when the restaurant is busy, it still somehow seems to have a calmness about it, where patrons can romantically focus on the person they are with. Not only is the food at Roberta’s great, but they also have a vast selection of wines, by the glass or by bottle. The overall theme of Roberta’s is always date night, but those interested in such a classic should make their reservation in advance, to avoid long lines and wait times.
Syndicated
This year, East Williamsburg’s Syndicated is screening Wong Kar-wai’s “In The Mood For Love” no fewer than two times on Valentine’s Day. The movie fits into Syndicated’s whole vibe of focusing on contemporary classics and Kar-wai’s steamy plot focuses on a journalist, his wife, and an affair. Catch tickets for the showings at 7:10pm and 9:30pm.
Purgatory
The Bushwick music venue, which refers to itself as a place to go “when heaven is full, and hell is just too hot,” is hosting its own event on Valentine’s day. This one is called “Will U Be My Gal/Pal/Valentine,” that’s being run by Hope Woodard, a local influencer who boasts 113,000 fans on TikTok. The event encourages people not to feel sad about Valentine’s Day and not to spend too much money on dinner, either. Instead, Purgatory invites attendees to try out a tasting hour for a non-alcoholic brand called “BonBuz,” a raffle prize, some stand-up comedy, a happy hour that starts at 8:30 and comes with a dollar off all beer and cocktails, and music by DJ Boston Cherry. Tickets are free, but RSVP here.
Le Garage
The small, french-inspired Le Garage is owned by a mother and her daughter who aim to bring “Paris to Brooklyn,” at least according to their Instagram. While the restaurant is only open Wednesday through Sunday, they’re still hosting a Valentine’s day prix fixe menu. It’s $80 and includes an appetizer, a starter, and main dish, as well as a dessert. The meal also comes with a “Love at First Sight” cocktail and/or sparkling wine.
Mood Ring
No lesser authority than the city calls the astrology-themed club, Mood Ring, a “cosmic Bushwick lounge [that] brings cosmic ’70s vibes into the Instagram age” and its hosting three Valentine’s Day events. On Saturday, February 12, one event is titled “Somethin’ Sweet,” which features spinning from DJs Freedem, Bassbear!!, and Princess Peggie. The next event will be on Sunday and is called “Ride or Die.,” a somewhat regular event at the club that’s hosted by local rapper Cakes Da Killa. Both of those cost $10 a ticket. Lastly, on Valentine’s Day proper, Mood Ring will return to hosting “Open Flame,” a comedy group that calls themselves “nyc’s hottest lgbtq+ comedy happening,” and that performs there every Monday, from 8-10pm.
Staying Home
Another option this Valentine’s day is staying home. Despite the pressure to do something big, spending the night at home with someone you love is cheaper, more intimate and COVID-safe. A bottle of wine from the Irving Bottle Shop, a homemade dinner, and a movie is sometimes better than feeding into consumerist temptations. But whatever you decide, as long as you’re with the person you love, the holiday can be meaningful.
Cover image courtesy of Renee Fisher on Unsplash
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