*edited for 2024!
So you want to do something special for Valentine’s Day, but prefer to stay home. Or maybe you have to stay home since finding a babysitter or heading out for the night can be difficult and expensive. Whatever the reason, keep reading for some delicious at-home take out ideas:
Andy and I used to go out for Valentine’s Day. It was a guaranteed date night and always meant good food. That didn’t change when we had the kids, although going out for a Wednesday night exclusive menu wasn’t as easy, so instead, we started bringing Valentine’s Day to our own dinner table.
We would set up and enjoy a fancy dinner when babies went to bed, or toddlers and preschoolers joined us at the table (with their own sweet menu). That tradition has continued for most years.
READ: How to make a sweet, memorable Valentine’s Day as a family
Sometimes it’s a fancy take-out meal from one of our fave restaurants, or pizza, or something quick. Sometimes we make it at home.
But the goal is just to come around the table, say cheers to our own little romantic story and life we have created and are working for, and be with those we love.
However, that’s just our experience. I know that Valentine’s Day looks different for many. Maybe you’ll have friends and family over, or maybe you are a single parent (or will be solo) this year. Many of these take out options are offered for one adult with child menus added on, or for larger groups when ordered in multiples.
Whatever your plans, if you want to start your own at-home Valentine’s Day tradition (with the kids, or when they are sleeping) here are some places in Ottawa to order from.
You’ll want to open each link to see their full menu, I only mention bits of them sometimes (and hardly do them justice). Also, many of these will likely sell out!
Where to get a take-out Valentine’s Day meal in Ottawa
This has been our go-to for many Valentine’s Days in years past. We would set up a fancy dinner table for the four of us and everything. This year, you have a variety of entrees to choose from so you can serve any palette, but I have to say it’s often the desserts that will have the kids requesting this again in the future!
Pelican Grill is offering their lobster dinner meal that includes two starters, sides and dessert (with local Ottawa delivery) and it’s one to impress. We’ve actually ordered this for New Year’s Eve in the past, and love it. This splurge from the sea will have you talking all night long.
Speaking of Pizza, check out local company Nonna’s Famous Pizza Box. Order DIY Pizza Kits and get hands-on as family so dinner becomes dinner and entertainment! Little hands love to help in the kitchen so a make-your-own-pizza night would be a lot of fun and still encourage wee ones to get to bed on time (especially with Valentine’s Day being a school night!) Plus, the kits also include cookies to decorate! Their delicious kits are available for pick up for delivery.
I’m already drooling thinking about Taj’s dinner package. Their Valentine’s Day menu is available with meat, vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. While this all-in-one combo is meant for two people, parents know that sharing with the kids is usually on the table and a good way to go. Choose an appetizer and a main dish with the level of spice you like. It comes with rice, naan, and rice pudding for dessert. A portion of the specials will support the Ottawa Food Bank.
Why do I write these articles? I just end up hungry and wanting everything. This next menu sounds amazing: Red Apron is serving up a Year of the Dragon inspired menu! Place your order by calling or via email for pick up or delivery.
Maybe instead of a three course meal, you just want to have a lovely cheese and charcuterie board while sipping some cocktails or mocktails? If that’s the case, you won’t want to miss the Good Grazes Valentine’s Day box. You can even order it for a weekend date night pre-Valentine’s day if you want as orders (for pick up or delivery) are accepted between Febraury 11 and 14.
If you know charcuterie is what you want, you can also check out The Piggy Market’s Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Boards. This is a dinner sized portion with 4 meats, 3 cheeses, crostini and other bites. PLUS the locally-made wooden board that it is presented on is all yours to keep. So really, you are gifting yourself (or your partner) amazing food AND a useful kitchen item. The Piggy Market always has amazing food so while you are there, check out their other offerings like their delicious bread. Delivery is also available (spoiler – Tuesdays are free delivery but you can order for any day on Tuesday to get the offer!)
Maybe you prefer to tuck the kids in bed before digging into a delicious meal. I’ve been there, done that. If you are looking for an at-home experience that is unique, check out the Valentine’s Day at-home menu from Next. Each all-in-one meal box for 2 (for pick up or delivery) has a 7 course meal (that is not a typo – seven), extra little bites, wine and cocktails. There are instructions and a video from Chef Michael Blackie so you can prep, plate and say cheers! Delivery is free!
While there 2024 meals are sold out, bookmark their site for future special events! We have ordered from there MANY times over the past couple of years and can confidentally say everything is delicious. You’ll get a restaurant meal that requires very little preparation and heating up at home. We love these boxes.
I hope whatever you decide to do (if you decide to order in) you enjoy the evening. Or at the very least, get yourself from chocolate and enjoy that 😉 And no, I haven’t made our decision yet but I need to order soon!
READ: Last Minute Valentine’s Day activities to do with the kids
