Romantic Dinner Ideas

When planning your menu, try to focus on your partner’s favorite foods. If she loves all things French, haul out the cookbook and cook up something fancy. Or choose a happy memory you’ve shared to inspire the meal choices. Did you honeymoon in Italy? Then you can focus on Italian cuisine. Last year’s trip to the Caribbean can set the menu. Or If you’re looking to be naughty, set a menu of foods with supposed aphrodisiac properties. Almonds, arugula, and asparagus – a quick internet search will turn up plenty of delicious items that are supposed to inspire passion. Oysters are the legendary sex fuel food. Chocolate, berries and figs can serve as your sensual dessert. A fine bottle of wine is the perfect complement to whatever you've chosen to cook. Go for a nice one - this is meant to be a special night.

Set up your stereo to play romantic music. Find a CD compilation of romantic classical music and let it play. Set up a play list of jazzy standards sung by the greats. Or arrange to play all your own favorite songs, just so long as it’s not so rocking that it intrudes on your conversation.

Transform your home with some simple decorating. Dim the lights and set out candles instead. Buy flowers and use them as the centerpiece on the table. Drape swaths of fabric to hide the everyday distractions in your house, like the computer or television. And make sure to set the table with cloth napkins and your finest dishes and glassware.