What does Valentine’s Day mean to you?
Some friends go all out for it - flower bouquets, gifts, pink balloons...the whole works. Some just let the day pass by- but most married couples DO look forward to having a lovely night out sans kids. You only remember the luxury of indulging in adult conversation, just the two of you, over a glass of wine or two, from the time before the kids came along.
We look at Valentine’s Day as a reminder to prioritise our marriage and our relationship. Sometimes, it’s all too easy to fall into the routines of daily life and wear the mantles of mummy and daddy. But every so often, we need to slip those mantles off for a few hours so we can be ourselves again - just the two of you, the way you used to be before the children completed the family you two started. Plus, it is always refreshing to come home to those sweet reunions with the little ones, after a little time apart from each other.
Besides, it also gives us parents an opportunity to discover great food at award-winning restaurants. Foods that do not have to cater to the young ones' tastes (and tantrums), a break from places with kids play areas.
Romantic restaurants for Valentine's Day
Here are just some of the recommendations for a treat for all five senses to enjoy thoughtfully-crafted delicious food prepared by great chefs, while we can immerse ourselves in a warm, romantic ambience.
This is in no way the complete list, and we look forward to all your recommendations and favourites too.
Jalan 1, Taman Tun Abdul Razak, 68000 Ampang, Selangor.
Some call it the most romantic restaurant in KL. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the tropical rainforest that evokes peace and tranquility, spend a few hours getting away from the hustle and bustle of daily life while feasting on Indo-Chinese cuisine.
Level 51, EQ, Equatorial Plaza, Jln Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur.
Enjoy the stunning Kuala Lumpur skyline, with close up views of the Petronas Twin Towers, whilst indulging in contemporary European cuisine in its luxe environment, which also features dramatic high ceilings. Sabayon offers three, five and seven-course options at night.
8th Floor, W Hotel, 121, Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur.
Priding itself on its freshly-sourced ingredients, Willow KL has a reputation for amazing food quality. Look forward to a romantic evening out in their intimate and classy dining room, where blooms abound.
4. Rama V
5, Jalan U Thant, Kelab Golf di Raja Selangor, 55000 Kuala Lumpur.
“Modern Meets Thai” is the theme of this Thai fine dining restaurant, which is tucked away in a stand-alone bungalow in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, complete with its pools of water, frangipani trees and concealed lighting. Look forward to a mouthwatering blend of authentic and modern Thai dishes, beautifully presented in all the lovely colours that make Thai food so appealing to the eye, as well as your taste buds.
125, Jalan Timah, 10150 George Town, Pulau Pinang.
Recently awarded a Michelin Star, experience Penang's FINEST fine dining. Savour modern European fare by Chef Kim Hock. Located in a quaint old warehouse within the historical Hin Bus Depot of George Town, this is an 18 seater restaurant only. Each dish is a treat to all the senses, and it is difficult not to pull out your camera to photograph the food! Beware, do not get distracted from your partner, if you chose to go her on Valentine's Day.
14A, Stewart Ln, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang
Head over to Kebaya Dining Room for some Indo-Chinese and Peranakan fare. It boasts innovative cooking methods, combining traditional Malaysian flavour profiles, Vietnamese lightness, Thai spiciness and traditional French cooking styles. The ambience is Old World romantic, with warm reds and wood accents brightened by its chandeliers. For large parties, as well as the more intimate dinners.
I hope you enjoyed this list - there’s so many great options to select from. Wishing you a wonderful Valentine’s Day night out with your loved one!