No Valentine left behind

Stumped by planning the perfect Hearts Day treat? Here are a few ideas for any kind of Valentine.

MANILA, Philippines — We like showing our love in different ways, but food is perhaps the best way to do it. Valentine’s gives us the chance to treat our loved ones to a nice time out, but with so many tastes and interests to consider, how does one create the perfect Valentine’s Day? Look no further than Shangri-La Plaza. Their diverse selection of dining, dessert and drinks will make every love at first bite a total breeze. So for every possible Valentine out there, we’ve got a list of the places to eat, drink, and be merry.

For pre-gaming with friends

Everybody knows that the secret to a good night out is pre-gaming. (Empty stomach + tequila? No bueno.) If your friends need a fresh pre-game spot, Balboa is just the place. Located on the fourth level of the East Wing, their Italian dishes take a contemporary New York twist — from the drinks to the chow. Our recommendation? The gambas with garlic bread.

For your favorite workout group

The best part of any workout is getting to eat whatever you want, right? Your CrossFit barkada makes for an unusual Valentine, but how can you not love people who cheer you on so much? (Seriously, so much cheering.) Celebrate a mutual love for fitness and pep at Green Pastures, also on the fourth level. We particularly love the candied walnuts in their Autumn Sunrise salad. So good.

For a romantic date

Okay, we get it! You’re in a relationship. (We’re only a little bitter about it.) If you’re looking for a chill but fancy place to celebrate with the bae, House of Wagyu on the lower ground level is just the place. Aside from a fine selection of Japanese wagyu cooked on a hot stone plate, their appetizers are pretty great, too — don’t miss out on the mushroom soup. After all, every Valentine deserves the best, even if it is a romantic date. With yourself. (More wagyu for you.)

For treating your parents out

Since getting your first paycheck, you’ve been thinking of how to give back to your parents. How about a nice dinner out? At Nadai Fujisoba on the fifth floor, you get to take your parents out for a special Japanese treat. This 52-year-old chain (the oldest 24/7 soba restaurant in Japan!) is known for their fresh buckwheat noodles. The tempura-topped udon will be a sure hit, even for the pickiest of eaters. Fair warning: treating them here might make you their favorite kid.

For your little sister’s sweet tooth

At the mid-level of the East Wing is Morelli’s, probably the best gelato you can get within a five-mile radius. Feel free to try samples of their gelato collection, which includes both classic and niche flavors. But let’s be real: this treat is really more for you than your younger siblings.

For you, when you wanna feel like an adult

If there’s anyone who truly deserves a Valentine, it’s you. You do a lot of awesome things and you should be proud of yourself. Dude, you put on pants today! That is an achievement. To celebrate your adulthood, head on over to TWG at the mid-level of the East Wing to feel a little more grown-up. Treat yourself to a nice cup of tea — their chocolate-flavored tea selection is most excellent. I mean, sure you’re a grownup, but you’re still a kid at heart. Chocolate in your tea is a must.

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