Love is in the air, say Richard Dash and Jamie Carter, so choose somewhere delightful to romance your forever one
After that icy start to 2024, we’re ready to warm up under a flickering candle and tuck into some good food. With so many date night options close by, it’s hard to know which place to pick. So here’s a selection of tried and tested eateries that will guarantee a good time.
Linden Stores, Knutsford
First up, one of our 2023 favourites; Linden Stores. Linden Stores, owned by husband-and-wife team Chris and Laura, have recently relocated from Audlem to Knutsford. They have literally picked up the tables, chairs, cutlery, crockery, amazing food and placed it on Minshull Street. Effortlessly cool and sophisticated, Linden Stores serve seasonal British small plates designed for sharing (because we all love picky bits). We were lucky enough to visit recently and try their six-course Chef’s tasting menu.
Each dish as jaw-droppingly good as its predecessor. Their scorched sea bass evokes memories of cosy winter nights by the fire, while the Beef Short Rib falls of the bone and melts in the mouth. The dishes are there for you to tuck into together and will get you talking over candlelight in no time. The atmosphere is relaxed and laidback and Laura's front-of-house team will leave you wanting for nothing. For those looking to ignite some sparks and romance this Valentines Day, we’d put our money on Linden Stores.
Jazz Night at The Grove, Wilmslow
For those of you looking for more of an experience and a full evening together, why not try something completely new and head over to The Grove in Wilmslow? After the success of their New Orleans Jazz nights in 2023, The Grove are hosting a romantic Valentines jazz evening. For less than £50 per person, you’ll be treated to a delicious three-course meal, a glass of Champagne on arrival and a cosy night of live jazz.
Tickets are available on their website or you can call to book.
La Popote, Marton
For lovers who like to push the boat out and enjoy the finer things in life, we give you La Popote. Nestled in the stunning countryside, the Michelin Guide-listed ‘La Popote’ is a beautiful French restaurant owned by chef de patron Joseph Rawlins and his partner, Gaëlle. Specialising in casual fine dining, this duo bring warm Parisian hospitality to Cheshire.
We know we’re very lucky, but we’ve had the privilege of dining here quite a lot. We have never left La Popote disappointed. The kitchen's creativity blows our minds every time. The menus change every six weeks in line with new and fresh seasonal produce. This means you’re in for a new experience every visit. For Valentine’s Day 2024, La Popote are creating a Chef’s tasting menu to mark the occasion. Spaces are limited though, so we advise booking as soon as you can.
Arighi Bianchi, Macclesfield
You know them for their high-end interiors and decor… we know them for their (new) food!
Arighi Bianchi has recently begun a brand reinvigoration. Their top-floor dining space, Caffè AB, draws on its Italian heritage in the décor (think lush greenery, luxurious chandeliers and gold finishes) to creating a welcoming and elegant all-day dining space. Perhaps the biggest surprise for us here was the food — although, given AB’s reputation, I don’t know why we were so surprised.
Chef Adam Terry has recently joined the team and has crafted a menu that Macclesfield can be proud of. To celebrate the new menu and refurb, Caffè AB are offering 20% off everything on the main food menu from Monday - Thursdays, until February 22. That means a Valentines brunch or breakfast is in order here! To redeem the offer, all you have to do is sign up to Arighi Bianchi’s e-newsletter.
Find more of the best of local food and drink at lostincheshire.co.uk and on Instagram @lostincheshire
