Ten Local Valentine’s Day Tips and Ideas

Sometimes finding the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for your loved one can seem like a challenge. There are a lot of local options, including some things you might not have thought of.

Following are some fun and unique tips and ideas from Stony Brook Village Center to show your love and to create lasting memories:

Heart-Healthy Dark Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar

We all know that person for whom gourmet foods are better than most anything else. At the Crushed Olive (133 Main St.) you’ll find gift baskets of flavored olive oils and balsamic vinegar that are “heart-healthy for the one you love,” according to co-owner Mona Rossero. For a unique treat, try the Dark Chocolate Balsamic or Strawberry Balsamic. Or for that real coffee-enthusiast in your life, you’ll find gift baskets of coffee, cookies and more at the Village Coffee Market (131 Main St.).

Chili Hot Chocolate to Warm Your Love’s Heart

What’s more romantic than shared small plates (tapas) when dining out?

At Pentimento (93 Main St.) in Stony Brook you can share everything from baked semolina gnocchi to grilled Spanish octopus. They also have large plates and craft beer, cider, cocktails and special ‘Winter Warm Ups’ like Chili Hot Chocolate made from Meletti chocolate liqueur, chili liqueur and steamed milk. Reservations: 631-689-7755

Famous Couples Menu

The ‘Famous Couples Menu’ at Country House restaurant (1175 N. Country Rd.) features dishes named after famous couples, such as Ariel and Prince Eric, Liz and Richard, Sonny and Cher. And don’t be concerned, the Kermit and Miss Piggy plate doesn’t include pork. There will be live music featuring ‘torch’ songs on Valentine’s Day, at both the 5:00pm and 7:30pm seatings. Also, consider the lovers plate desserts. The restaurant, voted ‘Most Romantic for Valentine’s Day’ by AOL City Guide, features beautiful heart and cupid decorations in each room, tabletop centerpieces, garlands and flowers. Reservations on Valentine’s Day are required. Reservations: 631-751-3332

For a lighter-hearted, day-time Valentine’s get together, you could consider high tea at Robinson’s Tea Room (97 Main St.). With 50 varieties of loose tea served British, you can have sweets, savories and scones on a three-tier tower with unlimited tea. Reservations: 631-751-1232

Overnight Valentine’s Getaway

Another romantic spot is Mirabelle Restaurant & Tavern in Stony Brook’s Three Village Inn (150 Main St.). The restaurant of famed French Chef Guy Reuge offers a special Valentine’s Day Price Fixe, including appetizer, main course and dessert. Or you could reserve dinner and an overnight stay at the charming c.1751 Three Village Inn. The Valentine’s Package, includes complimentary welcome drink, Lessing’s Champagne, overnight stay, dinner, chocolate gift from Chocolate Works, and hot breakfast. Book early. Reservations: 631-751-0555.

Jazz Concert

For a really cool date experience, the Jazz Loft (275 Christian Ave.) in Stony Brook will be featuring several performances on Valentine’s Day, including a special ‘Here’s to the Ladies’ concert, along with several other performances Thurs., Fri. and Sat. You can book tickets in advance online.

Chocolate Mousse or Sweet Rose Facial

Who doesn’t like to feel pampered? A gift card to a local salon and spa is another thoughtful indulgence. At Blue Salon & Spa (97 Main St.) experiences include massage and facials, along with salon services. A Valentine’s Day special includes a Chocolate Mousse or Sweet Rose Masque Facial and Champagne Rose or Chocolate Oil Massage. Gift cards can also be used for Hot Stone Therapy, Aromatherapy and other relaxing techniques.

At Crabtree & Evelyn (117 Main St.) in Stony Brook you can create a unique Valentines gift by mixing a number of different items in one gift box. For example, combine some treats like Green Rooibos, Peach & Cherry Tea with and Heather Honey Biscuits, along with a soothing scented candle, nourishing body lotion and salts, soaks or oils. Fragrances, shaving items and cleansers available for him too.

Love Struck Birds Chocolate

Some of the most beautiful and unique chocolates to make your loved one feel special can be found at Chocolate Works (143B Main St.). From the intricate Love Struck Birds set to the Chocolate Roses to the Cascading Hearts assortment. They also have thousands of chocolate molds to choose from, including chocolate high heels, along with sweet heart lollipops. Chocolate covered fruits, including strawberries, can be ordered in advance along with fruit bouquets and special gift baskets.

Flowers: Order Ahead

Flowers are always cheerful since Valentine’s Day is in the cold of winter. But as anyone who’s waited to the last minutes knows, there are usually lines out the door. To make it easier on yourself, consider ordering ahead of time in-store or online. At the local Village Florist (135 Main St.) in Stony Brook you can chose from several pre-made Valentine’s Day specials. For someone unsure what to buy, the store can create something if you provide a price range, according to owner Amanda Lamariana. “Roses are by far the most popular, but it’s nice to mix it up too, including a loved one’s favorite color or flower to make it personal.” Call: 631-467-0385.

Jewelry, Of Course

Jewelry always makes a perfect Valentine’s gift. It helps if you know your loved ones preferences: small, delicate, bold, chunky, gold or silver. Rocky Point Jewelers (137 Main St.) in Stony Brook carries a range of items including charms, earrings, bracelets and necklaces by designers including Coach, Movado, Rembrandt and Nancy B in a range of price points, according to Linda Mammina, partner. They also have vintage jewelry, from Victorian to Art Nouveau styles, for the person who likes antiques. For him, you’ll find watches from Hugo Boss, Seiko and more.

Village Gift Certificates

If your loved one is really difficult to shop for, one of the most generous gifts you can get them is a Gift Certificate that can be used at any of the Stony Brook Village Shops. Purchase at WMHO main office (111 Main St.) Or call: 631-751-2244. The shops include Sweet Mama’s, Jos. A. Bank, Brew Cheese, Chico’s, Camera Concepts, Men’s Room Barbershop (see their new men’s line), Loft, Mint, KAH fitness, Wish, Crazy Beans, Cottontails, Fratelli’s and many more.