21 Jan / 2022
Valentine's Day is quickly approaching! Time to plan the perfect evening with your significant other. Luckily, DeSoto County is full of fun and romantic things to do, and we’ve outlined ideas for love birds of all kinds below.
For the creative couple
Start the night off with some unique eats at Urban Fusion in Olive Branch. The restaurant offers a delicious combination of Thai, Vietnamese and Japanese cuisine. The impressive selection of sushi can’t be beat, and the red, green and yellow curries are to die for.
Next, head to Painting with a Twist. Here, guests paint a canvas under the direction of an instructor. Participants have many options to choose from when it comes to what they paint. Think cityscapes, portraits, floral arrangements and seasonal designs. You can sip on some adult beverages during the class, so don’t forget to BYOB! For those who would rather paint from home, the studio offers to-go kits. Pro tip: If you wish to paint in-studio, make reservations.
After that, visit a DeSoto County shop together like Ultimate Gifts at Silo Square. This Southaven business has everything from Tyler Candles and Kendra Scott jewelry, to cozy blankets and one-of-a-kind pottery courtesy of must-have brands like Etta B. Or, stop by Commerce Street Market (pictured) in Hernando for a wide array of must-haves.
Finish your DeSoto County date night off with dessert from Happy Ice Cream. Enjoy a sundae for two, or try one of the many popsicle and ice cream flavors. If you’re in the mood for a decadent treat, City Hall Cheesecake has SO many delicious options!
For the movie buffs
Cinephiles can spend a romantic evening in Southaven. An authentic Italian dinner at Elfo Grisanti’s to start is a must. The Grisanti family has provided the Mid-South with flavors of Italy for decades. Every dish is prepared with only the freshest ingredients and is packed with mouthwatering flavors. You can’t go wrong with classic dishes such as Manicotti and the Elfo Special which features shrimp sauteed in a garlic, butter and mushroom sauce served over pasta. Cannolis or Tiramisu are an excellent choice for dessert, as well.
Finally, round out the evening with a feature film (and lots of snacks from concessions!) at the Malco DeSoto Cinema. Whether it’s a comedy, thriller or a romantic movie, it’s guaranteed to be a good time.
For the foodies
Go to a different DeSoto County restaurant for each course of your meal to spice things up. The four-course date challenge allows you to experience many different types of cuisine in one night.
Start with drinks at Dan McGuinness Pub in Southaven. This local spot offers happy hour drinks from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and provides the pub atmosphere many know and love. Next, go for the barbecue nachos at Jim Neely’s Interstate Barbecue for the perfect shareable appetizer. Jim Neely knows barbecue, and it shows in his delicious smoked meats and special sauce!
For the main course, try 2 Crazy Fellas’ Cajun fare. The Grilled Shrimp Po’ Boy is piled high with shrimp, tomatoes, lettuce and is finished off with a delicious remoulade sauce. Oyster lovers should try the Crazy Fellas – chargrilled oysters topped with homemade garlic butter, a seasoning mixture, bacon and parmesan cheese.
Last but certainly not least, is dessert. For more than 20 years, Old Towne Bakery in Olive Branch has provided the Mid-South with fresh-baked cakes and desserts. Wrap up the night with the quintessential Valentine’s Day dessert – chocolate covered strawberries. Be sure to order this sweet treat ahead of time.
As you can see, DeSoto County is full of date night options you’ll find enjoyable no matter your style. Tag us in your date night photos on social media by using @visitdesotocty on Instagram and @VisitDeSotoCounty on Facebook.