Wine glasses at dinner setting for meal delivery service

Tips for Creating the Perfect Intimate Dinner at Home

by Chef Wards

There’s a difference between staying in to “Netflix and chill” and creating a wonderful night out at home. You can take your weekend at-home evenings beyond snuggles and popcorn with just a little extra effort. While a special occasion often begs going out, staying in can be just as special, whether you’re getting over a cold and don’t want to head out into public or simply don’t want to book a babysitter.

Create Your Own Ambiance

There’s no reason you can’t snazz up your patio or dining room into a space with ambiance and flair. Break out the tablecloths, candles and that fine china you almost never use to create a restaurant feel at home. And our biggest tip: properly set the table to give your dinner an air of fancy! You can even leave the kids to their own devices indoors while you create a bistro on the patio. (Note: we mean electronic devices…)

Plan a Special Menu

If you don’t want to deal with cooking and cleaning, consider reaching out to a personal chef for a “dinner for two.” A personal chef is more than happy to come cook for you in your home. Often they’ll even deliver a 3-course menu. Don’t forget to procure a special bottle of wine to pair with your dinner, or ask your preferred meal delivery service if they can deliver wine, too!

Start with an Aperitif

Every great night out starts with a cocktail. Put on a little music and shake up a craft cocktail (or mocktail) to start the evening off right! The best part is this can last as long as you want – there’s no hostess disrupting your pre-dinner drink to let you know the table’s ready, so take advantage and take a leisurely approach!

Don’t Forget Dessert

Dessert is often put aside when dining at home, but a special night calls for a little something sweet at the end of your meal. It doesn’t have to be big or elaborate. Consider sharing a piece of cake or pie a la mode! If you don’t have a sweet tooth or if you subscribe to a keto or other low-carb dietary plan, do dessert like the French and have a small cheese board.

Include the Kids

One of the advantages of a night out at home is not having to get a sitter. While your options may vary depending on the age of your kids, consider including them in your fancy dinner! Set the table for everyone, ask for their input on a centerpiece, or even get them some sparkling cider to put in a wine glass. They will have just as much fun as you will, and you’re creating a family experience to remember.

Staying in doesn’t mean you have to have a buffet-style, casual affair every time. Whether you have a special occasion or your reason is no reason at all, we can help! We have a special Date Night Delivered package featuring a 3-course meal delivered to your doorstep. Contact us for more information on how we can help you create an in-home dining experience to remember, or order our Date Night Delivered™ online!

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Posted in: Entertaining Tips, Meal delivery, Personal Chef Service, Personal Chef Services