Finding the perfect location for the perfect partner, to have a perfect night that starts a perfect relationship, is impossible.
However, there are plenty of spots around that offer affordable options for those looking to get to know each other.
Sushi at Wabi Sabi does sound like the move. This spot offers half-price sushi when dining in and classics like the California roll and shrimp tempura roll. Open until 10:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights, and located on Madison Avenue in Covington, Wabi Sabi is the ideal candidate for a first date.
It has a vermillion exterior that isolates its overhead wasabi-green sign. A board sits next to the door boasting their recognition as “Best Sushi” three years in a row by BEST NKY. As the snow falls off your shoes and onto the welcome mat, there’s an overwhelming sense of intimacy.
To the left is a bar, where its seating sets the boundary for the aisle leading to the back. To the right is a series of tables packed together that couldn’t fit a party bigger than four without rearranging the entire room. Because of this tight squeeze and minimal lighting, Wabi Sabi is a place for romance to bloom.
But sushi isn’t for everyone.
Some people still want intimacy but don’t want to be constricted by seaweed wraps and rice. Those people will probably find a home at Elliott Coffee.
Elliott is a relatively new establishment, having officially opened on July 20, 2024. They offer hot and iced coffee, espresso mixes and latte art. Located in Dayton, Ky, Elliott has shacked up in a former gas station and garage.
This place is an Instagram user’s dream.
Upon walking in, you’ll be greeted by the friendliest baristas on earth. The menu–a piece of paper scotch taped to a wooden plank on the wall–lists all of the drinks offered, including seasonal options and customer favorites. The interior feels like it was pulled straight from an Architectural Digest page with hand-crafted maple furniture and recycled chairs.
Outside, there’s plenty of seating, but thankfully there is a garage with more indoor seating for those who aren’t huskies. With a baby-blue floor and maple tables, Elliott Coffee couldn’t feel like a friendlier space.
But maybe this isn’t a first date and you’re looking for somewhere to settle down. There’s some buzz going around about just the place.
The Hive, owned by Erlanger Mayor Jessica Fette, is an “East Coast Kitchen” that offers omelettes, sandwiches and even burgers. Open 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays, The Hive isn’t just a place to share a meal.
The Hive is meant to be a place where every member of the community can share time together, making it ideal for couples looking to find a go-to.
The setup consists of four main parts: a parlor, a coffee bar, a dining room and a rentable conference room. The parlor has a couch and plenty of cozy seating, while the coffee bar has wall outlets galore if a study date is in the air.
But all these options aren’t what make The Hive the perfect spot, it’s the fact they actually work. The first floor is the main dining area, which has that normal dining experience with familiar chatting and silverware clinking. Upstairs is another universe.
Upstairs is where the coffee bar sits with some people on their laptops working away, while another group is playing the piano across the room. The combination leaves the room with a sense of comfort, something a relationship needs in order to grow.
Even if you aren’t looking for romance and want to spend this Valentine’s Day treating yourself, you’ll be able to find love all around.