Cary, NC – Sure, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner (this Thursday btw) and your mind may already be on securing the perfect setting to treat your sweetheart to a memorable night. But should we really limit ourselves to one night a year when we have so many options right here in Cary?

Here are a few date night ideas for the next time you’re feeling romantic (or are in trouble and need to score some quick points).

Academy Street Bistro

Slip into the Bistro for a quiet dinner for two, but on the weekends you are going to want to make a reservation for sure. Consistently great food, gracious service and an imaginative wine list.

The menu offers just the right amount of options, and changes seasonally. Try to get in while they are still doing the luscious squid ink seafood pasta. Also, for my money, some of the the best appetizers in Cary can be had here. Try the Burrata and/or the Crab Cake. You won’t be sorry.

Academy Street Bistro – 200 S Academy St.

Alex & Teresa’s Pizzeria and Trattoria

Yes, I’m sure you’ve already heard about Alex and Teresa’s, because it’s all anyone in Cary is talking about. But everything you’ve heard is true. The pizza is incredible. My husband won’t allow it in the house anymore because he says “I can’t trust myself with it.”

It feels like a warm hug from the Italian Grandmother you wish you had as you enter. The garlic and tomato-infused air, and the soft Italian chatter mixed with Harry Connick Jr. hits your senses and you just want to settle in, order some wine (really interesting selection) and gaze across the table at your beloved.

Alex & Teresa’s Pizzeria and Trattoria – 941 North Harrison Ave.

Whisk

Keep things hot in the kitchen by learning some new culinary tricks together. Hands-on cooking classes at Whisk are not only fun but practical.

Who doesn’t want to learn how to whip up Spanish Tapas for their friends, master a sushi roll, or once-and-for-all create reliable pasta from scratch? All this can be found at Whisk, price of admission includes hands-on instruction, plenty to eat, and you’ll usually end up leaving with a few new friends.

Whisk – 316 Colonades Way #214

Story and photos by Melodie Alsberg.