Valentine’s Day can be an incredibly expensive affair. While it is commonly known to be a romantic event for lovers to express their undying love to one another, many people also think of it as a money sucking holiday where people go broke because they feel the need to splurge on their partners in fear of looking like an utter scrooge.

If you’re feeling a tad bit broke this month and you’re still reeling from the damage done to your wallet during Christmas, fret not as we have come up with 11 affordable places for a romantic dinner that won’t make you look like a cheapskate.

COMO CUISINE

From the buttery whiff of freshly baked viennoiseries to the chocolatey aroma of fresh coffee grinds in the morning, COMO Cuisine is the ideal place to head to for a date with your special one. Luxuriate in their all-new menu that features all-day comfort fare that will leave a lasting impression this Valentine’s Day.

A meal for two should cost around S$50 to $60.

Block 18A Dempsey Road,
Singapore 249677
Tel: 1800 304 6688
Mon to Sun: 8am – 9pm
Breakfast (Mon to Fri): 8am – 12pm
High Tea (Tue & Fri): 3pm – 5pm
Brunch (Sat & Sun): 8am – 3pm

DUCKLAND 

If you and your date love duck, this would be the perfect place to have your Valentine’s Day meal! Duckland serves up a pretty impressive range of both Asian and Western-style duck dishes that will change the way you eat duck. Despite using the finest quality of Irish duck, the prices here are kept affordable so you are truly getting more bang for your buck.

A hearty meal for two here should cost no more than S$50.

United Square Shopping Mall #B1-09&64/65
101 Thomson Road
Singapore 307591
Tel: +65 6259 5668
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Novena

FRAPASBAR BY SAVEUR 

The newly opened FrapasBar by the renowned Saveur serves up delectable, authentic French fare and tapas with modern twists here and there—all while keeping prices affordable. Not only is the food here fantastic, but the ambience of the place is also really classy and cosy, creating the perfect atmosphere for a romantic dinner date with Bae.

You can expect a meal for two to cost around S$30 to S$40, which is pretty decent for the food.

2 Tampines Central 5, #01-35
Singapore 529509
Tel: +65 6789 1121
Daily: 11.30am – 12pm
Nearest Station: Tampines

FRESH FRUITS LAB

Fresh Fruit Labs is one of our favourite places in Singapore to get an affordable meal for two. We love how the crux of their food creations revolve around fruit, which definitely is a factor that makes them stand out. The colourful ambience of the cafe also makes it a quirky destination for you and your partner to celebrate your relationship and feel like kids again.

The wallet damage here for two people should be less than S$40.

28 Clementi Road
Singapore 129754
Tel: +65 6803 7472
Tues to Fri: 12pm – 12am
Sat & Sun: 11am – 12am
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Kent Ridge

FYNN’S

Tucked away at South Beach Avenue is Fynn’s, a beautiful, modern all-day dining cafe. Here, they serve up scrumptious Australian fare that is sure to please you and your date. The cafes aesthetic marbled tables, rattan chairs and stylish decor also makes this the perfect setting for that quintessential Valentine’s Day photo for the gram.

The cost of a meal for two people should be around S$40 to S$50.

26 Beach Road
#B1-21, South Beach Avenue
Singapore 189768
Tel: +65 6384 1878
Tue to Sat: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sun: 10.30am – 4.30pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Esplanade 

ICEHAUS

Icehaus is an all-day dining restaurant at Alley on 25 that offers cold cuts, sustainable seafood, heirloom salads and locally-inspired desserts. Guests hankering for a light yet satisfying desserts can also opt for Icehaus’ famous desserts that beautifully encompass the elements of local street sweets but with a modern approach.

5 Fraser Street, Level 25
Andaz Singapore
Singapore 189354
Daily: 6.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

LA NONNA

If Bae is hankering for some Italian food, then the one place that you both should go to is La Nonna. La Nonna serves up authentic, mid-priced Italian food that will leave you both with full, happy bellies. The portions are also incredibly large so it’s great for couples who have larger appetites.

Despite the generous portions, the prices here are still kept affordable. The bill for two can be less than $60, which is really decent for authentic Italian fare.

26/26B Lor Mambong
Singapore 277685
Tel: +65 6468 1982
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Eve of PH: 12pm – 11pm
Sun & PH: 12pm – 11.30pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

THE BETTERSHIP

The Bettership is a sashimi-centric eatery that serves up boats of fresh restaurant-quality sashimi as well as stellar bowls of donburi. Their open kitchen concept also allows you to watch the chefs prepare your food right in front of you, which definitely adds an interesting touch to the meal.

For less than S$40 for the both of you, you can get restaurant-grade Japanese fare that will leave you and your partner with happy, satisfied bellies.

2 Handy Road #01-03,
The Cathay
Singapore 229233
Tel: +65 6835 9006
Daily: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

Photo Credit: The Marmalade Pantry 

THE MARMALADE PANTRY 

The marmalade pantry takes pride in serving up modern comfort food at affordable prices. We are also in love with the decor of the place; chic, minimalistic and tasteful, this place will wow you and your date in terms of both food and ambience.

A meal for two here should cost less than S$45.

The Marmalade Pantry At Downtown
Oasia Hotel Downtown, #01-01
100 Peck Seah Street
Singapore 079333
Tel: +65 6385 0741
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 4pm – 7pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

WAA COW! 

For some mind-blowing wagyu beef bowls that will leave you and your partner craving for more, Waa Cow is the place to go. Here, you can get some life-changing value-for-money bowls of flame-torched wagyu donburi. You’ll find yourselves coming back here again even after Valentine’s Day is over!

Each bowl of this quality goodness costs less than S$25 each and for such premium cuts of meat, it really is a very good deal.

5 Straits View, #01-09 Marina One
The Heart West Tower,
Singapore 018935
Tel: +65 9851 1552
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Downtown

Call us suckers but we are actually very fond of anything cutesy and pretty on Valentine’s Day. All the heart shaped cookies, pink cookies and lovey-dovey lunch boxes… they still work.

Since Valentine’s Day is probably the only time of the year that you can get away with being extra cheesy, get your hands moving this February 14 by making your loved one a special snack. It could range from basic cookies to cake pops; it is completely up to you.

Here are 8 Valentine’s Day Snacks to Surprise Your Date With that is guaranteed to impress.

Image: Trends4ever

#1 CAKE OR CUPCAKES WITH CHEESY LOVE QUOTES

This might be cheesy but nevertheless, a very thoughtful gift. Grab a cupcake recipe off the internet (find one with a flavour or style that you know your partner will like) and add a little personal touch.

Make your own piping cream by mixing icing sugar and butter, and create your own colours using food dye! Personalise with a lovey-dovey quote and see your date’s face light up.

#2 HEART SHAPED EGGS

This is a simple and easy breakfast option that is sure to make your partner’s morning. We got the heart shaped mould from Daiso, but you can pretty much find it at most regular supermarkets too. Waking up just 15 minutes earlier is all you need to serve him or her a breakfast in bed.

#3 HEART SHAPED FRUIT LUNCH BOX

We have to admit that this was tedious as it took us quite awhile. Pick out a couple of your date’s favourite fruits and cut them up into heart shapes. Pack them into a lunchbox and deliver it to their office, maybe? This is both simple, inexpensive and most of all, it will make him or her feel extremely grateful.

#4 HEART SHAPED MATCHA COOKIES

You can pretty much make whatever cookie flavour you prefer or you know your date will enjoy. Go the extra mile and add chocolate, sprinkles and various other toppings to beautify your cookies. But yes, heart shaped everything.

#5 JELLY HEARTS

You can follow this recipe to make the tastiest Jelly Heart Cheesecakes. If cheesecakes are not his or her thing, you can opt for just the jelly part where you omit the cheesecake. Put it in a nice box and gift it to him or her and it is a sure-win.

Image: YouTube

#6 LOVE-THEMED CAKE POPS

Cake pops might seem very intimidating to make but actually, it is pretty straightforward. There are many recipes online but our favourite one has to be this. The main idea is to make it your own. Time to put your creativity to good use, and decorate your cake pops the way both of you love it!

Image: Mels Kitchen Cafe

#7 RICE KRISPIES HEARTS

Rice Krispies treats have been all the range. Well, it is basically melted marshmallows holding the Rice Krispies together. For Valentine’s Day, you can shape it into heart shapes before cooling it. You can even dip it in chocolate and add heart shaped sprinkles for a little something extra.

Image: Pinterest

#8 WATERMELON HEART POPS

This is probably the simplest idea of the lot, and it will work best if your partner loves watermelon. Because a watermelon is huge, you can basically create a bigger standalone heart with this one. Perhaps, you can even dunk them in glasses of soda too?

About the writer:
Cheryl is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She loves a good steak and an even better cuppa. She eats just about anything and everything. In her free time, she regularly starts on sci-fi or fantasy movie marathons.

Have you already spent a bomb this Valentine’s Day on the present(s) for your lover? Then you now need to think of activities that will not cost an arm or a leg.

Singapore is a country filled with amazing things that you can do for free. And these activities and places can be pretty romantic, too.

If your ideal Valentine’s Day is a simple day out to spend quality time with your loved one,  here is a list of 10 Free Things to Do This Valentine’s Day 2016. Take a fun hike or visit a museum, as long as you are with someone you enjoy company with, you know your day will be splendid.

#1 CYCLING AT CONEY ISLAND PARK

Coney Island Park is just about the most popular haunt in recent months for all who fancy some outdoor adventure. Breezy and pretty, with tall trees that are lush and very beautiful. Rent a bicycle or bring your own for a self-cycling tour around Coney Island Park.

Read: Guide on Coney Island Park and what you can expect.

#2 EXPLORE GARDENS BY THE BAY

A large part of Gardens By The Bay is free and if you still have not been there, you absolutely must. Dubbed as the icon of Singapore now, Gardens By The Bay has lots to impress with its flora and fauna. There are also endless photo spots here; capture your loving moments away to remember your special day out!

#3 FLY KITES AT MARINA BARRAGE

Yes, it is cliche but we love it. Just being worry-free and flying a kite, with a view of Marina Bay, sounds like the perfect day for us. Unadulterated, without a care about the world. Why not have a picnic while you are at it too?

#4 GO FOR AN EXHIBITION AT ARTSCIENCE MUSEUM

Exhibitions are usually free of charge here, with an exception of a few. And Artscience Museum always has the best exhibitions.

#5 HAVE A FUN DAY AT THE BEACH

Singapore may not have the best beaches in Asia, but we sure have very clean ones. You can go for a tan, have a picnic, take a dip or play a game of beach volleyball. Whatever it is, you and your partner can take the time to let loose and just have fun.

#6 RAIL CORRIDOR – SINGAPORE’S VERY OWN VERSION OF NEW YORK’S HIGH LINE

Singapore is set to come up with its very own version of New York City’s The High Line on the Rail Corridor – the former rail line will be transformed into a park that will stretch across 24 kilometres, making it 10 times longer than The High Line. With the Rail Corridor set to be developed, one should not pass up the opportunity to see and photograph it in all of its natural glory, before it loses its identity and its atmosphere.

Read: 10 Uncharted Nature Trails in Singapore.

#7 HAVE A PICNIC AT SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS

This gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a beautiful and huge garden with a stunning Swan Lake. And it is one of the best spots in Singapore to have a picnic at! Pack along some cupcakes, strawberries, cookies and champagne. To make things sweeter, prepare a secret surprise dish for each other! It can be your lover’s favourite snack, or his/her craving.

#8 ROMANTIC WALKS AT MARINA SOUTH PIER

Marina South Pier is where ships dock and the ferries stop at. The huge stretch of coastline is ideal for a quiet, romantic walk with your lover. Take a breather from your hectic work life and enjoy the lovely, uninterrupted stroll.

#9 VISIT ANIMALS AT SPCA

Are you both animal lovers? What better way to spend Valentine’s Day than to use your time on rescued animals? Caring for furry darlings will surely make your Valentine’s Day more meaningful!

#10 VISIT NATIONAL GALLERY SINGAPORE

The National Gallery Singapore has only opened its doors to the world last year, but they are fast becoming a favourite spot among Singaporeans and tourists alike. If you haven’t set foot in the new compound, perhaps this could be your answer to Valentine’s Day?

Read: Guide to National Gallery Singapore and What You Can Expect.

Why not bring your partner for a staycation? Here are 15 Romantic Staycation Ideas in Singapore To Celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Staycations have become so common in Singapore, it is surely a regular date night idea for many couples. If you are planning a surprise staycation for your special someone on Valentine’s Day, you would want the hotel and the room to be unique and surprising, because normal rooms won’t do as they can still be dull even with the addition of rose petals on the bed and a bottle of wine and champagne.

Instead on splurging all of your money on a glorious suite, why not just pick one of these dreamy hotels with one-of-a-kind rooms, and is guaranteed to give you something beautiful to remember?

From sleek new hotels with an edge to swanky boutique hotels with reasonable prices, there is something for everyone. Here are 14 Valentine’s Day Staycation Ideas in Singapore For A Perfect February The 14th!

Image: Amara Hotels

#1 AMARA SANCTUARY RESORT SENTOSA

Located on Sentosa island, Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa is exactly what it claims to be – a sanctuary. The rooms are both modern yet boasting a resort-like feel to it. An upgrade or two will get you a huge room with a separate living room if you must.

You can also treat your date to a well-deserved spa day here for the full resort-esque experience. This is sure to win you brownie points!

Rates start from S$540 a night.

1 Larkhill Road
Singapore 099394
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

#2 CAPRI BY FRASER

If you are tired of the city areas and would prefer a hotel that is quiet and far, far away from the hustle and bustle of the busy central areas of Singapore, we might just have the hotel for you. Capri by Fraser is located at Changi Business Park, just a stone’s throw away from Singapore Expo and the MRT Station.

This rather ‘ulu’ location is great if you just want to cuddle up in bed with your partner, order in some food from room service and catch a rom com or two. Sometimes, simplicity wins.

Rates start from S$161 a night.

3 Changi Business Park Central 1
Singapore 486037
Nearest Station: Expo

Image: Asiawebdirect

#3 HOTEL 1929

This boutique hotel has a certain rustic charm to it that we have really taken a liking to. While the rooms are not massive, it is certainly intimate and cosy, with most rooms having an open shower or bathtub concept.

Prices here at Hotel 1929 are also relatively lower than your average hotel. Conveniently located at Keong Saik Road, you can always go out for a drink or two at a bar along the road.

Rates start from S$155 a night.

50 Keong Saik Road
Singapore 089154
Nearest Station: Outram Park

#4 HOTEL JEN TANGLIN SINGAPORE

This spanking new hotel needs no introduction – Hotel Jen Tanglin is a hip and stylish hotel for people of all ages. Strategically located in the vicinity of Orchard Road, food options are aplenty and you can even do some midday shopping.

The rooms boast very warm and soothing tones to promote comfort and relaxation. For a no-frills and affordable 4-star hotel, Hotel Jen Tanglin is our pick.

Rates start from S$240 a night.

1a Cuscaden Road
Singapore 249716
Nearest Station: Orchard

#5 KLAPSONS, THE BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Klapsons, The Boutique Hotel is quite the perfect fit for Valentine’s Day setting with its sexy velvet carpeting and dim lights. Even so, the room still manages to retain its class and style.

Since it is a boutique hotel, each room is different so be sure to call in advance (we suggest doing it right now) to enquire if the room you desire is available.

Rates start from S$294 a night.

15 Hoe Chiang Road
Singapore 089316
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

Image: The Australian

#6 NAUMI HOTEL

Naumi Hotel is undoubtedly one of the unique hotels in Singapore in terms of design. The open air pool that reflects the skyline of the surrounding Marina Bay district is such a sight to behold.

Worry not about the rooms as they are just as good as the view. Modern and edgy, the rooms inside differ from one to another so it is always a surprise.

Rates start from S$311 a night.

41 Seah Street
Singapore 188396
Nearest Station: Esplanade

Image: Design Hotels

#7 NEW MAJESTIC HOTEL

Think an open concept twin bathtub situated right in the center of the room, with large art murals plastered on the walls. That is what awaits at New Majestic Hotel.

What we loved most about the hotel is the perfect marriage of oriental and modern designs.

Rates start from S$198 a night.

31-37 Bukit Pasoh Road
Singapore 089845
Nearest Station: Outram Park

#8 PARK HOTEL ALEXANDRA

This relatively new establishment is located right beside the first ever IKEA store in Singapore at Alexandra. Park Hotel Alexandra has the most stunning rooftop pool that you can definitely chill at over a nice cocktail or two from the bar with your special someone.

If you prefer a hotel that is fuss-free and nice to cosy up with your partner, we believe you have your answer. Best part? Its affordability.

Rates start from S$160 a night.

323 Alexandra Road
Singapore 159972
Nearest Station: Queenstown

#9 SINGAPORE MARRIOTT TANG PLAZA HOTEL

The beautiful pool on level 5 of Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel has been given a makeover. Think resort vibes with relaxing poolside cabanas, revamped pool terrace rooms.

Be amazed by an atypical city experience and the new pool area, while you take in a picturesque view of Singapore’s most bustling shopping district, and enjoy a sumptuous meal by the pool.

310 Orchard Road
Singapore 238865
Nearest Station: Orchard

#10 THE ST. REGIS SINGAPORE

Think elegance and class – that is The St. Regis Singapore. With European-inspired interior completed with posh furniture, it is one place in Singapore that will never fail you.

The prices here certainly justifies itself with the impeccable service, stunning rooms and great dining options within the property itself. The St. Regis Singapore will be worth the splurge.

Rates start from S$351 a night.

29 Tanglin Rd
Singapore 247911
Nearest Station: Orchard

#11 THE FULLERTON BAY HOTEL

Overlooking the Singapore skyline, we can only say one thing about the hotel – perfect. And by perfect, we mean that you will have a perfect romantic night with your partner while gazing out of your room, taking in the beauty of Singapore.

The Fullerton Bay Hotel is our all-time favourite hotel in Singapore and we make it a point to do a staycation here once every year!

Rates start from S$580 a night.

80 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049326
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

#12 THE SCARLET HOTEL

The Scarlet is an enchanting hotel with an interior that looks like it came straight out of a Wes Anderson movie; we kid you not. Velvet furnitures, chandeliers, and dim lighting; how romantic!

The Scarlet Hotel is a boutique hotel that is out to impress. We suggest going right for the suites as they are all uniquely themed, sexy and lavish.

Rates start from S$176 a night.

33 Erskine Rd
Singapore 069333
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

Image: South Beach

#13 THE SOUTH BEACH HOTEL

You know those two new, tall and futuristic looking buildings along Beach Road? Well, they are the newly launched The South Beach Hotel – and we are loving every bit of it.

The hotel has 2 infinity pools, and the rooms are nothing short of modern and trendy. If your date loves anything chic yet not over-the top, The South Beach Hotel it shall be for V’day.

Rates start from S$450 a night.

30 Beach Rd
Singapore 189763
Nearest Station: Promenade

Image: W Singapore

#14 W SINGAPORE

W Hotels are always a great idea. And the one in Singapore sits within Sentosa Cove; think resort-style getaway in luxurious serenity.

You can always stroll to the nearby Quayside Isle for food and drinks, take a dip in the gorgeous pool, or simply cosy up in your luxurious room – all equipped with a stunning view of the Quayside marina.

Rates start from S$437 a night.

21 Ocean Way Sentosa
Singapore 098374
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

Image: Wangz Hotel

#15 WANGZ HOTEL

Located in Tiong Bahru, Wangz Hotel might be unassuming at first glance, but it has a sophisticated and tasteful interior that will impress. The hotel also has a rooftop bar!

We highly recommend the Wangz Hotel Soak Room. Yes, you heard that right – it is an actual hotel room designed for maximum comfort with the most romantic ambience. There is a free-standing tub overlooking the city lights, which you can enjoy with your partner over a glass of champagne or two.

Rates start from S$196 a night.

231 Outram Rd
Singapore 169040
Nearest Station: Outram Park/Tiong Bahru

For more recommendations, read our guide to 20 Hotels in Singapore Under S$300 That You Can Go For A Staycation.

My friends always ask me for suggestions of gift ideas for their boyfriends. Since Valentine’s Day is just next week, I thought it would be fun to share some ideas on presents to get for guys.

Contrary to popular belief, getting presents for men is not that difficult; you just need to know what his hobbies are. Guys love gadgets, or at least, most guys do. Just go along that line and you’ll be fine. If not, you can always bring him to go shopping for a wardrobe overhaul. (Just make sure you promise not to walk into the female section.)

Here’s a list of Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Men.

Wallet

One of the essential items every man should have, a good wallet can go a long, long, way. The brand of the wallet depends on his preference, so you can try to ask casually if he likes any particular brand.

Palate dining card

This is a good gift if both of you enjoy trying out new restaurants. While the membership fee may seem a little steep at $428+/year, the card allows members to benefit from dining privileges of up to 50% at over 40 restaurants island-wide, as well as a range of trendy bars.

It sounds a little too good to be true, but I’ve tested it, and yes, it really offers you 50% off (discount for 2 persons dining) at restaurants like Anar, Brasserie Wolf, Fremantle Seafood Market, il Lido, OChre, Keystone Restaurant, Roast, and Tung Lok.

(Full Disclosure & Fine Print: I was given the Palate membership for free during the media launch; no monetary benefits were received to write or to furnish my opinion.)

Smart phones

Smart phones have changed our lives, and having instant messengers like WhatsApp and BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) will allow you to communicate with each other on-the-go. Get an iPhone or BlackBerry for him this Valentine’s Day, I’m sure he will love it!

Chocolates

A new British Medical Journal article suggests that indulging in chocolate could lower your risk for heart disease and stroke. I know it’s a cliché to buy chocolate as a Valentine’s Day Gift, but who cares? Chocolate has health benefits, and there’s no doubt that it makes us happy.

Get a proper present for your partner, and throw in chocolate as a little bonus. Chocolate Research Facility (9 Raffles Boulevard, #01-30 Millenia Walk Tel: +65 6338 5191) is a one-stop heaven for chocolate lovers with a world-first collection of 100 flavours under one roof. For more ideas, take a look at my list of Valentine’s Day Food Gifts.

Camera

No matter where I go, camera is one of the things I always bring along. Be it photos of food, or people, the captured memories are priceless. If you are still thinking of a Valentine’s Day gift for your boyfriend, why not get a nice camera? A decent midrange DSLR camera (like Nikon D7000 or Canon 600D) is a good start, otherwise you can consider others like FujiFilm X100, Olympus EP-3 or Panasonic GF-3.

Thinking of where to go for a romantic date? Read my Guide to Valentine’s Day Dinner.