6x Valentine's Day in the Netherlands

He always secretly says that he thinks Valentine's Day is a stupid commercial party that you really shouldn't participate in, yet his disappointed look from last year is still projected on your retina.

That has to change this year. Do you want to surprise your Valentine with a romantic dinner by candlelight? I gathered the most romantic restaurants to celebrate love a little extra next week. And now let's hope that your love doesn't forget you...

1. Amsterdam – BAK

Located by the water in the Amsterdam Houthavens, you will find restaurant BAK on the third floor of Pakhuis Het Veem. At BAK, they strive for the best vegetables from passionate farmers, fish from sustainable fisheries, and meat from local producers. The menu changes daily and depends on the seasons and the offerings from the producers. Let yourself be surprised by the magical hands from the kitchen. I am huge on this restaurant.

2. Rotterdam – FG Food Labs

At FG Food Labs, everything is about experience. They are constantly searching for that one dish that evokes a special memory or a lasting feeling. François, the food processor himself, serves a menu every day, adjusted to the offerings of that day. Be sure to take a look in the open kitchen of the guys.

3. The Hague – Walter Benedict

Would you secretly prefer to take the Thalys to Paris on February 14, but your credit card won't allow it? A return trip to The Hague is all you need. Reserve a romantic spot at Walter Benedict and enjoy a good plate of oysters, a glass of champagne, and the perfect steak tartare. Sometimes you don't have to go far for a traditional French dinner for two.

4. Utrecht – San Siro

Ravioli of Italian stew with truffle butter (Adeline?) or a saltimbocca of chicken thighs. For a grand portion of amore, you need to be at San Siro in Utrecht. I can't promise you that you'll share the semifreddo of sour cherries with zabaglione of cherry beer with your love, so you might as well order a tiramisu on the side.

5. Maastricht – Beluga Loves You

Well, the name says it all: Beluga Loves You. This two-star restaurant breathes love. Hans creates the most beautiful works of art with his golden hands. He also turns star food into an experience. Depending on your mood and wish, you can eat in the spacious restaurant; cozy at the bar or romantically together at the love table in the kitchen. Do save some space for a nightcap, they serve award-winning gin tonics in the club lounge. May, I'm talking GT's, a tip for you?

6. Groningen – Frietwinkel

Not in the mood for overly sweet candlelight, cuddling, and kissing, but just digging into a greasy paper fries bag with your hands? Then you plop down on a, uh, stool at the bar at Frietwinkel. Organic, that it is. Mister Perfect, I've already parked a big cross in my agenda. Will you pick me up? I also know a nice spot in Antwerp...