My husband and I have been together for six years now and are coming up on two years of marriage in April. One thing we’ve done from the beginning—and something we still prioritize—is dating each other. Not in a big, over-the-top way. Just intentionally.

Life is busy. Our schedules are almost opposite. I work weekdays, he works nights and weekends. So our dates are rarely on a Friday or Saturday night. Most of the time, they’re breakfast dates, lunch dates or a random weeknight dinner when it fits.

With Valentine’s Day around the corner and love in the air, I thought it would be fun to share some of our favorite date spots.

Breakfast Dates

My No. 1 breakfast spot is a very unpopular opinion, especially in Florida. I’m from Georgia, so Waffle House will always be number one for me. Scotty doesn’t share my enthusiasm, but he loves me enough to go anyway. Last Valentine’s Day, since we couldn’t do dinner, he took me to the Waffle House in Port Orange. We dressed in pink, I ordered my usual and we took over the jukebox. It was perfect.

A newer favorite close to home is Hills Chicken and Waffles in Edgewater. Family-owned, soulful and welcoming, with food that’s incredible every single time.

If you’re looking for a laid-back beach vibe, Toni & Joe’s Patio is hard to beat. Early mornings, mimosas, spiked coffee and sunrise views over the beach—it’s a whole vibe. I like the blueberry pancakes and Scotty usually gets the avocado toast.

Lunch Dates

Prima on Sams Avenue in New Smyrna Beach is our go-to lunch date. Garlic knots, a salad and maybe a slice of pie if we’re feeling wild.

Breakers is another favorite—great burgers, but I always go for the loaded chili or the blackened mahi sandwich. And we’re guaranteed to run into friends, which makes it even better.

My ideal day date is hitting the Goodwill in Port Orange and then heading across the street to Filo Greek. Falafel, pita on the side and all the toppings. I could eat there every day. It’s fast food done healthy.

Dinner Dates

For dinner, The Spott on Canal Street is one of our favorites. We split a lot of our meals and love sharing the filet with potato pavé and spicy green beans. Pair that with the new Brussels Sprout Caesar and you have what dreams are made of. After dinner you can head upstairs to their speakeasy for a crème brûlée and espresso martini. You’re welcome.

We also love The Grille at Riverview on Flagler Avenue. It’s right on the river, and the views alone make it worth the visit. We almost always head straight for the outdoor patio, even on cooler nights. They keep the heaters going, so you still get that waterfront experience without freezing. One of the best-kept secrets is their sunset menu, offered Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. It’s a great way to enjoy a laid-back, romantic meal on the river without breaking the bank.

At the end of the day, dating doesn’t have to be fancy or complicated. It just has to fit your life. Make the time. Happy Valentine’s Day!

XO,